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US TO OPEN SHULS 04 JUNE 2020/12 SIVAN 5780
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SYNAGOGUE SERVICES MAY RESUME NEXT MONTH UNDER WIDE RANGING SAFETY GUIDELINES
Hendon United Synagogue
BY DAVID SAFFER Latest government measures allow for places of worship to reopen no earlier than 4th July but reopening will be governed by a ‘protection of life’ philosophy with social distancing paramount. The United Synagogue has
PHOTO: RICHARD HERMAN
produced a radical policy document for a Covid safe environment following Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis’ ‘Guiding Principles for Exiting Lockdown’. Highlights include social distancing for leyning and aliyot, a ban on kissing the Sefer Torah and only 30 notes will be required
when blowing the shofar on Rosh Hashanah. Communities must also have in place rapid shut-down plans if there is a suspected coronavirus case among those attending services. Though led by government guidance, emerging from lockdown will differ across communities. Halachic or shul services related issues should be referred to the Office of the Chief Rabbi and US. The government’s phased approach and ‘R’ rate will impact on planning. Synagogue buildings must meet Covid-19 safety requirements and allow for social distancing. Groups of people that should not attend services include those shielded according to the government’s definition, those displaying Covid-19 symptoms, those living with people with Covid-19 or CONTINUED ON PAGE 7
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6 NEWS
Police arrest over Bibi threats
Gantz apology over fatal Old City shooting
BY ADAM MOSES
BY SIMCHA ABIR Defence Minister Benny Gantz has apologised for the death of an unarmed, autistic Palestinian man in Jerusalem’s Old City on Saturday. The actions of Israeli police in the fatal shooting of Iyad Halak, 32 has been heavily criticised. “We are really sorry about the incident and share the family’s grief,” Gantz told the weekly cabinet meeting. “I am sure this subject will be investigated swiftly and conclusions will be reached.” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not mention the incident in his remarks. Israeli police said in a statement they took action after seeing a suspect with a “suspicious object” that looked like a pistol. “When he failed to obey orders to stop, officers opened fire,” the statement added. Police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld confirmed no weapon was found. Halak’s relatives said he was going to a school for students with special needs. Israeli media reported officers involved were questioned after the incident. A lawyer representing one sent condolences in an interview with Army Radio.
4 JUNE 2020
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Benny Gantz
PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA
Joint List co-leader MK Ahmed Tibi said the shooting was a result of ingrained racism among police. Tibi criticised Minister of Public Security, Amir Ohana, who comments to officers on individuals threatening safety. “When you shoot a helpless person with such ease, there’s a reason,” said Tibi. “The drive, the motivation, the upbringing, and maybe Public Security Amir Ohana’s remarks to the cops. He did not attack a police officer, he was attacked by them.” Tibi added, “You tell a cop to shoot in order to kill, so now the cops think they have unlimited protection. Dozens of Arab Israeli citizens were shot and killed to this day.” Tibi slammed Israel’s policy of demolishing illegal buildings in Arab communities and Netanyahu’s intention to extend Israeli sovereignty in the West Bank.
Israel Police Cyber Crime division has arrested a soldier over a threat to harm Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on social media. The allegation against the 21-year-old is the third incident in under two months. The suspect, who lives on a kibbutz in Screenshot of post the Galilee, was due to appear at Rishon LeZion Magistrates’ Court this week. The disturbing Facebook post referred to the murder of former Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin as a “solution” to bring down Netanyahu. “A prime minister was taken down for no just reason,” he noted. “Now we have a Prime Minister who is taking down his citizens. It is likely to happen again and rightfully so, and those cops who are his slaves also deserve to be stoned to death. That is the solution.” The soldier shared inciteful material including posts calling for the Prime Minister
and police to be “burned.” He also claimed people were having microchips implanted. Facebook has deleted a number of posts. The arrest came 24 hours after Netanyahu filed a complaint with police regarding a death threat against him and his family. Netanyahu posted a beheading threat on his Facebook page in a screenshot. “We would march them PHOTO: FACEBOOK to Zion Square and chop off their heads then hang their headless bodies from the balcony (of his residence on Balfour Street in Jerusalem),” the tweet noted. The post also referred to the assassination of Rabin in 1995. “When will the left-wing media, which never stops trying to remove me from office, finally defend me against the constant incitement directed at me and my family,” Netanyahu said. Netanyahu also cited a left-wing activist for allegedly threatening him and his son, Yair. Police have questioned a number of men following incidents.
Campbell charged with public order offences Isher Campbell has been charged with racially aggravated public order offences following a sickening incident involving an orthodox family on the London Underground last November. The 35-year-old from Dudley will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in August in connection with the incident, which was filmed by a passenger. Footage shows the suspect reading Bible passages to two boys in kippot and acting aggressively. British Transport Police launched an appeal which led to a man being arrested. The Jewish man comforted his sons telling them to ignore the suspect. A male passenger, whose face cannot be seen in footage, confronted the abusive man. A Muslim lady, Asma Shuweikh, also intervened, to distract the suspect. She will testify in court if required. According to media reports, it was thought Campbell might
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Isher Campbell confronting Jewish passengers
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be connected with a fringe sect of Black supremacists that had been intimidating orthodox Jewish residents in Stamford Hill. Campbell has been charged in connection with the tube incident and another in August 2019. Racially aggravated public order offences carry a maximum penalty of two years in prison. Campaign Against Antisemitism and Jewish volunteer neighbourhood watch patrol Shomrim North West London provided assistance to the victim. Both are monitoring the case.
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4 JUNE 2020 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 who have been in contact with a confirmed case within a 14-day period. The list also includes anyone asked to self-isolate by the government’s Track and Trace Programme, and those in quarantine having recently travelled. Over-70s should use their own judgment. No child under 12 should attend. Those over 12 can but youth programming is paused. Communities should ascertain a maximum capacity with attention given for aveilim, those with yahrtzeit and simchas. Nobody should feel pressurised to attend a service to make up a minyan. Hand sanitiser must be available with signs, seating should be clearly marked with a one-way people flow including separate entrances and exits. Communities are asked not to hold kiddushim. They also may not facilitate, support or publicise minyanim or services in members’ homes. Sifrei Torah may not be loaned for these purposes. Numerous regulations for services have been set and will be evaluated on an ongoing basis. They include measures for leading services, for seating, handling a Sefer Torah, siddurim and chumash, and air-conditioning. Those attending cannot kiss a Sefer Torah, mezuzot or tallitot, nor can there be handshaking or kissing. Community Tallitot will not be available for use. A building must be cleaned between services.
TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488 Communities should consider starting weekday minyanim only and consider, where practicable and when the weather permits, holding services outdoors on a synagogue site adhering to social distancing. Consideration must be given to neighbours. Staggered starts for minyanim should also be considered. Social distancing should be followed for leyning, aliyot, Hagbahah and Gelilah. Also, parts of a service not said in shul should be said at home prior to arrival.
The US is to launch an online television station/video-on demand-service so members and people in the wider Jewish community can catch up on a wide range of online programming Consideration for the High Holidays this year is well underway. Communities must have details in place by the end of July. On Rosh Hashanah, it is only necessary for
individuals to hear 30 notes of the shofar on the second day, as the first day is Shabbat, while communities may organise multiple shofar blowings on and off site. Alternative programming in the afternoon and evening are options. For Yom Kippur, Yizkor may be held several times during the day and can be held online ahead of Kol Nidre. Neila must happen on time with potentially simultaneous services. Again, communities should consider holding shofar blowings in different locations. The US is also planning for a broader provision regarding non-service activity. Online programming will continue to be developed. The US is to launch an online television station/video-on demand-service so members and people in the wider Jewish community can catch up on a wide range of online programming. The platform will be available in due course. Other initiatives include shiurs of no more than six people in a garden to observe social distancing. As children and youth programmes will not resume in buildings immediately, online provision is essential. Online davening, activities, story time and children’s services is set to continue. Content has been developed by Rabbonim, medical professionals, US Trustees, US Chairs and professionals with approval by the Chief Rabbi and London Beth Din. As of May 29th, 484 Jewish funerals have been carried out in the UK where the deceased contracted Covid-19.
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NEWS 7
Global protests follow Floyd killing A wave of global riots has followed the killing of African-American George Floyd while in police custody in Minneapolis last week. Protesters have demanded an end to racial injustice and police brutality. A huge rally took place in Hyde Park yesterday, whilst in Tel Aviv last night, demonstrators, many holding signs including “Black Lives Matter” and “All Lives Matter”, protested. In the US, synagogues were attacked during riots but organisers elsewhere thanked Jewish communities for local support. 130 American Jewish groups condemned Floyd’s death and vowed to help end systemic racism. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he understood public anger in PMQs. Rabbi Nicky Liss, United Synagogue Rabbinic Council, described Floyd’s killing as a “racist, shocking and despicable act.” US President Donald Trump threatened to mobilise thousands of federal resources to stop riots. Trump faced criticism after police used tear gas to disperse peaceful protesters near the White House enabling him to walk to a church to be photographed. Floyd’s death has been declared a homicide. Police officer Derek Chauvin has been charged with 2nd degree murder. Three other officers have been charged with aiding and abetting murder.
8 NEWS
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Corbyn blasts EHRC and Trump peace plan BY DAVID SAFFER Jeremy Corbyn has slated the independence of the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), slammed US President Donald Trump’s Middle East peace plan but defended his response to anti-Semitism within the party in his first interview since stepping down as Labour leader. A year on from the EHRC launching a statutory investigation into anti-Semitism in the Party following representations by Campaign Against Antisemitism, Corbyn looked back on his tenure, including the disastrous 2019 general election and Brexit referendum, with journalist, Peter Oborne, for fringe blog, Middle East Eye. Commenting on the EHRC, the former leader noted, “I think it’s quite significant the Conservative government has underfunded the EHRC, and for some reason,
which I don’t fully understand, decided to take away its independent status and make it part of the government machine.” A CAA spokesperson said Corbyn’s interview was the latest attempt by the farleft to undermine the EHRC in anticipation of its report into the Party’s anti-Semitism during his leadership. They noted, “Corbyn and his allies have repeatedly suggested that the EHRC is not impartial and even that it itself may be racist, and that therefore its conclusions cannot be trusted. These self-proclaimed ‘anti-racist campaigners’ are so blinded by their own prejudices and self-righteousness that they cannot see the injury that they are causing to the very minorities they profess to care about.” They added, “The era of Mr Corbyn’s leadership may be over but the sordid campaign to rehabilitate his ghastly legacy is in full swing.”
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Jeremy Corbyn
Asked about his time as leader, Corbyn lamented the election losses, but citing achievements, they included trebling party membership and developing the political debate on austerity and human rights. Asked about being called a racist, anti-Semite and the level of hostility that came his way, Corbyn blamed the “obsessive nature” of British media as “quite extraordinary”. A key part of the interview surrounded anti-Semitism. Defending his actions, Corbyn noted that it was rife, had been historically in Europe and around the world. He added, “It is evil and wrong.” Recalling anti-Semitic allegations, Corbyn said they were “unacceptable in any form” though numbers were “small”. He also praised the Chakrabarti Report. Corbyn added, “We do not tolerate any form of racism within our party more than any other party should, so allegations of Islamophobia in the Conservative Party deserve to be investigated. Unless we as a society recognise the cancer that racism in any form is then we are weakened as a society. Asked why anti-Semitic incidents occurred more whilst he was leader than his predecessor, Ed Miliband, Corbyn responded, “They attacked me all the time on this. I think it is wrong because I’m the one that introduced a process for dealing with it.” He added, “I feel the attacks on me have been extremely unfair.” CAA slammed the former leader’s reaction on anti-Semitism. “He himself has indulged in it on multiple occasions and worked to protect or elevate allies and supporters who had done so as well. Mr Corbyn even had the audacity to lament how Jewish Labour MPs were being “trolled”, even though those same Jewish women MPs either themselves called him an “anti-Semitic racist” or complained that he did nothing to assist them, declining even to communicate with them for months on end until two were hounded out of the Party. “Regarding such MPs, Mr Corbyn not only showed no remorse but even
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PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA
suggested that he may have been “too tolerant of people”. Asked about his campaigning for the Palestinian cause, Corbyn claimed any discussion on Israel-Palestine relations or the Palestinian people’s future was perfectly possible without indulging in any form of anti-Semitism. He noted, “I’ve been at Palestinian Solidarity Campaign meetings where somebody has made anti-Semitic remarks and they have been removed from the meeting as a result. The PSC are clear about that and they are right to be.” He added, “I’ve always supported the need for recognition of the State of Palestine. I proposed that and it was in both of our manifestos, and I hope that it will remain.” Regarding his opposition to Trump’s ‘deal of the century’, Corbyn said if it goes ahead the chances of a two-state solution would disappear. “It’s a proposal which essentially is Netanyahu’s dream of taking over virtually the whole of the West Bank,” he explained. Corbyn added, “The Trump plan is so extreme that it will be rejected, but sadly, in reality, the Trump plan is actually a continuation of the demands of the right in Israel politics for a very long time. “The danger is there would be some slightly lesser version of the Trump plan proposed where there is not quite as much expansion, not quite as many settlements and this will somehow be seen as a victory.” He continued, “Israel has continuously put in more and more settlements, denied Palestinian people access to land, built a wall through farms that have made it impossible to run as a sustainable farm and put the people of Gaza under siege.” Citing a conference call last week with people from Palestine and Israel, the controversial MP claimed there was anger and concern Trump’s plan would make the situation for people in Israel more dangerous and was an “absolute disaster waiting to happen”. CAA said the interview indicated Corbyn would retreat from leadership to far-left fringes where he has always felt at home.
10 NEWS
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Ben Yehuda Street, Jerusalem
4 JUNE 2020
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Thousands quarantined in Israel BY DAVID SAFFER Over 7,500 students and teachers are in quarantine in Israel. The Health Ministry made the announcement after 250 new coronavirus cases were reported in the past 24 hours. Forty-three schools have closed due to the last outbreaks of the deadly virus. New infections were discovered in Jerusalem, Hadera, Be’er Sheva, Bnei Brak and Ashdod. Schools in Israel restarted classes two weeks ago after two months isolation. Israel has managed the Covid crisis better than most nations in terms of global figures with a swift crisis management response. To date there have been 287 fatalities. Education Minister Yoav Galant has instructed schools with a staff member or student confirmed with coronavirus to close. Serological testing will take place in places worst hit. Gymnasia Rehavia High School in Jerusalem falls into this category as 170 students and teachers with a direct link to the school contracted the virus. A new report calls for mass testing of students, teachers and their families if infections are discovered. There has though been criticism about military intervention from the Israel Association of Public Health Physicians. “Unfortunately, the coronavirus crisis continues to be led by bodies that have nothing to do with epidemiology and public health, even in a stage where sickness rates have dropped but not disappeared,” noted a statement. “An intelligence body, which acts without transparency, marks virus hotspots without consulting doctors in the Health Ministry whose responsibility is protecting public health. “Lessons learned from the first wave of coronavirus must be based on the expertise
of the professionals in the field, with local decision making, based on data and transparency.” In related news, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu might be set for a third quarantine spell after a worker tested positive for coronavirus after working at his office last Saturday evening. The Health Ministry is investigating whether Netanyahu, Finance Minister Katz or Education Minister Galant were in attendance. It is believed the maintenance worker contracted the virus from a family member connected with Gymnasia Rehavia School. Meantime, a Health Ministry survey with Tel Aviv University reported that 200,000 Israelis had been exposed to the virus. But it is only 2-3% of the total population. The survey examined 1,700 blood tests of people across the country looking for IGG antibodies. “Findings indicate that the lockdown did its job well, only a few percent of the population were exposed to the virus,” said Tel Prof. Danny Cohen. “We are very far from herd immunity.” The deadly virus has impacted every section of Israeli society. Earlier this week, thousands of protesters attended a domestic violence rally at Tel Aviv’s Charles Clore Park against calling for the government to protect women. There have been eight victims of domestic abuse since the onset of the pandemic, and 11 since January. Relatives of victims spoke, including Shira Vishniyak, whose sister, Maya, was killed by her boyfriend. With cases on the rise again, Magen David Adom has reopened drive-through testing including Teddy Stadium in Jerusalem, alongside venues in Tel Aviv, Be’er Sheva and Haifa. Israel’s trains, meanwhile, are due to restart next week but the latest Covid spike could delay it. The Health Ministry will discuss the issue with the National Security Council this week.
“We want to safeguard the public’s health, should cases continue to rise, we’ll lose more than we have gained,” noted a statement. The railway network has twice scheduled a return only for a late setback. Debate has been ongoing over when to lockdown. Prof. Eran Segal from the Weitzman Institute believes Israel is still in the first wave of the pandemic. “On the national level we see a rise of 30% in reports regarding fever and high temperatures and a 60% rise in reports on shivers and chills,” he explained. “We also see a sharp rise in people who say they don’t don protective face masks when going outside.” “We’re still not done with the first wave,” added Prof. Segal. “It’s ending means no infections in Israel, which is not the reality. “The moment we reopened the schools, the number of infections rose, which in my opinion are still part of the first wave. We must continue to be careful and adhere to public health directives so we may be able to go back to full normality.” Prof. Segal’s view is backed by the National Information and Knowledge Center who estimate hundreds of foreign workers are unknowingly passing the virus on due to a reluctance to get tested and living conditions. Data shows 25% of virus tests taken by workers returned positive, higher than the general population. Officials estimate 40,000 foreign workers and asylum seekers are in Tel Aviv. The majority live in south Tel Aviv and avoid testing as they could lose their job. Notwithstanding the many issues, Netanyahu warned Israelis the pandemic was not over despite successes on a global scale on Saturday night. “The pandemic is most definitely not behind us,” he said. “It is running amok in the world and it is still here in Israel, among us and in our midst.” He added, “We extinguished the greatest flames of the conflagration in the country
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but have been left with the smouldering embers which a slight breeze can fan ablaze and carry the fire to other places. Nobody is immune.” Health Minister Yuli told Sunday’s cabinet meeting the ministry could perform 15,000 tests per day. Edelstein called on citizens who think they have symptoms to get “checked out”. Finance Minister Yisrael Katz, meantime, is preparing an economy plan to include grants for businesses for a return to work of employees. Ministers have approved a 1.5 per cent across-the-board cut in government ministries as outlined in the unity agreement to establish a Ministry of Settlement, Ministry of Digital and Cyber, Ministry of Minorities, Ministry of Water Resources and Ministry of Community Strengthening and Advancement. The cabinet also approved creating the Alternate Prime Minister’s Office. Netanyahu confirmed there would be no residence. Gantz intends to live at his home in Rosh Ha’ayin. Opposition leader Yair Lapid (Yesh AtidTelem) slammed the announcement. “The government transferred half a billion shekels, not to the self-employed, not to the unemployed, not to small businesses, but to itself. To superfluous ministries such as the Water Resources Ministry, the Ministry of Non-Existent Communities, and to superfluous deputy ministers that no one needs. Disconnected people, we’ve had quite enough of you.” The opposition are also concerned over Netanyahu’s proposal to pass a “coronavirus law” that would allow the government to impose emergency measures on the public for up to 10 months. But Justice Minister Nissenkorn said the law would provide the government with effective tools to combat the virus, while preserving the rights of individuals.
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Austria calls on EU to ban Hezbollah BY SIMCHA ABIR The Austrian Parliament has called on the European Union to ban Hezbollah. Israel Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi welcomed the move. Ashkenazi is hopeful Austria’s government will adopt the parliamentary ruling. The United Kingdom, Germany and Netherlands have officially outlawed the terror group. “This is a significant decision against Hezbollah,” he said. “In the lead to this decision, like similar decisions made in Europe in recent months, was significant diplomatic work by Foreign Ministers leading an inter-agency effort to combat Hezbollah in the international political arena.” Austria’s Parliament unanimously back a resolution to declare Hezbollah a terrorist group. The motion called on the EU to change its policy differentiating Hezbollah’s military and political wings. EU member states banned Hezbollah’s armed wing in 2013. World Jewish Congress welcomed the parliamentary decision in Austria as it will “encourage a reassessment” how Hezbollah is treated in the EU. The motion backed the right of Israel to exist. WJC President Ronald S. Lauder praised the decision. “The Austrian Parliament’s
resolution is a testament to Austria’s steadfast commitment to the State of Israel,” he said. “The motion demonstrates Austria’s awareness of the true danger that Iran and its proxy Hezbollah pose to the security of all citizens. Our global Jewish communities are far too often thrust onto the front lines as the premier target of terrorist entities.” The former US Ambassador to Austria called on the European Union to follow Austria’s unequivocal demand to reassess its approach to the terror group. Hezbollah and accomplices are operating on “every continent, including on European soil” with no respect for laws of the land, Lauder added. He continued, “Hezbollah is one of the worst terrorist organisations in the world. “I will continue to reiterate this point until every country and international body across the globe internalises that this is not a legitimate political entity, but rather a self-avowed fanatical organization operating at the behest of the world’s greatest state sponsor of terror, Iran.” Lauder added, “This is not hyperbole, nor subjective opinion. Iran and its spiritual leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, have made unambiguously clear their intention to wipe Israel off the map since the regime’s inception, and have continued to do so publicly as recently as this week.”
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Bibi meets settler leaders over peace plan BY SIMCHA ABIR Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has met West Bank settlement leaders to discuss objections to US President Donald Trump’s Middle East peace plan. According to Trump’s ‘deal of the century’, a future Palestinian state will surround 19 settlements. Settler leaders are behind annexation but have voiced alarm over security and development of the area as it could lead to a “terrorist” Palestinian state in Israel’s “heartland” Netanyahu has vowed to protect Israel’s interests because it is “a historic opportunity”. Amongst numerous demands, the Palestinians would give up a ‘right of return’, accept Israeli security control over the territories, recognise Israel as a Jewish state and Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. Netanyahu has reportedly said issues of sovereignty and a Palestinian state are separate. Trump’s plan allows for sovereignty over settlements along 1967 armistice lines but isolated settlements would only be linked to Israel by small access roads. Some 20,000 Jews live in the territories. Yisrael Gantz is head of the Binyamin Regional Council, north of Jerusalem, where there are 49 settlements. “Until recently, the Prime Minister included us in what he’s doing. Now he chooses to act differently, which is a worrying sign,” he said. “If we do not see change, we will have no choice but to oppose the plan and fight it. I expect the Prime Minister to bring about the historic justice of Israeli sovereignty in the heart of the country.” Netanyahu has not released annexation maps yet. Netanyahu’s meeting with leaders
followed news that White House senior adviser Jared Kushner, US Ambassador to Israel David Friedman and Israel’s Ambassador to Washington, Ron Dermer called on Israel to “slow the process” of annexation plans due to national emergencies. Aside from the coronavirus pandemic there has been worldwide protests following violent protests across US states following footage of the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. Defense Minister Benny Gantz, meantime, has ordered IDF Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi to outline plans in the West Bank. Israel Defence Forces are looking at numerous scenarios. Gantz backed the plan at a Blue & White meeting on Monday. “Striving for peace while maintaining security is foundational for every Israel citizen and for Blue & White in a concrete way,” he said. An annexation motion could take place next month but that is now uncertain. Netanyahu has remained steadfast to bring about the historical changes during his tenure but the peace plan has received criticism from numerous nations since its announcement. Only this week, Norway, as head of the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee, called on Israel not to move forward with its annexation plans following a committee meeting. “Any unilateral step would be detrimental to the (peace) process,” said Foreign Minister Ine Eriksen Soereide. Soereide added that she had spoken with Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi to resume talks with the Palestinians. “It would undermine the potential for a two-state solution,” she said. Palestinian Authority President Mahmud Abbas ended “all agreements” with Israel and the United States over Israel’s annexation plans last month.
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Cannabis discovery in ancient temple in Israel BY NATALIE ASH
Israelite Sanctuary at Tel Arad
PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA
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has found evidence of THC, CBD and CBN, common elements of cannabis, and traces of frankincense. Absence of pollen or seeds indicates the substance was probably imported, possibly as a resin (hashish). The study reportedly noted, “Cannabis inflorescences were burnt there, conceivably as part of a ritual that took place in the shrine. It seems feasible to suggest that the use of cannabis on the Arad altar had a deliberate psychoactive role.” The study added, “Cannabis odours are not appealing and do not justify bringing the inflorescences from afar. The frequent use of hallucinogenic materials for cultic purposes in the Ancient Near East and beyond is well known and goes back as early as prehistoric periods.” The study suggests “distant origins” and they were transported as dried resin (known as hashish).” It continued, “It seems likely that cannabis was used at Arad as a deliberate psychoactive, to stimulate ecstasy as part of cultic ceremonies. “The discovery of cannabis on the smaller altar was a surprise. Arad provides the earliest evidence for the use of cannabis in the Ancient Near East. Hallucinogenic substances are known from various neighbouring cultures, but this is the first known evidence of hallucinogenic substance found in the Kingdom of Judah.” Researchers have published their findings in the study, “Tel Aviv: Journal of the Institute of Archaeology of Tel Aviv University”.
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Israeli archaeologists have discovered cannabis residue on artefacts in an ancient temple in southern Israel. Researchers believe the historic 8th-century BC discovery dates to the Iron Age at Tel Arad, 35 miles south of Jerusalem, and is the first official evidence of hallucinogenic use in Judaism. Eran Arie, curator of Iron Age archaeology at The Israel Museum, and lead author of the study, described the discovery as “revolutionary”. “It is the first time we see psychoactive substances in Judahite religion,” he said. Arie added it was the earliest evidence of cannabis use in the ancient Near East. An archaeological dig in the 1960s from the “Holy of Holies” discovered two limestone alters but investigations proved inconclusive about black deposits on the altars now at the Israel Museum. Chemical analysis at Israel’s Hebrew University and the Technion Institute however
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Tony Blair’s special place in our community BY RABBI YITZCHOK SCHOCHET Former Prime Minister Tony Blair has always been seen as a good friend of the Jewish community. During his time as Prime Minister he made himself available to speak at several Jewish events and was on hand to deal with matters of concern to the Jewish community. When shechita came under threat, he stepped in to deal with it. He was also the first to initiate a Chanukah Menorah lighting in Downing Street. All this was on account of his own convictions, but equally because of his special friendship with Lord Michael Levy. Lord Levy had a relationship with Mr. Blair before he came into office and was very much responsible for raising significant funds for the benefit of the Labour party (in addition to countless other charitable endeavours). On account of his own extensive connections in the Middle East, Lord Levy was appointed Mr. Blair’s personal envoy to the Middle East. This necessitated meeting with numerous leaders throughout the region over the
course of several years. Lord Levy has been a member of the Mill Hill community for more than four decades (he is Baron Levy of Mill Hill) and as Rabbi of the Mill Hill community for the past 26 years I have enjoyed a special relationship with him. This brought me into contact with Mr. Blair on several occasions both formal and private. In his very early days Mr Blair reached out through Lord Levy for some appropriate reading material on Judaism so he could better familiarise himself with our rituals and customs. On occasion I would also get a phone call asking for some “quick Jewish inspiration or soundbite” before he would be addressing a Jewish audience. In the midst of this pandemic, Rabbis
are challenged to come up with ideas that would keep their individual communities engaged. Sometimes the ideas will be of appeal to the wider Anglo-Jewish community. As part of a range of virtual programmes we host at Mill Hill, I hit upon the idea (well to be honest kudos to my older daughter Esti for the brainwave, and my younger daughter Sari for all the tech know-how. What would we do without our kids?) of reaching out to him, through Lord Levy, to consider doing an interview for the benefit of the wider Anglo-Jewish community. True to his style, he readily agreed and we put things into motion. Richard Verber of the United Synagogue was amazing in helping to facilitate the interview and the promotion of the
During his time as Prime Minister he made himself available to speak at several Jewish events and was on hand to deal with matters of concern to the Jewish community.
Tony Blair
PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA
event. The time was always going to be limited and so the questions had to be specific. I chose Covid, the economy and the Middle East. He was very thoughtful and fluid on all the subjects, as one would expect and made a deliberate point in conveying his condolences to the Jewish community for the losses endured throughout this pandemic. I remain eminently grateful to him for all this. As for those books I arranged for him 23 years ago, he did write to thank me and assure me that he would return them in due course through Lord Levy. All I can say is, “in your own time Mr Blair.”
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Letters to the Editor Send in your comments to letters@thejewishweekly.com
Please note: The views of the letters do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper. Letters may be edited and publication is at the discretion of the editor.
SHAMEFUL Dear Editor, I would like to begin by congratulating you and your team in forging a true ‘niche’ in the relatively crowded world of Jewish journalism, catering very nicely to the ‘middle of the road’ community that sits somewhere on the printing press between the Hamodia and the Jewish News. By and large, my family and I have enjoyed and appreciated watching the efforts you have made in striving to produce a newspaper that is both informative yet also true to Torah values. Indeed, sometimes striking the balance between the two is tricky. I refer to your front page leader about Ultra-Orthodox infringements on social distancing laws on Lag Ba’omer. It was apparent from this week’s edition that said article caused quite an uproar amongst your readership; not least of all from my own brother who wrote quite a vociferous critique of your decision. All I would like to add on this matter is: yes, I can see how and why the story was newsworthy. And yes, I can also see how and why it ticked both boxes of being informative and true to Torah values to
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publish it. But no, I cannot fathom why the pantomime, exaggerated, bombastic tone was necessary. To turn a relatively minor (in the face of Bibi’s trial and pending annexation of West Bank territory) story into a front-page leader, adorned with a bright red headline screaming ‘SHAMEFUL’, was caustic, divisive and frankly pandering to a gallery that until the circulation of your own publication was used to encountering such animosity elsewhere. In fact, perhaps the lowest insult I can pay you is that when I picked up that edition of the JW, I did a double and then triple-take, convinced that I had accidentally picked up a different newspaper. I sincerely hope that the Jewish Weekly does not descend into the same mire of bitterness and divisiveness as others. Beyond the undoubtedly important value of raising awareness of public safety (in line with “Venishmartem me’od l’nafshoseichem”), the hysteria whipped up by the article was honestly totally unnecessary and thus a total discredit to the otherwise fine work you have done over the past few years. Rabbi Eli Birnbaum
SOVEREIGNTY! Dear Editor, I have been in Israel since lockdown and am an interested party in the ongoing debate regarding “Annexation” - not by force but applying Israeli Law. Many of my Family live in Yehudah and Shomron. Israel does not wish to alienate themselves from allies and friends - the Talmud states “Give me friends or I die” - but NOT at the expense of our safety and sovereign rights. Israel is a democracy and I will support any decision that is made by the Government, firmly believing that it is all too easy to be armchair critics! If one wants a say in decision making, make Aliyah, as I did, and vote! It is 100 years since the San Remo Conference, April 1920, attended by Prime Ministers of Britain, France and Italy with representatives of Belgium, Greece, and Japan. For those who question its validity today, I draw your attention to an article in the Jerusalem Post 24.05.20 by Dore Gold. Among many important offices he held was that of director-general of Israel’s Foreign Ministry, foreign policy advisor to Prime Minister Netanyahu and Israel’s Ambassador to the UN. ‘… San Remo has not been on many people’s radar screen despite the fact that it created the geographic basis of of the modern Middle East for most of the 20th century.’ It dealt with the disposition of territories that until 1920 were a part of the defeated Ottoman Empire. ‘Formally the Ottomans renounced their claim to sovereignty over these lands… in the Treaty of Sevres’ signed August 1920 - a draft peace agreement was worked out between the allies and the
Ottoman Empire. These post-war treaties enabled ‘the emergence of the system of Arab states on the one hand and the emergence of “a national home for the Jewish people” on the other’. ‘… San Remo converted the Balfour Declaration (1917) into a binding international treaty, setting the stage for the League of Nations Mandate that was approved in 1922. It has been noted that at San Remo, Jewish historic rights became Jewish legal rights.’ Dore Gold answers those who claim that these legal rights were superseded in subsequent years. In 1945 when the UN Charter was drafted, ‘officials were cognisant that this argument might be raised in the future. They therefore incorporated Article 80 into the UN Charter, stating specifically that “nothing in this chapter shall be construed in or of itself to alter in any manner the rights whatsoever of any states or peoples or the terms of existing international instruments to which members of the United Nations may respectively be parties. Thus the foundations of Jewish legal rights established through San Remo were preserved for the future.” We do well to remember that on many occasions Israel offered to give up “land for peace” but sadly our neighbours rejected it, never wanting to live peaceably but bent on our destruction! We fervently pray for peace but meanwhile no country in the world would relinquish its sovereign territory to those who declare war! We have the right and duty to look after ourselves, otherwise who will? Flora Frank (Mrs.)
SOCIAL DISTANCING - CORRECTED Dear Editor, Avi Birnbaum (The article that was never written, 27 May) wrote about a Shabbat afternoon stroll in the course of which he saw “a local playground, the gates of which had been carelessly left unlocked by the council’s gardeners ... [with] throngs of ... individuals happily taking advantage of the situation and placing their children on the swings, slides, roundabouts and assorted apparatuses”. His point was that this “wanton disregard of the law” on social distancing would never feature “on the front pages of the clarions of truth” because the miscreants were not newsworthy “ultra-Orthodox Jews” many of whom he writes, presumably tongue-in-cheek, “have often been caught flouting HM Government’s guidelines to beat coronavirus”.
On Bank Holiday Monday, I went for a walk with my wife in Manchester’s Heaton Park and noticed large groups, apparently celebrating Eid al-Fitr which marks the end of Ramadan, who were certainly not practicing social distancing - yet no action was being taken, presumably to avoid accusations of ‘Islamophobia’. Similarly, reports of (non-ultra-Orthodox) crowds who flocked to the Tel Aviv beaches on the Shabbat before Shavuot were relegated to the inner pages - if they were reported at all. One can hardly blame the (hopefully unfounded and paranoid) suspicion that the press sees its duty to highlight the antics of misguided idiots applies only to the ultra-Orthodox community and not to “normal people”. Martin Stern
LASHON HARA OR NOT? Dear Editor, JD Milaric in last week’s paper states that because something is factually correct it is not Loshon Harah. That statement is factually incorrect. Loshon Horah only
applies to true facts, and therefore forbidden by Jewish law, and of course by definition writing about misdeeds of Jews is anti Semitic. Ann Cohen
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JBD rewards front line staff In early March, Jewish Blind & Disabled launched a new award scheme to recognise the efforts of their front line staff. Originally meant to be handed out to one person once a quarter, a flood of nominations since lockdown has meant it’s now being given multiple times each month. The first Above & Beyond Award winner was Nora O’Carroll, a cleaner at Cherry Tree Court in Kingsbury, who gave up her weekend on several occasions to organise and collect deliveries of donated Kosher food from her local Morrisons. Jewish Blind & Disabled chief executive Lisa Wimborne commented: “Nora is always looking at ways she can support our tenants. Through her networks she organised and collected a delivery of Kosher food from her local Morrisons in her own time. The delivery was so big it has benefitted tenants across all seven of our buildings.” Nora’s win was followed by awards for Frances & Dick James cleaner Leyla Mohammed and Hilary Dennis Court house managers Nicole Zelmanovits and Sue Leff and cleaner Kim Holt. All were nominated for the extra help and kindness they show those who live in their buildings – doing everything from posting letters to supporting tenants through illness to putting on a socially distanced VE Day party. Finally, the charity’s community engagement team of Simon Mazin, Debbie Rees and Louise Marks were honoured after receiving multiple nominations for their hard work in recruiting, training and managing the 70 new volunteers who have been supporting the charities new shopping and telephone befriending schemes. The services were established to support the many tenants who have been
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Nora O’Carroll at Morrisons
isolating. The team were also rewarded for their remarkable efforts in supporting tenants to engage in a wide range of daily Zoom events. All of the award winners receive an Amazon voucher as a token of appreciation for going above and beyond. Lisa added: “When we launched the award we had no idea that the staff were about to face such challenging times, I
have been blown away by the efforts of the whole team. “I didn’t expect to see an entire workforce going above and beyond the call of duty but they have. Deciding the winners hasn’t been easy. These awards are a wonderful way to recognise the tremendous efforts of all of our staff, especially the front-line team who are doing all they can to support and protect our tenants.”
Hospital chaplaincy a lifeline It’s been a difficult time for everyone recently, but if you or a family member has needed hospital admission it’s been much more challenging. Visitors have not been allowed and as the hospitals has been so busy its often been hard to get information for relatives who phone in. Rabbi Stanley Coten, Senior Jewish Hospital Chaplain says, ‘that many people do not realise that most hospitals in London have designated Jewish Chaplains, who can visit and see their religious and cultural requirements are met.’ Jewish Visiting, runs the Jewish Chaplaincy service which is coordinated by the United Synagogue for the benefit of the whole community. Recently Rabbi Coten visited Marion at Northwick Park hospital she had not seen her grandchildren for 2 months, so I got them on a whatsapp call. Her son said that it made a big difference to her general well-being. She has subsequently gone home. ‘Though I have to admit’ Rabbi Coten continues, ‘It’s also been a challenging time time for chaplains some of them can’t visit as they’ve been self isolating.’ In another situation, Rachel was admitted
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to Barnet Hospital, her husband ill at the time so could not escort her. ‘They were terribly busy’ Rachel said ‘had I gone I without a phone I would have felt completely cut off from the outside world, I could not have told the family where I was, my husband was also ill with Coronavirus himself, he could not bring me in. It was just before Pesach when, there was such a strain on hospital resources. Rachel, despite being an active member shul member in Edgware said ‘I had no idea the hospital had a Jewish Chaplain. I would have tried to make contact with the Chaplain.’ One person had trouble getting his teflllin brought to the Hospital, that situation got resolved when the Lead Chaplain at the hospital contacted our chaplain to move things along. Sharna Kinsley, a volunteer visitor at the Royal Marsden hospital in Chelsea, was contacted by a lady with her mother in St Helier Hospital, near Sutton, wanting to speak to a rabbi this was at the time during the height of the Coronavirus just before Pesach. It was difficult to get anyone to her mother and be allowed into hospital. Sharna said I’m pleased to say that her mother has now
Rabbi Stanley Coten, senior hospital chaplain
returned home, but we are in touch with her and she has Rabbi Coten’s details to call.’ It’s interesting how people with no connection to the community for many years, suddenly when they have acute pastoral needs, like an elderly relative, reaches out to the Jewish community for help. Rabbi Coten said, ‘We do our best to help everyone whatever their level of affiliation or even if they are not connected to any community.’ Things seem to be getting a little easier now as Vivian Freeman volunteer visitor at Great Ormond Street Hospital said, ‘It’s
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better now the Shabbat room is now open where shabbat meals can be kept hot, but everyone has been told they should not stay in the room and the meals should be eaten at the bedside and not eaten in the room’. Ezra Umarpeh, stock the Shabbat room. We, as volunteer visitors are not yet in the hospital. We are advising families over the phone’, Michele Massing another hospital visitor said that ‘the families we phone are very grateful and many come from outside London, so they are particularly pleased to have someone contact them with more local knowledge.’ There was a case of another lady from Northwest London who was admitted to a hospital just outside London, at one point she had no idea where her 90 year old mother was. Eventually she was found, but they’d also had to move her from one ward to another. The lady, over 90, has recovered from Coronavirusand is back home. So there have been some heart-warming stories of recovery during this period. Sadly while many people have died, so there have been some heart-warming stories of recovery during this period. If you want to get hold of the Jewish Chaplain please contact the relevant hospital or Jewish Visiting.
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Giving coronavirus the brush off Dental charity donates thousands of essential toothbrushes and paste to Jewish Care homes and charities to help those affected by covid-19 Hampstead based charity, the Dental Wellness Trust has donated over 3,400 essential toothbrushes and tubes of toothpaste to Jewish care homes and charities to help those affected by COVID-19. This includes: Norwood, Jewish Care and GIFT (via Dr Linda Greenwall – founder of Dental Wellness Trust – and her connection with Rabbi Milun). “The aim is to ensure that those most in need (i.e. the elderly and the most vulnerable) can maintain good oral health during lockdown. As we learn more about the virus, it’s increasingly clear that your risk of severe illness and death increases with age. People over the age of 80 years and those with chronic diseases are the most vulnerable,” says Dr Greenwall who is also a member of the Hampstead Garden Suburb synagogue. Coronavirus is spread through water or mucus droplets from the nose and mouth and saliva containing the virus. When the toothbrush is routinely rinsed with cold water, this does not necessarily kill the virus which remains on the brush until the next time it is used. The only way for the virus to be killed is by sterilising it after each use – ideally with hot water, hot water and salt or hot water with one added teaspoon of vinegar. Whilst media attention has been focused on the overall growing death rate from COVID-19, Britain’s Jewish community, which comprises around 0.5 per cent of the population, has suffered a high death toll. Figures from the Board of Deputies of British Jews say that 458 Jews have lost their lives to the virus since the pandemic began. During the period of lock down where many practices remain temporarily closed, Dental Wellness Trust has also been urging ALL UK dentists (as part of its oral health
Jewish Care key workers with the donated toothbrushes
challenge) to contact their local care homes and offer excess stock of toothbrushes and toothpaste. Dr Saul Konviser from the Dental Wellness Trust and member of the Mill Hill East Synagogue says: “As we have seen over recent weeks, people living with poor oral health are at an increased risk of many health complications and potentially more susceptible to the effects of any virus. That is why it’s essential that those most in need have access to a toothbrush and toothpaste in order to keep their mouths clean and healthy. We’ve made great strides with regards to the number of toothbrush and
paste drops but we desperately need more donations from dental practitioners and also their commitment to support their local communities.” For people with related symptoms (i.e. a fever, cough and shortness of breath), the advice is to replace their toothbrush after the first seven days. This will avoid any further cross infection. For those who have had the infection, replace the toothbrush often as the person may continue to shed the virus in the saliva. It is essential to store toothbrushes away from others in the family and keep each toothbrush separate in a cup or
toothbrush holder. Furthermore, it is also recommended not to share a toothpaste tube with somebody who has suspected symptoms to further help avoid cross contamination. For those wearing dentures, the advice is to scrub the dentures all over including all aspects of the fitting surfaces with a nail brush and a soft soap. Dish washing liquid is useful as it removes food stains. Then soak the dentures in water adding a teaspoon of vinegar (acetic acid or white vinegar) into the water. It’s essential to keep your mouth clean and maintain and sustain your oral health.
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No ordinary Joe This week is Volunteers’ Week in the UK. Here, one of Norwood’s latest recruits explain why volunteering for this particular charity was a deeply personal and heartfelt decision At the start of the coronavirus crisis in the UK, Norwood – sensing that its vital services would be needed more than ever – put out an urgent call for more volunteers. In the short time since that call went out, a small army has been assembled from across the community – from Young Norwood volunteers who have been conducting quiz evenings and karaoke sessions for the people living in Norwood’s accommodation services to a 90-year-old man who has been phoning residents on their birthday to sing to them over the phone. But one of these new volunteers has a somewhat familiar face. Step forward Joseph Baker, who has returned to a place he knows well, Norwood’s Kennedy Leigh Family Centre in Hendon, only this time in a new role as a volunteer driver. Joe and the Kennedy Leigh have history. It was here, when he was a young man struggling with dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia and social anxiety, that Joe came to attend a course at Binoh, Norwood’s
Joseph Baker
specialist teaching support service. At this stage in Joe’s life, he had become so overwhelmed and anxious, that he
could barely walk to the top of the road by himself. Slowly, with Binoh’s help, Joe learnt how to operate independently and,
according to his family, “the change was astonishing”. Suddenly, Joe had a zest for life his family had never seen before and Joe has been bringing that zest to his new role. “It was a simple decision to volunteer for Norwood,” says Joe. “I got furloughed at my job and it was a simple decision for me to use this spare time to give something back.” As if his new volunteering role wasn’t enough, Joe is also using what spare time he currently has cycling up to 100km a day training for his first Norwood Challenge, which he is very much hoping to undertake later this year. “The past few weeks have been really busy,” Joe says. “I’ve been driving all over London, picking up and dropping off food and PPE and doing some tough cycles whenever I can. It’s an incredible feeling being able to do all this, though. Without Norwood’s help, I wouldn’t be able to drive and I certainly wouldn’t be the person I am today. The way I see it is that this is not a situation I would have ever dared dream could happen: I got something out of Norwood when I needed it, and now am in a position where Norwood can get something out of me.”
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Shavuot cheer and cheesecake MJCC is still serving the
community
PHOTO: HENRY JACOBS & TZIPPORAH SUFRIN
Determined to keep connected with the members of the Enfield & Winchmore Hill Synagogue, Rabbi Yitzchok & Tzipporah Sufrin set out before Yomtov to visit as many members of the community as possible during a marathon almost 4 hour tour of their homes to raise spirits and bring Yomtov cheer Maintaining social distancing a colourful banner was displayed wishing everyone: “Chag Sameach, have a wonderful Yomtov.” A gift of a box of cheesecake provided by
the Chief Rabbi’s Centre for Community Excellence and information on the festival was warmly received. The caring Shavuot initiative by Rabbi & Rebbetzin Sufrin was met with smiles and laughter at each stop of the journey. The lively sounds of Hevenu shalom aleichem played in the street greeted the pre Yomtov visitors. Non Jewish neighbours came out their homes and commented favourably on the sight of the boxes of cheesecake being handed out.
The future of The Nicky Alliance Centre is still hanging in the balance but Manchester Jewish Community Care (MJCC) which runs the Centre continue to forge ahead with its many charitable activities. MJCC is supporting the Jewish Soup Kitchen whilst they are unable to access their usual premises at The Holy Law Synagogue and in May alone the two organisations sent out over 1,300 meals to vulnerable, housebound, self-isolating or shielding members of the community. Michelle Wiseman, Chief Executive, said : ‘We are delighted to be able to support the Soup Kitchen at this difficult time for everyone. The demand for meals has never been higher’. Michelle added that she is also liaising with The Fed to see how they can also work together to support those members of The Nicky who are at present unable to
access services outside of their own homes. While the future of The Nicky’s Day Centre facility remains uncertain all options to retain the essential and much valued club for the more senior members of our community are being investigated. Michelle concluded: “We would be delighted to hear from any members of the community who feel they can help us to retain this much loved facility. “Our community still needs The Nicky. You can find out more and how to donate or help in many other ways by visiting our website www.mjcc.org.uk. We will continue to do everything we can to ensure that our members are not deprived of their lifeline. I’m also happy to talk to people who feel they can help us.” The Meals on Wheels service remains active and further information is available from Suzy on 0161 740 0111.
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GIFT distributes 1800 freshly cooked meals for Shavuot In preparation for the festival of Shavuot, and with the help of over 100 dedicated volunteers, GIFT distributed over 1,800 freshly cooked meals and 700 special Yom Tov packages containing challahs, wine, candles, cakes, box of chocolates as well as essentials to the elderly, isolated and vulnerable. A number of the cooked meals were sponsored by the EY UK & Ireland Jewish society, as well as Mia Samuels in honour of her Batmitzvah and the #cooking4gift campaign. Israel Bonds UK also generously donated 633 meals. When Joe Ozer and his team from Israel Bonds realised that Coronavirus was going to create insurmountable issues for local companies, charities and the community, they came up with a way to help. “We realised that by supporting a local catering company to cook meals for those in need, we figured that we could contribute to all three. We approached Ben Tenenblat Ltd who told us about the great work GIFT were doing in the community. We were very excited not only to donate to their cause, but forge a working sponsorship with them.” GIFT also distributed cheese cakes, cookies and hundreds of bunches of flowers to its recipient families. One single mother of 5 children was overwhelmed. She wrote to them saying “Dearest GIFT, how can I thank you for
Shavuot in lockdown Over 70 bags of cheesecake and other “tasty” Shavuot treats and essentials were delivered by KKL and JNF UK staff to some of KKL’s more vulnerable clients, helping them to celebrate the festival in some way. As one client, Sandra, said: “It is so nice to know in these difficult times that people are thinking of you.” To find out more about KKL’s pastoral caring services for clients, call 0800 358 3587 or email carolyn@kkl.org.uk
Rabbi Sandor Milun, Shira Joseph and the 1800 freshly cooked meals that GIFT distributed for Shavuot
literally saving my life over this whole traumatic period. As a single mum I’m not only going through severe financial hardship I’m also struggling mentally to cope with the kids. Your cooked meals, amazing food parcels, flowers and presents for the children not only help financially but took the stress and burden off me and my family, allowing me to give my children more of my time. I don’t know how I can ever repay you. All I hear is how many people you’re helping so I know it’s not just me. Please G-d one day I can repay you, not just for what you send me
but for your kindness and care always.” Over the past 10 weeks, GIFT has distributed 5800 cooked meals, £94,600 worth of food parcels, £10,000 worth of toys, laptops & bicycles, 4,200 gratitude care packs to NHS hospitals, care homes and hospices, 950 personalised cards to the elderly; as well as responding to 3000 requests for help, arranging 160 tutoring pairs and delivering 150 on-line educational sessions. To get in touch with GIFT, contact 0208 457 4429 / info@jgift.org
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20th Finchley Scouts beats lockdown
Garden camp site
The 20th Finchley Jewish Scout group have beaten the lockdown with a bank holiday weekend 24 hours of fun. The group camp were due to go to camp for the weekend and like everything else because of the current circumstances this was cancelled – but the challenge was could they do something fun and exciting to replace it. The leaders got together and spent many hours conjuring up ideas for their first virtual camp. The children, their families and the leaders all enjoyed an exciting and fantastic 24hours of activities. Our group scout leader was the virtual master of ceremonies with the leadership team delivering over 20 sessions. They were challenged to pack their bags like they were going to camp, collect natural objects and make pictures from them, build their own flag pole and make their own den to sleep in over night or put up a tent in their garden. They also learnt about being safe at camp, shelter building, fire making and camp cooking. The highlights of the day were a special
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Getting ready for camp
guest session with the Cool Drumming School, everyone could drum along with all the other beavers, cubs and scouts – doing something as a group together whilst being at home- it was a very powerful connection – no one was alone. The children were sent menus and recipes so that they could have the same food or something similar to what is eaten at camp. There were also set challenges during the day as well as a mad science session. Their whole family took part. Quotes ‘The kids had a fabulous and fun day, the kids loved it, definitely something they will remember about lockdown.’ ‘ The children said it was amazing’ ‘My son had the time of his life and has made some wonderful memories and the rest of the family had a brilliant time too.
Ben & Jake smashed 100km for Chai In the week between 24th-31st May, brothers Ben and Jake Musikant collectively ran an impressive 100km to celebrate their grandfather’s recent recovery of pancreatic cancer in aid of Chai. Feeling inspired by the bravery of their grandfather who had time-critical surgery and was on intensive care for over two weeks, and the brothers initially had a goal to complete the challenge and to raise over £1,177 for their chosen charity, Chai. The Musikant boys came up with a brilliant plan of action. Ben aged 11, decided to run an outstanding 77 km, marking his grandfather’s age - calculating this as an 11km daily run for 7 days whilst his younger brother Jake, aged 10, split his runs throughout the week to make up the additional 23km. Having never run even 1 km before, it was an unbelievable achievement for Jake. Brutal 5am wakes up, perseverance and a strong support network of family and friends resulted in an epic success with the brothers running the distance from London to Portsmouth and smashing their target, raising an outstanding £9,000. The money raised will go towards Chai’s ‘Children, Teenage and Family Service’ which provides much needed support for
Ben and Jake Musikant
children and their parents who have been impacted by a cancer diagnosis within their family. Often known as the ‘Troublesome Two’ the boys remained in positive spirits throughout and reflected on their success at the finish line, “Both Jake and I feel it has flown by, not only because we were having fun but because we knew we were benefitting Chai Cancer Care who continue to work so hard to support the lives and happiness of our friends, family and all those who contact them in need.”
Beit Halochem UK Lower Ground Floor, 7 Golders Park Close, London NW11 7QR T: +44 (0) 20 8458 2455 E: info@bhuk.org W: www.bhuk.org
Beit Halochem is the only official organisation in Israel to meet the needs of the 51,000 wounded soldiers and victims of terror by offering them support for the rest of their lives.
Each of the four Rehabilitation Centres offers its members a wide range of physical, sporting, social and creative activities as well as emotional support for them and their families. We urge you to visit one of our Centres and see the life changing work being carried out daily. UK registered charity no: 1146950
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Batmitzvah cheesecake tzedakah initiative
Rohingya Refugee Camp, Bangladesh - family receive food parcel
World Jewish Relief launches Covid-19 Emergency Appeal
Tali Boyden
Gabriella Weller
Cousins Tali Boyden and Gabriella Weller arranged a bat mitzvah cheesecake bake and donate as a pre Shavuot charity initiative to celebrate their forthcoming bat mitzvahs. Due to the current situation and not knowing how they would be able to celebrate their respective smachot over the coming months, they wanted to mark the occasions with a charity event. Keen to find an original and fun way to bring their family and friends together to support some special charities. Over 150 families joined the virtual cheesecake baking session with NYC cookery expert and writer Kim Kushner. Tali and Gabriella raised over £4000 so far to help 2 special needs charities, Israeli charity Beit Issie Shapiro and London charity KEF Kids. They chose these charities after learning about a few of the amazing ways they have been working to
support kids and adults during COVID 19. Beit Issie Shapiro have been providing a virtual nursery school, 1:1 remote therapies and teaching/social care, and training professionals, parents and self advocates through global webinars. KEF Kids have been providing virtual interactive sessions, phone/video buddies and activity/resource packages. The girls also encouraged their friends to donate their cheesecakes after the bake and many were distributed to GIFT and local key workers. They’d heard about GIFT helping vulnerable people during COVID 19 and wanted to make sure that families had cheesecake for Shavuot. They hope that their charity project will inspire other children to find fun, rewarding ways to celebrate their bat/bar mitzvahs during COVID 19.
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Every one of us, together
World Jewish Relief has launched a major emergency appeal to provide critical assistance to those within and beyond the Jewish community whose lives have been devastated by the Covid-19 catastrophe. The pandemic has hurt us all here in the UK but the most disastrous and threatening effects are being felt in the world’s poorest countries. With the World Bank estimating that over 60 million people worldwide will be pushed into extreme poverty as a result of the virus and its economic impact, World Jewish Relief highlights that now is the time to act. Paul Anticoni, World Jewish Relief’s Chief Executive says “ We had held off appealing to ensure our community’s domestic health care charities received the attention they deserved but we now cannot wait a moment longer to assist the thousands whose lives are being catastrophically affected by the virus. They face the most disastrous economic slowdown in living memory with unimaginable consequences unless we act now”. As the virus continues to spread to less developed and fragile countries, weak health systems are buckling leading to increased death rates and the threat of devastating economic consequences. In Ukraine and Moldova the elderly and those that have lost jobs are most at risk with limited government support. Elsewhere crowded refugee contexts and those already in poverty or recovering from recent disasters are particularly vulnerable. World Jewish Relief’s appeal will provide funding to assist the following areas: 1. Critical homecare, food, PPE and medical assistance to older Jewish people across Ukraine and Moldova. 2. Food packages and social assistance to Jewish individuals who have lost their jobs and have no source of income to
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Moldova - Roman delivers food packages
survive on. 3. Provision of essential hygiene items, handwashing and sanitation support to Rohingya refugees in over-crowded camps in Bangladesh, cyclone victims in Mozambique and those living in poverty in Haiti. Paul Anticoni says “Our aspiration remains to do whatever we can now to ensure not one of our Jewish clients goes hungry and that those who rely on us for assistance can continue to do so in as effective a way as possible”. World Jewish Relief is the British Jewish community’s humanitarian agency and inspired by Jewish values, it works both within and reaches beyond the Jewish community at times of international crisis. The appeal has the endorsement of 13 leading Jewish communal agencies. Donate online via www.worldjewishrelief. org/covid19 or call 020 8736 1250.
4 JUNE 2020
Where Pizza and Meat meet
Avi Wakefield
National Volunteering Week To celebrate National Volunteering Week (1st - 7th June) Kisharon are pleased to highlight the kindness of volunteer Avi Wakefield, age 14. Avi has been supporting Kisharon since the Covid-19 outbreak by buying and delivering Shabbat packages to people who use Kisharon services together with his father Michael. Volunteer and Community Engagement Coordinator, Francine comments “This act
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of kindness makes a massive difference to people and raises their spirits knowing they are being thought of ahead of Shabbat.” Avi together with his father Michael practice social distancing when they deliver chalah and grape juice and spend time talking to the people they deliver to, bringing a smile to so many faces. Avi follows his Grandma Ruby’s footsteps who volunteers supporting women who use the Kisharon service.
The Jewish Community of Manchester has every reason to celebrate with the major re-branding of one of it’s most popular meaty eateries. Visitors to Manchester too, will be sure to check out Pizza Meatas because as the owner Ofir Mizrahi explains: “This is a first, not only for Manchester’s Jewish Community, but for the entire UK and possibly for the entire world of Kosher eating.” So what is it that will send swarms of curious consumers towards the new restaurant on Bury New Road, situated in the heart of one of the business commercial centres of the community? The answer is simple: Meaty Pizza! Now, before the Kosher restaurateur recoils at the thought of anything similar to what is sold to the broader British public, rest assured that this pizza never has and never will see a morsel of cheese, not real and not fake. So is “Meaty Pizza” an oxymoron? Offir is quick to clarify, “This is a unique recipe that is known only to myself and a few others.” The pizza will have the usual pizza base familiar to all mavens, but on
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From the front line… BY JACQUELINE CURZON Back to school!! A war-cry which many parents – and occasionally some children - look forward to. But this week’s return to school is like nothing we've ever experienced or witnessed before. I would have imagined suitable checks and procedures, such as temperature checks, improved hygiene measures and appropriate distancing would have been enough, but alas, no. Schools are returning with classes divided into groups (bubbles) with each group occupying separate classrooms, desks spaced out, children not allowed to touch each other, borrow equipment, use the water fountain etc. Question is - what happens about the toilets? Is someone on permanent duty to go in after every visitor, and wipe everything down? I mentioned helicopter parenting in an article on resilience back in January, but I read in this week’s press that children will be encouraged to play games like ‘helicopter,’ where they will run around the playground waving their arms furiously. This is not an attempt to use their imaginations to effect ‘lift off,’ but a directive to keep everyone else away from them. If this is a temporary measure I completely understand, but if it is a new look for schooling which is going to be here forever, I think I might have to sign out. At least if one home-schools, we can do normal activities, like fighting over the colour pencils, sit close enough to have a conversation, pick up toys, share books, and essentially revert to normality. I remind myself that there is no evidence that children could spread anything, assuming they were even carriers, and could transmit anything back to adults - which is where the fear comes - but we're taking the ‘better to be safe and be very sorry’ route, than to take the slightest risk of anything happening. I read that some parents are refusing to send their children back, not because of Covid but because it's ‘the end of normal life as we know it.’ We're going to have schools that might look like Tesco with floor arrows directing your children around, it’s going to be confusing and stressful. If your child is in the key worker group, they won't be allowed to mix with their peer group when/ if they return as a class. If a child in the bubble becomes ill (or a parent), then the whole bubble may potentially be sent home for 14 days, just to be on the safe side. I console myself with the fact that there's only 6 weeks left of school, but I'm still anxious that this could roll onwards into September, and our children will never again have a normal educational environment… one where they have friends, rather than zoom relationships. I can’t believe this is good in any way for their mental health, or for that matter, for the staff. On the plus side the Government is
Jacqueline Curzon PHOTO: LARA MINSKY PHOTOGRAPHY
I know in my heart, that - although they were unaware of my illness my parents would have wanted me to take steps to extend my life, which already looks like it's going to be cut short by 20 or 30 years. considering proposals to run summer camps for children to catch up. This does not mean that the schools must educate children during the summer, but the proposal is that school should remain open so that those children who want to catch up, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds who are lost without the security and safety of an educational environment, can look forward to being supervised, get regular meals, and generally make headway in lost curriculum, but unfortunately lockdown is further widening the gap between rich and poor. As yet the PM has not called on retired teachers to come back to bridge this gap, thank goodness. I wouldn't be a proponent of that anyhow because when a teacher has put in 40 years’ service it shouldn't be incumbent that they are expected to return, even owing to a natural disaster. I'll be far more in favour of having schools open for sports camps, because 3 or 4 months of being stuck at home, often without any opportunity for proper exercise or eating sensibly, is fuelling a pending obesity epidemic, which will have serious ramifications for years to come. Over now to the north-south divide. There has never been much ‘united’ about
the United Kingdom, at least not since Nicola Sturgeon took office as First Minister of Scotland. As a leader intent on breaking from the Union and persistently at loggerheads with anything the British Parliament suggests, she's now drafting her own covid constitution. Be glad you're not a resident, or if you have no need to travel there, but be very, very worried if - like myself - you're a native from the North and have a variety of reasons for needing to travel up there. This week's news shows that Sturgeon is ready to enshrine into Scots law her 5 mile travel limit, as a result of national disobedience. High numbers of people have flouted her previous guidelines, and she has said that they require a further 3 weeks lockdown. Now this is worrying, for let's assume (optimistically) lockdown might end here in 3 weeks. As Scotland is further behind in their perceived Covid journey, she may only, hypothetically, permit people to travel 10 miles from their home. Will that mean I'm likely to be prosecuted if I make the journey up to attend to essential business? Dad's house is sitting vacant, the contents and possessions are inside, and its literally just waiting for squatters to break in at the back. I'm not sure the insurers would extend a leniency for claims arising during lockdown….There would be nobody else at the property but myself, but that doesn't mean that some disgruntled person, on Nicola’s neighbourhood-watch, staking out the property with binoculars, might still make a call to the wee polis, causing me to be arrested for having made an ‘unnecessary’ journey. As a cancer patient on a rather tight schedule, I consider it a very necessary step, enabling me to do in-house jobs (clear, clean and vacate) without which it could sit idle until I'm installed in a [non] des-res, several feet below ground.I know in my heart, that - although they were unaware of my illness - my parents would have wanted me to take steps to extend my life, which already looks like it's going to be cut short by 20 or 30 years. Anyway, back to Scotland… Hugh Pennington, emeritus Professor of bacteriology (University of Aberdeen) has an interesting view on the much speculated second peak for Covid infection. He began his career working in respiratory viruses, and was mentored by June Almeida, the discoverer of human coronavirus. When giving evidence to the Scottish Parliament in April, Pennington made reference to an observation from WHO, which felt that the decline in many cases across the world has been mainly attributed to control measures, rather than to the virus running out of steam. He disagreed with this theory, remarking, 'that in the absence of controls, flu has an R rate of 7 and Covid has an R rate between 2 and 3.' Consequently, he says the notion of a second spike or wave is very weak. He
was roundly criticized by Nicola Sturgeon for sharing his opinion [I forgot that she's an expert in epidemiology]. I've never been a fan of Nicola Sturgeon, aka the Queen of Scots - can you tell!?! Truth be known, were it not for some dreadful political mess-up, she would never have had a seat in Parliament, far less become the leading lady of a majority party. If she could install a border like that of 1960s `Checkpoint Charlie' in Berlin, to stop us from crossing into her beautiful country, she would, make no mistake. Passports will doubtless be needed in the future. It’s commonly known that many indigenous Scots dislike her - and her policies - intensely. Her stubbornness to follow the leader of the UK is both divisive and frankly, very worrying. I'm not a killjoy though. If somebody wants to lock themselves up for the foreseeable future, that's their privilege. However, for Jacqueline Curzon, mother of 7, cancer patient, journalist with a manic lifestyle, I want life to return pretty much to normal. I couldn't even dream of spending the last days of my life locked up, based on a false premise that doing so would be 'for my own good.' With a death rate approaching zero in a country of 67 million, I am willing to take my chances. Getting away from Covid-19 now, we have a little touch of the James Bond to conclude this week's news. A gang of confidence tricksters got away with £4 million worth of diamonds, whilst posing as 'wealthy' Russians. The Boodles chairman had been invited to Monaco by a group of Russians, and during this meeting he agreed to sell 7 luxury single diamonds. When he returned to London arrangements were made by the buyers for their 'gemologist' to attend the showroom where she examined the diamonds, down in the basement. Unfortunately, the manager was then called upstairs to take a phone call from the buyer during the inspection, and at this point the gems were swapped for worthless pebbles, evidently by sleight of hand. Given there were likely 25 cameras in remote surveillance, it must be that the gemologist was indeed a dab hand and extremely skilled, but it still begs the question how could such an exclusive store not have a policy of continuous staff presence, with millions of pounds of gems at stake? When the manager returned, the gems (which he still thought were the originals) were then replaced in a locked bag and placed in the safe. Only when the agreed purchase funds failed to materialise, was the trickery exposed. Naturally, the diamonds have never been returned, and likely never will. The stolen gems included a heart-shaped diamond worth more than £2 million. Altogether rather different from the amateur 'Fagan’s School of Thievery.' 007 would agree - Diamonds are Forever… to Russia, with Love. Until next week Никогда не говори "никогда" Jacqueline x
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Summer Savoury Strawberry Salad With Candied Pecans This salad is a taste of summer; fresh strawberries combined with salad ingredients and toasted pecan nuts. If you wish to make it vegan, omit the cheese and add smoked tofu or al dente cooked runner beans. Quick to make and ideal for a hot day when you really don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen.
Another delicious recipe from Denise Phillips For more recipes and inspiration visit my website: www.jewishcookery.com
Preparation Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time 5 minutes Serves: 4 Ingredients 225g fresh strawberries, halved 1 small red onion, thinly sliced 2 large avocados sliced 110g fresh goat cheese, crumbled 200g mixed salad greens 12 mint leaves, chopped For the Pecans: 150g pecans – shelled 3 tablespoons brown sugar 30g unsalted butter, melted 1 teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon nutmeg
Method 1. For the dressing whisk together vinegar, olive oil, mustard, honey, lime, zest and salt in a small bowl. Set aside. 2. For the pecans, heat a frying pan over medium heat. Melt butter. Whisk in sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Continue to whisk until mixture melts down into a syrup. Add pecans and cook for 2-3 minutes, until toasted, stirring frequently to avoid them sticking together. Remove them to piece of parchment paper and let cool in a single layer. 3. Assemble the salad in a large bowl, toss the ingredients together. 4. Pour the dressing over the salad and top with cooled candied pecans.
For the dressing: 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 2 teaspoons honey Juice and zest of 1 lime Pinch of salt
New look salads BY DENISE PHILLIPS A salad can match so many different descriptions; hot, warm cold, with a vast array of ingredients. As plant-based menus become more popular chefs are experimenting with new ingredients, new flavours, textures and even shapes; appealing dressing varieties and classics with a ‘green’ twist. • New lettuce varieties - Beyond the usual romaines and icebergs are the micro- varieties of herbs and micro greens. Micro greens are the seedlings of leafy herbs and plants that are harvested before they grow to full size. It is easy to see why they have become a must-have ingredient. For one thing, they are a simple way to get your fivea-day. They add texture and colour in minute dainty ways to a salad and add finesse as a final garnish. • Power Ingredients – Ingredients that are considered good health options such as chickpeas, edamame, quinoa, ancient grains, nuts, seeds, lean proteins (including eggs), leafy green vegetables such as kale and spinach, butternut squash and berries. • Cheese – speciality cheeses, smoked cheese, artisan cheeses, aged cheddar, and other branded cheese and all the vegan cheeses are entering the salad world! • Contrasting combinations – Contrasting bitter, sweet, spicy, salty, and savoury seems to be extremely popular when building salads. Textural
contrasts too work well like smooth and crunchy, crisp and creamy. Combining acidic sliced beetroot and wedged tomatoes or sweet mango with pickled onions are good examples of contrasting bold colours and flavours. • Using Shapes – This creates interest on the plate and eye-catching impact that can also enhance flavour by allowing better absorption of dressings. Shaving or grating celery root, butternut squash, fennel or carrots works well. Softer vegetables can be spiralized or cut into noodles. Simple knife shapes like julienne or dice can provide great tasting garnishes as do deep fried herbs. • Crunchy Toppings – I love a little crunchy element to my salads. Croutons or bread toppings are tasty - use different types of breads. Nuts too like pistachio, pecans, pine nuts and walnuts especially roasted really ramp up the flavour and crunch factor.
Seeds such as sunflower, sesame, pumpkin, sesame and even tortilla chips can add another dimension to the salad to give the wow factor. • Quirky Fruit Salad – add caramelised nuts, artisan chocolates, popcorn, herbs, cubes of cheese. Or add berries to savoury. Alcoholic dressings, candied ginger, courgette ribbons,
peaches and macadamia cream can all add a little zing to your fruity mix! • And finally, the dressing – here is another opportunity to add an element of surprise and flavour. Lemon, sesame, soya sauce, chilli, ginger, flavoured vinegars, tahini, nut butters are just some of some many ingredients that can add a distinct flavour and tasty triumph to your salad.
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Above is my recipe for Savoury Strawberry Salad with Candied Pecans.
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How to prepare your business for after Covid19 We are hopefully approaching the end of the Covid lockdown and soon things are going to ease back to back to some semblance of normality. During the few months of slower ( or non existent ) business activity you might have had time to think what you could do to improve your business. Many enterprising entrepreneurs have explored different directions for their businesses or contemplated brand new business ideas.
BY DARREN STROM
EVALUATE YOUR NEW BUSINESS IDEA:
You could have a smart business idea but without the right preparation it remains just that; an idea. For your idea to blossom into a business opportunity you should consider the following: A truly good idea is one that addresses an existing problem and solves it. Does your idea fill a gap in the market or
address an unresolved problem within a particular market. Once you have a solution to an existing issue, focus on exploring a niche in the market. A niche will relate to your particular expertise and strengths and how to differentiate from competitors. Next; build the MVP (minimum viable product). Building a ‘tester product’, which has room for improvement before putting your final idea on the market, provides you the feedback necessary to see whether the product is liked, and how it could be improved. The next step would be to determine the channels you will use to market your solution. Let us assume that you have taken your idea out of the idea stage and have found an existing gap in the market and you have evaluated the market appeal and determined that your product or service is viable. A common pitfall is to quickly dismiss your idea when it does not seem to “sell” and blame the market .“There is no market for it”, is a common refrain. What
might be happening is that your product is fine but you need to figure out how to get people to understand and want the product or service.
PIVOTING AND IMPROVING YOUR EXISTING BUSINESS:
If you are not looking at a new venture but want to improve your existing business and come out stronger after Covid-19 look to “pivoting” your business. Pivoting sounds like a new term because it is a term that is floating around so much during the epidemic but all it really means is to change direction, restructure or change a fundamental part of it. You might not need change the complete direction of your business, instead creating a different route to get to your goal will make all the difference. Online purchasing is one such a route and is a trend that has surged during the lockdown period. The increase in E-commerce is expected to be a permanent
Darren Strom is a Brand Strategist and CEO of VMAL Ltd – a London based branding, marketing and web design agency. He can be reached by email at darren@vmal.co.uk or on 0208 133 3527 THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM
trend, so If you have a physical store but no online selling tool, that is definitely something you should explore. Another thing to look at your brand appeal and message and how your product or service solves your clients problems. Does the wording you use in your marketing need updating to appeal to your ideal client. Get creative with how you can make customers still feel invested in your brand and engaged with your content from a distance. Bear in mind that during this period many people are with their families and in lockdown and people are less interested to be sold to. All the global brands know this, and they are concentrating on humorous , positive and supportive type of messages. The best form of marketing is always when you create goodwill. During this epidemic there is a lot of opportunity to be kind to those around you. If your company is linked to it people will remember our actions and your company when they start to spend money again in the future.
32 JUDAISM
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Looking for answers? Send your question to Rabbi@RabbiSchochet.com A SPACED-OUT SHABBAT Dear Rabbi Now that another two men went into space and it is only a matter of time before space travel becomes the norm I wonder how it would work for Jewish people marking Shabbat and general prayer times. How would we keep time and know when to do these things? Samuel Dear Samuel NASA organised a multi-faith trip to the moon. Upon their return the media asked the various clergymen how they found the experience. The Imam said, “It was especially meaningful being able to see all of G-d’s creation from above.” The priest said: “It was amazing to marvel at the universe in its totality. It makes me proud to be a creation of G-d.” The Rabbi said, “it was absolutely horrible!” “Why?” they asked, dismayed. “Why? Why? I’ll tell you why! Shacharis, mincha, mariv, shacharis mincha,mariv.” There was no time for anything! The Talmud teaches one who is travelling in the desert and does not know which day is Shabbat should count six days and observe the seventh. Based on this, some Halachic codifiers maintain that one who is in the Arctic or Antarctic region, where the polar day or night lasts for many weeks, should count days of 24 hours from the time he arrived there; he should then observe each seventh day as Shabbat. Only when returning to the original point of departure should one revert to observing Shabbat on the same day as the
community. How does this apply in the context of prayer? The daily prayers are set according to the times of day. On that basis it could be argued that one would need to recite all three daily prayers sixteen times in a 24 hour period based on the amount of sunrises and sunsets experienced during time in space. Nevertheless, as codifiers point out, it is not likely that Jewish law would actually require someone to pray that many times. Similarly, some reject the idea that one who is traveling in outer space should observe Shabbat according to the area he is over at that time, since that would result in a “Shabbat day” that begins and ends in a matter of minutes as he flies in, out of, and back into a “Shabbat zone.” It is therefore suggested that the entire concept of days and months does not apply in outer space. Thus, strictly speaking, neither Shabbat nor prayer would be obligatory in outer space. Nonetheless, general observances - Tefilin for example - would remain an obligation as a remembrance.
INTERVIEW WITH FORMER PM TONY BLAIR Dear Rabbi Great interview with former Prime Minister Tony Blair. Your questions were spot on. How did you manage to land him? This may not be for your column but I thought I had to ask. Debbie Dear Debbie I have had the pleasure of
Tehillim Psalm 144 This week’s Tehillim is another famous one. The popular song of ‘L’David Baruch’ is sang in many communities before Maariv on Motze Shabbat. King David who was the most famous Jewish king of all time attributes all of his success to Hashem. ‘Hashem tzuri - G-d is my Rock.’ David felt safe and secure like someone who is in a fortress of solid rock, impenetrable to the invading enemy. ‘Chasdi umetzudati- my Benefactor my fortress.’ All of David’s military prowess is dedicated to G-d and no personal credit is taken by the author. The psalm then takes on a more sombre tone as David reflects on the frailties of man. ‘Hashem
meeting the former PM on several occasions, mostly because we have a mutual friend in Lord Levy. Mr Blair has always been a good friend of the Jewish community. So when I had the idea of interviewing him, I reached out to Lord Levy who made the call and Mr Blair readily agreed. In fact when he made Lord Levy his personal envoy to the Middle East, I would get the occasional phone call: “Tony is going to be speaking at suchand-such Jewish event. It is soon Shavuot. Can you give me some good soundbites for him.” And I have a letter still in my possession in which Mr Blair thanks me for arranging some books for him through Lord Levy, giving him deeper insight into the Jewish faith. He assured me in that letter that in due course he would return the books to me. It’s been more than two decades – but I’m a patient man.
DOES KOSHER HAVE AN AGE LIMIT? Dear Rabbi Somebody told me that at a children’s birthday party a rabbi’s (sic) wife gave her child some meat and then afterwards gave the child some yoghurt. When she asked of the rabbi how this was possible, the reply came that you may do so (i.e. mix milk and meat) until a child is three years old. This is very new to me, but is that correct? Kenny
answer). It is true that three is a defining age for educational purposes where we regard the child as having reached a certain level intellectual maturity to start introducing them to mitzvot. That said, would they consider giving their child a sprinkling of bacon if it helps them eat better? I think it is worthwhile reflecting on the story of the famed Rabbi DovBer of Mezritch, who was approached by a woman who
Dear Kenny I am going to assume that this party happened before lockdown (otherwise it doesn’t deserve an
Follow Rabbi Schochet at: RabbiSchochet.com Twitter: @RabbiYYS Facebook: facebook.com/Rabbiyys.
was never particular about her kashrut standards and whose son, edging toward Bar Mitzvah, was rebelling badly. “Rebbe, help me!” She cried. To which the great rabbi responded admonishingly, “you are coming to me 13 years and 9 months late.” By definition, the little impressions on the child’s soul already from birth and indeed even beforehand, can leave an indelible mark going forward.
This Psalm is a refuah sheleima for Shmuel Yosef ben Faiga Chaya
ma adam vatedaehu, ben enoshe vatachshavehu - Hashem what is man that You recognise him, the son of a frail human that You reckon with him?’ It goes further. ‘Adam lahevel damah, yomov ktzeil over- Man is compared to a breath, his days are like a passing shadow.’ Very often, people are far too preoccupied with mundane life to think of spirituality. Sadly, when the inevitable end comes, many people realise too late that all the things they thought were important were perhaps not so crucial after all. But it’s usually too late at that point to undo all the mistakes. Life passes by so fast like a shadow that we must take these powerful words to heart,
let it shake us to the core and make us resolve harder than ever to utilise our time to the best of our abilities. The ending of the psalm shares a lovely description of a good Jewish mum, ‘crafted in the form of a palace.’ A solid Jewish home built on honest and hardworking foundations allow the woman of the household to reign over their families like a Queen. May all families merit this blessing, Amen. To sponsor a Tehillim for £36 call 0203 906 8488 or email office@thejewishweekly.com
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בס״ד
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brought on the Sabbath. If that is true, the sequence of offerings of the Princes should have been suspended on Shabbat, since they were private offerings. In this case, however, G-d allowed the offering to be brought even on Shabbat because it was like a public offering. Since all of the offerings were brought exactly like one another to maintain the sense of community (Tzibur), peace, and unity this was a KoLONDON’S LEADING PLATFORM FOR STUDENTS AND YOUNG PROFESSIONALS cannot bethatthewasbest it. The infused with the spirit of a Korban Tzibur (public Imagine what the Nasi will have to bring by rban Yachid (private offering) infusedat with LONDON’S LEADING PLATFORM FOR STUDENTS AND YOUNG PROFESSIONALS spirit of a Korban Tzibur (public offering). It was may have felt unimporta offering). Korban that the was then! Netanel ben Tzuar reasoned asisfollows: Parsha sheet sponsored Lirfuat Rav YonaItBenwas ChavaaBetoch ShaarYachid Cholei Yisrael a Korban Yachid that was brought to keep the Tzibur Parsha sheet is sponsored Lirfuat Rav Yona Ben Chava Betoch Shaar Cholei Yisrael not the mos brought to keep the Tzibur intact. G-d said, as itG-d said,were intact. as it were, “For assigned Me, this is considered We know our own nature. Everyone will argue a Communal Offering”. carrying the vessels of the M were, "For Me, this is considered a Communal thatJONATHAN his offering th th from here the importance of communal We- 5see RABBI TAWIL was better. This will lead to th th Sivan 13 5780 May 2020 Sivan 13 5780 5 May 2020 Many people aredospecial people even if they do Many peopleSo, are special people even ifOffering". they unity and the importance communal peace. it was ofespecially important Lashon Hara, hatred, and jealousy. 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Everyone knewneed what aa special “Take a census the sons of Gershon, as well, ac- are He set the tone that everyonegreatisperson the hesame. it ofshows they puts you in the best place forthem the that next moment." greatness to the people.same Everyone a special was because of his personality. dish?knew Roastwhat chicken, cake for descording to their fathers’ household, according to their G-d's response to one who does things to nextan moment." sert? Definitely not! They do not want to look like families” (4:22)was great person he was because of his personality. important task too, e There is a fascinating Midrash that relates that > UPCOMING EVENTS they copiedpeace the first one, they harmony. have such isespecially unitywhen and What was G-d's response? The Midrash sayswas anthe first promote Why did Hashem stress that Moshe should also the Nasi from Yehudah, tribe to 8ththat June @ 8:30up PMas most important. There is a fascinating Midrash relates that animage to keep ‘original’ people. They de- count the families of Gershon? Why would he not PARASHA INSIGHTS MONDAY NIGHT SERIES make an offering, and he had it easy. He could A person who keeps a Tzibur together is one unbelievable thing... There is offer a rule that a public to offer delicious with ice count Gershon if he was counting Kehat? R’ Moshe the Nasi from Yehudah,cide was the afirst tribe roast to beef together 8th June @ 8:30 PM whatever he desired. The second Nasi 10th June @ 8:30 PM delicacies for dessert. The third guy has to improve PARASHA INSIGHTS who brings merit to the masses in aNIGHT most MONDAY SERIESanswers that people have a tendency not make an offering, and he had it easy. He could AROUND THE WORLD WITH RABBI TAWIL This offering week, we read the longest ParshaShabbat inNASSO the Feinstein can override prohibitions, but Every person has their role upon the how thprevious two and offer lamb. Imagine Tribewhatever of Yissachar, th Torah containing 176 verses. (It is interesting Netanel ben Tzuar of theoffer June @ 8:05PM 11second he desired. The Nasi to bother with something if they cannot be the best at June @ 8:30 PM 10 distinguished and who merits many WITH hard itCOOKING willfashion be for theTAL 12th to outperform all his pre-THE a read private offering No individual offering however, was with to life. Every person possesses AROUND WORLD WITH RABBI TAWIL to note that the tractate Talmud Bavalongest This week, weinincannot. read the Parsha infaced the it. The people of Gershon may have felt unimportant Nachshon’s greatness was aindilemma his greatofactwhat of sacriThis week, we thelongest longest Parsha the Torah For our upcoming events check our website www.torahactionlife.com decessors. bring? 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Tehilim Long (Psalms) 119 also has 176 verses.) with thousands in your community, Bar Mitzvah serves a tasty main course of as it may be, there seems to bebeing a great chapter in Tanach (Psalms)since 119 they have been suspended onTehilim Shabbat, Nachshon ben Aminadav, then the Nasi after me derstand that their role was just as essential as that Many people are special people even if they do Longdeal as it of may be, there seems to be a great deal Imagine there are to be 12 Bar Mitzvahs in Sponsor the Torah Parasha Sheet according to their fathers' household, according roasted chicken, potatoes and carrots and a repetition involved. We read about the call 07759 550 102 or email info@torahactionlife.com also has 176 verses.) and the Nasi after him will face a spiral of escalating of Kehat. WhenEvery someonesingle is counted, individual it shows them an holdcase, a special position or special title. after the other. 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Roast roasted chicken, potatoes andben carrots and a as follows:callWe deal repetition involved. read about the Netanel Tzuar Insights reasoned know his offering onof a separate day,brought yet each We 07759 550 102Every or email info@torahactionlife.com Parasha person has their role and their task in life. chicken, special cake dessert? Definot nitely was no called Rabbioffering. Hillel for because he did need offeringbrought on Shabbat a separate day, yet each one because it was like a public Why did Hashem stress that Moshe should also RABBI JONATHAN TAWIL fantastic cake for dessert. The next week there one brought the same as the other. our own nature. Everyone will argue that his offering Therefore, must respect Every person possesses unique we talents and abilities not! They do not want to look like they copied a special title to express his greatness to the peothe same as the other. Nesiim - princes and their offerings at the is another Bar Mitzvah, was better. 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He brought exactly the same offering.Parasha Insights whatever a delicious roast that beef togetherthat chicken, special cake dous for dessert? Defi nitely important, that role might be. for the world. There istoaoffer fascinating Midrash relates of Yehuda” Nachshon is the only leader RABBI CHAIM ZUNDEL PEARLMAN tribe(7:12) of Yehuda” (7:12) Nachshon is thewho only decide RABBI JONATHAN TAWIL He set the tone that everyone is the same. one brought the same as the other. with ice delicacies for dessert. The third guy Therefore, we must respect every single person Nasi from Yehudah, the They first tribe toMoshe make is listedleader without hisistitle of “Nasi. The ex- theand who listed without his Chizkuni title of "Nasi. not! do not want to look like they answers copied community (Tzibur), peace, unity thiswaswas R' Feinstein that people have What was G-d’s response? The Midrash says an and object as an integral part of Hashem’s plan for to improve previous two and The Chizkuni explains that Nachshon was anhas offering, and heupon hadthe it easy. could offeroffer whatplains that since Nachshon wassince the first to bring the He first one, especially when they have an is a rule that a public OUR CHACHAMIM P3 of“The one who brought his offering on the fi rst unbelievable thing... There a tendency not to bother with something if they a Korban Yachid (private offering) that was ■ ShabbatP2Shalom lamb. Imagine how hard it will be for the 12th to DVAR TORAH the firstthe to Torah bring his sacrifi the Torah does ever he desired. The second Nasi the world. his sacrifices, does not ces, mention him with BY RABBI DAVID PINTO SHLITA image to keep up as ‘original’ people. They fering can override Shabbat prohibitions, but a priday was Nachshon son of Aminadav, of the outperform all his predecessors. not mention him with his title so that he should Parasha Insights his title so that he should not feel haughty because Netanel ben Tzuar of the Tribe of Yissachar, howdecide to offer a delicious beef together Shalom!PEARLMAN vate roast offering cannot. No individual offering is ever RABBIShabbat CHAIM ZUNDEL tribe ofexplanation Yehuda” (7:12) is thewith only feel haughty because of his precedence. of his not precedence. Another is that Nachshon ever, faced a dilemma of what bring? Thewas Midrash says that this is what wenttothrough
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RABBI JONATHAN TAWIL RABBBI JONATHAN TAWIL
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RABBI CHAIM ZUNDEL PEARLMAN - EMERITUS RABBI OF THE MACHZIKEI HADATH SYNAGOGUE & ROSH BEIT MIDRA
HALACHOT P3 third guy Another explanation Nachshon's leader iswhothat is listed without the his mind title of "Nasi. with ice delicacies for dessert. The of Netanel ben Tzuar: If I try to do Minors Eating Before Kiddush on Friday greatness was inThe his great act of sacrifi ce by the has to improve upon the previous two and offer Chizkuni explains that since Nachshon was Night.../ RABBI ELI MANSOUR Yehudah, if I try to OUR CHACHAMIM P3 Yam Suf when he jumped into the raging waters different than the Tribe oflamb. Imagine how hard it will be for the 12th to the first to bring his sacrifices, theup'Torah does ben Aminadav, 'one Nachshon then the BY RABBI DAVID PINTO SHLITA of the sea. He did not need a special title to be 5 outperform allface hisapredecessors. Nasi afterhe meshould and the Nasi after him will so that Ramban offers his own interpretation for this burying relatives and kidush a ’s Nazirites”. a great person. not mention him with his title Kid P4to the deprived from performing such mitzvot as burying relacommitting an act of sin for ces, the very same act which youth to be The verse equates the Nazir spiral of escalating sacrifi escalating costs, e Q&A & STORY not feel haughty because of his precedence.2 im T derech hapshat”. He answers that since Tosafot points outMidrash that on paradox balance the “al Navi. Nazir is considered tives and kidush and havdala on wine. He therefore reThe says that this is The what went throughto be untilkedusha. day 12. This is an important lesson. explanation is brings HALACHOT P3requires expiation He therefore Another that Nachshon's 7 mitzvah outweighs the sin. When the Torah writes that ’לה הוא קדוש נזרו ימי כל quires expiation for depriving himself of the performance the mind ofheNetanel ben Tzuar: himself If I try to to do a high level of Minors Eating Before Kiddush on Friday has elevated sanctity greatness was inThis hisnewsletter great act of sacrifi ce by the contains Divrei Torah and may contain Sheimot Please dispose of accordingly the Nazir is required to atone for his sin, וְ ִכ ֶּפר ָעלָ יו ֵמ ֲא ֶׁשר “kadosh to Hashem throughout his period of Nezirut. of these mitzvot. The korbanot he brings are comparable Night.../ RABBI ELI MANSOUR different than the Tribe of Yehudah, if I try to ofby the performance ofof these m 3 Yam Suf when he jumped into waters this would ֶפׁשthe ָל ַהּנraging ָח ָטא ַעalthough seem toin referthe only toservice Hence he atonement abandoning life of to those brought the Nesiim at the consecration the ofrequires Hashem, it for would be aappropriate 'one up' Nachshon ben Aminadav, then the Nazir whotitle has to been holiness and returning to a mundane existence. It is for sanctuary’ which are special offerings of dedication – of the sea. He did not need the a special bein contact with tuma, fornonethehimthetoNasi remain permanently that high level, to hethe brings areto comparable to Nasi4. after me and after him face athat heat less it also refers to the Nazir Tahor The reason it is writthis reason “al piwill haphshat” is required a chinuch. So also Nazir is required bring korbanot a great person. idto’sbringQ&A K & STORY P4 ten only in the context of the Nazir Tomei is because he sin offering to atone for surrendering this life of kedusha of chinuch as a dedication to the mastering of his munspiral of escalating ces, escalating costs, for the rest remainsacrifi a Nazir permanently as Timeof his life He has made the vow to for a life of tumoh enjoying worldly pleasures. dane desires. the Nesiim at the consecratio day 12. This is an important lesson. has committed a double sin.until the tomei. Novi Amos says We are all enduring a period of enforced isolation. Sobecome a Nazir and he has in addition become Alshich Hakodosh comments on the wording of the However, the is also required for aTorah Nazir possuk.Sheimot - Please dispose of accordingly 1 cial distancing,which us a formare of “prishut”, a form of denial of d Thiskaporoh newsletter contains Divrei and may contain special offerings 6 Tahor. לנביאים ומבחוריכם לנזירים ואקים מבניכםfrom “and Ramban5 offers his own interpretation for this para.8ואחר ישתה הנזיר יין some worldly pleasures and pursuits. This should Why does the Nazir offer a Chatos on completion of his dox “al derech hapshat”. He answers that since he has termination of the Nazir may us pause for enable us to attain I will raise After your(thechildren tothebeNezirut) prophets and give your Sothought, alsoandthe Nazir is higher required Nezirut? elevated himself to a high level of sanctity in the service drink wine. Surely, after the Nezirut has finished he is no levels of kedusha. The test will be to learn from this expeוְ ִה ְק ִריב ֶאת ָק ְר ָּבנֹו לַ ה’ ֶּכ ֶבׂש ֶּבן ְׁשנָ תֹו ָת ִמים ֶא ָחד לְ עֹלָ ה youth to be Nazirites”. The verse equates the Nazir this higher level return to more to t of Hashem, it would be appropriate for him to remain longer a Nazir so why does the verse say after it is all over rience and retain chinuch aswhen a we dedication איִ ל ֶא ָחדWhy ַ ְח ָּטאת וdoes ַ ְימה ל ָ ּת ִמ ְ ׁשנָ ָתּה ְ ַחת ַּבתoffer ַכ ְב ָׂשה ַאa ְ וChatos on completion the Nazir permanently at that high level, to remain a Nazir permathe The Nazir may drink is wine. He is not a Nazir anymore! normal conditions. Will we be able to continue at that to the Navi. Nazir considered to be .)יד: (נשא ו:ָּת ִמים לִ ְׁשלָ ִמים of his Nezirut? nently for the rest of his life as the Novi Amos says Answers the Alshich, even after the end of the Nezirut, level of sanctitymundane when the deprivation brought about by desires. The Sages1 were troubled as to why the Nazir brings a 7 6 'לה קדוש כל ואקים מבניכם לנביאים ומבחוריכם לנזירים when he resumes drinking wine,הוא he is still called aנזרו Nazir, ימי social separation no longer exists? sin offering. Surely a Nazir accepts extra kedusha and is ֹ“ַה' כֶּבֶשׂ בֶּן שְׁנָתוand וֹ לI נwill ָּ ָרְבraise קyour אֶתchildren ק ְריִבtoִ ְהbe וprophets and your since the impact of being a Nazir should remain with him 1 called an איש קדוש. They answer that he is guilty of deShabbat Shalom! We are all enduring a period o “kadosh toforHashem his period of Nezirut. the rest of histhroughout life. priving himself of wine and this is considered sinful. So 2 Nazir 2b see also Rabeinu Tam in Tosafot Bava Kama 91b אֶחָד לְעֹלָה וְכַבְשָׂה אַחַת ב ּ ַת שְׁנָתָהּ ת ְּמיִמָה תָמיִם Meshech Chochmo9 comments that although Hence he “prishut” requires atonement for abandoning a life inspite of the fact that he is certainly attains a high level 3 Naso 6,11 can be praiseworthy, nonetheless a Nazir is Social distancing, us a form o See of holiness by his abstention, he is still :יִם punished .(יד:)נשא ו ִשְׁלָמforיִם ל4 Nּ ָמazirת19aָדsee אֶחRashiִלadְאַיlocum. את ו ָ טalso ַ ְחShito לMekubetzes Nedarim
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of holiness7 Naso and6,8 returning to a mundane existence. It 8 Naso 6,20 is for this reason “al pi haphshat” that he is required The Sages were troubled as to why the Nazir 9 Naso 6,14 to bring a sin offering to atone for surrendering this brings a sin offering. Surely a Nazir accepts extra life of kedusha for a life of tumoh enjoying worldly kedusha and is called an איש קדוש. They answerTHEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM that he is guilty of depriving himself of wine and this pleasures.
1 Nedarim 10a (also Nazir 19a, & 22a, 1 Taanit 11a and Bava Kama 91b).
10a ירת ירה שפנה לע דח אטח רשאמ יכה ארק שירדו 5 Naso 6,14 6 Amos 2,11
denial from some worldly ple This should give us pause for
us to attain higher levels of ked
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Spiritual Specialisation BY RABBI MOSHE TARAGIN At 176 pesukim, Parshat Nasso “tops the charts” as the longest parsha in the entire Torah. Its heft is a product of the protracted final section of Nasso which delineates the gifts of the twelve nesi’im or tribal leaders. Even though their gift-packages were identical, the Torah enumerates each and every one of the twelve collections. Evidently, there is a deeper lesson to this “gift-giving”- a lesson important enough to justify extensive repetition of seemingly redundant information. Commenting on this pageant of gifts, the Midrash portrays the mindset of the respective leaders as they offered their tributes. Each tribe possessed a unique talent and a distinct historical calling. These traits and tendencies had been announced by their patriarch, Ya’akov, and the tribes had preserved these different “identities” for hundreds of years. Finally, these mishkan-gifts presented an opportunity to express these tribal ambitions and dreams. The gifts symbolized their tribal hopes for future roles in Jewish History. For example, Yehuda anticipated a future as monarchs and the rounded plates of silver denoted their projected expansive global kingdoms. Zevulun, for their part, were sea merchants and, to them, the plates implied the vast oceans upon which they would sail to assure a commercial “stream” for the rest of the nation. The population of Reuven took great historical pride in having served as “first responders” during the sale of Yosef. Viewing themselves as national heroes, they viewed the plates of silver as a symbolic encapsulation of their heroism. The Hebrew word for plate is “ke’ara”; the letters of this word, if scrambled, can be conjugated to form the word ‘ikar’ which would suggest ‘primary or principal’ and would depict their role as early interveners. Ironically, the very same silver plates represented monarchy for the tribe of Yehuda, seafaring for the tribe of Zevulun and heroic first response for the tribe of Reuven. Though, to the naked eye their gifts seemed identical, they resonated with different symbolism for each distinct tribe. This phenomenon provides an important dual lesson about religious growth. Each tribe took pride in their unique calling and their unique talents. Too often, we adopt one universal standard of religious excellence and attempt to stretch it collectively. Naturally, people are endowed with very different talents and interests
and authentic religious identity is better achieved when those unique personal talents are developed and channelled for religious growth. Often we hear a story about a gadol and the inspiring trait which they modeled. Almost immediately that trait becomes “gold standard” or the “paradigm” which everyone is expected to aspire to. It is completely valid to deeply admire a trait in another while appreciating our individualism and acknowledging that this trait may not be ideal for our lives and for our religious ambitions. During the era of prophecy, personal interviews with prophets would conclude with personal guidance based on each person’s unique character and individual personality. This assessment would assist each individual in developing a personal program of religious experience. Sadly, we no longer have access to supernatural character assessment, but identifying and assessing our own individual personality and traits is no less crucial in constructing genuine religious identity. What is true on an individual level may also be true at a communal level. No particular community or ideology is perfect, and each community adopts different and hopefully complementary agendas. Proposing one single communal pattern ignores the reality that no single community can fully encompass the entire gamut of interests and agendas. Each community excels uniquely at its own ‘project’ and adopts norms which may be beneficial for that community but irrelevant or even counterproductive for another. Sometimes we disparage “other” communities because they don’t meet a particular objective standard without sufficiently appreciating their own ‘individual’ or ‘particular’ trajectories. This Midrash highlights a nation of specialists – each tribe specializing in their particular area of national and religious mission. It reminds us of the value of religious specialization. However, despite their marked differences and despite their specialized roles, each leader offered an identical gift. When expressing our individualism we crave difference and ultimately distinction. We sometimes feel suffocated by conforming to behaviours and cultural mores of others. Human beings have a deep-seated desire to act differently and express their individualism through unique personal action and behaviours. Sometimes the pursuit of individualism yields vanity and self-promotion. In our attempts to assert our independence and individualism, we often loudly announce
… people from more diverse communities assume that members of more conforming communities are all identical, and lack any individualism. our personalities and compromise the dignity of privacy. The tribal leaders provide an important second lesson- individual and personalized identity can be expressed through identical “practice”. Even though the external activities may seem duplicate, these activities can be motivated by very different motivations and narratives. Preserving our individualism doesn’t demand dissimilar behaviour or vastly differing “expressions”. It is possible to homogenize behaviour and actions without suffocating emotional individualism. While donating the exact same gift, the leaders of Nasso were driven by a range of different motivations and aspirations. Their identical gifts created grandeur and decorum while avoiding the one-upsmanship which could have ruined the harmony of the mishkan induction. As we seek individual experience we mustn’t underestimate the value of social conformity and cohesion. All too often,
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people from more diverse communities assume that members of more conforming communities are all identical, and lack any individualism. When communities adopt common dress codes this assumption of conformism becomes even more strident but remains largely inaccurate. Though conforming social modes do encourage group-think and less personal expression, individual experience still surges under the mask of conforming social mores. Each person and each community struggles to strike a balance between individualism and collectivism. We should avoid simplistic assumptions based on “optics” without carefully understanding and appreciating personal journey for identity which are undertaken by humans across the social and religious spectrums. Rabbi Moshe Taragin has taught at Yeshivat Har Etzion in Gush Etzion, for the past 22 years.
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Nasso RABBI DR RAYMOND APPLE
ENDING WITH PEACE
The famous priestly blessing (yevarech’cha HaShem veyishm’recha) is from the verses of the weekly reading, Naso. It ends, veyassem l’cha shalom – “May G-d look favourably upon you and grant you peace”. The sages say (Mishnah Uktzin 3:12) that peace is the culminating blessing; when we have been given Divine protection, grace, love and spiritual uplift, what can still be lacking? Peace! But shalom does not simply mean peace in the sense of the absence of conflict and war. Peace is sh’lemut, completeness. When we know that everything around us is calm and working together in harmony, then we have peace. Peace with other people? Of course. But also peace with the environment. And peace with ourselves.
A PROPER SPOONFUL
Every one of the princes of the tribes of Israel brought an offering. The ceremony of dedicating the altar took twelve days, and each tribe had its day. The offerings included incense, brought by each prince in a spoon, the same kind of spoon. We understand why the incense was needed, and the Torah rightly specifies it. But the spoon? What difference did it make to the Torah what implement was used by the prince? Surely the spoon was merely utilitarian and had no significance in itself. The explanation is that not only was the deed – in this case the bringing of the incense – important, but the way it was
TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488 carried out was also important. The codes of Jewish law (e.g. Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, chapter 143) make this point when they speak of how a child should treat his parent. If the parent is old and ailing, the child has to make sure he gets adequate food. The food itself is important, because it keeps the parent alive – but the child knows that how the food is brought is also important. The child must not perfunctorily shove it in front of the parent but bring it nicely, with love and dignity and a smile. The end does not excuse the means: both the means and the end have to be appropriate.
THE MELODY LINGERS
A remarkable feature of the Jewish calendar is the fact that the day before a festival has a special name, Erev Yom-Tov, because we begin sensing the atmosphere of the festival even before it has arrived. The day after the festival also has a name, Is’ru Chag, because the festival lingers for a while even when it is technically over. This week the Is’ru Chag is the day after Shavu’ot. It is like a steam train, which still glides along for a while even if the steam has been cut off. In Jewish life we experience this every week, when the end of Shabbat does not totally switch off the Shabbat atmosphere because we have a Melaveh Malkah. We can even apply this thought to the
JUDAISM 35
life of a human being. We know that no one lives forever and one day a person will die, though we pray that it will not happen until they are at least 120 years old. Those who survive a person who has died must feel their presence – not for just an hour or a day, but as long as we live. When anything happens we ought to ask, “How would x (the person who has died) handle this moment?”
WHY THE KOHANIM?
Countless generations have been inspired by the priestly blessing (Num. 6:22-27). In three short sentences it encapsulates the whole hope of humanity. “The Lord bless you and keep you… the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you… the Lord look with favour upon you and grant you peace…” What a privilege it is for the kohanim to utter the Divine benediction. We non-kohanim thrill to hear them pronounce the ancient words. Some of us even wish that we could participate in the mitzvah. But not even if we are rabbis can we act as kohanim and if we yearn to bestow the blessing on a bride and groom or a Bar- or Bat-Mitzvah we have to preface it with a sentence such as “May you be granted the threefold blessing of the Children of Aaron…” Possibly one or two of us have wondered why the blessing was reserved for the priests. What did the kohanim do to deserve the privilege other than be born
But shalom does not simply mean peace in the sense of the absence of conflict and war. Peace is sh’lemut, completeness.
to a priestly father? The first thing that must be said is that the blessing is not a personal gift from the kohanim as individuals. They are merely a conduit. The rabbis tell us, “It is not the priests who bless Israel; Scripture says, ‘I (G-d) will bless them’ (verse 27)”. Nonetheless the kohen has to be worthy of his task. The philosopher Philo said, “The most indispensable element in a priest is piety”. Malachi says, “The law of truth is in his mouth. He walks with Me in peace and righteousness and turns many away from iniquity” (Mal. 2:6). The ideal kohen has the virtue of personal piety and descends from pious lineage. If there is a kohen about whom these words are in doubt, he can do something about it – not to try to opt out but to become worthier and raise up future generations who will be worthy of their privilege. Rabbi Apple served for 32 years as the chief minister of the Great Synagogue, Sydney, Australia’s oldest congregation. He is now retired and lives in Jerusalem. Rabbi Apple blogs at http://www.oztorah.com
Mesillat Yesharim: Part 40 RABBI MORDECHAI ULLMAN Last week we introduced the concept of “Mishkal Ha’Chassidut” - balancing one’s acts of piety to ensure that they emanate from the Yetzer Tov and not the Yetzer Hara. Very importantly, a person must weigh up the consequences of their acts of piety (that go beyond the letter of the law). Each year after Rosh Hashana, we mourn the death of Gedalia ben Achikam. It was due to Gedalia’s refusal to believe that someone was out to kill him that he was murdered. The second Beit Hamikdash was likewise destroyed due (in part) to the humility of Rabbi Zechariah who appears to have been over-cautious in not allowing a defected Korban to be brought up on the Altar. Another example Ramchal provides is the Mitzvah which many pious people are
keen to perform - rebuking their fellow. Too often, one’s words of rebuke fall on deaf ears and in cases like that the Chassid will do well to recall the words of the Gemara - in the same way it is a Mitzvah to say what will be listened to (i.e. if you
DO have influence on someone then DO tell them how to mend their ways), it is also a Mitzvah to NOT talk when one will not be listened too (or worse, scorned by a sinner). In one’s overzealous pursuit of a Mitzvah, they can actually give the Mitzvah a negative reputation.
However, there are some acts of piety that are not strictly required… and their performance in public could well arouse the ridicule… the Chassid understands to put aside his acts of extreme piety and perform it when in more honourable company. THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM
Another complicated aspect of this is the Mitzvah to be “bold as a leopard” in performing G-d’s commandments. So, whether or not one will be scorned for keeping Shabbat or not talking Lashon Hara, there is no choice at all and those Mitzvot must be adhered to. However, there are some acts of piety that are not strictly required, and their performance in public could well arouse the ridicule of one’s surroundings. In circumstances such as this, the Chassid understands to put aside his acts of extreme piety and perform it when in more honourable company. To sum up: The Chassid always considers: will my actions (that are not strictly required by Halacha) cause a Kiddush Hashem or the opposite? What will be the results of my actions, both short term and long term and bearing all that in mind - is my conduct appropriate for these specific circumstances?
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Nasso Welcome to the longest Parsha of the year! Thank G-d we have loads of time on Shabbat to learn its lessons, and to appreciate the hard work the Levi’im put in to moving the Mishkan and all its furniture and coverings, sometimes with one day’s notice and sometimes after camping for tens of years. We also learn about the Nazir, the person who chooses to become separate and holy and is not allowed to cut his hair nor drink
wine. They bring a korban at the end of their time as a Nazir, which is at least 30 days. Finally we learn of the Korbanot that each Nasi - prince of the tribes, brought for inaugurating the Mishkan. Each one seemed to be doing the same thing as the other, but in reality, they each had their own good intentions and we learn from here how every person’s efforts in serving Hashem is appreciated forever!
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BLESSING • HAIR • HEADCOUNT • KOHANIM • NAZIR • TRIBES • WINE
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In a nutshell Hope you had a lovely Shavuot! The counting continues in the week’s Sidra! Although last week (actually, two weeks ago, Parshat Bamidbar), the family of Kehas had been counted and explained what they would be carrying when the Mishkan, the two other families, that of Gershon and Merari are only discussed this week. Gershon is to carry the curtains and the coverings of the Mishkan as well as the ropes that held up the curtains of the courtyard. Merari is to carry the beams, bolts, pillars and sockets of the Mishkan. The Parsha continues with the laws of who is allowed into which section of the encampment surrounding the Mishkan. Most famously, one who has Tzara’at (which often came as a punishment for speaking Lashon Hara) was told to exit all three camps and sit in isolation. We then have the laws of the Sotah, the person who is punished as a result of suspected misbehaviour, but blessed if the accusations are false. This leads to the laws of the Nazir - a person who willingly accepts upon
themselves to refrain from drinking wine or cutting their hair. At the end of their time as a Nazir - (during which, they are described as “holy”) they nevertheless bring a sin-offering to bring home the message that self-denial is not always a healthy manner of serving Hashem and part of being human is to recognise what the body needs - all while keeping within the Halacha. The Kohanim are then taught how to bless the Jewish People and the words used should be familiar to you. “Yevarechacha Hashem Veyishmerecha” - May G-d bless you and protect you. “Ya’er Hashem Panav Eilecha V’chuneka” - may Hashem shine His face to you and grant you favour (it’s nice to be liked, especially by Hashem!). Finally, “Yisah Hashem Panav Elecha, Veyasem Lecha Shalom” - May Hashem raise His face (i.e. forgive us) and give you peace. Peace, we are taught, is the container into which all blessings can fall. If there’s no peace, whether internally, within a family, within a community, within a country, then all power
Word Wheel
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and prestige, fame and fortune measure even less than the full stop at the end of this sentence. Much ink has been spilled on the depth and beauty of each of these words. The Parsha ends with Pesukim that are read on Chanuka - they describe the Korbanot that the princes of each tribe offered up for the inauguration of the Mishkan. Although each appear to be identical - (check them out) they are each recorded individually (and not to make the Sidra the longest in the Torah, which it is), in order to teach us that our service of G-d is unique, even if it appears that “everyone is doing it” (and today we can only wish that “everyone does (any given Mitzva)” as sadly, many people are not aware of the Mitzvot that we are commanded, so how much more precious are the Mitzvot we do and the Torah we learn which we hope one day to teach to others.
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Last week’s words: Here are some words you may have found from last week - you may have found more! ace are aye ear era ere eye nye
rye sea sec see yes aces acne acre
cane care case earn ears ease easy eyes
near race ryes sane sear seas seen seer
sees year acnes acres canes cares cases cease
crane cress earns eases erase essay nears races
scare scene scree sears seers sense snare sneer
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yearn years ceases censes cranes crease encase erases
sayers scares scenes screen snares sneers sneery yearns
creases encases recanes scenery screens necessary
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Q: Why did the kid throw his clock out the window? A: Because he wanted to see time fly! Q: Why did the painting go to prison? A: Because it was framed! Q: What did one eye say to the other eye? A: Between you and me, something smells!
(Answers at the bottom of page upside down)
1. What has to be broken before you can use it?
3. I run in and out of town all day and night. What am I?
Q: What did one toilet say to the other toilet? A: You look bit flushed!
2. I have branches but no fruit, trunk or leaves. what am I?
3) A road 1. An egg!
2)A bank
1. Right side up 2. Postman 3. Scoreboard
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