The Jewish Weekly Issue 155 by The Jewish Weekly

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CONFUSION REIGNS WHETHER ISRAEL IS IN PEACE TALKS WITH SUDAN BY DAVID SAFFER News broke on Tuesday of an impending deal between the nations but less than 24 hours later Sudan’s Foreign Ministry voiced surprise at its spokesman’s comments of a potential agreement. “The issue of relations with Israel was not discussed in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in any way, and Ambassador Haydar Badawi was not assigned to make any statements in this regard,” a statement reportedly noted. Badawi, has according to reports been sack from his post. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed Badawi’s comments praising the United Arab Emirates’ potential accord with Israel. Emirates’ move was a “brave and bold step” that would put the Arab world on the “right track to build peace in the region”, Badawi reportedly told Reuters.

He added that Sudan would form an agreement without “sacrificing our values and principles”. Netanyahu responded on Twitter. “Israel, Sudan and the entire region will benefit from the peace agreement (with the UAE), and together can build a better future for all people in the region. We will do whatever is necessary to turn this vision into a reality,” he wrote. Globally the world’s media was abuzz with news of an agreement that had the potential of developing relations across the troubled region. Observers are watching with interest at the next move. Israel and Sudan announced the prospect of normalising relations at a historic meeting in Entebbe last February when Netanyahu met Sovereignty Council leader Lt. Gen. Abdel Fattah al Burhan.

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Urban Dictionary deleted “anti-Zionism” definition BY ROBERT LEVY Urban Dictionary has deleted anti-Semitic definitions of “anti-Zionism” after a successful lobbying campaign by online activists including Campaign Against Antisemitism Whilst “anti-Zionist” has no definitions in the online crowd-sourced dictionary, some anti-Semitic definitions of “anti-Zionism” have been replaced by accurate definitions but an offensive “Zionism” definition has emerged. The “Zionism” definition (original emphasis) notes, ‘The crazy belief that Palestinians deserve to have their land stolen from them and for them to be abused should they stay there. Right wingers will whine about how anyone who opposes this belief is antisemitic in their eyes, when the right have the worst record when it comes to treatment of Jews. Zionism is the new Nazism’. (August 13 2020). CAA have previously warned they will approach advertisers to pressure Urban Dictionary to remove definitions. They will continue to lobby against anti-Jewish racism on this medium, other websites and social media. CAA successfully pressured furniture giant DFS to withdraw from Urban Dictionary due to its promotion of anti-Semitism. The website removed an offensive entry about the Holocaust as a result. The website has also removed other offensive terms.

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The furore followed a Twitter user receiving a definition of ‘anti-Zionism’ after requesting one for ‘Zionism’. The definition noted anti-Zionism was ‘not connected’ to anti-Semitism. CAA confirmed the definition (original emphasis), part of which read ‘Zionists believe that they can turn up in a country and kick out the indigenous population, as did Hitler. Zionists are fascist’, was anti-Semitic. The definition at the time received 2,715 thumbs up compared to 1,433 thumbs down. Ratings determine how prominent a definition is as opposed to alternative definitions. According to the International Definition of Antisemitism, drawing comparisons of contemporary Israeli policy to that of the Nazis” is anti-Semitic. A CAA spokesperson said, “Comparing Zionism to Nazism is textbook anti-Semitism, which has become all too common on Urban Dictionary. “Those behind the website have been slow to act against racism on their platform, but in the past, we have successfully pressured them to delete gratuitously anti-Semitic entries by going after their advertisers. We will not hesitate to do so again if Urban Dictionary does not remove this entry and prove that it is capable of administering a site that doesn’t incite hatred.”

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Willesden Cemetery

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Jewish cemetery is heritage site BY NATALIE ASH Willesden Jewish Cemetery opens as a heritage site next month thanks to £1.7m National Lottery grant. Visitors can learn about famous British Jews back to the Victorian era, explore customs and history of the Jewish community in London. Four Chief Rabbis, scientist Rosalind Franklin, designer Kurt Geiger, Rothschild banking family members, jeweller Harriet Samuel, Tesco’s founder Jack Cohen, pre-Raphaelite painter Simeon Solomon, entertainers and musicians are buried at WJC. The United Synagogue and volunteers have created a “House of Life” visitor centre in the former superintendent’s lodge. An exhibition sheds light on London’s Jewish community. There are garden planting areas, conserved listed memorials and buildings for school visits. WJC is the only British Jewish cemetery on the Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest in England. Guided and self-guided walks are available at

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the 21-acre site. In collaboration with the Jewish Museum, an outreach programme is available for primary and secondary pupils. Established in 1873 by Victorian Jews of German and Dutch origin, WJC’s layout reflects an immigrant community’s desire to adopt English fashions. The visitor experience is referred to as London’s Place to Remember to be inspired by past lives. An online literary event series, ‘life lines’, runs from September 7th throughout launch week. A recent event with Cambridge University commemorated the 100th birth anniversary of virology pioneer Rosalind Franklin. WJC is participating in Brent 2020 London Borough of Culture. The new visitor experience and events are free. Opening hours are in accordance with the Jewish calendar. Only a few burials are held at the site annually. Hester Abrams, project director and curator, has led the initiative to transform WJC since 2016. www.wilsdenjewishcemetery.org.uk

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Israel and Ukraine unite CAA welcome Ivors on Uman travel ban Academy’s announcement BY SIMCHA ABIR

BY ADAM MOSES

Israel and Ukraine are attempting to stop ultra-orthodox Jews making the annual visit to Uman for Rosh Hashanah to avoid a second wave of the coronavirus pandemic. Traditionally around 30,000 worshippers, mostly from Israel, make the trip, to pay homage to Rabbi Nachman, founder of the Bratslav Chasidic movement. Israel’s Health Ministry, Foreign Ministry and National Security Council have held meetings regarding the matPHOTO: WIKIMEDIA ter. Erev Rosh Hashanah this Rav Yaakov Dov Bleich year is September 18. “The epidemiological situation in Ukraine the public health and safety of their citizens. and Israel, as well as throughout the world, We hope for understanding and believe that unfortunately, does not allow us to mark next year we’ll be able to celebrate Rosh (Rosh Hashanah) per the usual customs,” Hashanah, like other holidays, together and a joint statement reportedly said. “In ac- without any restrictions.” cordance with the recommendations and Last month the Ukrainian government warnings of the Ukrainian and Israeli health stated Israeli Jews would not be allowed to ministries, we urge those planning to take enter Ukraine for the high holidays. But earpart in the Rosh Hashanah celebrations in lier this month, Ukrainian Chief Rabbi Rav Ukraine to refrain from visiting Uman due to Yaakov Dov Bleich announced the governthe threatening epidemiological situation.” ment may allow up to 8,000 visitors. The statement added, “Regarding those Israel’s Health Ministry condoned the who nevertheless decide to visit Uman, we comments. “Our professional position is emphasise that the social distancing regu- that it’s out of the question to allow this event lations apply to all public events and will be to take place due to the gathering of 30,000 strictly enforced. The governments of both people on a street and a half,” Dr. Asher countries are jointly concerned regarding Salmon reportedly noted.

The Campaign Against Antisemitism has welcomed Ivors Academy’s announcement to establish an Ethics Committee to review past awards. The decision comes after CAA called on the professional association for music creators to rescind Wiley’s 2019 Ivors Inspiration Award after his anti-Semitic social media tirade last month. CAA volunteer Joe Glasman is a former Ivors award panellist. The award-winning composer contacted Ivors last week noting it would be “untenable” for an individual with horrific anti-Semitic views to be held up worthy of such an award by the Academy. Glasman added that the Academy was “dedicated to diversity, equality and inclusivity” but must be a safe space for all minorities including Jews. Ivors has released a statement regarding discrimination and intolerance made by Academy members. “We adopt a generous and supportive outlook, fostering collaboration and growth, not division and hate,” they noted, adding that members must sign up to its values. An Ethics Committee will govern giving and rescinding accolades. “We can only achieve consistency if we first establish solid guidelines that ensure an objective and robust approach,” Ivors noted. The committee will offer guidance by November when entries for next year’s awards are considered. This has come about in the aftermath of the Wiley storm. “We have needed a framework for some time, but this is now made more urgent following the anti-Semitic comments

IDF attacks Hamas targets BY SIMCHA ABIR Israel Defence Forces continue to attack Hamas underground targets in the Gaza Strip after a bombardment of incendiary balloon attacks at border communities for over a week. IAF night attacks have taken place following an escalation in violence by the terror group. Strikes have hit a military compound, underground infrastructure and observation posts. Firefighters had to deal with 20 fires on Monday after around 30 broke out over the weekend. There was damage at a Sderot kindergarten. No injuries reported. Army officials confirmed clashes broke out along the Gaza border on Saturday evening. Palestinian youths rioted at the security fence, hurling rocks, grenades and IEDs at IDF troops who responded with riot dispersal methods. Incendiary balloons have damaged hundreds of acres of woodland in the Beeri Forest.

Fires have been extinguished by the fire-service, army and volunteers. Egyptian mediators arrived in Gaza this week for a number of meetings. Gaza leaders demanded increase work permits for residents, employment projects, an extension of fishing zones to 20 nautical miles and the reopening the Kerem Shalom crossing for goods. Recent hostility has followed relative calm due to the coronavirus pandemic. Israel holds Hamas responsible for violence at the border. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Iran’s proxies would suffer a heavy price. Firefighting teams confirmed 149 fires had been ablaze in Israeli territory as a result of incendiary balloons. The IDF responded by closing the fishing zone off the Gaza coast. Local leaders have called on the government to provide a permanent security solution for residents of Gaza communities and Sderot. Israel now utilises the ‘Lahav Or’ Light Blade laser system as it intercepts airborne incendiary threats.

made by Wiley,” they noted. “Wiley is not the first musician to make abhorrent comments or behave in a way that is counter to the Academy’s values. But as a recent recipient of The Ivors Inspiration Award, for his work establishing UK Grime, the Academy has needed to be clear that his anti-Semitic views were not known at the time we gave him this award. And these views should not be an inspiration to anyone.” The Academy has asked CAA to advise the Ethics Committee on its code of conduct. “Wiley’s views ‘should not be an inspiration to anyone’ alongside its original unequivocal condemnation of his comments,” said Glasman. “Whilst I regret that the Academy does not currently have the structures in place to immediately rescind Wiley’s award and membership, I welcome its commitment to establishing an Ethics Committee in order to be able to do so, and accept the Academy’s invitation to contribute to its work. I applaud this positive start and look forward to the new Ethics Committee acting swiftly to rescind Wiley’s award.” Following Wiley’s rant, 700 members of the music industry signed a letter denouncing racism. CAA has called for Wiley to be prosecuted and for his MBE to be revoked. The Cabinet Office has opened a case. CAA has also launched petitions calling for racists to be stripped of honours and another calling for the Government to bring forward an Online Harms Bill. TikTok, meantime, is the latest social media platform to delete Wiley’s account following on from Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

WJC fighting Covid-19 conspiracy theories BY ADAM MOSES World Jewish Congress is helping raise awareness of conspiracy theories linked to the coronavirus pandemic. #ThinkBeforeSharing visual resources is a partnership with UNESCO, WJC, Twitter and European Commission. WJC President Ronald S. Lauder welcomed UNESCO’s leadership in countering misinformation about COVID-19. He also commended Twitter and the European Commission for using its platforms to share facts. “We have seen a troubling rise in anti-Semitic and xenophobic conspiracy theories since the start of the pandemic, which pose great threat to those they attack,” he explained. “People need to know how to identify conspiracies and shut down the spread in order to disseminate the truth.” UNESCO Director-General Audrey

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Azoulay underlined dangers of misinformation. “Conspiracy theories cause real harm to people, to their health and also to their physical safety,” she said. “They amplify and legitimise misconceptions about the pandemic, and reinforce stereotypes which can fuel violence and violent extremist ideologies.” “Disinformation and conspiracy theories harm the health of our democracies,” said Vêra Jourová, European Commission for Values and Transparency. “This has been made very clear in the context of a global pandemic. Citizens must be equipped with useful tools to recognise and debunk them.” Jourová added that public institutions need to work with digital platforms, media professionals, fact checkers and researchers. Visuals are available in Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish.

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Peter Kellow

PHOTO: FACEBOOK

issues”. It concluded that the failings were “fundamentally incompatible with continuing to be an architect”. They stripped Kellow from the register for no less than two years. Campaign Against Antisemitism applauded the Board for removing Kellow from the register. Stephen Silverman, Director of Investigations and Enforcement said, “The panel was absolutely right to find that his suggestions that all Jews should have to join a register or be excluded from holding public office, notions reminiscent of past eras that we all hope have been confined to the dustbin of history, were discriminatory and offensive and damage the reputation of the profession. We call on other professional bodies to follow the ARB in showing zero tolerance for this sort of anti-Semitic propaganda.”

The Pittsburger Rebbe

PHOTO: YWN

Pittsburger Rebbe, Rabbi Mordechai Mottel Yissachar Leifer, is in intensive care at Laniado Hospital in Netanya. The esteemed Rebbe’s condition has deteriorated since being hospitalised last Shabbat. He is sedated and on ventilation. Rabbonim in Ashdod, where the 64-year-old Rebbe lives, held a public tefillah yesterday. The Belzer Beth Din has published a notice to daven for the Rebbe, the Rebbe’s sons and sons-in-law have called on the public to pray for his full recovery The Rebbe requested chassidim increase Tehillim recitals prior to his sedation. Special minyanim of Sefer Tehillim are being held at synagogues in Ashdod.

30 people can now attend weddings

The Architects Registration Board has removed Peter Kellow from its professional register following an investigation into an ‘inappropriate public post’ online. The award-winning architect was found guilty of unacceptable professional conduct by the body. Kellow claimed Judaism is a “cult” and Jews should be banned from “important public office”. His Facebook rant on 13 April 2019 read, in part, “Are the so-called ‘antisemites’ in the Labour Party simply ‘racists’ as the popular narrative would have it? I doubt it. The problem people have and always have had with Judaism is not about race. It is because Judaism is a cult. What do I mean by a cult? A cult is a set of people, normally norminally [sic] unified by a religion or quasi-religion, who try to create a society within the general society. Judaism is far from being the only or even the most resented cult in history or the present.” Kellow identified cults similar to Judaism as Freemasonry, Mormonism, Scientology, paganism and Sunni Islam. He continued, “Cults work against the interest of the general society as its members,

in subscribing to a society within the society favour each other over the rest of us. This naturally creates resentment and suspicion. How can you trust such people?” Kellow insisted such “cults” should not be proscribed but called for “restraints on their ability to create a society within a society”. “Restraints” included registration of the cult in a public register and registration of adult members in a public register. No cult member could also hold an important public office. Kellow was also against a cult running its own “faith” schools. Architects’ Journal brought the Facebook post to the attention of the ARB, a statutory regulator for the industry, in June 2019. ARB investigated and found the post was visible as a ‘public’ post. Kellow’s profile included his profession and a link to his professional website. The panel concluded, “comments, which the Respondent continues to stand by, made as they are against two specific established religions and other groups, are discriminatory, potentially offensive and are therefore inappropriate.” The panel was concerned Kellow showed a “lack of demonstrable meaningful insight” into his conduct and considered that he had “entrenched discriminatory attitudinal

Prayers for Pittsburger Rebbe

A maximum of 30 people can attend wedding receptions and celebration in a sitdown meal. Rabbi Elie Schoemann, KLBD’s Director of Licensing welcomed the government update that came into force last weekend. “While nobody could have envisaged getting married under these circumstances, we are pleased that small, Covid-secure functions can now take place,” he said. Guidance has also come through for synagogues regarding blowing a shofar and choirs. It is now permitted to blow shofar indoors. The room must be well ventilated, the shofar blower must be asymptomatic, a shofar must be blown as far away from other people as possible and at least 3m from any other individual (4m from a raised platform). The shofar should not be blown towards someone’s face, a Perspex screen could be used as an additional barrier and the shofar must be cleaned thoroughly before and after use. More details on blowing shofar on Rosh Hashanah will follow in the coming weeks. It is now also permissible to welcome

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PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

back choirs made up of a maximum of six people to shul services. The room must be well ventilated, each choir member must be at least 3m apart and from any other individual. Members of the choir also do not need to wear face coverings. As with all services, shul members must wear face coverings and are not permitted to sing.

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Israel travel plans beckon BY DAVID SAFFER Plans are afoot to welcome tourists from ‘green countries’ in ‘controlled groups’ back to Israel next month. Israelis travelling for business to ‘red countries’ is also being muted as the battle against Covid-19 continues. Israel has reached 719 fatalities and 100,000 cases since the global pandemic changed everyday life. Health Ministry Director-General Prof. Chezy Levy made the travel announcement earlier this week as Israel looks to boost the industry for the High Holidays and related festivals in the coming weeks. The news followed on from an update regarding Israeli citizens travelling from 20 countries, including the United Kingdom, no longer having to self-quarantine on arrival in Israel. “We’re hoping there will be a technological breakthrough that will enable us to administer rapid coronavirus tests to passengers,” Ben Gurion Airport director Shmuel Zakai reportedly noted. “There’s been a significant change for the better since (coronavirus czar) Prof. Ronni Gamzu entered his position. Israeli businesses currently can’t hold meetings and drum up business so we must enable options for further travel opportunities.” Zakai’s aspirations are noteworthy but the reality is a tough ask due to potential Covid-19 spikes. “Developed Western countries do not consider tests as an alternative to quarantine,” Dr. Asher Salmon, Health Ministry International Relations Department director, reportedly said. “We’ve been in contact with over ten countries over the past two months to reach mutual travel agreements. But it ended because of Israel’s transition from ‘green’ to ‘red.’ We have to achieve the EU’s benchmark of only 200 new coronavirus cases per day, per 25 million people. We’re very far from that.” The British government currently advises UK nationals against ‘all but essential international travel’ to Israel although the UK is among 21 ‘green’ countries where new quarantine rulings apply for Israeli citizens. Italy, Georgia, New Zealand, Canada, Denmark, UK, Hungary, Finland, Austria, Germany, Bulgaria, Croatia, Slovenia, Jordan, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Rwanda, Hong Kong, Cyprus and Greece are the other ‘green’ nations’. Israel is a ‘red’ country due to its high rate. Most ‘green’ countries have banned Israelis. Bulgaria, Croatia and Greek have relented. Passengers must present a negative coronavirus test before departure. The Health Ministry has launched a website about departures and arrivals from Israel. Anyone departing the country must fill out a departure report 24 hours before a flight. They must also sign a health declaration. Only flight ticket holders applying

Arrivals at Ben Gurion Airport

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

The British government currently advises UK nationals against ‘all but essential international travel’ to Israel although the UK is among 21 ‘green’ countries where new quarantine rulings apply for Israeli citizens. through the website can enter a passenger terminal. Meantime, the first flight under an Israel-Greece bilateral travel agreement departed Ben-Gurion Airport to Athens on Monday. Around 100 passengers boarded Aegean Airlines Flight A3929. Athens is one of four destinations Israelis can visit without a two-week quarantine. Under an agreement, 600 Israeli visitors can visit Athens with a negative test no more than 72 hours before take-off. The carrier had further flights to Zagreb, Dubrovnik, Varna and Croatia this week. Gamzu, meanwhile, is against a nationwide lockdown as it would hit the economy, although he has called for increased restrictions for the High Holidays. “We all thoroughly understand the difficulty associated with going out, movement and family meals,” he reportedly said. “At the moment it’s too early to talk about the specifics of the restrictions but I might recommend more significant curbs on gathering and movement.” Gamzu added, “We are continuing with my outline, which I take full responsibility for. The way Israel needs to move forward is by establishing infrastructure to fight

virus, not lockdowns, severe restrictions or any decision, which will further hurt the economy.” Gamzu has called for increased municipality decisions. “Stop overseeing the pandemic from Jerusalem, it should be managed locally,” he reportedly noted. Gamzu added, “The public is not taking the directives seriously, so they go wild. “I want to reinforce the public’s trust in us. The public wants to know everything and feel the government is truthful with them.” In related news, Israel Defence Forces Home Front Command anticipates a new tracing system soon being operational. Spikes are occurring in various areas of the country, especially in ultra-orthodox communities. Belz Chassidic dynasty leader Rabbi Yissachar Dov Rokeach has reportedly disregarded health ministry standards by holding mass prayers and religious lessons. Noting spiritual damage over health considerations, he has been reportedly observed at the Western Wall with large numbers of worshippers not wearing masks or social distancing.

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Sadly, Rabbi Rokeach is battling Covid-19 at Hadassah Medical Centre in Jerusalem two weeks after hosting a wedding for his grandson. Thousands of guests ignored social distancing measures at an indoor centre in Jerusalem. Angry observers, including Gamzu, condemned images of guests dancing without face masks. Police are reported to have fined wedding planners and a criminal investigation has been begun. Elsewhere, Israel’s Institute for Biological Research in Ness Ziona are still to apply for a permit for clinical human trials for a coronavirus vaccine. The Defense Ministry directs the body which has stated it will begin trials in October. An official request is expected soon. But the Ministry has been criticised for a delay, which needs approval from the Helsinki committee at the Health Ministry. “It is a national challenge and we will do all we can to meet it,” a Ministry official reportedly noted. Earlier this month, Defence Minister Benny Gantz said successful trials for a vaccine had raised hopes. “The next step, as agreed, is the beginning of human trials after the High Holidays,” Gantz reportedly said. This will be done in coordination with the Health Ministry and according to all medical safety requirements.” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the update on a potential vaccine.

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Rivlin invites UAE Crow to Jerusalem after “hist

President Reuven Rivlin

BY DAVID SAFFER President Reuven Rivlin has invited Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to Jerusalem as an “honoured guest” after Israel’s “historic” US-brokered deal with the United Arab Emirates. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acclaimed the accord as a landmark moment for Israel. This is Israel’s third peace treaty between Israel and an Arab State, following on from Egypt in 1979 and Jordan in 1994. More Arab nations could follow the UAE’s lead in normalising full diplomatic relations with Israel. Bahrain and Oman are believed to be next in line. “I am hopeful that the agreement between our countries will help build and strengthen the trust between us and the peoples of the region, bring economic benefit and regional stability,” Rivlin tweeted. “I have no doubt that future generations will appreciate the way you, the brave and wise leaders have restarted the discourse on peace, trust, dialogue between peoples and religions, cooperation and a promising future.” West Bank annexation plans are suspended as part of the agreement though Netanyahu has made his stance on the subject clear. White House adviser Jared Kushner

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

“This historic diplomatic breakthrough will advance peace in the Middle East region and is a testament to the bold diplomacy and vision of the three leaders and the courage of the United Arab Emirates and Israel…” though distanced the US from a quick solution on Monday. “Israel has agreed with us that they will not move forward without our consent,” he reportedly told the media. “We do not plan to give our consent for some time.” Though some issues have clearly to be smoothed out, a deal was completed in a three-way telephone call between Netanyahu, Al Nahyan and US President Donald Trump last Thursday. “Opening direct ties between two of the Middle East’s most dynamic societies and advanced economics will transform the region by spurring economic growth, enhancing technological innovation and forging closer people-to-people relations,” said a joint statement. It added, “This historic diplomatic breakthrough will advance peace in the Middle East region and is a testament to the bold diplomacy and vision of the three

leaders and the courage of the United Arab Emirates and Israel to chart a new path that will unlock the great potential in the region.” Netanyahu, in a national broadcast, said full diplomatic ties with the UAE heralded a “new era” in Israel’s relations with the Arab world. He added that the agreement was the “greatest advancement” toward peace between Israel and the Arab world in the last 26 years. The accord has been welcomed by nations across the world. Israel’s enemies have condemned it. New opportunities have already materialised including direct flights between Tel Aviv and Abu Dhabi over Saudi Arabia territory. Netanyahu made the announcement during a tour of Ben Gurion Airport on Monday. “Dubai has the largest free trade areas

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in the world, and now these goods will be part of the peace agreement and lower the prices of products in Israel,” reportedly noted Transportation Minister Miri Regev. “This is a massive injection into the Israeli economy and possibilities for Israelis.” “We need to establish the flight route, soon we will have the news,” she added. Israir Airlines has made an official request to operate flights to Dubai. After the euphoria of a deal, Netanyahu told Army Radio at the weekend peace with regional states is possible without giving up land. “This is a historic step that advances peace with the Arab world, and eventually will also promote peace, real, secure, and supervised peace, with the Palestinians as well,” Netanyahu reportedly said. He added, “The weak cannot survive in the Middle East and this peace has come as a result of our strength.”

20 AUGUST 2020

own Prince toric” deal The deal came as a surprise to many but a delighted Trump tweeted about the accord then told reporters in the Oval Office about “a truly historic moment”. Like Netanyahu, he expects more Arab and Muslim countries to follow the UAE move. Washington is set to hold an official ceremony to honour the deal before November’s elections when Trump hopes for a second term in office. “This is a remarkable achievement for two of the world’s most forward leaning, technologically advanced states, and reflects their shared regional vision of an economically integrated region,” US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo reportedly said. “It also illustrates their commitment to confronting common threats, as small but strong nations.” Diplomatic ties saw telephone service between the UAE and Israel operate on Sunday. Israeli news websites, previously blocked by UAE authorities, were also accessible. UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Israeli counterpart Gabi Ashkenazi “exchanged greetings” as a new world dawned between the nations. The joint US-UAE-Israel statement noted that delegations will meet to agree deals regarding direct flights, security, telecommunications, energy, tourism and health care. Israel and the UAE will also partner on fighting the coronavirus pandemic. Mossad Director Yossi Cohen will lead the Israeli delegation to Abu Dhabi. Netanyahu kept the UAE deal initially secret from Foreign and Defence ministers but updated Defence Minister Benny Gantz, who is recuperating from a back operation, and Ashkenazi prior to Trump’s announcement. “This agreement demonstrates the alliance between countries in the region who are interested in prosperity and regional stability, and it stresses Israel’s eternal ambition for peace with its neighbours,” Gantz reportedly said. Yesh Atid leader Yair Lapid added that the step was proof negotiations and agreements were the way forward for “diplomatic relations”. Labour Party leader Amir Peretz said the agreement would bring economic and political prosperity, and help preserve Israel as a Jewish and democratic state. Ashkenazi believes the deal will reduce security threats and foster agreements with Arab nations. In Israel, Tel Aviv City Hall lit up with flags of Israel and the UAE last Thursday.

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But there has been condemnation from West Bank settlers and political supporters against a suspension in annexation. “The settlers were taken for a ride,” Shai Alon, Mayor of the West Bank, reportedly said. Mayor of Har Hebron Regional Council, Yochai Damri called on Netanyahu to fulfil his promise to extend Israeli sovereignty over the West Bank, made to millions of his voters. Yamina leader Bennett reportedly said, “It’s unfortunate that Netanyahu has squandered the chance to extend sovereignty [to] the Jordan Valley, Malleh Adumim, Beit El and the rest of the settlements.” Reaction from the Arab world has in the main been negative. Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat lambasted the deal as a “desperate attempt” by Trump to claim foreign policy success. Iran’s relationship will change with the UAE following the announcement. Turkey said people in the region would “never forgive” the UAE. Palestinian spokesman Hanan Ashrawi confirmed neither the Palestinian Authority nor Palestine Liberation Organisation were aware of the deal. “It is a complete sell-out,” she reportedly noted. PA Foreign Minister Riyad al-Malki added that they had recalled representatives to the UAE. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, however, welcomed the deal. “I value the efforts of those in charge of the deal to achieve prosperity and stability for our region,” he reportedly noted. And Arab League member Mauritania acknowledged the “wisdom and good judgment” of the UAE’s leadership according to UAE state news agency WAM. World Jewish Congress President Ronald S. Lauder, meantime, “enthusiastically” supported the deal as a “tremendous step forward” for the region and peace process. Bicom commented that Israel’s links with the UAE are the most extensive in any Gulf state. “Since 2010 Israeli-Emirati ties have covertly developed in business and trade, particularly in irrigation technologies, medical supplies and the diamond industry,” they noted. “For Israel, such trade deals are viewed as the vanguard of its “soft-power” diplomacy that promises not just financial return for Israeli businesses, but a wider security dividend too.” Bicom view the deal as a “major diplomatic achievement” for Netanyahu. “It strengthens his long-held belief that

Israeli-Arab normalisation in the region can happen regardless of peace with the Palestinians,” they wrote. Zionist Federation of UK chairman, Paul Charney welcomed a historic accord. “Israel is the only liberal democracy that can survive and thrive with the understanding that, dealing with its neighbours, requires a combination of Middle Eastern political skills and local cultural heritage,” he noted. “Middle East politics is not like European and Western politics. Peace is not gained through ordinary negotiation nor by outright capitulation in the name of Western liberalism, but instead is gained through strength, interests and necessity. “To drive this point home even further,

the UAE did not demand a resolution of the Palestinians protracted conflict with Israel, nor did they insist on a full Israeli withdrawal from the disputed territories, the evacuation of its network of settlements, nor the creation of a sovereign Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.” Charney added, “The feeling amongst the Arab nations is that the Palestinians are unable to make decisions and concessions necessary to reach a peace agreement with Israel. The idea is to organise a coalition of pro-American Arab allies including the Gulf States, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, and to pressure the Palestinians to be more accommodating.”

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Bnei Akiva summer camps are a huge success

Col Martin Newman and Joe Flacks remembering and honouring Jewish soldiers

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VJ Day remembered

That special summer feeling with Bnei Akiva

With all the restrictions on gatherings, contact and socialising, who would have thought that summer camps were possible? On July 1st, the government guidelines on out-of-school summer activities were released, effectively banning residential camps of any kind. Within a matter of weeks, we at Bnei Akiva had launched our alternative – a series of day trips and activities, based at sites in London and Manchester with a mixture of classic Machane activities for each year group as well as new and exciting experiences – and all Coronavirus safe and secure. Over the last three weeks they have

provided these Summer Machane experiences to nearly 400 Chanichim between the ages of 8 and 16. They have done everything from fruit-picking, volunteering with GIFT and the United Synagogue, and visiting theme parks, to shelter building, working with chickens and a bonfire under the stars! And all these experiences have been infused with classic Bnei Akiva style activities and education thanks to the tireless work of our 70 incredible Madrichim. Bnei Akiva thank everyone who helped all this come true, and a special thank you to the Belson family for use of their farm to really create that Machane-in-a-field feeling.

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Joe Flacks, Chairman of Greater Manchester and District Association of Jewish Ex-Servicemen & Women was joined by AJEX vice president, Colonel Martin Newman, at the Whitefield War Memorial to mark the 75th Anniversary of VJ Day and remember those who gave their lives or suffered as prisoners of war under the brutal Japanese regime. Many Jewish troops were taken prisoner, some working on the notorious railway. Others fought as Chindits under the famous General Orde Charles Wingate. One Jewish, British officer, Lieutenant Colonel Geoffrey Rothband of Didsbury, Manchester served in Burma in the Lancashire Fusiliers following service in East Africa. He was part of the whole East African division which went to Burma. He recalls: “Nobody knows about Burma, it’s a most fascinating campaign. There were about 12 infantry divisions, ours, an East African division, two West African divisions, there were the Gold Coast Regiment and the Nigeria Regiment, the Sierra Leone Regiment and there were six or seven British Indian Divisions. He recalls: “The British Indian Division was two Indian or Ghurkha Battalions and one British Battalion, most of the gunners were British. The Indian Divisions had a very, very long and a very tough war. “We came in after the biggest battle of the Far East where the Japanese attacks on a place called Kohima Imphal (March

– July 1944) were repulsed with a great loss of life, a hell of a lot of hand to hand fighting over 3 or 4 months when the British were supplied by parachute drops, some of which fell into the enemy positions.” “Our battalion spent four months in the combat area, no such thing as a line pushing through the jungle, just advancing to contact, keeping going up the bloody hills and the streams and G-d knows what until you bumped into the Japanese who were withdrawing slowly down the length of Burma and they weren’t going to give it up easily. “The Japanese were very brave, very brave indeed. Where we were was like a very thick wood, you could see through parts of it and you can’t keep 150 soldiers in a rifle company silent. The Japanese, having crept up and found our positions, they would shout out before they attacked “Hello Tommy, Tommy where are you?” They’d form a line of sorts and suddenly come charging at us. I’ve had them come up to me there (an arms length) on more than one occasion if you had a rifle you put a bullet in his belly, some fellas used their rifles as clubs you see.” Col Rothband returned to Britain when the Japanese surrendered and remained in uniform in the Territorial Army where he went on to command the 5th Battalion The Lancashire Fusiliers and was awarded The Territorial Decoration. He celebrates his 100th birthday this week.

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Edgware, Stanmore and Mill Hill Seniors make us all proud 80 fearless senior walkers take on the challenge to help thousands of residents of Edgware, Mill Hill and Stanmore. For the past two weeks and continuing to the end of August, eighty senior residents of the local community have been challenging themselves daily to keep moving, stay healthy and save lives. Strapping their Hatzola pedometer watches to their arms they have set out through the searing heat to walk thousands of steps whilst asking friends and family to sponsor them. They are doing this because they really value the group of advanced paramedics, volunteers and dispatchers who are available 24/7/365 to respond to any medical emergencies for free. Walker Katheryn shared with us “10,000 steps is a more challenging amount than I imagined so I am managing about 8,000 so far and starting during a heatwave was poor judgement...but I will survive! I think I’ve a long way to go before I can consider myself fit! I’m enjoying it and it’s for such a good cause. Hope we all manage to raise the funds needed.” Local businesses have been joining in as well with Yossi’s Bakery and La Brioche giving out Chollahs to all walkers who showed their watch last Friday. Other walkers are sharing how they are seeing the beautiful local countryside and exploring new areas they have never visited before.

Over £50,000 has been raised for this campaign and 4.5 million steps walked, with the goal being to try and cover the annual Hatzola Edgware running budget of £250,000 by the end of August In a place where overstretched NHS ambulances can take hours to respond to medical emergencies Hatzola are there within minutes - saving lives - literally. And all this is done for no charge. The only way we can continue, says Hatzola spokesman Elliot Hambling is through the great generosity of the local community who enable us to stock our ambulances and volunteer medical packs with the latest medical equipment and devices and provide life-saving training to our volunteers. We have seen a huge increase in our call volume over the past few months and we are prepared if G-d forbid, there is another surge of the Coronavirus which we hope won’t happen. But Hatzola is about being there in the background, ready, waiting and trained to respond to any medical emergency. As one local resident said, Hatzola is something “we all want but all hope we will never need to use their services” Support your walker below to donate to their page or even multiple pages to show your appreciation and support to the amazing walkers and of course to our fantastic medic volunteers. For more information, or to support our walkers visit www.charidy.com/keepmoving

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From the front line… BY JACQUELINE CURZON We are all aware of the quandary over exam results, and that a decision based on predicted grades, or to stick with the algorithmic nightmare, would ultimately lie with the Education Secretary - Gavin. He will doubtless still fall on his sword, for making yet another U turn, or for previously upholding a transparently unfair mechanism. I bet he’s not slept very well this week, even though he has decided that GSCEs will be awarded, based on predictions. Ofqual was additionally in for a lynching, since its algorithm appeared unreliable. We saw examples of anomalous results, where two Jacqueline Curzon students (in this particular case, twins) of equal ability, both predicted PHOTO: LARA MINSKY PHOTOGRAPHY straight As, ended up with AAB and CCC! So, plainly the algorithm needs to be put in detention. This mess was caused by the fact it measured success based on standardised, collective results, disregarding individual students' achievements. This was unfair, as private schools will always fare better under such a calculation. In fact, private schools have seen an increase in their proportion of As and A*s, which is more than double the same increase for any ‘Spencer’ - he needs to go, and Boris should state school. In total around 40% of grades give him his marching orders. were down-graded, at which point Ofqual With just one year in Education under then announced an appeals procedure, this his belt, he’s proved a catastrophe, with this now being suspended. Critically, it was yet saga following a catalogue of other notable another example of the government relying on modelling, rather than on the individuals boo-boo’s. With just a smidgen of sympathy, I admit none of us could have predicted the within it. As an aside, The Sutton Trust, an curse of the Covid Curriculum Congo. Howeducational charity, says that 60% of the ever, having made one seismic U-turn after current permanent secretaries in governanother throughout his tenure as Education ment departments went to private schools, Minister, it’s surely time for his ‘retirement.’ an increase of 4% since 2014. 56% of them went to either Oxford or Cambridge; so who- Gavin - the Womble - Williamson: an ode ever said, ‘education is an equaliser,’ [Horace to U. Mann, 1848] was wrong. Under-grade, over-grade I remember in one of my own school these marks that we see…. exams, being just a couple of marks off the Algorithmic Calculations top grade. Disappointingly, agonisingly, a Disaster for free….. the school said you could only appeal if you But how can they grade failed the exam outright. (Which sounds based on sub-jec-tivity?... completely stupid!). Anyway, it was impossiExams should have been done ble for parents to appeal without the backing for ac-cur-acy…. of the school, and I had to content myself [my apologies to Mike Batt, for adapting his with the inferior grade, which caused me a lot of anguish. In the final year [13], I took an lyrics.] additional A-level in the same subject, and No matter Williamson’s 13th hour turnagot a top grade. Moving on to the Academy, round to the tune of salvation, I disagree that I worked hard and scored high grades over teachers should ever determine final grades. the course, achieving over 90% in my final Firstly, because this is blighted by subjectiviyear, proving that those earlier results were ty. Let’s take an example of a teacher making really unimportant. However, it never took an ‘incentive’ predicted grade for Anna, who away the sting of that missed grade, and is of average ability, but perhaps lacks conthat’s something a lot of today’s students fidence; compare the same teacher giving a are going to feel; the ones who know that lower predicted grade, as a ‘catalyst’ for Ben, they deserved better than the under-grade, who is really talented, but just plain lazy. So, and were facing a Herculean disaster. If of these two individuals, Anna could get an students were to decide to go to judicial A prediction and B result, and Ben could get review over their results, it would be a never a C prediction and an A result. This is where ending, unresolving, unremitting headache it would now unravel: Stick to the subjective for Williamson. ‘Frank’ly, - never mind the

prediction being awarded - with no exam - and Ben won’t get his place in university, even though he’s actually the bright cookie. If we don’t award grades based on their classwork and submissions going forward (the reality check), we will see - the cookie will crumble. Secondly, we’re still seeing year-upon-year grade inflation, and predictions will likely exacerbate this. How will this affect the 2021 students, who (presumably) will be unlikely to benefit from predictions? Universities have seen many more offer-holders meet their grades than in any other year… Let’s ask Gavin, why? And, as many universities have now filled their places, lots of students are left with second choices, or none. Thirdly, by awarding predictions - some of which [like Ben] will be lower - they will open up a Pandora’s box of appeals. Imagine even 50% of students still submitting appeals? Of course, should the algorithm prove higher, you’ll be given that grade instead. So, it’s a win-win, at least for your grade. Predictions will remain the elephant in the classroom. Finally, the Education Department had many months to get its proverbial act together, to put in place physical exams, albeit under slightly more stringent conditions. Exam halls are not literally crammed with desks, and students are anyhow seated well apart (1.25m). What was the big difference in adding a little bit extra distance, getting the children to come in wearing masks, and just keep a semblance of normality and fairness. We have swung from results based on Mocks, to Algorithm, to Predictions. What a fiasco! And what happened in other countries, you might ask? According to the Telegraph [17th of August], German students sat their exams; in France local juries calculated grades, using marks achieved in tests and coursework. This was do-able here, of course it was. Notably in both those countries, there was nothing like the public outcry seen from our (justifiably) aggrieved students. Perhaps there could have been an argument for physically ‘sitting’ these same exams in the autumn, moving the University term to commence later, and completing the academic year nearer the end of summer. It’s well known anyway that university terms are notoriously short, and their vacations conversely long. All disproportionate to the fees charged, and debts incurred. Moving away from education now, to train travel . I recently made a London - Glasgow trip, and we were 12 passengers in a train with capacity of 390. Read on. Earlier in the week, a train derailed in Aberdeenshire, following severe thunderstorms which caused significant flooding. Water levels rose up to 5 feet, causing massive disruption across Eastern Scotland, and the stretch of railway line involved had experienced problems with mudslides in the past. On the 06.38 Aberdeen - Glasgow intercity service, there

Awarding grades based on predictions will open up a Pandora’s box of appeals next year. Predictions will forever be the elephant in the classroom.

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were - like in my own case - fortunately very few passengers on board [seven passengers and two crew], numbers especially low because of the city being in lockdown. Having already encountered one landslip, the driver was then rerouted back to Aberdeen via a different line, but this took the train near a known problematic section, near Stonehaven. Shortly after the crossover to travel back north, the train hit a very serious landslip and all carriages derailed, resulting in the deaths of three people, including the driver, guard and one passenger. Having lived in Aberdeen for many years, the train route is very familiar to me, and my heart goes out to those who have lost their loved ones. It reminded me also of a different disaster, this one going back 36 years.... I was in Edinburgh with my mother, in July 1984 - possibly for a music event - and we were heading home, taking a train from Edinburgh Waverley. As we crossed the concourse to the platform, I decided - randomly - to skip that train, and get the next one. Mother said, “Why? The train is there.” But I insisted and we went for coffee, then went back for the next train, which was announced as running late. Very late. The earlier train was a British Rail (diesel-electric) locomotive, heading for Glasgow Queen Street. It had been travelling at around 85 mph. After passing the junction at Polmont, the train driver had spotted a cow on the line, but as it was a push-pull train, there wasn’t enough time to brake and unfortunately he hit the animal, which weighed 700–1,000 pounds (320–450 kg). Casualties were mainly in the two leading vehicles, and of the 13 dead, most fatalities were due to passengers being thrown through windows or being hit by other passengers, as the carriages were tossed around. 61 others were also injured. I believe my instinct saved one or both of us from being part of that catastrophe, and I never forgot the moment of irrationality, which likely saved both our lives. Now a bit of laughter to end. Dining out is supposed to be fun, and our government has directed restaurants to give us 50% discount, encouraging us to support business re-starts, following lockdown. This move to discount our eating, has a further negative consequence, in a nation struggling with rising obesity. Over in China, they have devised a clever trick; diners in Chuiyan Fried Beef restaurant were asked to weigh themselves on bathroom scales before entering, as part of a national campaign to reduce food waste. The data would then be recorded on an app, which would then recommend food choices. Unfortunately, it recommended extra dishes for heavier customers. I think it should have been reversed: smaller portions for heavier people, and more calories to build up those who are of slighter build. This would surely have reduced food ‘waist,’ showing customers the sensible ‘weigh’ to eat. I’ve still got 6 kilos to lose, so I’m all for it. Who will join me? Love Jacqueline x To follow Jacqueline’s journey blog {Yocheved bas Sara} please go to https://whenallissaidanddone.home.blog

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Cantor David Hass

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Born 6th July 1931 Jaroslav, Poland. Died Shabbat 15th August 2020 Bat Yam, Israel Cantor David Hass, who passed away aged 89 on Shabbat 15th August in Bat Yam, Israel is fondly remembered across the world for his warm personality, generosity of spirit and beautiful voice. He was born, an identical twin to his brother Benjamin, on 6th July 1931 in Jaroslav, Poland into the distinguished family of Sarah and Moshe Hass. His father was a prominent member of the Jewish community, scholarly and musical. His world was infused with communal leadership, charitableness, learning and music. David’s eldest brother Jacob, a student at the prestigious Chachmei Lublin Yeshivah became a pre-war child prodigy singer and was invited to intone the memorial prayer aged 13 in front of a crowd of thousands of mourners in 1933 when famed Rabbi Meir Shapiro, Member of Parliament, Head of the Yeshivah and founder of the international, synchronised page-a-day of Talmud study (Daf Yomi) system passed away. Another elder brother became the world-renowned Cantor Simon Hass. Following the outbreak of the Second World War, Jaroslav was occupied by the Germans and Jewish life and death became increasingly subject to Nazi terror. The family, now comprising parents and 10 children managed to escape to Soviet Russian-occupied Lvov (now Lviv, Ukraine) where they had relatives. The respite was short as they were subsequently deported to Siberia as bourgeois Poles. One sister succumbed to the harsh conditions. After the war the family returned to Poland to find the community destroyed and, realising that no realistic future lay for them there, moved on to Paris. David and Benjamin headed for British Mandate Palestine and Jacob for New York. The majority of the family moved on to London where they re-established their lives. Tragically, soon after, in 1951, at age 49, Mrs Sarah Hass died. Meanwhile, the identical twins were apprehended by the British en route to Palestine- and imprisoned on Cyprus. After further months of incarceration, they eventually reached the Holy Land. There, David joined the Lechi forces and Benjamin enrolled at the elite Ponevezh Yeshivah in Bnei Brak, occasionally secretly swapping positions. On learning of his mother’s death, David desperately wanted to come to England for the funeral. Tragically, as a result of his Lechi service he was unable to enter England until years later. Both David and Benjamin completed Israeli military service and decided

upon careers as professional cantors. David’s musical education followed at the Shulamit conservatory in Tel Aviv, the New Conservatory in Jerusalem, the Sela Cantorial Seminary and the special cantorial academy under the direction of the legendary Cantor Leib Glantz. David’s choral conducting skills led to him meeting his beloved life partner Judith, a survivor of the Budapest ghetto, the Kastner train and Bergen Belsen. They were married in Israel and began to build a family. Following the retirement in 1960 of the long-serving distinguished Reader of the then South Manchester Hebrew Congregation, Rev Solomon Hirsh Morris, David was persuaded to apply for the post and in 1961, the family, now including daughter Gizela ( Gizi ), moved to England. All were immediately welcomed and cherished. David set about establishing and training 4 ensembles: the synagogue choir, a Pesach choir to teach families Haggada tunes, a Simchas Torah choir to bring planned musical order to the synagogue circuits ( Hakafot ) and an instrumental/singing ensemble for entertainment, named the Shalom Group which quickly rose to prominence with television exposure. Two of his choirboys from that era pursued professional careers as chazanim. The family’s strong Zionism militated against lengthy incumbencies in the diaspora and in 1963, the South Manchester community had to accept the Hass’ return to Israel. Cantor Hass’ style of traditional prayer modes interspersed with judicious choices of chassidic niggunim (tunes) from the world of his childhood alongside beautiful cantorial recitatives and choral works was sorely missed. Also missed was his and Judith’s encouragement to his ensemble members. Especially noteworthy had been his uncanny ability to teach congregations prayerful tunes which they felt drawn to join in with at appropriate moments. His steely inner strength in having endured terrible adversity early in life provided a munificent reservoir of love to cheer congregants, friends and family in times of difficulty. In addition to all these qualities was his absolute fluency in the texts all delivered in an exquisitely warm, sweet and strong tenor timbre. In the mid 1960s, he embarked upon a new career phase with his appointment as Cantor at a leading congregation in Johannesburg, Parkview-Greenside Hebrew Congregation, where the famous

Cantor Simcha Kusevitsky had in earlier times graced the reader’s desk. The family had now grown to include a son Moshe. In Johannesburg, David made a number of classic cantorial recordings which fortunately we can still enjoy. As the decade closed, again the pull of returning to Israel manifested itself. The family moved to Bat Yam and David became a sought-after music teacher and generations of Israeli pupils can testify to his devotion. Later during the era of Soviet Jewry immigration into Israel, David became a life-line to a new generation of

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Israelis with his language skills developed albeit originally in his unwanted sojourn in Siberia. He was in demand as cantor at the Accadia Hotel in Herzliya, visiting cantor in Calgary, and sang also in Nahariya and Bat Yam. Now he has been called to the Heavenly choir. May he continue to be our Melitz Yosher (Advocate on High). He is survived by his wife Judith, daughter Gizi, son Moshe and brother Simon. We wish them all long life. Yehi zichro baruch! May his memory be blessed!

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Looking for answers? Send your question to Rabbi@RabbiSchochet.com HEAVEN AND HELL PART 1

Dear Rabbi A while ago you were asked about heaven and hell and said you would deal with it in parts. I am an avid reader and never noticed the discussion. Can you revisit this now? Is there such a thing in Judaism as heaven and hell? Isn’t it just a means of luring people into obedience in anticipation of some eternal reward or fear of eternal punishment? If Judaism does believe in these concepts, how might that differ from other faiths who believe in the same? Winston Dear Winston Fair point and thank you for pulling me up on that. I have received this question in various forms from different readers of all backgrounds and will attempt to deal with it in three parts (consider it your summer reading). So here is part one: The notion that there is a life after this one is a cardinal principle – one of Maimonides thirteen principles of faith. Let’s consider the following. A person is composite of body and soul. The body if you like is a biological product, procreated by the mother and father who brought it into this world. But the body in and of itself cannot function without the spiritual dynamic – without the soul which is invested by G-d. Kabbalah explains, and this is already really referenced in the Talmud, that the souls were all created already in advance. They existed before they entered the body, and they exist even after the body ceases to be. To be sure the soul needs the body much like a flame needs a wick. It cannot express itself or exist properly in a vacuum. Consequently it uses the body like a hand inside a glove. The hand is moving but what you see is the glove. Similarly the body is the vessel – the garment of the soul. That’s what you see. But it exists only because of the soul within. It is just the manifestation of the soul’s ultimate intents, actions and desires. But how does the soul operate when not en-clothed in the body? How does it operate

on different plane? Of course we cannot properly fathom the answer because we can only relate to our reality which is the soul within the body. But let’s consider the following: Hypnosis has been employed to sometimes take you back to a childhood experience in order to eradicate a problem that exists in your here and now. In other words that experience is very much present – embedded deep in your subconscious, you’ve just managed to block it out. Hypnosis is the ability to relax the mind – taking your filtering guards down and reaching into those places which, in a conscious state you would never recall. But in a sub-conscious state you most certainly can. What would happen if your mind’s filtering system malfunctioned? What if it was removed and you could remember everything from your whole life all at once and see everything in your minds eye all at once, and hear everything in your mind all at once – where all your past experiences would come together? You’d have a system overload. It would be far too much for the mind to handle and you would become utterly confused. You are conditioned to just focus on the here and now of your life - the filter keeps you in focus with the present. Now imagine that you don’t live on this plane anymore – that you were no longer restricted to the confines of time and space,

hence there is no past and there is no future – or to put it better - you can live in the past and the future simultaneously, would there still be the same confusion? The answer is, no, because everything will fall into sequence. In this realm, if you tried to concentrate on all your life’s experiences, you would have an overload because you can only concentrate on one thing at a time. But where you don’t have this human restriction of the present, then you’re scanning numerous things at numerous times, and everything will fall into sequence of when they occurred and take on its individual moment. Concentrate information in the human brain as we are a soul in a body would cause tremendous confusion. However all that same information is there in the subconscious – and as it stands beyond the body – where it transcends the body and is above time – it’s all there, laid bare in chronological order. When the soul leaves the body then it is no longer restricted, it doesn’t have these confinements, the filter falls away. At that point of passing, the soul transcends onto a level where its whole life is laid bare from its initial descent into this world till its dying day. Everything as it transpired from the moment it came down into this world and into this body, till its final moment prior to leaving this body and this world, is in correct order. Think of it in the context of a video. If I was to watch a video of my entire life up until now it would take me 55 years – the length of time that I have existed up until present. Parts of it would be quite comical. Invariably there are some sad moments. There would be elements of horror – like the day I became a Rabbi - and even some embarrassing moments. I couldn’t possibly recall it all right now – Why? Because it’s all shut

out by the filtering system. But if my filter disappears - then everything is there open and revealed. In IT, everything is stored on the hard drive. You can delete whatever you want from the computer but the fingerprints are there – on a slow burn it could all be pulled off the hard drive. You can dispose of the hard drive, but that doesn’t make it go away – just transferred from your computer to a rubbish heap. You can try and destroy the hard drive – but in the context of the soul – which is your hard drive – for one thing it’s not yours to destroy, nor can you destroy it because it is not something tangible that you could physically access. All that information stored – the sum total of your life experience - even that which is stored in the subconscious – doesn’t go away. Even after a person dies, the information is still there. The computer may have crashed but the hard drive remains. And in that realm which the Talmud calls the world to come, the soul exists on a different plane where all that information is accessed and assessed. This is the meaning of the words in Ethics of our Fathers: asid litain din vechesbon – we all ultimately have to give an account and be judged by a Supreme Divine Court for our actions. This means the moment when the soul – that information – the sum total of our life’s experiences presents itself to “Head Office” – to debrief on life. When you go for a job interview you’re

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Pirkei Avot This week’s Mishnah carries on the same conversation from last week when we were introduced to Yose Ben Yochanan, from Yerushalayim. His advice is to ‘Let your house be open wide, treat the poor as members of your household, and do not speak excessively with women.” The Mishnah then adds a startling point. ‘Even with ones own wife, all the more so with someone else’s wife.’ As always these points need more elucidation to properly internalise the crown

only going to discuss your strong points. When you’re dating you only disclose the good stuff – you don’t typically mention your failures or misdeeds. You can filter and present that which you want your boss or future wife to be impressed with. But upstairs there is no exclusive information. There is no filtering system where you can be selective and leave out the negative. Our sum total of information and experience is laid out before the Heavenly Tribunal for all to see. Thus, depending on your actions in this realm – you will either experience a tinge of pride or you will be left feeling highly embarrassed. Basically, that tinge of pride is what we might call heaven and whatever embarrassment endured is what could be hell. In that world of absolute justness and perfection not only can you not try to explain away the truth of your actions – you won’t want to. Truth is the only absolute in that realm. Think of a most embarrassing moment or one of the worst things you ever did. Now imagine putting it on video for everyone to watch – you’d want to disappear. This is, in mystical terms busha - a deep sense of shame. It’s Hell! And the worst part about it is you cannot leave the room, or hide your face, or turn the other way. There’s nowhere to run! Conversely, imagine having done something amazing and being lauded as it were, for it. That incredible sense of pride is what we might call heaven. This is not about recall, because in that higher realm nothing is ever forgotten. G-d was, is and will be, so He was there when it happened. Wherever you go into your past G-d is there, He recorded it and now it is instant replay. Here and now you are making the film – you are the casting director. But once the film is released for public viewing, there’s no turning back. Like every director, you want the critics to be happy! To be continued…

Mishna 5 jewels that Yose was trying to impart to us. Our forefather Abraham was world famous for having his tent open an all four sides for people from far and wide to feel comfortable and well rested on their journeys with good food and presumably good wine too! Sprinkled within this kindness was of course the opportunity to spread word of G-d to the people. We are urged to practice our grandfathers outstanding virtues. This attitude will naturally allow poor

people to feel at home in your house. We now come across the first major piece of Mussar in Pirkei Avot. Avoid excessive conversation with women. Now of course this topic is well beyond the scope of the few words we have in this section, however the fundamental principle is important for those who strive to cling to Hashem. Of course men must speak with woman, as is the normal course of life. However keep on guard not to go over the top as sometimes conversations can lead down

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a rocky road. Yose is telling not to talk just to enjoy ourselves as that can be dangerous. This Mishnah gives a frightening and brutal assessment of where casual conversation can lead: Gehinom! Let us make sure to all behave properly and with holiness to hasten the coming of Mashiach Amen.

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Should Religious People “Believe” in Humanity BY RABBI MOSHE TARAGIN The opening verse of Parshat Shoftim depicts the formation of a national and local judicial system. Judges are commanded to maintain impartiality and render truthful and accurate verdicts – “mishpat tzedek”. Although the verse profiles the narrow activities of a formal beit din our Chazal understood this verse (and a parallel verse in Parshat Kedoshim) in broader terms. We are all – at one point or another- judges of our fellow man. We witness behavior, decisions and actions of others and we render judgement. The principle of “dan l’caf zechut” mandates that we afford other people a reasonable benefit of the doubt. Witnessing suspicious behavior which may be harmless, we are instructed to interpret that behavior favorably rather than criminally. Obviously, if the malicious intentions are unambiguous, it is foolish to act naïve and assume proper intent. However, where reasonable doubt exists, we are expected to judge generously and assume the best in people. Notably, the original statement of “kaf zechut” in the Mishnah in Avot (1:6) demands granting the benefit of the doubt to all human beings, and not just to Jews. Granting the benefit of the doubt to all human beings is based on a “humanistic” approach which regards human beings are fundamentally virtuous and noble. G-d bestowed every human being with innate nobility and inner virtue – tzelem Elokimand as my Rebbe , Rav Aharon Lichtenstein zt”l wrote “Humanism affirms the dignity , uniqueness and virtue of man… assumes man’s special status as the one creature capable of relating intelligently to G-d.” If we truly believe in human beings, we are more likely to assume the best in them, and of them. The broader basis of kaf zechut ultimately demands a more favorable view of humanity at large. The religious value of humanism is not obvious nor is it simple. Indeed, humanism is an evaluation of the virtue of the nobility and even majesty of human beings who are at the center of the created universe. Secular humanism- very popular in the modern secular world- further asserts that since human beings are so central, life should be geared almost exclusively to human needs and desires. By contrast, religious humanism, accepts man’s great potential but imposes equally great Divine demands and duties upon him, precisely because Man is so uniquely equipped to perform those duties. As Rav Lichtenstein wrote for a religious humanist “energies which might have been channeled toward…purely human welfare, are expended in the service of G-d.” Religion

and Humanism are not fundamentally incompatible. If anything, belief in human beings, empowers and obligates us to greater religious challenges and duties. The principle of kaf zechut is predicated upon this humanistic view of our world. If we believe that humans are fundamentally virtuous, it is obvious that we should assume noble intentions rather than criminal interests. Belief in Humanism should manifest itself in several additional areas:

1.VALUEING LIFE

Humanism demands that we not just evaluate people and their intentions favorably, but also, that we value life itself as the supreme gift bestowed by G-d. Parshat Shoftim alludes to capital punishment– which we take every possible measure to avoid administering. Even after a person is legally indicted, beit din will re-examine every possible angle in search of an exoneration – even one based on legal loopholes. Even though the crime was clearly violated and the person’s felonious intent is unquestioned, beit din will take every effort to avoid taking a life. Affirming the nobility of the human condition requires that we impute noble intentions to people and also, that that we preserve and value life.

2. ACTING RESPECTFULLY TO OTHERS

The principle of kaf zechut and the humanistic view it is based upon demands that we exhibit respect for others. Respectful behavior is the baseline of healthy personal interactions. You can divide people into two groups- those who are respectful to others and those who aren’t. The differences between these two groups are instantly recognizable on the road, while waiting on line in the grocery, in public gatherings and in a range of different contexts. Respectful people are more likely to honor the dignity and autonomy of another person while disrespectful people are more likely to be manipulative and exploitative towards others.

3. RESPECTING DIFFERENT OPINIONS

Humanism demands that we not only act respectfully towards other people, but also, that we respect their opinions and beliefs, even when they seem so different from our own deeply held convictions. Obviously, ideas which are religiously deviant or dangerous must be disqualified. However general views on life, relationships, politics and other “non-religious” or “non- halchik” topics, possess merit even if they aren’t our own personal views. The trait

If we believe that humans are fundamentally virtuous, it is obvious that we should assume noble intentions rather than criminal interests. of tolerance allows us to ‘bear’ those with different opinions than our own. Humanism demands that we not only tolerate different views but also that we acknowledge that different opinions deeply held by others, presumably, have merit or basis. If we respect people’s intelligence and are intellectually honest it is difficult to simplistically dismiss differing views. We can dispute the value or practicality of an idea but simple wholesale dismissal often reflects personal arrogance, disrespect of others, or intellectual dishonesty.

4. SENSING COMMON GROUND WITH ALL HUMAN BEINGS

Belief in the goodness of all human beings should also create “common ground” and a sense of shared experience. Obviously, we sense common ground more profoundly with other Jews whose lifestyles, destiny, and relationship with G-d more similarly mirror our own experience. However, respect for humanity should help us identify the common ground with every other human being we encounter. We so often encounter non-Jews at work, when we travel, and in general public spaces. Derech eretz mandates that that we act courteously and politely. Concern for Kiddush Hashem dictates that we represent

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Jews and G-d with excellence. Belief in humanity, however, encourages us to identify the common ground between ourselves and every human being of “good behavior” and share our common experiences. Sensing that common ground is a manner of locating and affirming the tzelem elokim in all human beings. For centuries, the prospect of sensing common ground with the non-Jews of our world was, at best, remote and, many times, felt absurd. Jews were routinely persecuted and any sense of “common ground” was demolished by the hostility and violence directed at our nation. Additionally, the relatively sorry state of humanity at large, made it difficult to appreciate the commonality between Jew and non-Jew. In the modern, enlightened world the “other” is b”h far more civilized and thankfully, Jews are, by and large, treated fairly under democratic law. Are we able to sense greater common ground with humanity at large? Can we sense this common ground without compromising or diluting the unique identification we feel toward fellow Jews with whom we share so much more? Rabbi Moshe Taragin has taught at Yeshivat Har Etzion in Gush Etzion, for the past 22 years.

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Weekly Dvar Torah F R OM E R E TZ YISRAE L

Does the Torah Reject Democracy? BY RABBI JESSE HORN “Does the Torah reject democracy?” is a question commonly asked by modern Westerners. After all, does the Mitzvah to appoint a king not reflect the Torah’s ideal form of government, monarchic theocracy? If that is the case, even a superficial look at history would bring the Torah’s value-system into question. Hasn’t democracy served as the world’s greatest and most just form of government? Although imperfect, was Winston Churchill not correct when claiming “democracy is the worst form of government, with the exception of all others”? There seem to be three different approaches to answering this question. First of all, and most straight-forward, the Rambam (Melachim 1:1), Ramban (Devorim 17:14), and Sefer HaChinuch (497) accept this commandment at face value, and thus the religious ideal is appointing and running a government via a king, as implied by the Pasuk “appoint for yourself a king” (Devorim 17:15). The second group have a more negative

view of monarchy. The Ibn Ezra (Devorim 17:15) believes appointing a king is optional, not obligatory. This anti-monarchy school of thought is really headed by the Abarbanel (Devorim 17, Shmuel 1:8). Similar to the Ibn Ezra, the Abarbanel claims that Hashem, by allowing the king’s appointment, is giving in to man’s desires. However, the Abarbanel’s critique (in his Introduction to Shoftim) penetrates deeper, for he attacks the abuse of power that kings are notorious for. In contrast to a king, who can rule and live above the law, the more-favorable model of government, the Shofet, was limited to judge and rule according to the laws of the Torah. Thirdly, there are those who articulate a more nuanced approach. The Netziv (Ha’amek Davar, Devorim 17:14) distinguishes between civilizations in which a king would be appropriate, while in others, a king might not. Therefore, appointing a king is only a Mitzvah when it befits the situation. As Westerners, we might naturally identify or understand the advantages of democracy. What advantages might a religious monarchy have over a

democracy? According to the first school of thought, why not insist upon, or at least allow for, a democracy? Designed to completely serve the people, their needs, and desires, democracies’ weakness is the same as its strength. Although the virtue is obvious, the danger is complete service of the people to the exclusion of the service of Hashem. Democracies, wonderfully, are very successful at protecting human rights and creating cultures of tolerance; what they often lack is an objective sense of divine truth and objective morality. Although, it is possible, and unfortunately common, for a king to abuse his power and serve himself, this approach thinks it is clearly not the Torah’s design. The Torah entrusts the king with power to both serve the nation and more importantly assist and lead them in their service of Hashem. In light of this, we can understand why so many Mitzvot are designed to curtail and direct the king’s power. The king cannot amass too many wives, too much wealth or horses. Moreover, he must write a Sefer Torah and carry it with him at all

times as well (Devorim 17:16-19). Fully aware of the potential downsides of human nature, greed and desire for power, the Torah assists the king into obtaining a mechanism to correctly channel it. Although presumably more risky than a democracy, a religious monarchy more accurately represents the Torah’s ideal role of a government; not merely to service the people and their desires, but to additionally facilitate an environment where they can best serve Hashem. According to those who argue monarchic theocracy is a Mitzvah, we must appreciate the tremendous gifts democracies have given us: freedom, capitalism, opportunity and more. Simultaneously, however, we must remember that cultivating an open and free climate designed to serve Hashem is ultimately our religious goal. Rabbi Jesse Horn is a Senior Ra”m at Yeshivat Hakotel and Program Director of Mizrachi Mechanchim. He is a member of the Mizrachi Speakers Bureau (www. mizrachi.org/speakers).

A TORAH BITE FOR THE SHABBAT TABLE

Where Heaven Meets Earth RABBI GOODMAN When viewing an actual image, a telescope produces a smaller version, a microscope produces a larger version, whereas a Torahscope produces the true version. Our physical eyes perceive a façade—a world that obscures any semblance of spirituality and truth. As far as our vision is concerned, Hashem, our souls, and the World to Come—the three fundamental tenets of our religion—do not exist. Only by viewing the world through the Torah’s lens are we capable of beholding reality. Remarkably, a Torahscope not only helps discern the spiritual nature of life in general, but also helps unlock the meaning of the words of the Torah itself. In this week’s Parsha, regarding a court of law that does not know how to judge a particular case, the Torah says, “If a matter of judgment is hidden from you…you shall rise up and ascend to the place that Hashem, your G-d, shall choose [i.e. the Bais HaMikdash—the Holy Temple—in Jerusalem].” Rashi, quoting the Talmud in Tractate Sanhedrin, explains that from the words “you shall rise up and

ascend” we learn that the Bais HaMikdash is higher than all other places. Instead of blindly accepting this topographical oddity, the Chasam Sofer—Rabbi Moshe Sofer (1762-1839)—asks three pointed questions. Firstly, why does the Torah find it necessary to convey geographical facts; details that we are quite capable of calculating ourselves? Secondly, these geographical facts are not true! Mount Everest stands at 29,029 feet above sea level while the Temple Mount stands at 2,428 feet above sea level. Thirdly, since the world is round, there is no “high point” or “low point.” Wherever on the globe a person is standing is for him the highest point of the globe, and therefore, any subsequent move he makes is merely a shift from one high point to another, but not an ascent. However, the Chasam Sofer explains, that by viewing our Sage’s words through the lens of the Torah, our questions fade away. The Zohar Hakadosh explains that when Hashem created the world, “He took a stone called the Even Shesiya and threw it into the depths where it was fixed from above till below, and from it the world expanded.”

Although the true meaning of this Zohar Hakadosh lies beyond our comprehension, we do learn from these words that Hashem formed the world from a foundation stone called the Even Shesiya. Since everything that exists in the world stems from this stone and, as it were, looks towards it, the Even Shesiya is the true pinnacle of the physical world. Although the Even Shesiya is now sadly covered by the Dome of the Rock, its original home was the Bais HaMikdash. Therefore, any journey towards the Bais HaMikdash—from any point in the world— constituted an ascent. The Bais HaMikdash aptly stood, and will, please G-d in our days, once again stand on top of the world, at the spiritual junction of heaven and earth. In the words of the Midrash Tanchuma (Kedoshim 10): As the navel is set in the center of the human body, so is the land of Israel set in the center of the world...and Jerusalem in the center of the land of Israel, and the Bais HaMikdash in the center of Jerusalem, and the sanctuary in the center of the Bais HaMikdash, and the holy ark in the center of the sanctuary, and the Even

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Shesiya before the holy ark, because from it the world was founded. A project of My Dvar Torah, Torah Bite is your resource for a short, dynamic, and meaningful Dvar Torah to share at the Shabbos table. Originally from London, Rabbi Ben Goodman has spent 20 years in Jerusalem, teaching and inspiring students from all backgrounds and from all over the world. He is the director of My Dvar Torah, providing tailor-made Divrei Torah for all occasions. www.mydvartorah.com. He encourages feedback & ideas: ben@mydvartorah.com

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Shoftim RABBI DR RAYMOND APPLE

PURSUING JUSTICE

Justice comes in two senses in this sidra. There must be judicial officials – judges and officers in our gates (Deut. 16:18) – and their constant aim must be to pursue justice (Deut. 16:20). Why the Torah speaks of pursuing justice is because no human being – but only G-d – can be relied upon to achieve and exercise true justice. Human judges can only try (as hard as possible) to reach the goal. They can never be completely certain that they have attained it, which is why they must say to themselves, “I think I did quite well on this occasion but I will try and do even better next time”.

WASHING HANDS

Washing your hands is central to self-hygiene. In a different sense, washing the hands before meals has long been required by Judaism (Ex. 30:19 is the source of the practice). However, the Torah reading this week tells us that there are times when there is another type of hand-washing which raises an ethical question. When the elders see a dead body they declare, “Our hands did not shed this blood” (Deut. 21:7-8). They say with the Psalmist, “I wash my hands in innocence” (Psalm 26:6).

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The commentators ask, who would have accused the elders of bloodshed? The answer is that if anything untoward happens whilst the elders are in office they cannot have carried out their tasks properly. Unfortunately, in our generation there are leaders whose innocence is only purported and they can be suspected of corruption and selfishness. They are not always paragons of moral virtue with “clean hands and a pure heart”. If they weep that things have gone wrong in society, it is only crocodile tears.

MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS.

It comes as a command, “You shall not remove your neighbour’s landmark” (Deut. 19:14), and as a curse, “Cursed be he who removes his neighbour’s landmark” (Deut. 27:17). In those days the boundaries around a person’s field were marked by a row of stones. It was easy for the person next door

to shift the stones in order to annex extra land to his own property. Hence the Torah had to warn him sternly, lo tassig g’vul re’acha – “Do not move your neighbour’s landmark”. The problem must have arisen often in Biblical times; the warning is repeated by the prophet Hosea (5:1) and in the Book of Proverbs (22:28, 23:10). The Book of Job (24:2) identifies the main victims as the poor, the orphan and the widow; Isaiah (5:8) condemns the rich and greedy who “join house to house, field to field”. Though the law was originally meant to apply only to Israel, the sages were adamant that appropriating other people’s territory was unlawful wherever it happened (Bava Metzia 107b; Bava Batra 89a; Rambam, Hilchot G’nevah 7:11, 8:1-3; Choshen Mishpat 376:1, 231:1). Hassagat g’vul, removing a landmark, came to have a much wider connotation as a general protection of the rights of others. It was applied to the rights of the poor to

Why the Torah speaks of pursuing justice is because no human being – but only G-d – can be relied upon to achieve and exercise true justice.

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glean in the field and even to a scholar’s rights to his intellectual property and a printer’s rights to the works he publishes. Despite the advantages of business competition, in time it became unlawful to infringe upon another’s means of livelihood, especially if the person concerned had special expertise and had invested considerable funds and effort in building up his business. The halachic sources devote much attention to the question of a professional encroaching on another’s practice and endeavouring to attract his clients. A rabbi too must respect the rights of another rabbi. 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: Hilchot Shabbat Part 50 RABBI MORDECHAI ULLMAN What brings a person to Yirat Chet? Contemplation. A believer is aware that Hashem’s presence is everywhere and that He looks at all actions, large and small, and absolutely nothing is hidden from Him. This is expressed in the verse in Isaiah, “Melo Kol Ha’aretz Kevodo”. Numerous other verses in Tanach reiterate this point, G-d may “reside” on High, but He sees the high and the low, the lowly and the proud. Once a person realises there is no escaping the Shechina, they are automatically filled with a certain level of fear lest they conduct themselves in a less than ideal manner. Ethics of the Fathers likewise teaches, “Know what is above you, a seeing eye and a listening ear and that all of your actions are written in a book”. Since G-d is on the lookout for our actions, it makes sense to say that He recalls each and every one and none are disregarded. This appreciation doesn’t come

without constant reflection and deep analysis, since it is not something our physical senses can easily come to terms with. It follows, therefore, that what causes a person to lose this level of fear is distraction. What our generation seeks to achieve perfection in, is what causes a person to lose this elevated level of fear. We are taught in this week’s Parsha that the Jewish king must own a personal Sefer Torah which, (1) should constantly accompany him and, (2) he must read from all his days “so that he may learn to fear G-d”. We see from this, says Ramchal, that only with an uninterrupted focus on Torah may the king hope to learn how to come to a true fear of G-d. The way to achieve true Yirat Shamayim is through studying Torah and contemplating its lessons constantly. This, accompanied by the realisation that we are constantly in the presence of the Shechina, can enable a person to come to Yirat Chet.

We have previously explained that selecting an item from a mixture on Shabbat is permissible only if three conditions are met. This week, we will elaborate on the condition of use of a hand as opposed to a designated sorting instrument. A sieve or a funnel are quite obviously utensils that are intended for sifting (a form of sorting, literally Meraked) and are therefore strictly forbidden for use on Shabbat. Similarly, a collander or core-remover may not be used. Now, the term used for permitted selecting (vis a vis this one of the three conditions) is “with one’s hand”, however, one need not literally use the hand. Using a fork to choose one’s preferred food on Shabbat (during a meal) is permissible because the sorting is not aided by the fork any more than one’s hand assist. Using a spoon to skim the surface of milk, or to remove oil from soup, however, would be more effective than using one’s hand and thus forbidden. Similarly, a knife can be used to peel a fruit or vegetable, but not a peeler. One may also not use a spoon with holes in as that is a utensil whose express

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purpose is sifting. If one has food in a container and pours out the food they want from it into another container it is permitted. However, one cannot press a lid onto the container to restrain the solids as this is definitely a selecting that is done more efficiently through a utensil. They can use their hand instead (temperature permitting). There is an interesting dispute between Rav S.Z. Auerbach and Rav Elyashiv regarding pressing a ladle onto the wall of a container to ensure that only the liquid enters the ladle and not a solid. Rav SZ Auerbach held it to be forbidden, whereas Rav Elyashiv held it to be permitted.

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Shoftim

Shoftim Word Search

Parshat Shoftim opens with the laws of rulers and judges and, a bit later on, we are introduced to the laws of a king. Even a king must learn the Torah and keep its laws. In fact, he must ensure to carry one with him and study from it. The king must ensure not to focus his life on getting richer or building a horse collection, nor may he have too many wives. We are reminded of the importance of ridding the holy land of idols and of following only honest prophets, ensuring that anyone who pretends to talk in the name of Hashem but is in fact inventing things, receives a punishment. We learn some of the detail of who was fit to go to war. Before the Jewish people would begin to battle, an appointed

emissary would announce: Whoever has planted a vineyard but not enjoyed its fruit yet or whoever has built a house but not lived in it yet or whoever has almost married a lady but has not yet established a home with her must go home! Likewise a person who is scared (of their sins) must also not join in the Jewish wars. We are also taught of how to ensure that what witnesses tell judges is absolutely true and finally we learn of what happens when person dies on a journey. The elders of the nearby towns must come together and declare that they are not guilty of this person’s death. It’s always worthwhile to make a child in your home or your school or shul feel at ease, especially if they are a visitor.

Tangram Challenge!

FALSE • JUDGES • KING • LEVITES • PORTION • PROPHET • REFUGE • WITNESS •

Using all the shapes on the left can you make the heart shape on the right?

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Shoftim

In a nutshell nor left. The same applies to any Rabbinic Mitzvot. When you keep Rabbinic Mitzvot, you are on some level actually keeping a Torah commandment. Nice! We are taught the laws of the Jewish King. He must ensure not to amass too much wealth, not to have too many wives and not too overdo his horse collection. If he’s preoccupied with building his collection of horses, he might take the Jewish people back to Egypt - and we are not allowed to return there. But, hey, do you know any famous Rabbis in Jewish history - 1000 years ago or less than 100 years ago who lived in flourishing Jewish communities in Egypt? How does that work? How’s that for a topic of discussion at your Shabbat table! Anyway, the king must hold a Sefer Torah and that is what should keep him busy! We are told of the gifts that are to be given to the Kohanim and Leviim as they do not have a portion in the holy land. We may be tempted to imitate the nations of Cana’an, but G-d tells us through Moshe not to do so. If you have a prophet - ensure he is genuine, but otherwise don’t engage the services of fortune tellers or other false prophets.

“Judges and law enforcers shall you place by your gates”. These words, which open our fabulous Parsha, also hints to us to guard our “gates” such as what we allow our bodies to enjoy, in sight/sound/taste etc. Not everything offered by the glittery world out there is suitable for the Jewish soul and we are proud to sometimes have a virtual “policeman’’ by our mouth as we control it from talking Loshon Hora, or eating non-kosher food, for example. The opening verses also teach us that if at times we need to judge, ensure to judge everyone favourably. Anyway, back to the judges; they’ve got to be sure not to take bribes, rather, to judge people correctly. We are reminded of the laws of not serving idols, and not planting trees in the Beit Hamikdash, as that is what idol worshippers did in their temples (How about shuls? Can their gardens have trees? Nice question, no?) If we have questions too difficult for the local judges, we must go up to the Sanhedrin who sat near the Beit Hamikdash and pose the problem to them. Once instructed by them we must not veer from their directives not right

Word Wheel The goal of a word wheel puzzle is to create as many words possible with the letters in the word wheel. Each word must contain at least three letters. You can only use each letter once and every word must have the letter in the centre of the wheel.

Justice is to be carried out based on the reports of two witnesses, no less. The Beit Din must ensure to question them sufficiently and, in certain circumstances, if the “witnesses” turn out to be charlatans, they receive the punishment they wanted to afflict on others. We learn the process of going out to war. The Kohen would stand and tell all those who had recently planted a vineyard but not enjoyed it, betrothed a woman but not wed, built a house but not lived in it and most of all, one who was fearful - to go home and not join in the war. We need people with good spirits who are not preoccupied with other matters. Another important law taught in this week’s Parsha is not to destroy fruit trees and we learn the “Baal Tashchis” concept from this. Egla Arufa is the final Mitzva in the Sidra - if a guest comes to town and dies on the way home, the town’s leadership must make a declaration - we are not responsible for this death! We learn from this to make all feel welcome and especially those who may feel lonely!

Use this area to write the words you have found.

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Last week’s words: Here are some words you may have found from last week - you may have found more! aba ban bar bin lab

nab nib rib able bail

bale ball bane bare barn

bean bear bell bile bill

bran banal blare blear brain

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City and United miss out on Euro glory Sixteen-goal Lions

rout Scrabble in Cup BY DAVID SAFFER

Bayern Munich face Paris St Germain in the Champions League final whilst Sevilla line up against Inter Milan in the Europa League final as the 2019/20 season finally comes to an end this weekend. BYBritish DAVIDinterest SAFFERfinished when Manchester City and Manchester United crashed out respective competitions to end Reissof Mogilner scored six goals as Maccabi prospects of an all-Manchester Super London Lions thumped Scrabble A inCup the final. second round of the Cyril Anekstein Cup. City were favourites to racked defeat up Lyon in The Premier League side a 16-0 their Champions League quarterfinal but win with Daniel Green and Michael Kenley succumbed two counter attack goals both baggingtoa hat-trick. Ed Brafman, Dawhile Unitedand shipped late winner against vid Dinkin, AdamaHassanali completSevilla in a in Europa Leagueofsemi-final. ed the rout a mismatch a tie. City was 2-1 behind against Lyon when Lions could have scored in the opening Raheem Sterling, who set up Kevin de minute of the clash but soon opened the Bruyne’s 70th minute strike after Maxwel scoring and led 9-0 by half time. Cornet had opened scoring, looked The Division One the team, though outset to level lateaway on. Somehow, classed, battled to the end. City’s star forward inexplicably failed to at tuck Lions boss was lost for words fullaway time asuch Gabriel Jesus cross with the Lyon’s was the display from his team goalwho keeper nowhere How Sterling gave every respecttotobe theseen. opposition. missed the really open sure goal there’s was beyond belief “I’m not anything to but pivotal as Lyon broke to away say, it weproved are happy to make it through the for Dembele the tie after nextMoussa round of the cup,”toheclinch commented. Ederson failed to gather a simple shot. Hendon United Sports ran out 3-1 victors Pep Guardiola’s dream of leading City against League One outfit North London to a first Champions League final is over Raiders. but must have been Lyon’s Thhe e Premier side led frustrated early in theatsecond second goal on 79 minutes, also scored half only for Raiders to equalise but struck by video in assistant twoDembele, late goalsbecause to bookthe a place round failed to spot a clear foul by the former three of the competition. Celtic striker as turn he raced to score. Hendon now theirthrough attentions to the Guardiola has plenty to ponder league as they travel to Oakwood Abefore for a the newtop season comes around month crucial of the table clash next on Sunday however (10am). City dodged an even tougher potential defeat as they would havethe taken on Daniel Kristall’s team stunned league tournament favourites Bayern Munich leaders last month when they won 2-0,ina the lastwould four. move The Bundesliga champions victory them to within a point thrashed Lionel Messi’s Barcelona of Hendon with a match in hand. 8-2 in a quite astonishing of the Elsewhere in thedemolition latest round of fiformer xtures, winners. 10-man North London Galaxy made it a Bayern were irresistible against the shellthree-way title race in the only Division One shocked Catalonians. The German side clash of the day after defeating Oakwood B. ledJamie 4-1 by the half hour following strikes Murray saw red early on but Galaxy by Thomas (2), Josh IvanCohen Perisic,and Serge rallied with Muller goals from JaGnabry and Muller. Luis Suarez pulled cob Leigh to record an important 2-1 awaya goal win. back but Joshua Kimmich, Robert Lewandowski PhilipeJewish Coutinho, Galaxy head and Redbridge Care with A in athe brace, completed a ruthless quarterfinal table by just one point after 10 matches, rout. third place Fairlop FC are five points beMessi spent in hishand. entire career at hind withhas two games Barcelona but this might change if ruRafi Bloom scored for Oakwood. mours are to be believed as he can endinhisa “It was a fantastic performance

16-goal Maccabi London Lions

must-win game,” commented Galaxy player-manager Luke Lewis. contract summer. Former Barca play“We satthis back and allowed Oakwood the er and current Netherlands manager ball, given the one-man advantage Ronand ald Koeman succeeded looked to hithas them on the Quique counterSetien, attack sacked 72 hours after the Bayern humiliwith pace. ation. initial taskdown will be persuade “BothHis goals came thetoright-hand Messi to stay but the mill side. Leigh crossed thetransfer first onerumour into Cohen is in overdrive. to finish, before slotting home himself. Up be” in the mix next time around toCity first will we go. but stiff competition againalso fromtook the The Division Two awaits title race likes of Bayern, PSG, Real Madrid and runa twist with league leaders Herstwood away Premier League champs Vale going down to a 2-1 defeat Liverpool, at Temple still smarting from a Champions League Fortune. exit to Atletico Madrid, who bowed 2-1 Faithfold B have played a gameout more to RB Leipzig in their quarterfinal. than Vale but moved level with a 5-3 win at Leipzig, formed justMasters. 11 years ago, were North London Raiders worthy winners to reach first semi-final Jacob Kalms struck twiceafor Fortune who courtesy of a Dani Olmo header and Tyler scored through leading scorer James MilAdams strike after substitute Joao letwith his 17th goalAtletico of the season. Felix from the spot. Theequalised result was all the more remarkable In the other quarterfinal clash, with PSG as Temple were down to 11 players scored injury time goals to deny Atalanta. ‘keeper Ben Rebuck dislocating a shoulder French inThe the warm up.champs were heading out against the outsiderswin who opened “This was rank a fantastic given the

As for United’s Europa League run, a semi defeat against five-time winners Sevilla was a bitter blow after Bruno Fernandes opened the scoring from a penalty on nine minutes. The Spaniards equalised through Fernandez Saez before Ole Gunnar Solksjaer’s team dominated in the second half. Time and again the Reds had a sight at goal but Anthony Martial in particular missed opportunities. Sevilla ‘keeper Yassine Bounou made a number of outstanding saves before United paid dearly for slack marking when Luuk de Jong scored the winner from a counter attack on 78 minutes. There was still time for United to take the tie into extra time but it was not to be. Questions persist whether Solksjaer is up to the task despite leading United to a third-place league finish and three semi-finals in his first season at the helm. The Old Trafford side has made progress, especially the Fernandes-Paul Pogba midfield partnership and introduction of teen sensation Mason Greenwood, but the time may be right for the board to approach former Tottenham Hotspur boss Mauricio Pottechino and land a top head coach. Sevilla are past masters in this competition and face Antonio Conte’s team afPHOTO: DAVID SAFFER ter they thumped Shahktar Donestsk 5-0 in their semi-final. Lautaro Martinez (2), Danilo D’Ambrosio and Romelu Lukaku (2) scored the goals for Milan. Former Manchester United striker Lukaku has now scored in 10 consecutive Europa League games. Milan were a point adrift of champions Juventus in Serie A, they will look to end this campaign with a first trophy in 11 years. The Italians finished behind Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund in a Champions one willLeague enjoy.” group then entered this competition for theEmanuel last 32-stage so there Vale boss Jacob was quick to will be followers the game wish Rebuck well of following hischeering injury. on Sevilla played the opening Europa “First who and most importantly, everyone at League round, winning 3-0 against FK QaVale would like to wish the Fortune ‘keeper September. arabag quicklast recovery, we hope to see him back Milan has won theas Europa League’s foreon the football pitch soon as possible, ” he runner, the UEFA Cup, on three occasions, said. they are the favourites but don’tcommented, rule Sevilla As for defeat, Emanuel who are the most decorated team in this “It doesn’t matter how big a squad you competition, having won all five finals, the have, you can never account for unavaillast in 2016. Julen Lopetegui is in his first ability or injury. Only five of today’s team season in in our charge, hiswin team areFCdesperate played recent over Team, a for a sixth crown. lack of togetherness and poor individual

the scoring through Mario Pasalic. But “It was aa proper old school performance, Neymar set up 90th minute equaliser for Marquinos then substitute Kylian Mbappe we battled and defended for the 90 minutes completed the comeback with an assist for Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting to slot the and took our chances. Experience proved winner. PSG hadthe finallywinner. come good after to be ” years of trying to make the latter stages of this competition and made the final by comfortably beating Leipzig 3-0 on Tuesday circumstances, ” said delighted Fortune night. Angel Di Maria set up Marquinos boss Simon Linden. on“We 13 minutes, Di Maria the lead had a number of doubled players out, Refrom an exquisite Neymar flick before Juan buck got injured, so I couldn’t have asked Bernat pounced before theWe hour to Ben makea any more from the players. wish the grand finale. speedy recovery. Bayern it old through an eleventh “It was amade proper schooltoperformance, final with a classy 3-0 win against we battled and defended for the 90Lyon. minutes Serge settled the match with two and tookGnarby our chances. Experience proved goals inside 34 minutes. Gnarby opened to be the winner. It’s a big win, one we will the scoring with a sensational before enjoy and we hope to build on strike it in 2019. ” tapping home from close range. He added, “This win marks 50 years as a Robertclub Lewandowsky nodded the football and will be one Nigelhome Kyte and third three minutes from time. everyone associated with the club from day

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