ShiurTimes Magazine by queendeb

Conversion: the responsible response

Tikkun Layl Shavuot: shiur listings

Reviving the house of david: Ms. Susan Roth

JERUSALEM

the Eternal & Indivisible Capital of Israel

SPECIAL! Jerusalem Real Estate CLassifieds ONLY AUSTRALIA. . . . . . . . . . . . . $5.25 CANADA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $3.75 europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . €3.00 iSRAEL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .nis 15 sOUTH aFRICA. . . . . . . . . . . . r30 U.K. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £ 2.25

www.shiurtimes.com U.S.a. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $3.75

VOL. 2, ISSUE NO. 18 June 2008

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

NASO, JUNE 6, 2008

SHAVUOT, JUNE 8-9, 2008

LIGHT

7:25 PM 7:25 PM 7:02 PM 7:26 PM 7:27 PM 8:06 PM 8:55 PM

END

8:26 PM 8:25 PM 8:25 PM 8:26 PM 8:27 PM 9:15 PM 10:27 PM

7:26 PM 7:25 PM 7:03 PM 7:27 PM 7:28 PM 8:08 PM 8:57 PM

END/SHENI

END

8:27 PM 8:26 PM 8:26 PM 8:27 PM 8:28 PM 9:16 PM 9:17 PM 10:29 PM 10:31 PM

BEHA’ALOTCHA JUNE 13, 2008 LIGHT END

7:28 PM 7:28 PM 7:05 PM 7:29 PM 7:30 PM 8:10 PM 9:00 PM

8:29 PM 8:28 PM 8:28 PM 8:29 PM 8:31 PM 9:19 PM 10:33 PM

SHLACH, JUNE 20, 2008 LIGHT

7:30 PM 7:30 PM 7:07 PM 7:31 PM 7:32 PM 8:12 PM 9:03 PM

END

8:31 PM 8:30 PM 8:30 PM 8:31 PM 8:33 PM 9:21 PM 10:36 PM

KORACH, JUNE 27, 2008 LIGHT

7:31 PM 7:31 PM 7:09 PM 7:32 PM 7:33 PM 8:13 PM 9:04 PM

END

8:32 PM 8:31 PM 8:31 PM 8:32 PM 8:34 PM 9:22 PM 10:361 PM

| May 2008

june 2008

Dear ShiurTimes Readers, On behalf of the residents of Jerusalem, I am delighted to send my best wishes for Yom Yerushalayim, Jerusalem Day. As you all know, throughout this past year we have been celebrating 40 years of the reunification of our beloved city. Forty-one years ago on the 28th of Iyar, our brave soldiers, defenders of our State, did not conquer Jerusalem; they reclaimed it and reunited us with our heritage.

Today, we are privileged to enjoy a revitalized Jerusalem that takes tremendous pride in being the capital of Israel. Each and every day, I am happy to see thousands of visitors entering the tall gates of the Old City—each of them inspired by the rich culture and history that are so unique to Jerusalem. Our citizens may come from different backgrounds and speak different mother tongues, but what connects us is a strong bond to Israel, an inseparable link between the Jewish people and the City of David, and the desire to contribute to Jerusalem in our own unique ways.

Saxon population in Jerusalem and throughout Israel is growing, and so it is commendable that ShiurTimes connects this community to issues within Israeli society. To quote Rav Shlomo Goren upon liberating the Western Wall in 1967, “LeShana ha-Zot b’Yerushalayim haB’nuya, b’Yerushalayim ha-Atika!” (This year in a rebuilt Jerusalem! In the Jerusalem of old!) Best Regards,

Mayor Uri Lupolianski

On this note, I would like to extend my congratulations to ShiurTimes on their fine publication. The Anglo-

‫עיירת ירושלים‬

ShiurTimes wishes a refuah shleimah to HaRav Mordechai Eliyahu (shlita): Mordechai Tzemach ben Mazal Tov.

Yerushalayim 5768 4 Letters to the Editor 6 Parshat Bamidbar by Rabbi Michael Green

8 Jerusalem Tidbits 10 Declaring Faith by Rebbetzin Chana Bracha Siegelbaum

12 Parshat Naso by Rav Zechariah Tubi (shlita)

20 Our Own Private Kotel by Bracha Slae

23 Relationships by Chana Frumin & David Kaufman

24 Parshat Beha’alotcha by Rabbi Yaacov Haber

26 In Focus: Reviving the House of David by Yehudit Singer

14 The Hidden Mystery of Shavuot by Rabbi Ephraim Sprecher

30 Halacha

16 P sychology

32 The Jewish Response to Converts

by Rafael Richman, PhD

18 Healthy Living by Dr. Simcha Shapiro

by Ha-Rav Shlomo Aviner by Rabbi Seth Farber

32 Art: Professional Women’s Theater

34 Community Profile by Ilene Bloch-Levy

36 P arshat Sh’lach by Rav Dov Begon

38 M aking a Difference by Yehudit Singer

40 Tikkun Layl Shavuot Listings 41 Making Sense of Shavuot by Anne Gordon

42 Travel by Rabbi Mordechai Weiss

43 Classifieds 48 Humor/Tidbits 50 Recipe

Second Year, No. 18 June © 2008 by ShiurTimes, Inc., 1 Ben Yehuda Street. All rights reserved. To contact one of the staff with your questions, concerns, subscriptions or advertising needs, please call: 02-6256225 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: Zev Geffen 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 Just One Droplet Rabbi Haber’s article entitled, Just One Droplet was fantastic! His insight is so powerful! -Avigdor Rabbi Haber’s Just One Droplet was awesome and inspiring. As a Noahide, I can understand why you all are the chosen nation. May the merits of this holy nation and people bring salvation to the rest of the world. -Theresa Yom Ha’atzmaut Please write “Eretz Yisrael” and not “Palestine” in your excellent publication. It is true that once our land was so called but that name was imposed by goyim. We are not obliged to accept it. -Moshe Krasniker Happy 60th! It’s thanks to people like you that our blue stripes and Magen David can lay strong on a white backdrop of hopes. -MichaellaWanted! Salesperson Montreal, CA

be equivalent to ignoring the opinion of a large portion of Israelis. Whether we accept it or not, there are people out there (even observant individuals) who believe that we should give back the settlements. Even though ShiurTimes would not make such a statement, these ideas do exist. As for Haaretz, that portion of the magazine was specifically showing the “firsts” in Israel. Regardless of its political orientation, Haaretz was the first magazine in Eretz Yisrael. It was here in 1918. The Jerusalem Post was only established in 1932, and Mekor Rishon in 1997! We are not supporting propaganda for Haaretz; we simply are publishing historical truth. The socio-political stance of that particular publication was definitely not the same as it is now. Since we were showing the long history of various services in Israel, to show either of the two newspapers you mentioned as the “first” would mean distorting history. I hope this clarifies your issues.

Editor’s Response: Dear Mr. Cohen, Thank you for your comments. I will briefly address your issues: The feature on the “Faces of Israel” was specifically meant to show some of the diverse voices in Israel. To not show the person from Ra’anana would

Over the past few years, we have been steadily repairing and upgrading our physical premises, including parchment preservation work by one of the world experts. Large numbers of school and yeshiva groups visit our museum and receive guided tours focusing on the Holocaust from the Torah perspective. If readers wish to arrange a guided tour, please feel free to phone me at the museum at 02-671-5105.

-Aaron Seiden, Curator Chamber of the Holocaust

Past Issues

Because you have so quickly proven that the quality of ShiurTimes is a class act from every aspect, I am taking the liberty First I would like to compliment for your of indicating to you that in Vol 2, No 15, ShiurTimes Magazine is looking for splendid magazine. However you must p 39 your title of the article starts with be careful not to fall for anti-settlers a word that does not exist. “Keverim” propaganda. You publicized someone should be by all standards (even within in Ra’anana saying that Zionism means the yeshivishe sector’s jargon who do not giving back the territories. The Judean know or use proper Ivrit) “kevarim,” the desert belongs to the Judeans; to the only known plural of “kever”. Jewish People for 4,000 years! Waiting with eager anticipation for every You also make propaganda for the next issue. -Rabbi ChaimWasserman extreme-left newspaper Haaretz. I think Council of Young Israel your readers would have preferred some info on other publications. May Hashem bless your magazine, all the Editors, and all the People of Israel! -David Cohen Gush Etzion

In contrast to other Holocaust museums, the focus at the Chamber of the Holocaust is to memorialize the Holocaust in the spirit of the Torah. Therefore, in the museum there are many artifacts and photos demonstrating the dedication of the Jews to their faith during this period of affliction. Hundreds of visitors visit our museum including many Hasidim and Bnai Torah who would not feel comfortable at secular Holocaust memorials.

Regarding the article that appeared in your last issue entitled, 60 Years of Commemorating the Holocaust, I wish to make some comments. While there is historical significance in the fact that the Chamber of the Holocaust was the first memorial in Israel for the Holocaust, of far greater importance to religious Jewry is that over the last few years, the Chamber of the Holocaust on Mt. Zion has been developing into the central museum and memorial for Torah Jewry.

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

When your partner is ill

Disposable relationships

The proper equilibrium

Managing your charity

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

VOL. 2, ISSUE NO. 14 FEBRUARY 2008

ISRAEL. . . . . . . . . . NIS 10

SOUTH AFRICA . . . . . R20 U.K. . . . . . . . . . . . . £ 1.50 U.S.A.. . . . . . . . . . . .$2.50

9 771234 567003

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

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

ShiurTimes is looking for a few good salespeople! Call NOW!

(02) 625-6225 | May 2008

www.shiurtimes.com

Parshat Bamidbar

Technology and the Message of the Midbar Current economic hardships allow us to maximize the message of the desert.

by Rabbi Michael Green

everal years ago, I recall driving down the New Jersey Turnpike. After traveling for only about an hour, I found myself moving at a speed reminiscent of a baby crawling. I was stuck in an endless traffic jam. Ultimately, I tuned the radio to arguably one of the most famous stations in all of the tri-state area, 1010 WINS. They are known for their famous slogan: “You give us 22 minutes; we’ll give you the world.” Truth be told, even though this occurred just a few years ago, times have certainly changed. Nowadays, in our technologically advanced world, cars are outfitted with GPS systems that alert the driver to upcoming traffic and effortlessly provide an alternate route. Instead of having to wait for the morning newspaper to learn the final score of a sporting event, these days one can easily read details of the game at any time they please thanks to a plethora of internet sites. Accordingly, there are more options than ever before to receive up-to-the-minute headlines of the latest traffic, sports, or news. From online content to newspapers, from magazines to podcasts, you can stay wired to the latest world events 24/6! In reality, this is both a blessing and curse.As a result of living in a world that is constantly “on,” it is becoming more of an arduous task to simply find a place to enjoy some peace and quiet. To that end, as we begin Parshat Bamidbar, it is interesting to note that out of all locations to receive the Torah or partake in a census, G-d decides to use the quiet desert as the perfect backdrop for these monumental events in Jewish history (Bamidbar 1). While the desert is devoid of electrical wires or loud noise,

one could pose the following question, “With all due respect, why did these events occur in the midbar, a desert, which is filled with snakes and scorpions? What is significant about this location that it merits being one of the names of the Five Books of Moses and is always read before Shavuot?”

‘‘

As a result of living in a world that is constantly ‘on,’ it is becoming more of an arduous task to simply find a place to enjoy some peace and quiet.” In reality, the name of this seemingly desolate location teaches us an eternally powerful message. Midbar, desert, is etymologically associated to the word midaber, speaker, which symbolizes a human being. As such, even if we find ourselves constantly occupied in our busy world, or if we are on a business trip in a place that is devoid of the precious values found within our holy Torah, we must never forget that what elevates us above all other forms of creation, and allows us to forever retain our bond with our Creator, is our power to communicate with the Almighty through speech (T a r g u m O n k e l o s , Bereishit 2:7). Indeed, our Sages related that our

entire ability to learn Torah and perform supplication to G-d through Tefillah is a product of our ability to speak. As we inch ever so closer to summer, the economic forecast appears not so bright. Nevertheless, even if we may find ourselves in the bleak setting of a financially grim desert, the name of this particular Torah portion reminds us that our ability to speak allows us always to remain connected to G-d through the steadfast performance of Torah and mitzvot, and our ability to pray three times each day. May it be G-d’s will that just as the Almighty personally protected the Jewish people for many years during their voyage in the desert, so too may Hashem shield us and all those that reside in the Land of Israel throughout this current economic sandstorm. ° Rabbi Michael Chaim Green currently serves as the Overseas Director of Bnot Torah/ Sharfman’s and is the author of 5 Ways to Increase Your Spirituality: Ancient Wisdom to Enhance Your Daily Life

| May 2008

www.shiurtimes.com

Jerusalem Tidbits

“

Liberating the Temple Mount To the paratroopers, liberators of Jerusalem: when the Temple Mount was Greeks, it was liberated by the Maccabees...

captured by the

Until you came, you the paratroopers, and returned it to the nation. The Western Wall, towards which every heart beats, is again in our hands. Many Jews put their lives in danger, throughout our long history, in order to reach Jerusalem and live in it. Numerous sons of yearning expressed the deep yearning that beats in the heart of every Jew for Jerusalem…

—Mota Gur

commander of the paratroopers brigade that liberated the Temple Mount Monday, the 4th of Sivan, June 12, 1967.

For me, my goal has been achieved. The Temple Mount is in our hands. The Temple Mount means also the Western Wall. When I stand in the parlor, I am not attracted to the outer walls… The Mount. Mount Moriah. Abraham and Isaac. The temple. The zealots and the Maccabees, Bar Kochba, Romans and Greeks. Everything is mixed t gether in our thoughts. However, the feelings are stronger and deeper than anything. We are on the Temple! The Temple Mount is ours!

Next Year in Jerusalem

Rav Kook

on ‘Next Year in Jerusalem’ Rabbi Mordechai Kirschblum recounted: When Rav Kook visited the United States, scores of people came to see and meet him. The purpose of his trip, however, was to raise funds for Torah institutions in Eretz Yisrael. At one gathering in the Rav ’s honor, a well-known philanthropist agreed to give a very sizable donation to the cause, but only if the Chief Rabbi could explain to him a puzzling practice: At the conclusion of both the Seder night and Yom Kippur, Jews around the world say, ‘Next year in Jerusalem.’

“I understand why Diaspora Jews say this,” they not already there?”

said the man, “but why do Jews who live in the

Holy city say it? Are

The Rav listened attentively to the question and then answered genially: “The matter is quite simple, my dear friend. First of all, in Jerusalem, we add one word to our prayer. We say ‘Next year in the rebuilt Jerusalem’, and we still have a long way to go before that request is fulfilled in its entirety.” “But there is more,” continued the Rav with a smile on his face. “When we beseech G-d, ‘Next year in Jerusalem,’ we mean that we hope to be there in the fullest sense— in body, soul and thought. We pray that our situation will be different than it is today, when people dwell in Jerusalem but are preoccupied with planning trips to America to raise funds.” Judging by the size of the man’s donation, it was clear that he was especially pleased with the second answer. —Reprinted from An Angel Among Men: Rav Avraham Yitzchak HaKohen Kook By Simcha Raz (Kol Mevaser Publishing 2003)

We are all born in Jerusalem The well-known Israeli author, Shmuel Yosef Agnon, wrote about the unique relationship between the Jewish people and the land of Israel. When he received the Nobel Prize for literature in 1966, the king of Sweden, Gustav VI asked him where he had been born. Agnon, a deeply religious Jew, answered, ‘Majesty, like all Jews I was born in Jerusalem, but then the Romans came and moved my cradle to Buczacz.’ This most powerful answer, which captures Jewish history within a few words, has without a doubt, been the answer the Jews have given to any invader, king, or emperor in the last two thousand years! What other nation has ever shown so much attachment to its land? —Reprinted from For the Love of Israel and the Jewish People by Nathan Lopes Cardozo (Urim Publications, 2008)

S.Y. Agnon

| May 2008

Jerusalem Tidbits

1534 (5294)

Winner of 5768 International Bible Quiz: Tzurit Berenson

Ari HaKadosh born in Jerusalem.

110,000

of Nahariya. Socially and politically-minded, Tzurit wore the token orange bracelet in support of Gush Katif. She also signed letter to PM Olmert, calling on him to do all he can to free Jonathan Pollard.

Number of vehicles that enter Jerusalem daily.

1995

JerusalemNumbers

Year that the United States Congress passed the Jerusalem Embassy Act, which states "Jerusalem should be recognized as the capital of the State of Israel.

Number of embassies in Jerusalem: the International Christian Embassy.

CHINA Israeli government donates $1.5 million worth of equipment for earthquake relief in China. Supplies include sleeping bags, blankets and personal water purification units.

536

(BCE) Year that the Jewish people returned Israel under Cyrus the Great.

732,100

Current population in Jerusalem

Percentage of Jerusalem population that is Jewish

Conversion Controversy! Need we remind you?

“You shall not oppress a stranger, for you know the feelings of the stranger, having yourselves been strangers in the land of Egypt.” (Exodus 23:9)

84,000

Rabbi Druckman

25,000 results

Rabbanut

14,200 results

137

Chapter of Tehillim (psalms) where “If I forget thee, O Jerusalem, may my right hand whither” can be found.

520

What’s Your Response? “The contribution of American Jewry to Israel may on balance be positive. They financed and built for us quite heavily; we in turn offered them a safe haven and a source of pride. Neither side of this equation is relevant any longer. We no longer need their money, certainly not at the price of their interference, and it is doubtful we can still offer them that haven or pride. Let’s part as friends, then. Let American Jews attend to their own business, and us to ours. And let’s be done with any more Talanskys.” - Gideon Levy, Haaretz journalist

Number of dunams in the Rechavia area of Jerusalem that is leased from the Greek Orthodox Church.

Brigade of paratroopers that liberated Jerusalem in the Six Day War.

Percentage of Jerusalem residents under the age of 24.

2,000

Number of archeological sites in Jerusalem.

Sderot Daily Occurances

Number of children in the Lupolianski family.

Meet Sderot personally. Tour the area every Friday with Eretz Nehederet. The organization provides transportation and guided tours to the area. For info, see eretzn@eretzn.org www.shiurtimes.com

Population of Jerusalem in 1948.

1267 (rocket on the street)

Year that the Ramban (Nachmanides) established a synagogue and renewed the Jewish community in Jerusalem.

Shavuot

Declaring Faith The cycle of Ruth’s conversion rectifies acts from her forefathers. by Rebbetzin Chana Bracha Siegelbaum

he process of Ruth’s conversion was far from smooth. Actually, we learn from the story of Ruth that one must discourage a conversion candidate, as Naomi turned Ruth away three times (Ruth 1:8-9, 11-13, 15).

the same status as Naomi, as it states, “and they both walked...” likewise, in the description of Avraham and Yitzchak after Yitzchak had become aware that he was to be sacrificed, scripture states: “And they both walked together” (Bereishit, 22:8). This is to teach us that Yitzchak’s willingness to be sacrificed matched Avraham’s willingness to sacrifice him, and they both walked together with an equal heart (Rashi, ibid.). Similarly, the midrash emphasizes the preciousness

“Go Return”- Rabbi Shmuel Bar Chiya said in the name of Rabbi Chanina, “return” is written three times here, corresponding to the three times one must push away a convert. If he persists we accept him. Rabbi Yitzchak says: ‘But the stranger shall not lodge in the street, I will open my doors to the traveler’ (Iyov 31:32). One must always push away with the left [hand] and bring close with the right [hand](Yalkut Shimoni, Ruth 1:601).

According to the Alshich (Rav Moshe Alshich, 16th century Tzfat), Naomi actually kept this balance of pushing away and bringing close through the phrase “go, return,” with which she related to her Moabite daughters-inlaw. With the word “go” she pushed them away; with the word “return” she hinted at the possibility of returning to Israel with her. Naomi’s words were to test the sincerity of her daughters-inlaw’s intentions to convert. For Orpah, Naomi’s arguments were enough to weaken her determination; she kissed her mother-in-law goodbye to return to her people and to her god (Ruth 1:15) . Precious Converts The Torah emphasizes the mitzvah to be kind to the convert numerous times. Judging from the way conversion candidates are often treated in many Jewish communities, it seems that most interpret this mitzvah to apply only after the person has completed her conversion. However, from the moment Ruth had decided to convert, Scripture gave her

with words that were akin to a powerful and passionate melody (Ruth 1:16-17). She opened her declaration of faith with the words “al tif’g’i bi” which are usually translated as “do not entreat me”; however, the Hebrew word “tif’g’i” from the three-letter root pay-gimmel-ayin has several meanings. The most common meaning is “to kill” (1 Shmuel 22:17, 1 Kings 2:25). Ruth was telling Naomi: “Do not kill me [by leaving me behind]” (Malbim 1:16). Her devotion to become Jewish was so strong that without it she would feel spiritually dead. Alternatively, the phrase “al tif’gi bi” can mean, “don’t get punished because of me.” Ruth was telling Naomi, “Do not sin on account of your separating from me.” Since I am determined to go to Israel and become Jewish, in any case, it is better to convert through you and not through someone else” (Ruth Raba 2:23). “Wherever you die I will die and there I will be buried. Hashem do so to me, and more also, if anything but death separate you and me” (Ruth 1:17). “And Avram said to Lot: Let there be no strife, I pray you, between me and you, and between my herdsmen and your herdsmen; for we are brothers. Is not the whole land before you? Separate yourself, I pray you, from me. If you go left I will go right, and if you go right I will go left (Bereishit 13:8-9).

of the conversion candidate, since Ruth was compared to Naomi in righteousness even before she could formalize her conversion in front of the Rabbinical Court. Rabbi Abahu said, “Come and see how precious are proselytes to the Holy One, blessed be He. Once she [Ruth] had set her heart on converting, Scripture placed her in the same rank as Naomi, as it is said: “And they both walked till they came to Bethlehem” (Ruth 1:19) (Yalkut Shimoni, Ruth Chapter 1, 601).

Ruth’s Declaration of Faith Ruth resisted Naomi’s dissuasion by pouring forth her love and utter devotion

Ruth concludes her declaration of faith with her vow “till death do us part.” Her attachment to Naomi rectified the separation of her forefather Lot from Avraham, which led to his degenerative ways. Scripture alludes to this rectification coming full-circle by using the same word to describe both Lot’s separation from Avraham, and Ruth’s (a descendant of Lot) attachment to Naomi (a descendant of Avraham). Ruth restores Lot’s original closeness to Avraham by returning to the place from which Lot departed. ° Rebbetzin Chana Bracha Siegelbaum is the founder and director of Midreshet B’erot Bat Ayin, where women come closer to Torah through traditional Jewish texts, creative spiritual expression and cultivation the Land of Israel. For more information: www. berotbatayin.org ( 972-2)-993-4945, info@berotbatayin.org.

| May 2008

JOIN OUR

NEW COMMUNITY ALIYAH INITIATIVE 400 New Homes in the Heart of Bet Shemesh

RABBI Of

SHALOM

ROSNER

Woodmere, Long Island

Recently announced his plans to make aliyah and to help found and lead, BE”H, a new 400-family Torani Leumi community in the most sought-after section of BET SHEMESH. Nofei Hashemesh will be a community driven by values from its inception, deeply committed to education and top-quality lifestyle. Thousands of Jews worldwide have visited the website, inquired through emails, read the rush of positive news coverage about this historic undertaking.

Come hear the dream directly from

RABBI ROSNER

In Israel: June 17-19 See our Website and upcoming ad in The Jerusalem Post for meeting locations and times.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.nofei.co.il Help spread the word. This ad is the sole notice of this event. Let your friends & neighbors know, so they can take part.

Nofei HaShemesh Your very own community in Israel • Kardan, Ltd. • Yesodot Tzur, Ltd. • Tivuch Shelly, Ltd. • Tel: (02) 566-2499 • nofeihashemesh@gmail.com www.shiurtimes.com

Parshat Naso

Nazir : Holy or Sinner? Differences in the sources show that nezirut is not meant for everyone.

by Rav Zechariah Tubi (shlita) (translated by Rav Meir Orlian)

One who walks in this path is called a sinner.”

he Torah’s attitude towards the nazir seems contradictory. On one hand, the Torah calls him “holy,” as it says: “He is holy to Hashem” (Bamidbar 6:8). On the other hand, the nazir has to bring a sin-offering at the conclusion of the period of nezirut. Furthermore, it is written of a nazir who became defiled [with a dead body]: “He [the kohen] shall provide him atonement for having sinned regarding the corpse” (6:11). Rashi explains: “Because he abstained from wine.” Thus, is the nazir holy or a sinner?

If so, what is the proper way of serving Hashem—through abstention or the opposite?

The Tannaim dispute this in Masechet Ta’anit (11a): R. Elazar Hakapar son of Rebbe says: Against which person did [the nazir] sin? Rather, he suffered by abstaining from wine... if he, who abstained only from wine is called a sinner, one who abstains from everything—all the more so! R. Elazar says, he is called holy, as it says, ‘He shall be holy.’ If he, who abstained from only one thing is called holy, one who abstains from everything—all the more so!

We find the same contradiction in the Rambam. In Moreh Nevuchim (Guide to the Perplexed) (3:48) he writes: “One who is cautious of [wine] is called ‘holy,’ and is placed on par with the kohen gadol in holiness.” Yet, in Hilchot De’ot (3:1) he writes: “Perhaps a person will say: Since jealousy, desire, honor and the like are bad, and remove a person from the world, I will abstain from them completely to the extreme, so that he will not eat meat nor drink wine. This is also a bad path, and it is prohibited to follow.

‘‘

What is the proper way of serving Hashem— through abstention or the opposite?” The Netziv (Rav Naftali Zvi Yehuda Berlin, 19th century Lithuania), in his commentary to the Torah, writes as follows: It is worthwhile to abstain from physical pleasure in order to achieve the spiritual pleasure of clinging to Hashem. However, since this cause [of defilement] occurred to [the nazir] against his will, it is a sign that he is not worthy of such, and, if so, he suffered himself from wine for naught, and sought something above his level. The Netziv explains that there is positive value to nezirut as a means of achieving great closeness to Hashem, but it is not appropriate for the average person. Not everyone is on a high enough level to accept nezirut upon himself. If one stops his nezirut in the middle, this implies that he was not worthy from the beginning. Therefore, he is called a sinner, and has to bring atonement. This is why the Torah says, “for having sinned about the person”—i.e., that he sought to cling to Hashem on a level that is above him. The Netziv compares this to the 250 princes who offered the ketoret (incense

offering) with Korach, who also wanted to achieve a closeness with G-d that was not appropriate for them. Therefore, it says there, “these sinners against their souls” (17:3). Thus, as a general approach to serving Hashem, nezirut is not appropriate. The ideal for the average person is that he should sanctify the mundane; not live a life of abstention from the material world. However, there are some special individuals who are on a lofty level, for whom nezirut is holiness, as the prophet Amos writes: “I established some of your sons as prophets and some of your young men as nazirites” (i.e. to become holy and achieve prophecy) (Amos 2:11). However, sometimes even the average person needs to accept upon himself nezirut in order to protect himself from sin, as Chazal say: “One who sees a sotah in her failing should abstain himself from wine” (Sotah 2a). This nezirut comes as necessary medicine to protect from sin. However, proper service of Hashem is to live a life of sanctity in the material world, and to sanctify it. For this reason, the priestly blessings follow the portion of the nazir: “May G-d bless you”—with property; “and protect you”—from harm; “They shall place My name on Bnei Yisrael and I will bless them.” This is the ideal; to join the blessing of Hashem with the blessing of property, and to turn it into something spiritual. ° Rav Zechariah Tubi shlita has been serving as the Rosh Kollel of Yeshivat Kerem B’Yavneh for about fifteen years, and is author of “Tal Imrati” on Hilchot Shabbat. Rabbi Meir Orlian serves as Sho’el U’maishiv in Yeshivat Kerem B’Yavneh, and has been the translation editor of its website for about ten years

| May 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 13

shavuot

the hidden Mystery of shavuot Why are we hardly ever commanded to recall the monumental event of Matan Torah? by rabbi efraiM sprecher

nlike Pesach and sukkot, the third festival, shavuot, appears in the Torah solely in an agricultural context. Moreover, although the “feast of harvest, the first fruits of your labors” is referred to in the prayer books as the “time when we received our Torah,” why is this context not mentioned anywhere in the Torah? Pesach is intended to remind us of the exodus from egypt. sukkot is primarily referred to as an agricultural holiday, as the “feast of ingathering”— “when you have gathered in the fruit of the land, you shall observe a feast unto the Lord” (Vayikra 23:39). however, the exodus from egypt is also an integral part of that festival: “that your generations may know that i made the children of israel dwell in booths, when i brought them out of the land of egypt: i am the Lord your G-d” (ibid. 23:43). in contrast, the Torah makes no reference to an obligation to remember a historical event on shavuot. it is mentioned solely as the “feast of harvest, the first fruits of your labors.” Why then does the Torah give us two festivals on which we are obligated to remember the exodus, but no festival during which we commemorate the major event of Matan Torah (the granting of the Torah on Mt. sinai)?

The issue becomes even more puzzling when we consider that the Torah also gives us many commandments whose purpose are to remind us of the exodus (such as tefillin, Pidyon haBen— redeeming the firstborn son, etc.), but gives us no commandment meant to remind us of Matan Torah. The story of the exodus from egypt is mentioned dozens of times in all three sections of the

‘‘

Matan Torah is not

just something to recall once a year; it is a gift that has been granted to us and we are at liberty to rediscover it each day.” scriptures—whereas the bestowal of the Law at Mount sinai is mentioned only on a few occasions! just as we are commanded to tell our children the story of the exodus from egypt, we are also commanded to tell them about Matan Torah. Devarim tells us; “Take the utmost care, and keep your soul diligently, so that you do not forget those events which your own eyes have seen, and so that they do not fade from your heart all the days of your life; and you shall teach your children, and your childrens’ children—all about the day that you stood before the Lord your G-d in Horeb” (4:9-10).

The Torah attaches immense importance to the event at Mt. sinai, so much so that

the granting of the Torah is considered the ultimate goal of the exodus from egypt: “When you have brought forth the people out of egypt, you shall serve G-d upon this mountain” (Shmot 3:12). it is therefore very puzzling that jews are not commanded to remember such a major event, at least to a degree equal to the command to recall the exodus from egypt. We can understand from the above that we are not meant to recall the conferral of the Torah merely as a historical event that took place at a specific point in time. We were granted the Torah so as to study it daily. Matan Torah is not just something to recall once a year; it is a gift that has been granted to us and we are at liberty to rediscover it each day. Why? Because, as the Talmud teaches us, “each day, a heavenly echo can be heard from Mount horeb, proclaiming ‘people must take great care not to insult the Torah’” (Mishna Avot, Chapter 6). in other words, the Torah itself contains an echo of the mighty voice of G-d heard at sinai. This is why the Torah avoids specifically referring to shavuot as the festival marking our receiving of the Torah, and this is why the Torah does not cite a specific commandment as a living monument to that majestic event. For the Torah has been granted to us so that we can discover new wonders in it each and every day. ° Rabbi Efraim Sprecher is the Dean of Students at the Diaspora Yeshiva in Jerusalem.

| May 2008

‫מסד‬

For them it's a picture For you it's walking distance...

‫לה‬ ‫מע הזי‬ ‫תים‬ ‫דירה עם אווירה‬

‫עעבודה‬ ‫ברית‬

Maale HaZeitim neighborhood across from Har HaBait Kedumim 3000 Company Currently in second phase of construction | Only a 15 minute walk to the Kotel | 3, 4, 5, 6 room apartments & penthouses | Garden apartments | High quality building | A warm, welcoming community | Large central underground parking lot and above it large communal space www.maale-hazeitim.co.il

Tel.

www.shiurtimes.com

info@kedumim3000.co.il

09-7921094, 054-6737309

Fax.

09-7921184

Psychology

Nourish your Child with the Gift of Listening [“Shema” part 1] Changing your listening habits will improve your relationship with your children. by Rafael Richman, PhD

and empathize with the child’s feelings of pain, the child would feel heard, stop crying, and then run off to continue playing. In a nonperfect world, the parent would respond to the child by getting frustrated, angry, or by being non-attentive to the child’s message. In the scenario, the child may continue to cry, or get irritated.

hen you and your child interact, your child communicates a message, and in response feels partially heard, or not heard at all. For instance, your child may express an idea or a feeling to you, and your response may be to problemsolve; to give a solution or provide parental advice to him or her. One consequence of this “dance” is that your child may not feel heard or understood. S/he may experience an empty feeling, accompanied by a sense of dissatisfaction. This may be outside of your child’s conscious awareness and is often very subtle. In families where such poor communicating patterns occur repeatedly, children get used to not feeling heard.

A deep human need is not being fulfilled, and a consequence of this is that your child may end up feeling frustrated. If this feeling happens frequently, he may also feel invisible, unloved, unimportant, alone, and insecure. Your child may sense that it is not safe for him/her to express his/her feelings. Children cope with this lack of being heard and their corresponding feelings in different ways. Children who are still developing their verbal skills or who have difficulty with communicating their feelings may resort to indirect strategies for getting across their inner experience. Keeping their feelings to themselves is one possible action. “Turning up the volume” is another. While the former action may manifest as the child “going quiet” (not verbalizing), the latter may

‘‘

The unfortunate truth is that it is often incredibly difficult to really listen to others who are closest to us, and this includes our children.”

manifest more externally and noisily, such as crying, having temper-tantrums, screaming, nagging or acting out. As adults and parents, in order to vent our feelings, we turn to friends, close family, or our spouses. If you recall an instance when you felt truly heard and understood, you most likely feel positive about this interaction. Feeling heard and understood is often accompanied by a sense of clarity. People who talk and feel heard are often better able to sort out what they are thinking or feeling and what is important to them. This ideally enables them to move on. A classic example in parent-child interactions can be used to illustrate this point. Suppose a child falls and hurts himself, and approaches his/her parents crying. The child wishes to let his/her parent know that s/he fell and that s/he is experiencing some degree of pain. In the perfect world, the parent would validate

In the perfect world scenario, the parent nourishes the child by responding in an empathic way. Parents living in the real world, however, may be tired, busy with other kids, absorbed in another task, overwhelmed, etc. For whatever reason, parents may be unable to listen to the child at that moment. It is often incredibly difficult to really listen to others who are closest to us, and this includes our children. It can be easier to respond positively to a stranger or a casual acquaintance since it is less likely that these individuals set off our reactive triggers and push our buttons. It is easier to listen to someone when we are not as invested in the relationship. If you decide to pursue this path, expect that changing the dynamics and the interaction patterns between you and your children will require ongoing work, conscious effort and continuous practice. Active and sincere listening is a skill. Unpracticed skills get rusty. Your child deserves to be nourished. Are you willing to work at improving your listening habits? ° 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

| May 2008

FROM:

www.shiurtimes.com

TO:

Healthy Living

Health Q&A With Dr. Simcha Shapiro Preventing Dehydration Q: Dear Dr. Shapiro, I am taking a trip to Israel this summer with my family. I know that we will be hiking a lot, and traveling all over. Do you have any advice for things that we can do to help ensure that at least from a health perspective, our trip is a major success? --Summer Fun A: Dear Summer Fun,

With kids being off of school and the weather so nice, summer is a natural time for family trips. While these trips can be a lot of fun, getting sick can get in the way of a good time. While sickness can take any form, I see more tourists suffering from dehydration than anything else. Here are some tips to help keep you and yours healthy:

1. Prevention

• Drink—Regardless of how much coffee, soda, or Red Bull you may drink, your body is still made mainly of water. While a healthy person should regularly drink about 1.5-2 liters of water/day, the number increases to 2.5-4 liters/ day when one is out on a good hike up Masada in the summer. If you are swimming, it is easy to forget to drink (you don’t feel yourself sweat), but it is no less important.

Remember, caffeinated drinks make you lose water (you have to go to the bathroom a lot). For every caffeinated drink you have, drink twice as much water! • Wear a hat—In Israel, people don’t just wear them for religious reasons! Shading yourself will help keep you from drying up! • Know your limits—People often get dehydrated or get heat stroke when they go on that day-trip, and only after do they knew it was “too much for them.” If you are thinking you are not up to it, stay close today so that you can join everyone tomorrow. • Wear sunscreen—It may not help so much with dehydration, but you will have your skin for the rest of your life. You should protect it!

2. Identification

Here are some signs that might mean you are dehydrated: • Headache • Nausea • Vomiting • Diarrhea • Generalized Weakness • Disorientation/Confusion

3.Treatment

If the symptoms are not too severe, you can start treatment on your own, but if there is no improvement within 4-6 hours consult with a medical professional. • Re-hydration—Rehydration is not as simple as just drinking water. Dehydration doesn’t just deplete you body’s water

supply, but also its salts and sugars. Try an electrolyte solution like Electrorice, Hydran, or others that can be bought in any pharmacy in Israel. Broth from chicken soup is also very useful for re-hydration. • Slow and steady—Your body is more able to absorb water when it is presented with it slowly over time. Drink a little bit every few minutes. • Get out of the sun—If you are on a hike, rest in the shade. If you are near an indoor area, go somewhere with air-conditioning. This will help you to retain the fluids that you have. • Rest—Your body does not take lightly to being deprived of water. It now needs to recharge. You will be more likely to get dehydrated again unless you give yourself the proper chance to recover. Dehydration can be very serious; even lifethreatening. If none of the above seems to be working within 4-6 hours, or your symptoms are severe, go straight to your nearest medical facility for treatment. This summer, I hope to see you in your favorite cafe— not in the doctor’s office! ° Dr. Simcha Shapiro is a UStrained physician and osteopath. He is founder and director of the Listening Hands Institute in the Maalot Dafna neighborhood of Jerusalem. More info at www.listeninghands.co.il

Healthy Hintz Practical Tips from a Former Olympian Strawberries contain unique phenolic phytonutrients that serve as potent antioxidants. They have repeatedly been shown to help protect cell structures in the body and to prevent oxygen damage in all of the body’s organ systems. Phenols not only make strawberries a heart-protective fruit, but an antiinflammatory one, as well. Like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, strawberry’s phenols block the enzyme cyclo-oxygenase (or COX) whose over-activity has been shown to contribute to unwanted inflammation, such as that involved in rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, asthma, atherosclerosis, and cancer. Specific phenolic compounds known as anthocyanins also provide strawberries with their beautifully characteristic red color.

The nutrients found in grapefruit can promote a healthy heart. Grapefruit is a good source of dietary fiber and contains pectin, a type of soluble fiber that forms a gel-like substance in the intestinal tract that can trap fats like cholesterol. In animal studies, grapefruit pectin inhibited the development of atherosclerosis. Animals fed a high cholesterol diet with added grapefruit pectin had 24% narrowing of their arteries, while animals fed only the highfat diet had 45% narrowing. Grapefruit is also a good source of the mineral potassium, which helps to regulate blood pressure. Additionally, red and pink grapefruit contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant carotenoid that has been found to inhibit free radical damage to LDL cholesterol. Higher body levels of lycopene (a reflection of dietary intake) have been associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Dr. Reuven Bruner, Ph.D., is a former Olympian, lifestyle/wellbeing nutritionist and exercise psychologist. For more information on assessments, consultations, free fitness tips, and the free Bruner Method Home Fitness/Lifestyle Program, contact Dr. B. at FitnessDoctor@Bezeqint.net

| May 2008

PLANNING TO STAY IN ISRAEL?

MAKE A ALIYAH LIYAH without standing in line! Nefesh B’Nefesh’s GUIDED ALIYAH PROGRAM enables North American and U.K. citizens already living in Israel to complete the Aliyah process in English, with the assistance of our professional staff. Nefesh B’Nefesh provides participants with:

Assisted Government Processing s Employment Resources s Financial Grants* s Social Services Guided Aliyah applications are available online at: www.nbn.org.il/guided For more information contact: (02) 659-5718 s guidedaliyah@nbn.org.il *Please check our website for complete eligibility requirements. Processing time: 6-8 weeks from receipt of application and all related paperwork. This program is in cooperation with Misrad Hapnim.

www.shiurtimes.com

Yom Yerushalayim

Our Own Private Kotel A piece of the Western Wall that few people have ever seen. by Bracha Slae

ne of the most awesome structures in the entire world is the Kotel HaMa’aravi— the Western Wall—one of four supporting walls of the Beit HaMikdash (the Temple) that was never destroyed. The stones of the Kotel draw people of all ages, ethnicities, political and religious persuasions, but although thousands of them have also visited the Western Wall Tunnels, not everyone realizes how much of the Kotel is still buried under what is today called the Moslem Quarter of the Old City. Even fewer know about the Kotel HaKatan (the “little wall”). Just three blocks north of the “Big” Kotel Plaza is a dark, narrow, winding alleyway, reminiscent of the path Jews had to take to reach the Western Wall in the 1930’s. This leads to the Iron Gate, an entrance to the Temple Mount used by Moslems going to pray. Israeli police guard the entrance to enforce the Waqf’s (Muslim religious land endowment) ban against non-Moslems entering that gate. Through the bars, one can see the Temple Mount: the paved area and the place where the Beit Hamikdash once stood. Now children play ball and fly kites, and adults relax over a cup of coffee in the tree-lined park that is built upon the remains of Judaism’s holiest site. Directly before the Iron Gate, there is a small paved plaza about 600 feet long— almost the same length as the main Kotel Plaza during the British Mandate. As in the 1930’s, there is no mechitza, no water, no benches, no shade, no Aron Kodesh and no siddurim. There are no facilities for organized prayer with Torah reading, nor is there room for more than

100 people at one time. However, the plaza of this “little Kotel” is incredibly significant, as it sits directly opposite the central area of the Temple Mount, and is

‘‘

Not everyone realizes how much of the Kotel is still buried under what is today called the Moslem Quarter of the Old City.”

at almost the same height as the Mount. Known solely by word--of-mouth, there is always someone at the site. Kabbalat Shabbat is like nowhere else in the world—50 to 100 people stand in front of the Iron Gate, singing much of the service. Every Shabbat afternoon, students from Yeshivat Ateret Yerushalayim “shlep” a portable Aron Kodesh with a Sefer Torah, a folding bima, siddurim, and a few chairs to daven mincha in this, their own private Kotel. It takes quite a bit of mesirut nefesh (dedication) to organize regular prayer services, but groups of Old City yeshiva students now take the responsibility for daily mincha services. Families ‘in-theknow’ celebrate bar and bat mitzvahs and other occasions at this more private section of Kotel.

Until recently, people coming to the Kotel Ma’aravi HaKatan did not find a visible or accessible police presence at the site, but bit by bit security has improved. The (now) constant police presence, the closed-circuit camera, the visible presence of Yeshivat Ateret Yerushalayim and the fact that the policemen are often active participants in the davening (prayers), all combine to make the spot feel more like home.

As Jews show their devotion to this Holy Site, the authorities are gradually improving conditions. Soon perhaps more amenities like those found at the “Big” Kotel—benches, a mechitza, a water fountain—will appear at the Kotel HaKatan. Yet even without them, access to this small section of the Kotel cries out to Jews to make their presence felt here, no less than at ‘Big’ Kotel Plaza near the Dung Gate. ° Bracha Slae has resided in the Old City for over three decades, gaining an intimate knowledge of the people and places within the walls. Her experience in guiding, researching, and writing has inspired her to share this knowledge with the public. For more info on the Kotel HaKatan, please see http://kotelhakatan.area.co.il/ or email bslae@mscc.huji.ac.il

| May 2008

La Guta

Chef Restaurant

Chef Guy Ben-Simhon

10% discount on the evening menu with this ad by ordering ďŹ rst and main course. not including business lunches.

La Guta

Chef Restaurant

18www.shiurtimes.com Yossef Rivlin st. Nahalat Shiva, Jerusalem Tel 02-6232322

Kosher

www.la-guta.co.il 21

| May 2008

pesach relationships suppleMent

friendly and safer dating The fragile world of dating can be a growth experience when handled the right way. by chana fruMin & david KaufMan

ating can be a rough business for many reasons and yet when handled with consideration, it can be a constructive, instead of destructive experience. During our years as therapists, many men and women have shared stories of the mistakes and difficulties that have occurred during the process of dating. The stories included showing up late or not at all, promising to call without calling, the man’s unwillingness to pay (many women expect the man to treat— at least on the first date), disappearing in the middle of a date for long periods of time without an explanation, arguments erupting over political or religious differences and dating multiple people simultaneously. These difficulties and mistakes can often lead to “burn out” where people are no longer willing to date or are afraid to date. another area of confusion can arise in the relationship between the dater and the shadchan/it (matchmaker). some daters have shared stories of finding out hidden information after they’ve already begun dating the person, running personality checks without consent, accepting rumored stories as truth, being set up with totally inappropriate people (where there’s really no overt correlation except for one being male and one being female!) if the shadchan/it and the dater do not discuss problems as they arise, there is no place for growth or correction of unintentional mistakes. Problems need to be approached and discussed with respect in order to be corrected. From our experience, we see that the approach of the daters themselves has problematic aspects. Many of our daters have confided that they make up their minds within the first three minutes of the date based on if there is “chemistry” or not.

www.shiurtimes.com

When we asked harav Zev Leff about chemistry he responded “Chemistry is just one of many aspects that need to be considered. Physical attraction is part of chemistry, but chemistry can change when combined with knowledge about personal preferences, goals in life, dreams and aspirations, and/or what kind of job they have.”

Dating

Guide to the Perplexed

Dating is a vulnerable business and when treated with safety and friendliness can be a growth experience and positive process. We are available to offer our matchmaking services for daters out there. see our practical tips for guidance...Good luck! ° 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

Here are some good ideas that have worked to create a friendlier and safer dating experience:

Imagine you are on an airplane with this person. In other words, keep to “small talk”, and don’t get into heated discussions (arguments on politics, religious issues, etc.) Keep the ﬁrst date 1-2 hours long. Keep courtesy in-tact on each date. Act polite. Be sure to say “please” and “thank you.” Making a good impression is important, but you don’t want to be fake. You should do your best to make the date a pleasant experience for the both of you. Limit phone calls at ﬁrst.

a person needs to take the time to consider what is good for them and what is truly good in the person they are dating. The process of understanding this and allowing space for chemistry to develop takes weeks and sometimes months.

Do not promise anything you have no desire or intention of fulﬁlling. If you have no intention of buying food or spending money, then go somewhere free or without food for the date. Ideas: a walk in the park, outdoor festivals, etc. Dress nicely. It gives the impression that you think the date (and the other person) is important. at the end of the date, thank the person for their time. This gives an awareness that they have given you something.

Parshat Beha’alotcha

A History of the Shechinah The fire that didn’t consume became our symbol of the eternity of the Shechinah. by Rabbi Yaacov Haber

ately I have started praying for something new. I still pray for good health, for my children, for peace in Israel, and for parnassa, but I now realize that it really all comes down to one thing. I have started praying for the Shechinah. I realize that when G-d rests His Presence upon us, life begins to work. All the blessings that were somehow hidden from the eye become revealed. Life is smoother, happier and full of peace. We need peace in our lives, in our homes and in our country. We need to pray for the Shechinah! How can you tell the difference? How do we see

the Shechinah? Through fire; not manmade fire, but G-dly fire. A fire made by man gives warmth and light, but only burns while consuming its fuel. If nothing is consumed, the fire goes out. A fire made by G-d gives light and heat, but does not consume anything. In G-d’s world, there is an ultimate good that isn’t at the expense of something else. There can be warmth and light without any destruction or loss. When Moshe was busy shepherding his flock, he came across a burning bush. Given the heat and dryness of the desert, the fact that the bush was burning was

not in itself a spectacular sight. But a fire burning without consuming anything— now that stopped Moshe in his tracks! This could not be a fire from Earth; it must be a fire from the Heavens! Moshe immediately understood that with all the tribulations of the Jewish people, G-d was still with them. The Shechinah was still present.

US$75 UK£30 EU€40 Israel₪150

SUBSCRIPTIONS & RENEWALS

+972(0)2 625-6225 staff.editors@shiurtimes.com 24

| May 2008

As history unfolded, the fire that didn’t consume appeared and reappeared to our people. As we walked through the desert, we were led by a pillar of fire that didn’t consume. As we climbed Mt. Sinai, we witnessed a fire from G-d on top of the mountain that didn’t consume. And as we lit the Menorah in the Mishkan and in the Beit HaMikdash, we noticed that in the western-most candle of the Menorah there was a fire that never went out. It was a fire from the Heavens which served as “a testimony that G-d dwells amongst us” (Shmot 27:21, Talmud Shabbat 22). Indeed, the Shechinah was with us. Throughout the First Temple, the fire of that western-most candle burned, and when the Second Temple was built, the fire burned again. It burned miraculously, without consuming its oil, and we all knew that G-d was with us!

www.shiurtimes.com

But then the fire went out. One hundred years after the building of the Second Temple, during the great summit meeting between Alexander the Great and the leader of the Jews, Simon the Just, the candle went out. Suddenly we were confused. We no longer knew whether the Presence of G-d was resting upon Hashem’s people or not.

‘‘

In G-d’s world, there is an ultimate good that isn’t at the expense of something else.”

Then came Chanukah. Many years later, many deaths later, the Maccabees miraculously recaptured the Temple from the Greek authorities, and restored its holy function. All of Israel returned to Jerusalem en masse and bowed before G-d. They looked for a sign that the Shechinah was with them, but the Menorah was not burning. There wasn’t any oil to consume.

Then a miracle happened! They lit the candles and once again the “bush burned but did not get consumed.” On Chanukah we understood that once again, Hashem was with our people. In our Parsha, Aharon was asked to light the Menorah. Not just for then, but for all times, the family of Aharon would be the messengers of G-d to show the world a fire that “does not consume.” G-d is still with us, G-d’s miracles still occur, and G-d’s love for us is everlasting. So my new prayer is that the fire should burn once again; that we should once again become a G-dly people living in a G-dly country. As we say in the concluding blessing of the Shmoneh Esrei: “Bless us all together with the light of Your face, because with the light of Your face You have given us the Torah of life, love of kindness, charity and peace.” We need to pray for peace! ° Rabbi Yaacov Haber is the President of Torahlab, www.torahlab.org, an organization serving the world of Jewish education with unique and meaningful learning material.

In Focus

Reviving the House of Exclusive Interview with Mrs. Susan Roth by Yehudit Singer

| May 2008

In Focus 1 Effie Lahav, left, (Director of the King David Museum) and Yisroel Cohen, right, (Curator of the Museum) present Susan Roth with a page from an illuminated Psalms from 1561.

36th

generation-great-granddaughter

Rashi spent her childhood as a star in the world of Yiddish theater, owns her own successful publishing company, revitalized interest in Kever Rachel and single-handedly linked her

lineage back to King David. Yes, she is that impressive. The difficulty in offering a chronology to the life of Susan Roth proves the complex profundity of her roots. Names like Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, Shneur Zalman of Liadi and the Baal Shem Tov, may line everyone’s bookshelves, but Susan Roth connects to their writings in more familial sense. She is a direct descendant of each of these Torah luminaries. And the good news is: you may be, too. For more than a decade, Mrs. Roth has been fascinated by King David and his descendants. Her intrigue began after talking with a committee chairman for the Jerusalem 3000 celebrations. She encouraged publishing a commemorative 3,000 year Book of Psalms, but when nothing was done to fulfill the idea, she got upset and saw it as a missed opportunity. She subsequently decid-

f David:

ed to open her own publishing company and published the book herself. She printed limited editions of the Golden Book of Psalms [the Pope and President of the United States were honorary recipients] and launched the book in 1999, which received huge accolades. “Tourists in Israel approached me saying they were descendants of King David and wanted to buy copies of the book. I began to think about the concept of ‘Malchut Beit Dovid’ (the Kingdom of the House of David). If all of these people claimed they were related, maybe I fit in, too.”

www.shiurtimes.com

In Focus

She began conducting research, and discovered her genetic line runs back to Rashi. Through her research, she began to accumulate so much information and so many artifacts, that she felt a responsibility to share her discoveries with others. Collaborating with a team of genealogists, she opened a genealogy center allowing the public to see if they too were part of the Davidic Dynasty (see www.davidicdynasty.org). The breadth of information and archeological and historical artifacts that she acquired led her to launch the King David Museum in the Old City, which holds more material on King David than anywhere else. “In every generation, there’s one person who takes the mantle of previous generations and carries it on… I’m continuing what they started,” she says. The museum charts families related to King David, with common family names such as Adler, Horowitz, Landau, Glickman and many more. Mrs. Roth shares that Nir Barkat, famed Jerusalem businessman and past political competitor of Mayor Lupoliansky, was one of the first visitors to the museum. “He knew that he was somehow related to R. Shneur Zalman, but he didn’t know that meant being a descendant of King David!” Mrs. Roth quips, “I’d venture to say that three-quarters of the government is actually related to King David!” The Davidic Dynasty project is currently writing the first ever Sefer Torah dedicated in honor of King David. The finest parchment has been purchased for this Sefer Torah and a Sofer (scribe) has already begun writing the text. The project was launched officially at the Museum of Jewish Heritage in New 2 Susan Roth, as Founder of the newly established King David Museum in the Old City, addresses distinguished guests at the Museum’s Official Opening on 28 March 18, 2008.

6 4

America, where they entertained thousands of Holocaust survivors who thirsted for the Yiddish world. By the time she was 11 years old, she spoke six languages and had lived in five countries. “I believe it [Yiddish] will always be alive,” she says. “It will never rejuvenate the way it was, but it will always be alive.”

York in 2006 with the Sofer on-hand to begin the process. The scroll is presently on display at the King David Museum. A childhood theater star, Susan (“Zisel Yocheved”) Roth was widely known along with her twin brother, Michael (“Mordechai Leib”) and parents as the “Four Bernsteins” in the world of Yiddish theater. Together, their family theatre troupe traveled the Yiddishspeaking world, becoming a smash hit in the “Borscht Belt” of New York’s Catskill Mountain region. As the interest in Yiddish theater began to decline, Susan and her family traveled to South

‘‘

I’d venture to say that three-quarters of the government is actually related to King David!”

3 Susan Roth cuts the regal burgundy and gold ribbons at the King David Museum in the Old City of Jerusalem proclaiming its official opening to the public.

At the age of eight, her family moved to Israel to perform. At the time, they were starring in “Songs of the Megillah” (Megilla Lider), the longest running Yiddish performance in Israel. Living here at such an impressionable age made long-lasting impacts on Susan. Decades later, she became a generous supporter of a number of Jewish social and educational causes in the country. She also decided to follow in the footsteps of her parents and brother by declaring aliyah in 2001. She recalled that one day, as she sat in her Jerusalem apartment where she had been living on-and-off for years, she decided the time had come. She called a friend who took her to the Misrad HaPnim (Ministry of Interior), and within forty minutes (!), she was a citizen. “They thought I wanted something from the government, but I just kept explaining that all I wanted was the Right of Return!” she laughs. Roth retired from theater at the age of 19, when she married her [late] husband, Michael Roth (z”l), a successful real

4 Rabbi and Mrs. Yitzchak Marciano of Hebron touring the King David Museum’s many exhibits. Rabbi Marciano supervises the Kollels at Ma’arat HaMachpeyla (The Cave of the Patriarchs), one of the holy sites in Israel supported 2008 | MayRoth. by the Eshet Chayil Foundation established by Susan

In Focus

estate developer in the United States. Together, they created a home with strong Jewish values. Asked how she passed on her passion and interests to her kin, Roth responded, “I gave over my Judaism by setting an example, talking to my children, coming into contact with these different people in my life… to me what keeps the Jews Jewish today is the same thing that has kept us strong in the past: the home. The home is the mainstay of Jewish life, and so if the parents emphasize a love of G-d, and a love of tradition, I don’t think our children will stray.” As time went on, Susan became actively involved in numerous charity organizations. She established the Eshet Chayil Foundation, which over the years, has helped support many non-profits in Israel such as Merkaz Harmony, Scopus, Beit-El, Hazon Yeshaya, Ascent of Safed, Dor Yeshorim, and more. Mrs. Roth has been particularly active in supporting the Kollel in Hebron and protecting Kever Rachel (Rachel’s Tomb) in Bethlehem. She says, “I can’t understand why every shul doesn’t collect money to send to the Kollel in Hebron. Everyone davens to Avraham, Yitzchak and Yaakov. They are the foundations of our people! If every shul in the world gave $1 a year to the Kollel, they’d be taken care of…” In particular, the activities that Mrs. Roth coordinated at Kever Rachel are probably the best indication of her ambition to perpetuate the Jewish people. Her involvement began in 1994-95, when

she got word that the Israeli government planned on giving away the Tomb to the Palestinians. She made some phone calls and discovered that the decision was based on a dearth of people visiting the site. Seeing the difficulty in getting there by public transportation, Roth organized buses for groups of people to visit day and night. Instantaneously, large groups of people began to visit. She then began to organize weekly melavei malka (gatherings after Shabbat) with refreshments, which brought weekly visitors. “The Bus Lady” also arranged that the parochet (curtain on the Torah) from the destroyed Kever Yosef in Shechem rest inside Rachel’s tomb. [Note: Mrs. Roth has recently learned that this was removed from Kever Rachel. Anyone with information about its whereabouts, please contact ST.] She laments that after years of gaining such momentum at Kever Rachel, the initiatives waned when she returned to the United States to care for her ailing husband. During the time she was back in the U.S., tall security walls were built, turning the Kever into more of an enclosed-compound. Even now that she is based in the U.S., her Eshet Chayil Foundation supports the Kollels in both Kever Rachel and at the Ma’arat HaMachpela in Hebron. Since the interview came upon the heels of celebrating Israel’s 60th year of independence, Mrs. Roth spoke a bit about Zionism. Her insights give a perspective that one day the international community will come to accept: “I think

5 Nir Barkat, famed Jerusalem businessman received a private tour by King David Museum Curator, Yisroel Cohen and Museum Director, Effie Lahav. www.shiurtimes.com

6 Susan with Avi Luvaton (owner, Luvaton Gallery at the David Citadel Hotel).

the government made a mistake sixty years ago. We are not a state; we are a nation. It hasn’t been sixty years since the founding of Israel; it’s been sixty years since the reclamation of Israel. Once we understand that we’re building on 3,000 years of our forefathers’ land, no one can say we took it from anyone.” Her message to future leaders— mirroring her dedication to the Jewish people—gains inspiration from the words of Hillel, “Im Ayn Ani Li, Mi Li?” (If I am not for myself, who will be for me?) “If we don’t protect the Land, who will?” she asks. “And if not now, when? Now is the time to stand up, when the world wants to give it away...it’s up to us to ensure the continuity of the Jewish homeland and the Jewish people, and we must do it now.” In closing, the background to the King David Museum, which is essentially Mrs. Susan Roth’s life story, tells the narrative of the Jewish people full cycle. The story begins with the kingdom of David, to Torah’s greatest minds, travels through the world of the mama loshen— language of the Diaspora Jew— and returns to modern-day Israel, where it reconnects Jews worldwide to their roots. Indeed, Susan Roth continues to do her part in fulfilling what she sees as the mission of the People of Israel: to be a light unto the nations. Letters for the Sefer Torah Project can be purchased for as little as $18. For more info, see www.davidicdynasty.org or www.kingdavidmuseum.com

7 Susan Roth with Naftali Lavie, former Ambassador to the United States, and brother of the Chief Rabbi of Israel.

Halacha

Jerusalem: The World’s Highest Spot?

pinnacle (Chatam Sofer on Devarim 17:8).

What traditional sources really mean when they refer to Jerusalem as the world’s highest place. The and by Ha-Rav Shlomo Aviner (translated by Rabbi Mordechai Friedfertig)

: In various places in the Torah, we see that when one comes to Israel, it is referred to as an “aliyah”—an ascent— and when one leaves Israel it is called a “yeridah”—a descent. Based on examples in Parshat Lech Lecha where the Torah says that Avraham “descended” to Egypt (Bereshit 12:10) and “ascended” to Israel upon his return (ibid. 13:1), the Gemara says that the Land of Israel is higher than any other place in the world (Zevachim 54b). Likewise, in Parshat Shoftim, the Torah further says “you should arise and ascend to the place” (i.e. the Sanhedrin in Jerusalem) if you have a difficult halachic question or court case (Devarim 17:8). Based on this, the Gemara says that Jerusalem and the Temple are higher than any place in the Land of Israel (ibid). But how can the Gemara make such claims, when we all know that places like Mt. Everest and the Himalayas are higher than even Mt. Chermon, which is the highest spot in Israel?!

: Two answers are provided to

this difficulty: The Radvaz (Rav David ben Zimra, late 15th century, Spain), who lived about 500 years ago in Tzefat, explains how the Temple Mount lost its crown as the highest spot in Israel. He writes that the non-Jews lowered its height as it

says, “Raze it, raze it, to its foundation” (Tehillim 137:7). The gentile kings dug up the Temple Mount in order to build their houses, temples and churches higher than it. Furthermore, the rains flowed down the incline of the Temple Mount which exacerbated the razing. Earthquakes and ongoing conquests also caused much destruction in Jerusalem, where people subsequently built houses on the rubble. There is one archeological layer on top of another in Jerusalem. Thus, while Jerusalem became higher, the Temple Mount was lowered, but it once was the highest spot (Shut HaRadvaz vol. 2 #639). The Chatam Sofer (Rav Moses Schreiber, or Moshe Sofer, Germany late 18th -early 19th century), who lived in Hungary about

200 years ago and was never in Israel, provides an answer from a completely difference perspective by focusing on the statement that the Land of Israel is the highest spot in the world. He explains that the earth is a sphere and it is therefore impossible to definitively say which is the highest point. Everything is dependent on how one holds the sphere. If you hold the earth in a proper way then Israel, Jerusalem and the Temple Mount are the highest places. If you hold the sphere in a different way, someplace else will be on top. The essential job of a Jew is to have the proper perspective in life to ensure that Israel, Jerusalem and the Temple Mount are always at the

special aspirations yearnings for the building of Jerusalem is a string which is threaded throughout the entire Tanach and all of the statements of our Rabbis: “It is I [G-d] who says of Jerusalem, ‘You shall be inhabited,’ and of the cities of Yehudah, ‘You shall be rebuilt, and their ruins I will raise up’” (Yeshaya 44:26); “For Hashem has comforted Zion, comforted all of her ruins; made her wilderness like Eden, and her desert like the garden of Hashem” (ibid. 51:3); “Elderly men and women will yet again dwell in the streets of Jerusalem” (Zechariah 8:4-5); “If I forget you, Jerusalem, let my right hand whither. If I do not remember you, let my tongue stick to the roof of my mouth, if I do not set Jerusalem above my chief joy” (Tehillim 137:5-6).

Our Rabbis said that the Holy One, Blessed be He, swore that G-d would not enter Jerusalem of Above until G-d’s children would enter Jerusalem of Below (Shir Ha-Shirim Rabbah). And Rabbi Yehudah Ha-Levi concluded his book, The Kuzari, by saying that “Jerusalem will not be built until the Jewish People yearn for it with a genuine longing, until they cherish its stone and its dirt.” The united city of Jerusalem—where heaven and earth meet—is being rebuilt because Hashem decided to return G-d’s Divine Presence to Zion on Yom Yerushalayim and the Nation of Israel is placed at the pinnacle. When King David uses the phrase “Yom Yerushalayim” in Tehillim 126, it refers to a horrible and bitter day, the day of the destruction of Jerusalem. How fortunate we are that we have merited the building of the Land of Israel and Jerusalem. The same expression “Yom Yerushalayim—Jerusalem Day,” has been transformed from bitterness to sweetness, from darkness to light. ° Ha-Rav Shlomo Aviner is Rosh Yeshiva of Ateret Yerushalayim. This article was transcribed and translated by Rabbi Mordechai Friedfertig.

| May 2008

www.shiurtimes.com

Shavuot

Art

The Jewish Response to Converts & Potential Converts Dedicating ourselves to our beliefs will allow us to accept others. by Rabbi Seth Farber

he recent uproar in Israel regarding annulling conversions and the harassment of converts has obscured a basic tenet of Jewish tradition. In more than forty instances, the Torah insists that the rights of converts be protected, that converts be nurtured and loved, and that Jews by birth create a secure framework within which converts can feel part of the community. As Shavuot approaches, it is critical that the vitriolic and angry tone regarding converts and conversions be supplanted by comfort, reassurance, support and recognition.

‘‘

We need to hear the silent call of those who seek to make ‘our nation’ theirs.”

Converts are exceptionally vulnerable. It is not only Ruth’s commitment toward Naomi—expressed in the passage “Your nation is my nation and your God my God”—that makes her the archetype of the Jewish convert. Her relative position to Naomi, and more importantly, her assertion “do not demand from me that I should be returned from following you” highlight the uncertainty of her place in the community, and demonstrate the role that the Jewish world plays in the life of a convert or potential convert.

There is a Jewish response to the vulnerability converts feel. It involves the Jewish community taking greater responsibility for those seeking conversion and those who have completed it. Statistically speaking, most Jewish families are beginning to awaken to this responsibility. Almost one in four Jewish families in the world includes a convert. But more fundamentally, our generation is one when conversion may bifurcate the

Jewish people, or alternatively, be one of the tools to heal us. If assimilation and intermarriage are desiccating our nation, conversion, performed responsibly and reasonably, taking into account present day realities and traditional norms, can restore our sense of unity. There have been times in Jewish history where we have simply dismissed candidates for conversion, and other times where we have begrudgingly accepted converts. But this is a unique time in Jewish history, both in Israel and the Diaspora. With more the 300,000 individuals living in Israel who were brought here as Jews, but do not meet the halachic threshold, and with intermarriage rates in the Diaspora threatening its very existence, the Jewish people need to mobilize. Our people are not missionaries, but we ought take care of our own. To a certain extent, it is an imperative. We need to hear the silent call of those who seek to make “our nation” theirs. We need to open our homes and our hearts to those seeking full membership in our community, and unify forces to encourage and sustain a viable conversion strategy. But most of all, we must recommit ourselves to ourselves. We were once “strangers in a land not ours.” By rededicating ourselves to our own set of Jewish values, we will hopefully be able to make room for others, who though different, seek us out. ° Rabbi Seth Farber is the Founder and Director of ITIM, an independent, non-profit organization, dedicated to making Jewish life accessible to all. He received his Ph.D. from the Hebrew University and his rabbinic ordination from Yeshiva University. He is the rabbi of Kehillat Netivot in Raanana where he lives with his wife, Michelle, and their five children.

Professional Women’s

Theater

by Adena Blickstein & Annie Orenstein

n article once appeared in Jewish Action entitled A Melody of Their Own by Roslyn Dickens about Orthodox women in the performing arts (Fall 2006). “Dancing is Life; all the rest,” said a ballerina, “is waiting.” We felt chills in our spines. What will a woman do who decides take upon the traditional Jewish code of modest conduct, and its halachot such as Kol Isha(the prohibition against hearing a woman’s voice sing)? Will she not live? Where does this leave Orthodox women whose artistic drive which represents their deepest connection to their inner selves are being stifled by the very values that define them? Many orthodox women involved in the performing arts confront a painful dilemma. Those whose intuition or interpretation of tzniut, traditional [Jewish] standards Sarah Spielman in her one-woman show, The Voice of a Woman. of modesty, precludes them from performing for mixed audiences find themselves, in a secular society, barred from realizing their lifelong professional aspirations. Do they live upstanding, yet professionally repressed (or at best, sublimated and channeled) lives as halachically observant Jews, or wrestle with self-contradiction, hypocrisy and their very identities as they ignore the inconvenient truths of their inner convictions? After a long struggle with these questions, the Professional Women’s Theater was founded. PWT is a registered non-profit organization that seeks to advance and promote female performers’ careers throughout Israel. The goal is to empower observant women by providing them venues to utilize their artistic talents. PWT serves as a talent agency through which qualified women can promote their talents into professional careers in the performing arts. The organization offers educational workshops for those who desire to develop their potential talent in singing, performance, theater, dance, music, comedy and the like. The shows provide

Continued on page 42 | May 2008

Stand-Up

Your choice for birthdays, anniuversaries, & a good night out!

English

EVERY THURSDAY & SATURDAY NIGHT

COMEDY BASEMENT Jerusalem’s 1st Comedy Club

Thursday@8:30: David Kilimnick

“Jerusalem’s Comedian” & creator of The Aliyah Monologues, Uncle D, Frum From Birth, Find Me a Wife, & The Jersalmy Comedy Show

ISRAEL’S “FATHER OF ANGLO COMEDY” -Jerusalm Post

Saturday@9:30: Stand-Up: Jerusalem Style

Israel's finest comedians share the real Israeli view

“THE GREATEST SHOWS I HAVE EVER SEEN... THIS IS FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT!” -David Kilimnick (not of the NY Times)

FOR INFORMATION OR TO BOOK TICKETS:

(or to plan a private event at the club and/or with Jerusalem's comedians!)

02-624-3218 050-875-5688

34 BEN YEHUDA

corner of king george down the stairs to city cellar next to mashbir

IAL! C E P VIV S A L E T

Stand-Up

entrance fee varies (25-45 nis)+ 15NIS drink min 5NIS discount to students, soldiers & seniors doors open 20 minutes before showtime ...and don’t miss Monday Night Open Mic!

www.israelcomedy.com ! ‫פרטים באתר‬...‫להופעות בעברית בימי רביעי וחמישי‬ www.shiurtimes.com

JUNE 18

@ DANCING CAMEL Hataasiya 12 (corner Hamasger)

starring

DAVID KILIMNICK LIOZ SHEMTOV w/ MC HANI SKUTCH

Sponsor: ®

Community Profile

Ahuzat Etrog

A southern community rich with educational possibilities

by Ilene Bloch-Levy

srael’s southern region, more sparsely populated than the country’s center, is home to several religious settlements which offer new growth, exciting business opportunities, and an excellent school system.

One settlement in particular is Ahuzat Etrog, one of a continuum of religious lifestyle communities that fall under the administrative auspices of the Shafir Regional Council. Ahuzat Etrog, founded about a decade ago, is adjacent to Merkaz Shapiro, founded in the 1960’s, and Kibbutz Ein Tzurim, longstanding member of the religious kibbutz movement. Ahuzat Etrog and Merkaz Shapiro live side by side and are home to some 400 kippa sruga families, including 10% English speakers and a number of former Gush Katif families who currently live in the caravilla site and have re-opened a few new businesses in the center of town.

Quality Education— Key to the Community’s Growth Merkaz Shapira was named after the then-Minister of Religious Affairs, who supported its establishment. The town really began to grow when the first head of the Shafir Regional Council, Moshe Moshkowitz, realized that good quality education was essential to attract residents to the region and therefore he would need to attract good quality educators. As such, he decided to make inexpensive rental housing available, which caused the schools to become magnets for superior pedagogues who quickly filled up Merkaz Shapira’s residences. It took quite a number of years before the council let the homes be purchased, but by the time they did, most

of the long-time residents had already improved and expanded the homes, ensconcing themselves permanently in the region. This faith in the region seems to have filtered down to the second generation. Many of the children who grew up in Merkaz Shapira have purchased homes in Ahuzat Etrog with the desire to continue the comfortable, modest religious lifestyle that permeates these two communities.

Comfortable Religious Lifestyle While a relatively ‘small’ number of families live here, the two communities together house several prestigious religious schools: public religious elementary school, a Bnei Akiva Yeshiva High School, a religious boys Military Academy, and a Yeshiva Gevoha (advanced yeshiva). The Even Shmuel girls Ulpana is just a few kilometers

‘‘

Residents participate in an abundance of shiurim, just about every day of the week, and on a wide variety of topics.” down the road.

Rav Haim Druckman, resident of Ahuzat Etrog

minyanim that operate regularly in Ahuzat Etrog. The quiet and flat terrain of the region is indeed attractive for families, but that does not mean that you are in the middle of nowhere. On the contrary, residents work just about anywhere and everywhere, as the community lies but a few minutes from Kiryat Malachi, 20 minutes north of Ashkelon and 45 minutes from Rehovot’s High Tech Park. Public transportation is exceedingly convenient, so while a car is nice, you can get travel easily with public transportation. Homes are available for rent or purchase. Perspective residents are welcome to spend Shabbat or visit during the week to get a sense of the welcoming and inviting nature of this community. ° Community Research Profile has been contributed through the Kehillot Tehilla Communities department. www.kehillottehilla.com

Residents participate in an abundance of shiurim just about every day of the week, and on a wide variety of topics. Rav Haim Druckman is a long-time resident and Chief Rabbi of Merkaz Shapira. Residents can also take their pick from several different minyanim— either at the Yeshiva Gevoha, the synagogue in Merkaz Shapira or among the five | May 2008

THE BEST COMPUTER PRICES IN THE HEART OF JERUSALEM!

3U4U inks

pcs

training &

more!

contact@3u4u.biz

http://3u4u.biz 26 Agrippas St. | 02-624-8088

Inks New Cartridges, Refills, custom shades Training English, French, Hebrew Service & Repairs All computers Sales New and used products Security Networks and Installation on sale this month:

www.dovidyehoshua.com

iPod Touch 8GB........1850NIS 32GB......2790NIS thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a new singer/songwriter in town...

4000 free cds distributed 1 hit video in circulation for concerts and information see website

E FRE cd release June 10 Archosconcert 605 WiFi 4GB......1190NIS doors open @ 9:30 30GB......1590 NIS pm Vino Restaurant 14 Hativat Yerushalayim 80GB......1840 NIS (Hutzot Hayotzer, opposite Jaffa Gate) 160GB......2290 NIS for more info call: 054-681-9449

Creative Zen 8GB..........899NIS 16GB......1199NIS

IPod nano 8GB......1130NIS

find this album in stores near you! www.shiurtimes.com

parshat sh’lach

We Can do it! The leadership of joshua and Calev teaches the importance of being secure and consistent in our views towards the Land. by rav dov begon

t first, the spies were important people, as it says, “all the men were leaders of the israelites” (Bamidbar 13:3). yet when Moses sent them to spy out the Land, they were transformed, as it says, “They departed and they came back” (13:26) – just as their arrival had been with bad intentions, so too, their departure (rashi). From men who were supposed to exude a lofty spirit and strong faith in our right to Eretz Yisrael and our ability to conquer it, they became another type of people, people who only see the negative, libelers of Eretz Yisrael: ‘We cannot go forward against those people!’ replied the men who had gone with him. ‘They are too strong for us!’

Some of the services we offer:

depression food issues intimacy issues marriage counseling divorce support therapy for children special children's needs childhood or acute trauma

Jerusalem Narrative Therapy Institute JNTI 10 religious therapists offering support

to take new initiatives in your life www.jerusalemnarrativetherapy.com

Please call for information and referrals 054-479-9441 or 02-651-2095

Chana Frumin MS,CNT Director

They began to speak badly about the land that they had explored. They told the israelites, ‘The land that we crossed to explore is a land that consumes its inhabitants. all the men we saw there were huge! While we were there, we saw the Titans. They were sons of the giant, who descended from the original Titans. We felt like tiny grasshoppers! That’s all that we were in their eyes.” (ibid. 13:31-33)

only joshua bin nun and Calev ben yefune were steeped in faith and trust in G-d, and although they were in the minority, they ultimately succeeded in leading the jewish people to the conquest of the Land and its settlement.

deterioration. These in turn derive from their having distanced themselves from jewish tradition, and their having never imbibed from our jewish sources. it is from those sources that from time immemorial we have drawn our faith and trust in the eternal one of israel, and in our right to all of Eretz Yisrael. We believe in G-d’s goal to fulfill the destiny of the jewish People in Eretz Yisrael, towards the enlightenment and betterment of all mankind. our leaders suffer from a lack of selfconfidence, and from an inability to provide security to the citizens of our country. They hesitate, agonize and zigzag, and the price is paid by our country’s citizens. We see this both with the second Lebanon War, and daily in sderot and the adjoining settlements.

The spies “changed their skins,” altering their views as far as Eretz Yisrael. rather than strengthening Jerusalem and encouraging the Narrative Therapy Institute JNTI The call of the hour is to change the 10 religious therapists offering support in taking new initia leadership of our beloved country, to specializing in helping challenged food issues,ch elect people leaders full of faith andby trust in G-d, people with a vision and great, benevolent divorce support, special children's needs, depression, child spirit. We need people of integrity who set issues, and much more. an example by their own lives. We need brave people, are truly faithful to the Please call for information andwho referral people, Torah and land of israel, such as 054 479 9441 02 651 2095 people, they frightened and demoralized joshua bin nun and Calev ben yefune. MS CNT them. just so, in our Chana own day,Frumin some of our ministers who have Director taken up the reins of By such means, we will see the speedy leadership have changed, altering their fulfillment of Calev’s words: “We must go political world view despite their having forth and occupy the land. We can do it!” been elected on the basis of their promise (Bamidbar 13:30). amen. to the voters that they would be faithful to Eretz Yisrael and to settling every part Looking forward to complete salvation, of it. shabbat shalom. °

‘‘

We need people of integrity who set an example by their own lives.”

When they were asked for an explanation of their extreme turnaround, they would answer, “What you see from here you don’t see from there.” But actually, that is just an excuse. They followed the path of the spies, whose faith in our right to Eretz Yisrael and in our ability to rule over it and to settle all of it dwindled to nothing.

Rabbi Dov Begon is the founder and Rosh Yeshiva of Machon Meir in Jerusalem. He fought as an officer in Jerusalem during the Six-Day War, and subsequently began to investigate his connection to Torah. More info on Machon Meir can be seen at www.machonmeir.org.il

This weakness stems from a lack of faith, a lack of spirit, and from moral

| May 2008

www.shiurtimes.com

Making a Difference

Crossroads Center Fighting Hardship with Laughter by Yehudit Singer

smoking crack until someone sponsored them to go learn in Israel,” Caryn explains. “Our goal is to minimize these problematic behaviors and give them the tools to create healthy lives.”

welve years ago, hundreds of teens loitered in the streets of Jerusalem late at night, but no one knew where they came from. They weren’t the typical Israeli teens that hang out on the streets, but no one knew if these kids were visitors, tourists, or immigrants. Eventually, it was discovered that these were Anglo teens-at-risk who were not being helped. The numbers of students studying here increased, and proportionately, the number of students out on the streets increased. Fortunately, ELEM, together with the welfare department of the Jewish Agency, launched a special program for these Anglo teens. They hired social worker and Texasnative Caryn Green to spearhead the project. Green took the initiative to restore stability and hope to these teens, and has created the only intervention center in Israel that focuses on at-risk Anglo teens.

population of tourists.” However, Green and her team of professionals continued to work on getting more support. “What the government didn’t realize is that for an 18 year-old student who has nothing to go back home to, serving them now will help them. These are people

Located in the heart of downtown Jerusalem, Crossroads has a drop-in center that opens at 3pm every afternoon. The center hosts a number of resources for these

‘‘

Our goal is to minimize these problematic behaviors and give them the tools to create healthy lives. esidents participate” teens including social activities, internet access, a recreation room, an Englishlanguage library, therapy and counseling services, educational opportunities, and more. “For a long time, no one was servicing this population,” Green explains. “The Anglo teens were not comfortable going to Israeli services because of the language and cultural differences, and the government did not want to spend funds to service a

Many times immigrant parents have their own issues, and unfortunately, the children suffer. Many Anglo teens don’t feel comfortable with the Israeli system, and the parents don’t feel equipped to deal with the school systems. For parents who notice behavioral changes in their teens, Crossroads offers pro-bono therapy and consultations. They also serve as a conduit between the schools and the parents, and provide information on options in society, such as jobs, schools, social services, and more. Today, Crossroads has a staff of social workers and volunteers that help 700-1,000 teens each year. Social workers scope the streets of Jerusalem each night, looking for teens who may not ask for help, but can certainly use it.

who can make aliyah, go to the army, go to university, and become productive citizens in Israel. Eventually, the government stopped running away from helping them.”

Moreover, since 2004, Crossroads looks forward to the annual Crossroads Comedy Tour, organized and sponsored by Hollywood comedian Avi Lieberman. This year, the Crossroads Comedy Tour will begin the series of performances in Raanana on June 17th, to be followed by shows in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Beit Shemesh. Comedians include Harland Williams, who has starred in a number of movies and television shows, comedy club star Lowell Sanders, and Dan Naturman, who has appeared on The Late Show with David Letterman and on Comedy Central.

Crossroads helps teens between the ages of 13 and 21. The teens come in with a spectrum of issues including abuse, “but you’d never know it by looking at them,” dysfunctional families, divorce, selfdamaging behavior, neglect and those who were “literally on the streets of New York

Caryn explains the choice of a comedy fundraiser: “we deal with such anguish; such hard issues. The best outlet we have is through laughter.” For more information on Crossroads and for tickets for the Crossroads Comedy Tour, see www. crossroadscomedy.com. ° | May 2008

www.shiurtimes.com

tiKKun layl shavuot

...‫ופרצת‬ ‫צפונה‬ ‫קדמה‬

‫ימה‬ ‫נגבה‬

For all your transportation, lodging, and guiding needs throughout Israel... a customized itinerary prepared just for you! Rabbi Mordechai Weiss Licensed Guide rabbiguide@gmail.com 052.720.3089

http://tour-guides.co.il/mordecaiweiss

Send a special baby gift to your loved ones in Israel to be a part of their Simcha

For more info visit our website www.week1gifts.com 054-723-4614 (Israel Number) 1-888-42GIFTS (US Number) email: info@week1gifts.com 40

As we go to print, many shiurim have not yet been finalized. ShiurTimes will publish a more comprehensive list on the ShiurTimes Facebook group and on www.shiurtimes.com. JERUSALEM NACHLAOT VA’ANI TEFILAH 11:30PM-DAWN Study circles in search of the personal and national connection with Torah. Hosted by Israelight and (Hebrew)- Rav Raz Hartman, Rav Aaron Leibowitz and others LOCATION: Rechov Aryeh Levine opposite R’ Aryeh Levine’s house KOL RINA & ISRALIGHT 11:30PM-DAWN Study circles in search of the personal and national connection with Torah. By Rabbi David Aaron LOCATION: Kol Rina, in the bomb shelter, Rechov Be’er Sheva Nachlaot CONTACT: R’ Aaron Leibowitz 054-469-0330 BAKA/TALPIOT PARDES INSTITUTE OF JEWISH STUDIES 11:00PM-12:30AM Dr. Avivah Zornberg: ”The Unknown Woman: Becoming Ruth” 12:45-1:30AM Rabbi David Levin-Kruss: “In Praise of Envy, Adultery and Disobeying One’s Parents:The 10 Commandments Revisited” 1:45-2:45AM Yaffa Epstein and Rabbi Jon Kelsen: “A Compelling Torah: Theological and Halakhic Perspectives” 3:00-4:15AM Daniel Landes, Rosh HaYeshiva: “Can Conversions be Revoked?” Air-conditioned, shabbat elevator available LOCATION: 29 Pierre Koenig (corner of Rivka) CONTACT: 02-673-5210, http://www.pardes.org.il SEA OF TORAH 11:00PM “Identity Crisis: What is Shavuot Really About?” by Rav Yossie Bloch MIDNIGHT “Revelation & Revolution” by Rav Aytan Kadden 1AM “First Among Fruits: The Untold Story of Bikkurim” by Rav Yossie Bloch CONTACT: (02) 672-9067; (052) 626-1588 LOCATION: 4 Rechov Ashriel Buzaglo (off Rechov Rivka), Apt. #35 (5th floor in Shabbat Elevator) GERMAN COLONY HADASSAH-MERKAZ HAMAGSHIMIM Ta Shma and Merkaz Tarbut Amim, 10:30PM-2:30AM Various lectures, workshops of movement, poetry, and text study. This is an opportunity to encounter Tanach within the context of today’s society, and within the framework of culture. Bring warm clothes! LOCATION: 7A Dor Dor VeDorshav Street. CONTACT: Ofra at 02-561-9165 *204 or ofra@themerkaz.org TAL TORAH Tikkun Leil Shavu’ot for Women and Girls. 11:00PM-MIDNIGHT Class for teens given by TAL TORAH teens (Hebrew). By Nina Medved, Adiella Djemal, Eden Golan & Tamar Goldschmidt.

MIDNIGHT-1:15AM “Blessing resides in that which is hidden from sight: Quiet footsteps of Redemption in Megillat Ruth” by Nili Arbel 1:30-2:45AM “Like the Wings of a Bird is the Advice of our Elders.” by Ariel Ben Moshe (English) LOCATION: Emek Refaim 64, 2nd floor CONTACT: 02-566-5403 or see www.taltorah.org KATAMON YAKAR Open Beit-Midrash with chavruta learning, personal learning, small workshops & group learning. 23:30-1:00AM Yuval Dolev: “Can Everything Become Idolatry?” (Hebrew); Gila Rosen: “God’s Different Voices at Mt. Sinai” (Hebrew); Daniel Sharshevski: “From the Oral Law to the Internet.” (Hebrew); Avi Steinhart: “Devorah & Mt. Sinai” 1:30-3:00AM Meir Rosen: “Different Ways to Prepare for Matan Torah” (Hebrew); Shlomo Dov: “Relationships Between Secular & Religious in Halakha” (Hebrew); Jessica Sacks: “The Giving of the Torah & Chocolate Cookies” 3:00-4:30AM Tish/Hitva’adut for Matan Torah/ Preparation for Davening LOCATION:10 HaLamed-Hey St. HAR NOF 11:30PM-3:30AM Rabbi Ephraim Polaikoff: Topics of shiurim TBA. Walk to the Kotel for sunrise. LOCATION: 60 Katzelbogen, Har Nof CONTACT: Baruch 0542099200 BAT AYIN MIDRASHA (MIDRESHET B’EROT BAT AYIN) 11:00-12:00AM Dimensions and Inner Dynamics of Matan Torah (Devorah Nov) 12:15-1:15AM What G-d Wants of Us (Rav Daniel Kohn) 1:30-2:30AM Tehillim Recital/Chevrutot/Gentle Stretches (Student facilitator) 2:30-3:00AM Matan Torah – Pro’s and Con’s (Rav Eliyahu Berkowitz) 3:00AM + Hitbodedut and Movement (Student Teacher) YOM SHAVUOT, MONDAY, JUNE 9 5:00-6:00PM Women and Matan Torah (Rebbetzin Chana Bracha Siegelbaum) EFRAT SHIRAT SHLOMO 11:00PM-12:00AM Rav Yehoshua Reich-Hebrew Topic TBA, Rav Natan Siegal-English “Liberating the Music” 12:10-12:50AM Rav Zvi Leshem –Hebrew “‫הנשיקה‬ ‫של משה והבאר של מרים‬,” Rav Riskin-English Topic TBA 1:00-2:00AM R. Naftali Moses-Hebrew”‫גישות שונות‬ ‫למשמעות המוות‬,” Batya Yaniger –English “The Seven Weighty Mitzvot” 2:10-3:10AM Mordechai Zeller -Hebrew “‫משה‬ ‫”ובודהה סיפורי הארה והתגלות‬, English- TBA the entire evening is dedicated to the memory of Rav David Zeller, z”l, whose first yartzeit is 8 Sivan. | May 2008

tiKKun layl shavuot

RAMAT BEIT SHEMESH KEHILLAT AHAVAT TZION Beit Midrash open all night for chavrutot . Shiurim held in main heichal. 10:30PM Children’s shiur (grade 2-4) - given by Daniel Rosenfield 11:00PM Boys shiur (grade 5-6) - (at the shul) by Rav Menachem Copperman, Rav Kehilla 11:00PM Girls’ shiur – at Copperman residence, Nachal Dolev 50/13, by Michal Copperman 11:45PM “Torah from the heavens, and not in the heavens” By Rav David Bagno, Ra”m, Machon Gavoha LaTorah, Bar-Ilan University [Hebrew] 12:45AM Topic: TBA. by Rav Menachem Copperman, Rav Kehillat Ahavat Tzion [Hebrew] 1:45AM “Halachic Issues of Cosmetic Surgery”, by Dr. David Kallus, Maggid shiur LOCATION: Nachal Timna 2 YESHIVAT LEV HATORAH 2:45AM “Eishet Chayil and Megillat Ruth” by Rav Itiel Ariel, Rav Beit Knesset Merkazi 3:45AM “The Vulnerability of Wisdom” by Rav Eli Duker, Maggid shiur, Yeshivat Netiv Aryeh 4:45AM Birkot Hashachar BEIT SHEMESH Ohel Yona Menachem 11:00-11:50PM (Hebrew) Learning program: grades 1-6 & their parents: Together this Night 11:00-11:50PM “Honor thy Father and Mother... in-Law” by Larry Rublin 12:00-12:50AM (Hebrew) “Bribery in Halacha and Law” by Rabbi David Spektor 1:00-1:50AM (Hebrew) “The Basis of Rabbinic Law” by Rabbi Yosef Wolicki 2:00-2:50AM (Hebrew) Topic TBA by Rabbi Oren Duvdevani 3:0003:50AM (Hebrew) Megillat Ruth and the World of Halacha by Rabbi Artie Fischer 4:00-4:40AM (Hebrew) Confucius on Mount Sinai by Doron Kline 4:45AM Megillat Ruth 5:05AM Shacharit [1st minyan] 8:20AM Shacharit [2nd minyan] LOCATION: Rechov Shivtei Yisrael, Givat Sharett BEIT MEDRASH TORANI-LEUMI 10:15-11:00PM Parents & Children Learning Together 11:00PM Midnight Shiur for Women, Rav Yehuda Rock (Hebrew) 12:30-2:00AM Shiur on Rav Soloveitchik, Rav Avishai Dovid (Hebrew) 2:10-3:10AM Aseret HaDibrot: Do not Steal, Rav Avishai Dovid (Hebrew) 3:20-4:20AM Daf Yomi: Sotah 15, Rav Avishai Dovid (Hebrew) LOCATION: Rechov Reuven, corner of Asher

Making sense of

over 30 years experience

planning, producing, and directing

shavuot by anne gordon

ere’s the irony: the holiday that commemorates the giving of the Law has no unique laws associated with it (Sh’tei ha-Lehem aside), while the holiday that commemorates freedom might be dubbed the singlemost labor-intensive time on the jewish calendar (at least for those who “make Pesach.”) The easy explanation about the Festival of Freedom is that the rescue from the slavery of egypt left Bnei Yisrael available to observe the commandments of G-d (though the apparent “slave mentality” that inhibited their appreciation of their new freedom might beg that question!) But how are we to make sense of shavuot? Perhaps the Festival of the Law is not truly about the letter of the law, but about going beyond it. indeed, our experience of the day (from learning all night to eating cheesecake to decorating the shul with flowers to the liturgical reading the Book of ruth) is a matter of custom. Moreover, the overarching theme of ruth is that of kindness—definitively that which goes beyond the strict order of justice. Thus, we are left with ramban’s “kedoshim tihiyu” (Vayikra 19:1): Be holy with the mitzvot. on the holiday of the law, keeping the Law goes without saying; rather, we celebrate that we may do even better—expressly at our own initiative—and so become holy. ° Anne Gordon holds an M.A. in Judaic Studies and a B.A. in History and Philosophy from Harvard University. She is currently pursuing a (slow) doctorate in Jewish Education at Yeshiva University, and teaching at Midreshet HaRova. 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

Maximize the success of your event Call Lenny Davidman T: (02) 673 07 21 F: (02) 673 07 22

M: 054 557 31 01 ldevents@netvision.net.il

Looking for the best value to transport your belongings to and from Israel? Our network gives us great flexibility for moving anywhere in the world! Relocation services including assistance with accomodation search, customs regulations, etc.

ISRADEM-DEMECO www.demeco-isradem.com

Quality standards: Household Goods Forwarders Association of America and Canadian Association of Movers accreditation

YOSSEF DOVER T: +972.9.684.64.93 F: +972.8.684.64.94 info@demeco-isradem.com

www.shiurtimes.com

Travel

The Jerusalem Trail by Rabbi Mordechai Weiss

he Israel National Trail (“Shvil Yisrael”) was officially marked in 1991. One of its purposes is to give Israelis a way to experience the entire breadth of Israel firsthand. It is a hiking trail that crosses the entire country from Tel Dan in the north to Eilat in the south. The trail is close to 600 miles from beginning to end and would take over a month to finish if hiked continuously. It is marked with three stripes painted on rocks along the way (white, blue and orange). The route is divided into 12 sections. A Trans-Israel bike trail is also presently in the works.

That’s the good news. Unfortunately, this wonderful trail bypasses the city of Jerusalem. And so, just last year, The New Jerusalem Trail was officially inaugurated. It connects the Trans-Israel Trail with Jerusalem and is marked with the special symbolic lion that appears on Jerusalem’s city emblem. The first time I hiked this trail was during the annual late-night hike that the residents

of my yishuv take on Yom Yerushalayim. Since then I’ve had the good fortune of guiding many people along this trail, including my wife and children just this past Pesach. One side of the trail is at the entrance to the Emek Tzurim National Park (free admission) on the Mount of Olives, between Hebrew University and Beit Orot. The park was only opened in the year 2000. It’s about a 10 minute walk down into the Kidron Valley. There you will enjoy the Mount Scopus lookout. During Pesach, we stopped off at the recovery center of Temple Mount remains. This is a wonderful project involving sifting through the dirt which was carted off the Temple Mount some years ago. You can spend an hour or more assisting the archaeologists as they make their fantastic finds. We discovered an ancient coin while we were there. It’s really a lot of fun. Contact the City of David at *6033 for more information.

Every year since 2006, PWT hosts a competition in the performing arts called Rotza Leyiot Kochav/ Wanna Be a Star. Though PWT is geared toward the Orthodox community, all women regardless of their religious or political leanings are welcome and encouraged to perform. The first round of the competition consists of several open performances, where any female irrespective of previous performance experience or capabilities is invited to perform. At least two judges observe and offer constructive criticism on every performance. The judges evaluate each performance on originality, musicality,

Plans are underway for the trail to continue on up to Armon Hanatziv into Shvil Yisrael into the Judean Hills. For more information, contact National Parks at *3639. And for you techies, The City of David offers a self-guided tour of the Jerusalem trail with your own mp3, cell phone or PDA. Simply go to www.cityofdavid.org.il and choose the Jerusalem Trail tour. Download the complete tour files and transfer the files to your device. Each track is a station on the tour. Enjoy a safe and wonderful summer. Be sure to always bring along plenty of water on your hikes! ° Rabbi Mordechai Weiss is a resident of Mitzpeh Yericho and a licensed tour guide. He can be contacted at rabbiguide@gmail.com

The trail continues into the Kidron Valley, up to the Orson Hyde Park and then down towards Derech HaShiloah where the

Professional Women’s Theater expressive outlets for Jewish women on all skill levels, giving them a sense of empowerment while they inspire others.

Mount Olives information center is located. From there it’s just a short walk to Absalom’s Tomb and then onward to the Pool of Siloam in the City of David. From there I walked up to the Kotel, but you can continue on into the Ben-Hinnom Valley, the ancient border between the tribes of Judah and Benjamin, up to the Cinamateque Bridge.

Continued from page 32

technique and contact with the audience. At the conclusion of the evening, the judges announce which performers are entitled to progress to the next level and perform in the semi-finalists performance. The next round features the Semi-finalists, and the final show consists of the winners of the competition. Finalists then work with PWT as paid performers in female-only venues such as seminaries, women’s shelters and various organizations. Sarah Spielman, for example (pictured above), is a finalist from 2006. She wrote and starred in her own one-woman show, Voice of a Woman, produced and sponsored by PWT. This season, PWT looks forward to a very exciting upcoming final performance on June

19th in Heichal Shlomo, Jerusalem. Starring in this evening will be guest performer Shuli Natan, the original singer of Yerushalayim Shel Zahav. The finalists of this year’s annual competition will be performing as well. The show begins at 8pm with a pre-show boutique beginning at 6pm. To reserve tickets in advance please e-mail pwta_tickets@yahoo.com or see www.professionalwomenstheater.com ° Adena Kozak-Blickstein is the founder of PWT. She has studied classical ballet and danced in the Joffery Ballet and Tisch NYU summer programs. She has performed with the Mechola dance companies of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. She is currently studying medicine at the Technion in Haifa. She can be contacted at kozy72@aol.com. Annie Orenstein currently coordinates and produces events for PWT.

| May 2008

CLASSIFIEDS

Classifieds Section Monthly Distribution Nationwide & to Worldwide Subcribers; El Al Flights & Hotels & more!

Services Meir: Autism Treatment Center teaches The Son-Rise ProgramÂŽ, a powerful homebased, parent-run program. We work with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders and other developmental delays. For more details, please contact us: e-mail: abby@meirautism.org website: www.meirautism.org TOURISM PRIVATE Walking Tours of Jerusalem Old City, New City; Driving Tours of Israel in clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rental car/van or hired car/bus with driver. Suzanne Pomeranz, suztours@ gmail.com. HANDYMAN Need home renovations? Call Hillie at 052-838-9875.

by owner/ by agent Real Estate: for Sale, for Rent Our team of dynamic agents will guarantee you the best advice and service in real estate. R ubens

LEX SKY

Special Price: 20 words: 50 NIS with picture: 75 NIS Real Estate Agency

Garden Apartment, ground floor with basement, old Arab style, 2 levels, 100 square meters, $395,000. Contact Annette (054-255-6225) RE/MAX Vision 02-6731661. Rare!! 220 sqm. + garden (300m2), parking, decorated to clients taste. Hamishkenote 052-672-4003 Elisheva. 5 room apartment, 2nd floor, 3 balconies (2 sukkah), needs renovation, parking, large storage. Asking: NIS 2,150,000. Contact Annette: 054-255-6225, RE/MAX Vision 02673-1661. annetterosen3@yahoo.com

ABU TOR In a beautiful Arab house 4 rooms on the first floor. Full of light. Must be seen! Sonia: 050-559-5773 at Colony: 02-561-1611.

Very beautifully renovated 164 sqm. apartment. First floor. Three porches. Huge living room, wonderful roomy kitchen, spacious separate den/ guest room. Four extra very large bedrooms, laundry room, hallway with area for another den. Asking $1,500,000. Negotiable. EVA AVIAD REALTY Call 054-499-9043 www.aviadrealty.com.

ARNONA Arnona/Efrata. Big 3 rooms, 1st floor, luxurious, balcony, immediately. Call Hamishkenote 052-320-2488 Michael.

Wonderful townhouse. 400 meters. Private entrance. 6 bedrooms. Garden. Elevator inside. Newly built. For details call EVA AVIAD REALTY. Call 054-499-9043.

Arnona Hatzeira. 4 rms. Renovated, elevator, balcony, view, storage space and parking. Hamishkenote 054-467-1623 Dorit.

BEIT HAKEREM Great location in classic Beit Hakerem. 5 room apartment for high class people. Batya: 050-791-0000 by Colony: 02-5611611.

Jerusalem FOR SALE

www.ruben1.com

BUY â&#x20AC;˘ SELL â&#x20AC;˘ RENTALS â&#x20AC;˘ INVESTMENT â&#x20AC;˘ PROPERTY MANAGEMENT ,,- 4U 3FDIBWJB +FSVTBMFN t 5 . ' & SVCFO[!CBSBL OFU JM

Call (02)625-6227 to advertise NOW!

ShiurTimes is creating a NEW SECTION:

Professional Services by City!

e Group p ky.co.il

ached Cottage, 183 sqm., qm., , A/C throughout, alarm, rm, ar patio, trees, watering 25 words: 100 NIS ring 1,400,000nis. 3 issues: 250 NIS 6 issues: 400 NIS

054-306-0109 9 www.shiurtimes.com

Enchanting! In the heart of Baka, on Reuven St., 3, fully renovated + separate unit, high ceilings, private entrance, very sunny, garden. ANGLO-SAXON 02-6251161, Caroline: 054-782-8414.

Magnificent Villa, 11 rooms, highest standard, garden, balconies, amazing views, $3,118,000. Contact Elad 052-6706320, RE/MAX Vision 02-673-1661.

ALEX LOSKY

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il

5-room cottage,200 sqm, 50 sqm terrace, private entrance, parking, 2,900,000 nis. Rita 054-546-4082. 02-623-5595

BAYIT VEGAN

ALEX LOSKY

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il

Ouziel street, large 4- room apartment, terrace, panoramic view, little garden. 2,600,000 nis. Rita 054-546-4082. 02-623-5595

054-306-0109

BAKA Magnificent penthouse, 160 sqm, luxurious, elevator, large balcony, beautiful view, storage-room, parking. Hamishkenote 052-320-2488 Michael.

qm., rm, ring

CLASSIFIEDS CITY CENTER

ALEX LOSKY

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il

New project, high standard, 3-4-room apartments, parking, stunning view, from 1,640,000 nis. Rita -0545464082 02-623-5595

054-306-0109

EIN KEREM Authentic Arab house on 1000 sqm ground, building possibility (250 sqm. app.), wonderful view of Jerusalem mountains. Hamishkenote 052-320-2488 Michael.

Hadar 050-756-8666. RE/MAX Vision Exclusive 02-673-1661. GERMAN COLONY GREAT INVESTMENT! On HaTsefira St., 3, spacious, sunny, excellent location, pastoral, spacious living room, balcony, second floor, needs renovations, NIS 1,330,000. ANGLOSAXON 02-625-1161, Danielle: 050-4951234.

ALEX LOSKY

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il

(Elroi), 5 rooms, 1st floor, Shabbat elevator, parking, three exposures, for renovation. Great location. Vic 054-804-0690.

FRENCH HILL Hagana St., 5 rooms, spacious and sunny, 4 directions, 4th floor with elevator, private storage, needs renovation. Asking $330,000. Call Hadar 050-756-8666 or Alyssa 054-668-4111, alyssa1@bezeqint. net. RE/MAX Vision Exclusive 02-673-1661.

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.

Bargain in French Hill â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Etzel st., 4 rooms, needs renovation, 6th floor, elevator and great view. Only NIS 920,000. Contact

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

02-623-5595

054-306-0109

German Colony/Old Katamon border. Three story house with huge garden. More than 400 sq. meters inside. Very high ceilings. For renovation. Asking $4 million. EVA AVIAD REALTY. Call 054-499-9043 www.aviadrealty.com.

KATAMON Shai Agnon - For sale \ rent - Beautiful 5 room apartment, full of light, storage room, Shabbat. Elevator and covered parking. Batya: 050-791-0000 by Colony: 02-5611611.

HAR HOMA Penthouse 5 rooms, beautiful, private elevator, terraces, splendid view, storage space, parking. Hamishkenote 052-6787813 Manu.

Kiryat Shmuel. Large 4 rms., 1st. floor, very large balcony (120 sqm.), view, basement. Hamishkenote 052-838-5401 Tovah.

Stunning property on HaMamtzie St. 3.5 rooms with balcony from the living room plus expanded service balcony, many built-ins, panoramic view. ANGLO-SAXON 02-625-1161, Aharon: 054-643-7092 . HOLYLAND

ALEX LOSKY

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il

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. 02-623-5595

KIRYAT YOVEL 10 rm. Magnificent villa (approx. 450 sqm.), 3 floors, view, private entrance, garden, swimming pool. Hamishkenote 052-320-2488 Michael. MEKOR HAIM Plot 1000 sqm. (approximately) for building, potential, quiet. Hamishkenote 052-320-2488 Michael. 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.

054-306-0109

#1 RE /M

EM AX OFFICE IN JERUSAL

| May 2008

CLASSIFIEDS NACHLAOT Amazing Penthouse, 200 sqm., private elevator, private roof with 40 sqm. garden on the roof, stunning view. Asking only $1,200,000. Contact Elia 052-862-9208. NAYOT Prestigious 5 room apartment in Nayot. 180 sq.m. second floor + elevator. Large terrace. Beautiful view. Parking. Yehudit: 054-591-0348 at Colony: 02-561-1611. NEW ARNONA 4 rooms with magnificent garden, air-condition, open view, storage room, elevator, 2-car parking, suitable for disabled. ANGLO-SAXON 02-625-1161, Caroline: 054-782-8414. OLD CITY Incredible home. Mamluk period 3 level house with private entrance,150 sqm, 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. Needs renovation. Contact Ilana 054-5341403 RE/MAX Vision 02-673-1661. OLD KATAMON 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.

ALEX LOSKY

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il

2nd floor, duplex completely renovated, 2 terraces, bright, very closed to the German Colony. Veronique 054-202-0446. 02-623-5595

054-306-0109

Completely renovated designer apartment. 3 rooms, 65 sqm. Asking: $425,000. Contact: Edna 050 633 0850 RE/ MAX VISION 02-673-1661. OLD TALPIOT New building, duplex 6 rooms, bright, terrace, elevator, storage, parking. Hamishkenote 054-467-1623 Dorit. Must Sell! 3.5 rooms, last ground, bright, view, parking. Hamishkenote 052-6724003 Elisheva. RAMAT BEIT HAKEREM New 3 rooms large, elevator, balcony, view, storage, parking. Hamishkenote 052678-7813 Manu.

4 rooms, very spacious, ground floor, facing 3 directions, exit to the garden, option for independent unit. Hamishkenote 052-838-5401 Tovah.

ALEX LOSKY

/>Â?LÂ&#x2C6;iÂ&#x2026;

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il

Â˘ÂŻ ÂĽÂ&#x;Â&#x2014;Â Â&#x161;ÂŽÂŻÂ¨Â&#x2030; fÂŁÂ˘Â&#x203A;Â¨Â˘ Â&#x203A;Â&#x2122;ÂŽÂ&#x; Â&#x;ÂŞÂ&#x203A;Â&#x; Â&#x161;Â˘Â&#x17E;ÂŚ Â&#x161;Â¨ÂŻÂ° Â&#x2030;ÂŁÂ&#x;Â˘ÂŻÂ&#x203A;ÂŽÂ&#x;

5-room apartment, renovated, large succah terrace, elevator. Bright and sunny, 4 exposures. Veronique 054-202-0446. 02-623-5595

054-306-0109

Heart of Old Katamon near shuls. 4.5 rooms 90 sqm. $560,000. Contact: Edna 050 633 0850 RE/MAX VISION 02-6731661. -Ă&#x152;Ă&#x2022;`Â&#x2C6;Â&#x153;Ă&#x160;-VÂ&#x2026;Â&#x2DC;iÂ&#x2C6;`iĂ&#x20AC;

-Â&#x2026;>Âż>Ă&#x20AC;iĂ&#x160; iĂ&#x192;i`

>Â&#x2026;>Â&#x2DC;iĂ&#x160; Ă&#x192;Ă&#x20AC;>iÂ?

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

ce`hiddidd www.shiurtimes.com

>Â&#x201C;Â&#x2C6;Â?Â?>

Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x160; >Ă&#x20AC;VĂ&#x2022;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x160;-Ă&#x152;Â°Ă&#x160;/>Â?LÂ&#x2C6;iÂ&#x2026;]Ă&#x160; iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x192;>Â?iÂ&#x201C; Ă&#x153; Ă&#x153; Ă&#x153; Â° V Â&#x153; Â? Â&#x153; Â&#x2DC; Ă&#x17E; Â° V Â&#x153; Â° Â&#x2C6; Â? 45

qm., rm, ring

CLASSIFIEDS TALBIEH Achad Haâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Am, lovely 3 rooms, spacious & bright, 80 square meters, balconies, 1.5 flights, $560,000. Contact Shira Israel (050875-9569). RE/MAX Vision 02-673-1661.

A Fresh Concept in Jewish Art

Beautiful 4 room apartment. Renovated by an architected. + Porch. Haviva: 050552-5250 Colony: 02-561-1611. Beautiful and bright 3 room apartment, ground floor, fully air conditioned, new bathroom, large kitchen, central heating. Ohad: 050-900-2142 or Colony: 02-5611611. YEMIN MOSHE The most beautiful and unique house in Yemin Moshe! 300 sq.m. 4 floors. Must be seen! Yossi: 052-286-7034. Colony: 02561-1611.

www.yoramraanan.com Enjoy a special visit at the artist's studio. For appointments call: (02) 533-4371 RAMAT DENIA 4 story Villa. 10 rooms. Covered parking for 3 cars. Large garden. High style planning. Hana: 052-382-7037.

and courtyard. Needs renovation. Asking $2,500,000. Contact Ilana 054-534-1403 or Dov 052-553-3739 RE/MAX Vision 02673-1661.

RAMOT Zarchi. Luxurious cottage, prestigious quiet area, 6 (approx.200 sq.m.) with garden, balconies, spectacular panoramic view. ANGLO-SAXON 02-625-1161, Shlomi: 054-787-6575.

Stunning newly renovated 4 room apartment with sukkah balcony, covered parking, Shabbat elevator. Central location. Asking $695,000. Contact Ilana Nelson 0545-341-403, RE/MAX Vision 02-6731661.

RAMOT ALEPH Duplex 4 rooms, central, quiet, exit to garden, to renovated. Hamishkenote 054522-0453 Mikey .

Green and quiet in Rehavia. 1st floor, 80 sqm., 3 room apartment in need of renovation. Sukkah balcony. Option to purchase renovated. Contact Ilana Nelson 0545-341-403, RE/MAX Vision 02-673-1661.

RECHAVIA 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. Unique 4 room apartment for rent: beautiful view, elevator, and possibility for long term, keys in the office. Haviva: 0505525250 at Colony: 02-561-1611. A must see! 4 classic apt.+ dining area, lavish, sunny, spacious, balcony as a garden, view, quiet, easily accessible, suitable for disabled. ANGLO-SAXON 02-625-1161, LIORA: 054-431-0015. Plot with building rights of 250 sqm, has lots of potential. Hamishkenote 054-4671623 Dorit. Central Shaarei Chesed! 320 sqm. house on a corner lot, 6 rooms plus separate unit

ALEX LOSKY

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il

Ben Maimon, 160 meters, ground floor, huge sukka terrace from salon, parking, for renovation. Exclusivity. Vic 054-804-0690. 02-623-5595

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il

Big 3- room apartment,81 sqm., 6th floor, new building, 3 exposures, terrace sukkah, beautiful view. Moshe 054-479-3384. 02-623-5595

054-306-0109

ALEX LOSKY

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il

Penthouse, 140 sqm., large sukkah terrace, bright, 4 exposures, quiet, privacy, elevator, private parking, Veronique Losky 054-202-0446. 02-623-5595

054-306-0109

ALEX LOSKY

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il

Beautiful 4- room apartment , 117 sqm., c.o. , 2 terraces and 1 sukkah terrace, 3 exposures, very bright. Moshe 054-479-3384. 02-623-5595

ALEX LOSKY

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il

Very close to the Great synagogue, top floor, elevator, in process of renovation, 3 bedromms ,2 bathrooms, bright, parking. Veronique Losky 054-202-0446. 02-623-5595

Jerusalem FOR Rent ARNONA 160m. 5 room penthouse. 4 bedrooms, newly finished, light, airy. Parking , elevator, A/C. 6000 NIS. Michal Birthright Realty 054-426-6805. BAKA Reuven St. a luxury penthouse 200 m. 6 rooms, new, A/C, underfloor heating parking, elevator, huge balcony. New wood kitchen. 12,600 NIS/month Michal Birthright Realty 054-426-6805. 2 story penthouse. 6 rooms. Air conditioner. Private elevator. 55 sq.m. Porch. Oshrit: 054-544-1911 at Colony: 02561-1611. Short-term/vacation rental by owner. Beautiful, spacious, newly renovated 3 bedroom aprtmt. Modern kitchen, full amenities, internet. Walking distance to all. Call 050-875-7489. Emek Refaim 140m garden apt, 3 bedrooms, parking, beautiful surroundings centrally located . $3000. Michal Birthright Realty 054-426-6805. GERMAN COLONY German Colony- Stylish 5 room garden apartment. Unfurnished. High ceilings, huge garden, equipped kitchen, 4 bedrooms, large living and dining room. Asking $5000. Negotiable. From May. EVA AVIAD REALTY. Call 054-499-9043.

054-306-0109

054-306-0109 | May 2008

CLASSIFIEDS For short term rentals, or long term, after the summer. Gorgeous, fully-furnished apartment of charm with terrace, separate entrance, three bedrooms. On two levels. Lots of room for extra sleeping. Asking $4500 long term. $5000 short term and special rates for Passover. EVA AVIAD REALTY. Call 054-499-9043.

qm., rm, ring

MALCHA Gidon Houser St in Malcha a 120m. 5 room cottage in a new building. Underfloor heating, 2 parking, 2 porches, garden, new kitchen. 8000NIS, Michal Birthright Realty, 054-426-6805.

Haeyal St Duplex-140 sqm. duplex, sunny, light and airy, 4 bedrooms, new wooden kitchen, 120m. garden, available July 1st. 9000NIS. Michal Birthright Realty Birthright Realty, 054-426-6805. Hadishon St , 164 sq.m. apt. 6 rooms, 4 bedrooms, large balcony with beautiful view , closets. 8000NIS. Michal Birthright Realty 054-426-6805.

yourself ed withoLD allKATAMoN your cartons! Yotam st a 140 m. 4th floor apt. 4 bedrooms, new kitchen, private elevator parking A/C , balcony. 8500NIS. Michal Birthright Realty 054-426-6805. old Katamon For long term. Wonderful original Arab-style apartment with huge garden, very high ceilings, 5 rooms, great kitchen. Lots of light. Asking $5000, negotiable. EVA AVIAD REALTY. Call 054499-9043. RAMoT Ramot a 350 m. villa, 200 m. garden. (7 min. drive to Malcha) Marble floors high ceilings , large, airy, sunny,7 bedrooms, Jacuzzi, new wood kitchen, full basement with seprate laundry room. 12,000 NIS. Michal Birthright Realty 054-426-6805. ReHAVIA Rechov RADAK 4 + balcony, first floor, charming, long term, 6,000 nis/month. ANGLO-SAXON 02-625-1161, e-mail: rentals@ anglo-saxon-jerusalem.co.il TALBIeH Talbieh on Mendele St. Lovely two bedroom ground floor apartment with patio. Light. Renovated. 5500 NIS Unfurnished. From April. EVA AVIAD REALTY. Call 054-4999043

ALEX LOSKY

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il

Lovely 2-room apartment, located close to the old city and the great synagogue, with balcony. Bright, quiet and sunny. Veronique 054-202-0446 02-623-5595

054-306-0109

ALEX LOSKY

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il

Long-term rental. Furnished Arabic house, full of character, close to hotels, old city & Great synagogue. 3 bedrooms, large living room, charming patio, and large sukkah terrace on top of house. Veronique Losky:0542020446 02-623-5595

054-306-0109

ALEX LOSKY

TALpIoT on Derech Hevron 90 m. 4 room apt, new building, elevator, A/C, parking, Real Estate Group balcony. 5500NIS. Michal Birthright Realty www.losky.co.il 054-426-6805. Very beautiful apartment, renovated, big living room, 3 exposures, c/o, storage with window, quiet. Moshe 054-479-3384. 02-623-5595

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

054-306-0109

JERUSALEM COMMERCIAL FoR ReNT: approx 200 sq.m. Adjacent to City Hall + Old City, near Mamilla Upscale Shopping Center, All-purpose showroom: tourist shop/ offices/ clinics/ travel agency/ exclusive car rental. ANGLO-SAXON 02-6251161, Ezra: 050-855-3570.

Mikael

Yehuda 10, Baka

02-673-7725 Odileâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Home Org TPMM FrFF

April eVA AVIAD REALTY. Call 054-4999043.

e-mail: mikaelaz@bezeqint.net

Beautiful 4 rooms, renovated apartment with porch. Lovely views. 5th floor. Elevator. Covered parking. $2500 a month. After receiving yourEVA liftAVIAD or moving REALTY. Call 054-499-9043. (drawers, closets, storage, etc.)

www.azran.co.il

Despise to Organize?

Take the madness out of moving! never deal with mountains of boxes alone again... Let Odile take care of your home!

Home Organizing

With her fast and thorough work cabinets and cupboards will be completely tidy If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve just received a lift or moved homes; if you need general home and storage organization

Fro to g

...thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only one number to call! 054-625-4441 www.shiurtimes.com

Humor

Tidbits

Shavuot Q&A

A Retirement Center with a Religious Ambience

by David Kilimnick Jerusalem’s Comedian

Q: Dear David,

I am a single 34-year-old male and I go to sleep around 10pm every night. How do I stay up for Tikun Layl Shavuot?

The first time I heard about staying up all night I thought, “Jews know how to party!” Then I showed up to shul. Spent all night learning. It was like school. I want you to enjoy the holiday- as it says, v’smachta b’chagecha. Here are some tricks to cut into your learning time: 1) Eat a long meal. 2) Show up to each shiur 20 minutes late and look exhausted. Everybody will think you have been at other shiurim all night long. [I tried this trick at work-- it got me fired.] 3) Walk to the Kotel. If you live in Har Nof, that’s the entire night right there! 4) Don’t drink coffee- it’s a bad habit. 5) Smoke a cigarette. Your addiction will give you the perfect excuse to skip major parts of the shiur. This is why you have the yahrtzeit candle. If you are against smoking, then you can use snuff. 6) Lastly my single friend, TALK TO WOMEN. If you are single and going to sleep at 10 pm, from one single man to another, YOU NEED HELP. I don’t want to suggest that you are a loser. However, if you were married, this might be normal. The Book of Our Heritage, a great Bar Mitzvah gift if on sale, explains that Shavuot is when the Torah and Israel became one, and is thus likened to inter-marriage. We stay up all night in preparation for greeting the bride and to repent for Jews sleeping before the giving of the Torah. Tonight, we are talking about YOU meeting your bride, and having to repent for having no social life. Learning is good, but it doesn’t make a family, and the Torah wants you to get married. Tonight, my dear friend is your lucky night. Shavuot is right up there with leaving shul during Yizkor for meeting your

special somebody. Jerusalem is your city and Katamon is your destination. Single women flood into Katamon—Jerusalem’s neighborhood where single people go to cry—kind of like the Upper West Side of Manhattan. They can very easily learn at home, but they go to shiurim to meet you. (Don’t show any of them this advice, as it might scare them.) If you see these women going to shiur, then go and learn. Act interested: ask a question, and women will be attracted to you. To top it all off, throw in an overconfident wink, as if to say, “I know the answer too.” This is why co-education can work, and why my parents sent me to an all-boys high school. Note: The author is single and will probably be attending shiurim in Katamon if any ladies are interested. ° David Kilimnick is available for private parties & groups and can be seen performing at the Off The Wall Comedy Basement, in Jerusalem every Thursday Night at 8pm. See www.israelcomedy.com. For advice, send your questions to david@israelcomedy.com

by John Benzaquen

he Tovei Ha’ir Residence or Beit Tovei Ha’ir in Hebrew, is a warm retirement center for religious retirees in Israel. An attractive five-story building located in a religious neighborhood, the residence has 225 dwellings of three types: studio, two-room, and the more spacious two-and-a-half room apartments. Enter the building through a luxurious lobby, swim in the heated, indoor-pool with separate hours for ladies and gentlemen, and eat a delicious dinner while enjoying a panoramic view of Jerusalem. Other perks on-site: a shul, library, coffee shop, small supermarket, a solarium, and last but not least—a crafts room on each floor.

Activities for residents include a variety of art courses, physical fitness classes, and weekly games of chess, rummy cube, scrabble, and Bridge. Daily shiurim are offered on all sorts of topics, from parshat hashavuah to halacha and even a shiur in Yiddish! There are also Hebrew ulpan classes for those who want to improve their skills, and the library is filled with books in English, Hebrew, and German. Shabbat and Yom Tov are beautiful experiences here. Davening is followed by a Kiddush and a “heimish” Shabbes meal with gefillte fish and good chicken soup. Residents of Beit Tovei Ha’ir can lead a fully independent life. For those who choose to partake however, the kitchen prepares tasty, Glatt Kosher gourmet cuisine, complete with a homemade flavor. As expected, there is individual 24hour medical care and a dedicated staff of doctors, nurses and social workers to anticipate, monitor, and maintain the health needs of residents. Beit Tovei Ha’ir is not only an excellent residential center—it has also become something of a social landmark for seniors in Jerusalem. There are privileges that came with age…..and Beit Tovei Ha’ir is one of them! ° | May 2008

Shaping your identity.

Rubin & Co guarantees top of the line graphics and advertising at the most reasonable prices. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your new logo, brochure, magazine or ad campaign, we will shape your identity so that you get fast responses with effective results. Call for a free consultation: 02-625-6226 or 054-723-4520 www.shiurtimes.com www.shiurtimes.com

Ben Yehuda 1, Jerusalem. www.rubin-co.com

49 37

recipes

Braised salmon with fennel inGreDienTs: 1 kilo salmon (cut into 6-8 pieces) 1 cup each fresh fennel, onion, carrot (sliced) 1 cup ground fennel/anise seeds ¾ cup fresh chopped ginger 2 whole oranges 1 tbsp ground ginger 1 large bunch each fresh coriander (“kusbara”), fresh mint ½ tbsp ground coriander seeds ½ cup honey or date syrup 1 tbsp salt 1 tbsp coarse ground pepper 1 cup white wine 3-4 tbsp olive oil

PreParaTion: Combine all of the dry spices and the salt and pepper in a deep plate or a wide bowl. rinse and pat the salmon dry, then dredge the tops (the side you will want to serve uP) of the salmon in the dry spice mixture and set them aside. Place the carrots, onions, and fennel in a large baking dish like corning wear, and spread 1/3 of the fresh mint and coriander over the vegetables. squeeze 1 1/2 oranges over the mixture and place them in the corners of the pan. heat a large skillet over medium/high heat, then add the oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Preheat your oven to 180oC and when the oil is hot, sear just the coated sides of the salmon in the oil. remove the salmon when a crust is formed, and place it neatly over the fresh vegetables and herbs. after searing all of the salmon, maintain the heat in the pan and deglaze it with the white wine. Let that simmer for a few minutes while you scrape all of the flavor from the bottom of the pan with a heat-resistant silicone spatula, and then add the honey, stirring until it’s all incorporated. Pour the wine/honey mixture into the side of the baking dish (without damaging the crust on the salmon!) and cover the entire dish with another 1/3 of the fresh herbs. Bake all this in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the salmon is tender. serve with the cooked veggies and some steamed basmati rice, and garnish with the remaining fresh herbs and orange slices. B’te’avon!

Chef Yacov draws inspiration from his surroundings when crafting his dishes. He uses local, all natural and nutritious ingredients. Yacov is also a graduate of The Jerusalem School of Kosher Culinary Arts. He is currently working as a personal chef in Israel. You can join his email list for weekly menus or contact him to cook for your next simcha, or event, special occasion or to prepare a healthy menu for you and your family. Yacov can be reached at 050-696-0019 or at simplysoup@gmail.com . You can check out some of his signature dishes at www.myspace.com/simplysoup.

| May 2008

www.shiurtimes.com

| May 2008