The Jewish Weekly Issue 215 by The Jewish Weekly

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YOUR JEWISH WEEKLY IS INSIDE THIS FOUR PAGE WRAP

Eli Bin, MDA Director General and Prime Minister Naftali Bennett

Red Shield PM JOHNSON CELEBRATES “WONDERFUL & TRUSTED” ISRAELI HEALTHCARE In a speech this week to the Conservative Friends of Israel, Prime Minister Boris Johnson spoke of the collaboration between medical professionals in the UK and Israel and proudly stated that, “we both have wonderful, trusted and hard working healthcare systems.” Magen David Adom has been leading the fight against Covid-19 from the start of the outbreak in Israel. MDA’s “respect and understanding for science and technology” as stated by PM Johnson, has allowed the borders to remain open |

for so long. With world-leading vaccination and testing programmes, working 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, MDA has played a crucial role in dealing with the virus for all Israel’s citizens. We hope that the new border closure will be a temporary measure.

important role in reducing the morbidity caused by the coronavirus and assisting those diagnosed with corona. This has and continues to play a critical role in our success against the pandemic.”

Magen David Adom’s work has been praised by many within Israel, and other countries who have looked to Israel for guidance throughout the pandemic. Naftali Bennett, Prime Minister of Israel, has stated “I have no doubt that MDA has played an

SAVE MORE LIVES IN ISRAEL TODAY CALL 020 8201 5900 OR VISIT WWW.MDAUK.OR G/DONATE

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TIME PASSES WHEN YOU’RE SAVING LIVES In January we were confronted with another lockdown and the hope ignited by the newly rolledout vaccine. Back then, even the most proﬁcient of crystal ball gazers would have struggled to predict what the year had in store.

WELCOME ON BOARD Magen David Adom UK is delighted to announce two new additions to its leadership. The Most Hon the Marquess of Reading will join Sir Ian Gainsford as Co-Presidents of MDA UK, and Judy Saphra has been appointed a Vice President of MDA UK. Judy, a member of the Orthodox Hendon Adath community, reflects the increasing diversity of MDA UK donors. MDA UK welcomes and appreciates all of its supporters and the decision to bring Simon and Judy into prominence within the MDA UK family emphasises this. On accepting the honorary position, The Most Hon the Marquess of Reading said: “MDA UK’s desire to extend the Israeli humane influence in the Middle East is important to me.” We look forward to a new era together.

We know that our colleagues in Israel, in fact all the people of Israel, depend on us to raise the funds that are needed to save lives. At the same time we were mindful about not doing anything that would put our donors and supporters at risk. When we were told that we could get together again for in-person events, we came back with all guns ‘safely’ blazing. Our fundraising year got the start it deserved with a Stakeholders’ dinner at The Grove where we were privileged to be joined by Her Excellency Ambassador Hotovely. Since then we have welcomed HE Dr Al-Hadid, President of the Jordanian National Red Crescent Society, for a series of events to mark the first anniversary of the Abraham Accords. We had our first ‘Lifesavers’ reception for over two years - providing an opportunity for younger supporters to hear more about our work in Israel and across the Middle East. We have run our first ever trek to Jordan, where we saw first-hand the impact MDA makes collaborating cross-border. Things are uncertain at the moment but we hope to be back in Israel in 2022. In the meantime, Israel continues to come to us. We recently hosted a Christian Friends Succot event at Eastnor Castle and later this month, we will host our ‘Stars of Israel’ tour. Uriel Goldberg, one of our lifesavers from Israel, will be visiting communities across the country this Chanukah. The year will end with a Patrons’ Dinner at which we are delighted to have Virgin Atlantic CEO Shai Weiss as our keynote speaker. All in all, it’s been a busy year considering the restrictions placed upon us. I hope that, as and when we get back to ‘normal’ you’ll be able to join us in person in 2022.

The Most Hon the Marquess of Reading, Co-President MDA UK

Judy Saphra, Vice President MDA UK

ROYAL AMBULANCE RETURNS TO ISRAEL The Royal Ambulance, generously donated by stalwart MDA UK supporter Alan Rind CVO in honour of the historic visit to Israel in June 2018 by HRH Prince William, The Duke of Cambridge, has been returned to Israel to commence its service. The ambulance is stationed in Nazareth, the largest Arab city in Israel. In three and a half months of service, it has been involved in over 400 emergency calls. MDA UK is ever grateful to Alan Rind for his ongoing support and dedication. It is very special to see an ambulance bearing the name of HRH on the streets of Israel saving lives.

Daniel Burger Chief Executive

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GANTZ HOLDS WHITE HOUSE CRUNCH TALKS OVER IRAN

09 DECEMBER 2021/05 TEVET 5782

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BY DAVID SAFFER Defence Minister Benny Gantz and US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken held talks over Iran in Washington today. The crunch discussions at the White House followed renewed discussions in Vienna over the 2015 JCPOA nuclear deal. US Foreign Secretary Lloyd Austin joined Gantz in the meetings when he was expected to warn the Americans about Iran’s burgeoning nuclear program. Gantz wants the US to put pressure on Iran both before and after a deal regarding military, economic and political issues. Israel’s Defence Minister holds the view that the present deal needs revising to ensure proper scrutiny of the Iranian regime. Other ministers in Israel have called for tougher measures, warning that lifting sanctions could lead to military strikes against the Iranian regime. It has been reported that US

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Defence Minister Benny Gantz

and Israeli officials will discuss the possibility of military exercises as a scenario to destroy Iran’s nuclear facilities if diplomacy talks fail. Gantz posted on Twitter as he departed, “We will discuss possible modes of action to ensure the cessation of (Iran’s) attempt to enter the nuclear sphere and broaden its activity in the region.” Mossad chief David Barnea

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led the Israeli delegation to the United States on Saturday night in advance of Gantz’ arrival in Washington. Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has called on world powers for months to take a hard line against Iran during negotiations in Vienna.

Nissim Black in concert

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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Chanukiah destroyed and youngsters assaulted BY SIMCHA ABIR Police are investigating a Chanukah display being reportedly destroyed in Primrose Hill. Officers are also calling for information after a north London gang assaulted Jewish children. A photograph uploaded on Twitter shows a Chanukiah broken in two. Rabbi Yossi Baitz, Chabad rabbi to Kentish-Camden Town London, told Campaign Against Antisemitism, sandbags over the Chanukiah base would have been removed to damage the display. Rabbi Baitz wrote on Twitter, “It breaks my heart to see it vandalised. I promise to put up this Menorah again every Chanukah, we will never surrender to darkness.” Anyone with information should contact CAA or call the police on 101. In other antisemitic attacks, a gang is reported to have recently verbally and physically assaulted Jewish children in Stamford Hill. In both instances, the gang is believed to be associated with the Webb Estate and accused of harassing Jewish residents for a number of years. In one incident, the gang threw stones at 10-year-old Jewish boys before being stopped by Stamford Hill Shomrim. They then reportedly vandalised a phone box. The incident took place on Craven Park

The broken Chanukiah

PHOTO: RABBI BAITZ/TWITTER

road in Stamford Hill and was reported by Shomrim. Contact the police on 101 or Stamford Hill Shomrim on 0300 999 0123 (Ref no: 4632764/21). In a separate incident, the gang allegedly assaulted a 12-year-old boy and screamed “take off your kippah” at him. This incident took place on Oldhill Street in Stamford Hill and was reported by Shomrim. Contact the police on 101 or Stamford Hill Shomrim on 0300 999 0123 (Ref no: CAD 6959 06/12/21).

9 DECEMBER 2021

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Israel is against the 2015 JCPOA nuclear deal revisited last week by Iran and the UK, France, China, Russia and Germany. “I call on every country negotiating with Iran in Vienna to take a strong line and make it clear they cannot enrich uranium and negotiate at the same time,” Bennett told a cabinet meeting. “Iran must start paying for its violations. The goal of the Iranian regime is the lifting of sanctions.” Israel’s leader also said that “intensive dialogue” would take place with the Americans, British, French, Russia and other countries. He added, “Our strength is in our unity. A bad deal with the Iranians will have implications for our national security. Therefore, there is a time for everything. A time to keep silent and a time to speak. Now is the time to speak.” Barnea is expected to affirm Israel’s position that it will not be bound by any agreement with Iran. Mossad’s chief vowed that Iran would not possess nuclear weapons at a recent ceremony with Bennett and Herzog. “That is my promise, that is Mossad’s promise,” he noted. Barnea added, “We are prepared, and we will do with our partners in the security establishment everything that is necessary to alleviate the threat against Israel and thwart it by any means.” Gantz said earlier this week, “We must prepare for any scenario in the defence of Israel. My visit to Washington will focus on Iran and is in support of international efforts. I plan to facilitate Israel’s military capabilities.” Israel’s Foreign Minister Yair Lapid was in London and Paris last week to discuss Iran.

“Sanctions must not be lifted from Iran,” he told reporters. “Sanctions must be tightened. A real military threat must be put before Iran, because that is the only way to stop its race to become a nuclear power.” President Isaac Herzog warned on Sunday that Israel would defend itself if negotiations fail. Blinken commented on the increased tensions earlier this week. “Iran, right now, does not seem to be serious about doing what’s necessary to return to compliance, which is why we ended this round of talks in Vienna,” he said. Blinken added, “If the path to a return to compliance with the agreement turns out to be a deadend, we will pursue other options.” Central Intelligence Agency Director Bill Burns reportedly said on Monday that the CIA does not believe that Iran’s leader has decided to move towards weaponising a nuclear device but noted their advances to enrich uranium. “They’re further along in their mastery of the nuclear fuel cycle and that’s the kind of knowledge that is very difficult to sanction away or make disappear, as well,” he said. Bicom noted the Iranian delegation gave a basic presentation on sanctions at last weeks’ talks. The US held indirect talks with the UK, France, China, Russia and Germany in a different room but are not part official negotiations in the seventh round of talks. Israel has made concerns over Iran clear especially over Iran having sufficient enriched uranium to be a nuclear threshold state. Israeli officials are concerned talks could take months while Iran continues to enrich uranium.

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Foreign Minister Yair Lapid was set to return dozens of stolen Egyptian artefacts in Cairo today. The items reportedly include a stone tablet inscribed with hieroglyphic runes, a stone sarcophagus, ancient writings on papyrus paper and ceremonial statues. The artefacts are being returned at the request of Egyptian authorities and as a goodwill gesture to develop relations between the countries. It has been reported Lapid’s talks will include the Israel-Palestinian conflict and Egyptian-brokered truce between Israel and Hamas, especially Israeli MIA’s being held in the Gaza Strip. Lapid is also expected to meet Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry. He may hold talks with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. The artefacts are believed to have been seized in police raids from an Israeli antique dealer and a certified trader in Jerusalem in 2013.

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9 DECEMBER 2021

CER-initiated Agunot Law passes Knesset

Education is “Vaccine against antisemitism” says Zahawi

BY SIMCHA ABIR

The Knesset has passed an amendment to the Rabbinical Courts (Marriage and Divorce) Judiciary Law authorising Rabbinic Judges to hear divorce claims, even for those not Israeli citizens or residents. Conference of European Rabbis initiated the legislation. Outside Israel, rabbinical courts have had no way to Rabbi Pinchas force a stubborn husband to Goldschmidt ‘free his wife’. The law amendment, passed as a temporary provision in 2018 for three years, authorised Rabbinical Courts in Israel to hear divorce claims of non-citizens and residents of Israel, in cases where the marriage was conducted according to Jewish law and a woman did not receive a religious divorce (get). CER president Chief Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt welcomed news of the new legislation as a “positive step “for dozens of agunos around the world who had not been able to force their husbands to litigate before a court in Israel or uphold the

rulings of the courts abroad. “There is a special symbolic significance in the fact that this event takes place on Chanukah, as it brings light and hope to the lives of the agunos in the Diaspora,” he noted. “There is great joy in the fact that all the parties represented in the Knesset, from the chareidi United Torah Judaism party to the leftist secular Meretz party, supported this important law. PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA Today, the people of Israel have shown their unity with Diaspora Jewry.” Goldschmidt added, “The acute significance of the new law lies in the fact that from the point of view of civil law in the Diaspora, it is enough for a husband to provide his wife a civil divorce to be considered to be divorced, even if the couple was married according to halachah. As a result, hundreds of recalcitrant husbands, who went on to have new families, kept their wives unable to get remarried.” This law gives Israeli Rabbinical Courts “jurisdiction to impose sanctions” against such husbands, even though they are not citizens nor residents, he continued.

Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi declared that “education should be the vaccine against antisemitism” in London last week Zahawi was speaking at the Tel Aviv University Trust at Google’s headquarters when he shared his thoughts and experiences on the pre and post-Covid educational world alongside university president Professor Ariel Porat. Speaking about his recent visit to Auschwitz organised by the Holocaust Education Trust, Zahawi said, “Everyone must visit Auschwitz. It was life-changing for me. The real, hard-to-describe part is Auschwitz 2, where Hitler decided to scale up, industrialise the extermination of the Jewish people. It’s beyond belief. No film reel will ever do it justice”. On combating Antisemitism, Zahawi called for all universities to adopt the IHRA definition. “The IHRA definition of antisemitism has been adopted by so many universities but I want them all to adopt it,” he said. “It’s not just a document that you hang on a wall in a university chancellor’s office. They have to think about how they deal with it, and how they make sure that university

Nadhim Zahawi

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

campuses are safe places for Jewish students, for Jewish lecturers, for the whole of the community.” He added, “Education, in my view, is the vaccine against antisemitism, which is why I make it my mission to deal with this scourge, that I think is truly evil”. Broadcaster and journalist Samantha Simmonds moderated the event.

Bennett fights back on Arab sector crime BY ADAM MOSES Prime Minister Naftali Bennett toured southern Israel in the ongoing fight against Arab sector crime. Meeting council heads, Bennett made it clear the government sixth months into its leadership was committed to dealing with crime and strengthening governance. “From the day it (the government) was established, we defined the rampaging violence in the Arab sector as a national goal,” he explained. “These are not mere words. We are talking about human lives that are being taken and the lost personal security of the residents of the south. We established a designated police division. We reinforced the units. We allocated a very high budget. We formulated a national plan and we are taking action in the field. The police have carried out several significant operations and we are looking toward the future.” “Crime in the Arab sector is not the sector’s problem, it is the problem of all of us,” noted Bennett. “After many years of neglect in which crime reached intolerable proportions, we decided, we are going from defence to offense.” He added, “I was pleased to hear from southern council heads that the change is being felt on the ground. For many years the issue was not dealt with and we had militias here that acted like they were in the Wild West. We are putting a stop to this. “Our message to residents of the south is

Prime Minister Naftali Bennett inspects weapons in the fight against crime in Arab sector

we are here with you. We will not rest. Be’er Sheva and Rahat are no different from Tel Aviv. What cannot be done in the centre of the country cannot be done here. We will continue to take action until we have restored security and the sense of security to the residents of the south.” Public Security Minister Omer Barlev commented, “The Israel Police will no longer suffice by reacting to events but will initiate action to apprehend the criminals in their beds. The fight is not only to catch criminals after they have committed their crimes but by going after them economically and in other ways, assisted by the other

PHOTO: HAIM ZACH (GPO)

government ministries. With the approval of the state budget, there will be increased police and Border Police presence throughout the Negev.” Justice Minister Gideon Saar added, “We must give the law enforcement authorities effective tools in the campaign against surging crime and this we are doing.” Interior Minister Ayelet Shaked noted, “We have two main goals, on the one hand to aggressively fight crime, protection, drug hothouses, disturbances on the roads and illegal construction. The second goal is to organise communities and bring the Bedouin dispersion together into orderly

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communities.” She added, “After years of stalemate, we will finally start building new Jewish communities in the Negev.” Minister of Welfare and Social Affairs, Meir Cohen said, “Our job is to understand that the Bedouin are citizens of the State of Israel and we are committed to their well-being and health. We will enter into a dialogue of honour in order to turn these communities around.” Israel Police Inspector General Yaakov Shabtai added, “Only last weekend did we see the sharp transition between a criminal incident in Umm al-Fahm, which resulted in police injuries and a determined and swift response, and a terrorist incident in which police managed to neutralise a terrorist who nearly killed a Jewish civilian. In both of these cases, and in dozens of others, our police officers acted with determination and professionalism and sought to engage.” He added, “In recent months, the entire police force, including the Southern District, has been investing considerable efforts and resources in maintaining security. In order to meet all the tasks and challenges that await us in the future, we need a stronger and larger police force, as you all have said.” The high profile visit was also attended by the Finance Minister Avigdor Lieberman, Border Police and Police Southern District Commanders, the Director of Police Crime Prevention Division, Chairman of the Federation of Local Authorities and Regional Councils, and council heads.

9 DECEMBER 2021

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Stamford Hill action plan proposed to halt crime BY ADAM MOSES Stamford Hill Broadway Business Association has called for action to halt a spate of crime on the Jewish community. The area has suffered a rise in burglaries, car thefts and violent physical attacks for some time. The STHBBA, a collective of local small businesses, believe Joseph’s Silver shop was targeted twice in an almost identical raid in October and November. In both incidents the burglars allegedly arrived in a car mounted the pavement and forced their way in before stealing silver religious artefacts. They fled in the vehicle. No arrests have been made to date. The Association held a press conference outside the shop to celebrate Chanukah last week and addressed community concerns. STHBBA chairman, Reb Sam Gratt, welcomed local businesses and community leaders. Speeches were given by North East London Assembly Member Sem Moema and Shomrim President Rabbi Herschel Gluck.

Mayor Sadiq Khan was unable to attend. A statement noted he supports London’s Jewish community. “I understand that there will be a local police presence at the event with the intention of engaging and keeping the community safe,” it stated. “I hope this provides some reassurance to the local business community and wider community. Hackney Councillors, Neighbourhood Watch Group Shomrim and Metropolitan Police Service representatives were invited. There were no Police representatives nor Hackney Borough commander Marcus Barnett. During the press conference it has been reported police on the Broadway issued PCNs to cars of attendees. The association is seeking an action plan to rebuild the community’s sense of safety and preserve a historic centre point of the local Hackney diverse communities. They also want to improve trust, confidence and a relationship with police and local authorities. The plan calls for the regeneration of the

Meeting to discuss the action plan to tackle crime

Stamford Hill junction and main roads, a reintroduction of street decorations with seasonal festive lights, more customer parking and electric car charging points. There is also a call to replace street furniture, screens and billboards. And the installation of bollards along the shopping parade to deter cars from attacking shops and endangering pedestrians. Stamford Hill Broadway is a popular high street parade between Stoke Newington and Tottenham High Road serving local communities. It is known for various businesses including women’s clothing, jewellery stores, estate agencies, betting

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shops and kosher butchers. Since the 1950s, Stamford Hill has been a centre of the Ashkenazi, predominantly Chasidic community, estimated to be 36,000 strong. Congregations and communities represent historical links with areas of Eastern Europe in dress and worship from the Hungarian Satmar Hasidic Community to the Ukrainian Belz dynasty. There is a notable population of Yemenite, Adani and Sephardi Jews. Alongside Islamic, Christians and Hindu populations, communities live in harmony in multicultural London.

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Israel to host 10th Flag Football World Championships BY SIMCHA ABIR Israel hosted the 10th Flag Football World Championships in Jerusalem this week. A record 41 men’s and women’s teams from 23 countries competed for world titles and a place at the 2022 World Games during the three-day tournament at the Kraft Family Sports Campus. This year’s FFWC takes on added significance as the sport of flag football is included for the first time at the 2022 World Games in Birmingham, Alabama, thanks to the NFL. That competition will be limited to the world’s top eight men’s and women’s teams following the Jerusalem tournament. “I am proud to bring an international football championship to Jerusalem, Israel’s capital,” said Steve Leibowitz, President of American Football in Israel (AFI). “Israel has tackled its COVID-19-related challenges and is ready to provide a safe, exciting championship venue. We look forward to having the home crowd help our teams reach the World Games.” Around 900 players, coaches and officials were expected to gather for the event. In a message to visiting teams, New England Patriots owner and tournament lead sponsor Robert Kraft, said, “It’s incredible to see how fast the sport has grown internationally and how competitive the games

have become in recent years. I am sure your experience in Israel will hold memories that will last a lifetime.” Reigning world champions Team USA headed the 23-team men’s competition ahead of Austria, Denmark and Mexico Team Israel was ranked fifth and expected to make the world finals. In the women’s division, Team USA are world champions in 19-team competition and pre-tournament favorite. Panama, Spain and Austria were medal contenders.

Kraft is a long-time supporter of American football in Israel and donor of the sports campus. “The campus in Jerusalem is fast becoming an iconic venue for flag football, I look forward to seeing the world’s finest flag players come together for what will undoubtedly be a great event,” said IFAF president Richard Maclean. “This tournament will provide an incredible incentive and unique opportunity for teams to secure a place at the World Games.” The championship game and medal ceremony took place yesterday. All games were free and open to the public in accordance with Ministry of Health guidelines. Men’s teams included Belarus, Brazil, Chile, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Panama, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, South Korea, Team Neutral, Thailand. Women’s teams included Belarus, Brazil, Chile, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Japan, Sweden, Switzerland and Team Neutral. The IFAF is the global governing body for American Football, recognised by the International Olympic Committee, a Global Association of International Sports Federations member and signatory to the World Anti-Doping Agency Code.

Man convicted over antisemitic letter to Lord Sugar BY ADAM MOSES A man has been convicted of religiously-aggravated harassment after sending Lord Sugar abusive and antisemitic letters. Patrick Gomes, 70, denied involvement but was found guilty of religiously-aggravated harassment at Chelmsford Crown Court last week. He has been remanded in custody to await sentencing on 23rd December. Gomes sent three letters to one of Alan Sugar’s business premises in Loughton between October and December 2018, according to Essex Police. Sugar, host of The Apprentice TV show, referred the matter to police and thanked officers for “helping to shine a light” on unacceptable behaviour. “I would like to pass on my sincere gratitude to the police for their assistance in this case,” he reportedly said. “I have to be honest, I was reluctant to pass this matter on to the police as they are already stretched and have enough on their plates. I would like to thank them sincerely for helping to shine a light on the fact that this type of behaviour is simply not acceptable and that racism or any form of discrimination is simply not acceptable.” Campaign Against Antisemitism praised

the actions of the The Apprentice host. “Lord Sugar was right to refer this matter to the police,” said a spokesman. “There must be zero tolerance for antisemitic crime, but that can only happen when victims report incidents. If racism against Jews is allowed to fester, the number of victims will only grow. We commend the police for pursuing the matter, and trust that the sentence will be proportionate to the crime.” Investigating officer PC Marc Arnold, of Epping Forest’s Community Policing Team, said, “Nobody should ever be subjected to this level of abuse or fear physical violence because of their faith. I’m really pleased that justice has been rightly served. There is simply no excuse for any hate crime and if this happens to you or you witness this type of behaviour, please tell us, we will not tolerate racism or discrimination of any kind and neither should you.” Each letter sent by Gomes reportedly included abusive, threatening and offensive language that was also derogatory towards the Jewish faith. Gomes was arrested at his home in Leyton in 2019 after DNA and fingerprints were found a letter. Police found additional discriminatory letters, and discovered that the address of the letters to Lord Sugar was in Gomes’ address book.

Lord Alan Sugar

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9 DECEMBER 2021

Far-fight streamer receives fouryear jail term BY SIMCHA ABIR A prolific far-right streamer with a goal of “exposing the filthy Jews” has been jailed for four years at Manchester Crown Court. Richard Hesketh, 36 from Greater Manchester, pleaded guilty over stirring up racial hatred. Hesketh posted 4,000 antisemitic videos that resulted in over 5.5 million views under the name Rick Heskey on a website affiliated with the “Goyim Defence League”. Campaign Against Antisemitism welcomed news of the sentencing. “Hesketh was a prolific streamer of antisemitic material who, by his own admission, had dedicated himself to trolling Jews,” said a spokesman. “His guilty plea avoids the indignity of a courtroom platform on which he might further promote his racist views, and this fouryear sentence removes him from society, where he has proven that he does not belong. We commend the authorities for pursuing him and the CST for its investigative work that helped bring about this outcome.” The sentencing came after investigative research by the Community Security Trust. Detective Superintendent Will Chatterton, of Counter Terrorism Policing North West, said, “Hesketh shared as well as created hundreds of shockingly offensive videos and content on social media, which undoubtedly incited hatred towards the Jewish community. In police interview (sic) Hesketh showed no remorse and even continued to upload offensive material to his social media channels after he was released under investigation.” He added. “Hesketh enjoyed viewing videos of serious attacks on Jewish people and even made comments referring to his disappointment that the attacker in one video did not kill the victim, showing just how depraved his beliefs are. Peddling this mind set across the internet is dangerous and at the same time incredibly upsetting to our communities. This case highlights that right wing terrorism will not be tolerated in any shape or form and we will do all we can to bring these offenders to justice. I am pleased that Hesketh will no longer be able to continue his campaign of abuse and I really do hope that his time in prison is spent reflecting upon his appalling behaviour.” Hesketh reportedly saw himself as a “Full time Jew Namer”, he reportedly stated after a video of an antisemitic assault on a Jewish man in Brazil, “Hitler should have killed more Jews. Completely agree, I’d say he should have killed about 16 million, that should have finished them off.” Hesketh was charged with seven counts of distributing a recording of visual images or sounds stirring up racial hatred, contrary to section 21(1) Public Order Act 1986 in August 2021. He pleaded guilty to all charges on 7th September and was sentenced last Friday.

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Bennett holds trilateral summit

Prime Minister Naftali Bennett with Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis

Prime MInister Naftali Bennett met Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis at a trilateral summit in Jerusalem this week. The leaders spoke about threats in the region including climate change, COVID-19 and Omicron, livelihoods and security. “We are three vibrant democracies, bound by close geographical proximity,” noted Bennett, adding, “We’re advancing our East-Med energy connection and taking the cooperation to new heights.” Bennett hoped to expand ties in security, economy, technology, tourism and emergency services. “This trilateral alliance is good for our people, countries and region,” concluded Bennett.

PHOTO: AMOS BEN-GERSHOM (GPO)

President Isaac Herzog also held meetings with Anastasiades and Mitsotakis. Herzog and Anastasiades discussed global and regional strategic affairs, and Israeli-Cypriot ties at the European Union. Herzog spoke with Kyriakos about growing opportunities, stressing tourism and investments. Herzog also thanked Mitsotakis for adopting the IHRA working definition and the leaders spoke about advancing Holocaust commemoration in Greece. Mitsotakis presented Herzog with a framed photograph of his father, Israel’s Sixth President, Chaim Herzog, when he met his father, Prime Minister Konstantinos Mitsotakis in 1992 after establishment of full diplomatic relations.

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Twitter suspends Wiley again BY SIMCHA ABIR Twitter has again suspended rapper Wiley after being contacted by Campaign Against Antisemitism over antisemitic hate rants towards Jews.

Wiley

9 DECEMBER 2021

Herzog welcomes US Ambassador to Israel

PHOTO: SHUTTRSTOCK

Under the handle @Wiley Recordings, resurfaced on Twitter and Instagram, after a spate of hate posts in the summer of 2020. The grime artist targeted a CAA staff member in a since-deleted tweet. A CAA spokesperson confirmed Wiley’s return to Twitter and Instagram to “spout racist hate”. “We are in contact with the police and are examining legal options,” noted a spokesman. They added, “Twitter has suspended Wiley’s account after we called on the platform to do so, but the company has failed to prevent him joining the platform repeatedly over the past year, despite its pledge to ban him. The company continues to ignore a wide range of antisemitic accounts that we have brought to its attention, presumably because they fail to attract the same degree of public interest and negative publicity as this case. “We are now in contact with Instagram, asking for his live stream to be ended and his account removed, and we are in touch with the police about some of his deranged output.” CAA have appealed to venues in the past year to drop Wiley from line-ups. And they filed a criminal complaint against the grime artist with the Public Prosecution Service in the Netherlands a year ago. Richard Kylea Cowie, known as Wiley, had over 940,000 followers on social media when banned from Facebook and Twitter after posting a torrent of anti-Semitic posts in July 2020. Rantings reportedly saw Wiley liken Jews to the Ku Klax Klan, Jews controlled “the Law” and were “snakes”. Wiley recounted conspiracy theories that Jews were responsible for the slave trade. There were also claims about Israel “not being a Jewish country” and he targeted Jewish celebrities. TikTok followed the stand by Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube to ban Wiley. CAA worked with the Cabinet Office’s Honours Forfeiture Committee to ensure Wiley’s MBE was revoked and for the music industry to remove his awards. CAA monitor online anti-Semitic abuse.

President Isaac Herzog and US Ambassador Thomas R. Nides

BY DAVID SAFFER President Isaac Herzog received the credentials of new Ambassador of the United States to Israel Thomas R. Nides at an official ceremony in Jerusalem. Herzog and Nides delivered statements to the press and held a working meeting. Israel’s president surprised Nides by inviting the head of his Hebrew school in Duluth, Minnesota, Elizabeth Aloni. “The People of Israel welcome you with open arms and an open heart,” commented Herzog, “For us, this is a celebration of a shared vision and common values: - liberty and equality, freedom, human rights and friendship with our closest ally.” Herzog recalled growing up in the US and being influenced by the constitution, its social diversity and by tradition of democracy. He also welcomed Nides’ intention to deepen the US-Israel connection. “Israel very much looks forward to working together in harmony and in full partnership,” Herzog noted. “You are coming to a more hopeful region. The Abraham Accords are a real strategic and regional gamechanger. It is essential that we realise the potential of these historic accords

PHOTO: KOBI GIDEON (GPO)

alongside the United States.” Herzog said the greatest challenge for Israel and SU was the common threat posed by Iran. “We are closely following the international community’s recent negotiations with Iran,” he explained. “Israel will welcome a comprehensive, diplomatic solution which permanently solves the Iranian nuclear threat.” Herzog added, “In the case of a failure to achieve such solution, Israel is keeping all options on the table and it must be said that if the international community does not take a vigorous stance on this issue, Israel will do so. Israel will protect itself. “Ambassador Nides, I thank you so much for joining us today with your son, Max, and I wish you a satisfying, enjoyable and successful stay in Israel together with your excellent team.” Prime Minister Naftali Bennett also met with Nides. After lighting candles for the eighth night of Chanukah, Bennett told Nides that Chanukah was a symbol of light that prevails upon darkness. “When we formed the government, we called it a government of good will and

good spirit,” explained Bennett. “And this good spirit is not only domestically, but it’s also between us and the United States.” Bennett thanked US President Joe Biden and his administration for its approach of bringing Israel to be a bipartisan issue, and not partisan. “I know we’re going to do a lot of great things together,” he concluded. Nides visited Yad Vashem at the end of last week guided by David Silberklang, Senior Historian at the International Institute for Holocaust Research. Nides participated in a moving ceremony in the Hall of Remembrance where he lit the Eternal Flame in memory of Holocaust victims. Following the ceremony, Nides signed the Yad Vashem guestbook. “There is a reason I came here on my first official visit as the US Ambassdor,” he noted. “It is for the grandmothers and the grandfathers, the mothers and fathers, the little boys and little girls, the teachers, for all of us we say one thing, please G-d, may it never happen again.” Yad Vashem Chairman Dani Dayan commented at the end of the visit. “This is a place to bow heads, to shed tears and to pray silently as I saw you doing. This is a place, also, that has an obligation to know everything about the fate of the Jewish people during the Holocaust. Not only for ourselves but for future generations as well.” Dayan added, “One of the messages we take away from the Holocaust is that when we see antisemitism, when we see racism, xenophobia it is our responsibility to confront it immediately and forcefully, this includes calls for the annihilation of the State of Israel by any party. We know what can happen if antisemitism is left unchecked. We have experienced the genocidal atrocities that can grow if this hatred is left to develop without being confronted. That is the mission of Yad Vashem.” Nides went on a behind-the-scenes tour of the Yad Vashem archives prior to a meeting with Dayan and senior historian Dr. Robert Rozett to discuss Holocaust denial and antisemitism. Nides’ visit concluded with lighting a nineteenth-century menorah from Alphen aan den Rijn, Holland that was discovered in the 1980s wrapped in newspapers dated 1941. The city’s Jewish community was destroyed during the Holocaust.

Gaza Strip 65km fence completed Israel has completed construction of a 65 km fence at the Gaza Strip border. Defence Minister, Benny Gantz welcomed the announcement of an ‘iron wall’ between Hamas and residents of the Israel’s south. “This barrier will provide Israeli citizens

a sense of security,” he said. “We will continue to maintain our readiness to thwart any attempt to harm Israeli citizens, with an emphasis on rocket attacks from Gaza.” Chief of Military Staff Aviv Kochavi said the wall was a key part of Israel’s defence

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conception on land, air and sea. “The barrier is a game changer,” he said. A ceremony marked completion of the barrier’s construction. Israel is expected to begin a similar project along its border with Lebanon next year.

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Neo-Nazi jailed for 10 years

Oxford University condemned over lecture

BY SIMCHA ABIR

Campaign Against Antisemitism has slated the University of Oxford for inviting a vocal supporter of disgraced academic David Miller to deliver lecture on “equality and diversity”. Tariq Modood, founder of the University of Bristol’s Research Centre for the Study of Ethnicity and Citizenship, delivered the Oxford Law Faculty’s Annual Equality and Diversity Lecture, titled “Islamophobia and the Struggle for Recognition,” last week. CAA’s Binyomin Gilbert described the decision as “extraordinary”. “In the midst of the deep controversy surrounding the acceptance of donations from the Mosley family trust and attempts to honour the name of Britain’s foremost fascist family, one would have expected the University of Oxford to be particularly sensitive to Jewish concerns at this time,” he explained. “Instead, the University has yet again shown contempt towards Jewish students.” CAA noted that Modood defended his then-Bristol colleague, Miller, last March, stating, that his empirical research was not antisemitic. Momood reportedly added that it was difficult for people in the UK, including academics, to speak up at conferences for the Palestinian cause without incurring the charge of antisemitism. Modood also reportedly criticised the IHRA as “mixing up anti-Zionism and anti-Israel with antisemitism”. Miller was fired by the University of Bristol over comments about Jewish students.

The co-founder of neo-Nazi National Action terrorist group has been jailed for ten years. Ben Raymond, 32, from Swindon, was found guilty of membership of the proscribed group at Bristol Crown Court. He was also convicted of possessing a manifesto written by far-right terrorist Andrews Breivik, and a guide to homemade detonators. Raymond was not guilty of four counts of possessing other documents. Raymond was sentenced to eight years for membership and two years, to run concurrently, for two offences relating to possession of terrorist documents. After release, he will be subject to terrorist notification requirements. Campaign Against Antisemitism welcomed the decision against the neo-Nazi groups’ co-founder. “He was also its master propagandist, doing what he could to broadcast its message of racist hate,’ said a spokesman. The ban on National Action, they added, was a first step, convictions of members, a second. “This sentence, removing someone with grotesque and dangerous views from society, is the third,” CAA further stated. The court heard how Raymond had linked with neo-Nazi groups including

Atomwaffen Division, which the UK has proscribed. Sentencing him, Judge Christopher Parker QC said Raymond was the “principal propagandist” for National Action, before and after the ban, and sat “at the centre of the web” as the group fragmented in an effort to evade the ban. “In the shadows of the internet you continued to offer guidance to regional National Action organisations on tactics, security, organisation but most importantly propaganda,” he noted. “From the centre of that web you intended just as much as other associates that National Action should survive following proscription.” The judge added, “It was intended that the documents produced by you would be used to create instability within society, hatred between white people and other ethnic groups and ultimately create racial violence on which National Action could capitalise. You intended that the material should be used to recruit new members, specifically new young members, those young people were at risk of being groomed by your behaviour into committing acts of extreme racial violence.” Raymond helped launch the group in 2013, is the 17th person guilty of membership of the banned group and reportedly coined the term “white jihad”. Raymond’s alleged co-founder recently

Ben Raymond

PHOTO: FACEBOOK)

pleaded not guilty to a charge of membership of a proscribed organisation and stands trial next year. They are alleged to have founded the group at university. National Action was banned under terror legislation in 2016, the first far-right group to be proscribed since British Union of Fascists in 1940.

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9 DECEMBER 2021

Cannobatech penetrating the market BY DAVID SAFFER Cannabotech’s chief commercial officer Gadi Klarsfeld has been involved with the business since its inception 2019 and is helping drive the company’s market penetration. As with any start-up that role has expanded and that has offered him a unique insight into the development of the biomedical company dubbed the ‘The Botanical Pharmacy’. Cannabotech is revolutionising the UK’s health and wellbeing retail experience and growing the UK Cannabidiol (CBD) market through exciting technological approaches, including in-store face scanners, holographic interactive tables and one-to-one consultations. Taking time out of a busy schedule, Klarsfeld recalled how his involvement came about two years ago after paying a visit to the brand new flagship store at Westfield London. “I got involved with Cannabotech at the beginning,” he said. “I have known our CEO, Elchanan Shaked, for over 25 years and we have been doing on and off business collaborations over the years. So, when Elchanan approached me with the idea behind Cannabotech, I was fascinated and immediately got on board. I did that knowing that at the beginning, we would have to work without any pay for quite a while until we raised the right amount of money to get on our feet. We did that for nine months solid, where I worked as a pharmacist behind the counter for a living. “Officially I am chief commercial officer. Still, as it is often in start-up companies, everybody does everything. I was involved in the development of the preventative product range, the establishment of the U.K. business operation, including setting up our concept store in Westfield, all the logistics involved in our e-commerce activity and more.” Cannabotech applies the untapped benefits of cannabinoids and functional mushrooms to today’s health issues. Fusing traditional eastern knowledge with modern science, products are designed to help consumers take control of health concerns. Many conditions are associated with our modern lifestylem these include; stress, sleep, immunity, skin conditions, muscle and joint fatigue, mood support, skin health and general health maintenance. The company’s standing in the industry

has been advanced by mushroom research CBD products and development. “The most exciting thing is bringing a new approach that disrupts the paradigms that dominate the market,” commented Klarsfeld, who is a regular visitor to the London store. “We are coming with the 360° solution involving innovative technological personalisation activities, including a one-of-a-kind app that reads vital parameters using transdermal optical imaging technology and a D.N.A. scanning kit, allowing us to personalise our premium products with our unique M2CBD formula that combines medicinal mushrooms and CBD.” You only have to look at Klarsfeld’s business experience to realise why he is involved at Cannobatech. A franchisee and associate with Super-Pharm Israel almost 30 years ago then working at Blue Square Israel in the Health and Beauty division, Klarsfeld was CEO at New-Life Drugstores S.R.L., Dental View and Infosystems Inventory, all in Romania, until 2015 when he set up his own consultancy in Israel.

Evaluating his current venture, Klarsfeld is hugely enthusiastic about its prospects with cutting edge research being at the heart of the company leading the way in the next generation of preventive care products. “Cannabotech has three layers of activities, preventative products, integrative products and the development of our Botanical drug,” he explained. “Knowing the effort and means that we invest in all those layers, I believe the best is yet to come. Cannabotech is on the right path to becoming a leading player in this new industry.” He added, “The cannabis plant is a wonderful plant! For many reasons, including political ones, it has been banned for the past 120 years. Cannabinoids are the naturally occurring compounds found in the Cannabis plant. Over 140 different cannabinoids have been scientifically identified to date. “This is an unbelievable plant that knows how to speak to many systems in the body. There are receptors all over the body. This array of receptors is called

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the Endo-cannabinoid system. I always say that tomatoes don’t have receptors in our body but cannabis does! “The way Cannabotech deals with this is not just by developing products but by developing a 360-degree solution. Part of the solution is diagnosis so we have developed our app that scans vital parameters. Those are followed by a unique proprietary algorithm to recommend in very small steps a change in lifestyle. The app My Being can be downloaded from both apple and google stores. A face scan that takes five measurements - blood pressure, breathing, heart rate, heart rate variability and stress. Scoring is on these five parameters then we can advise on our products. “The smart phone knows so much about us as individuals. How many steps we take, how many hours we sleep at night, how many times our phone is with us and how social we are. After a scan we put in a special algorithm to get a score from which we can advise you about small steps to take every day to improve your health. “Personalisation is so important and through DNA testing with our My Being programme we can show a persons’ susceptibility to illness. We recommend preventative medicine. So, if someone is susceptible to say high blood pressure we will let them know what to do in order to get ready for that situation.” “It’s about preventative medicine, personalisation and a special technology that combines the medicinal mushrooms and CBD. “We took the mushrooms and worked with Prof Solomon Wasser of Haifa University who developed 14 mixes for seven indications for products we have combined with CPD. But we did not just mix them together, we created a technology-built M2CBD formula that absorbs better when it’s taken as a food supplement or if you put it on topically. It basically supercharges the CBD and medicinal mushrooms to create a synergistic effect. We have products to aid, for example, muscles and joints, the immune system, skin problems, sleep and help relaxation, mood support, and general health maintenance” What are the most challenging aspects of the business? “As in any new product or service that one brings to an emerging market, the first challenge is awareness,” Klarsfeld explained. “Letting people know about the

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MyBeing Programme: The future of science-based personalized preventative care is here Supercharge your health-being with DNA-based personalisation

The programme includes: • My-being triple system | Founded on three products designed to solve the key health challenges of modern life – reducing stress, improving the quality of our sleep, and strengthening our immune system.

uniqueness of our products and activities and educating the need to realise that CBD is safe and has extreme benefits to our health. “We are focusing on addressing our target audience, the early adapters audience, looking for out-of-the-box medical solutions, an audience aware of new research proving the effectiveness of CBD in a variety of medical challenges and interested in trying advanced personalisation methods.” Cannabotech ran a lunch ‘n’ learn ‘wellness’ workshop at Westfield London earlier this week. The event empowered women to learn practical plant-based healing tips ‘n’ tools to boost their families’ immunity and wellness this winter. Experts were on hand for an event that was well received. How long do you anticipate it taking to make a global mark? “We believe that we will be present with our preventative products in Europe and at least one or two states in the U.S.A by

next year,” he said. Time will tell in terms of the speed at Cannobatech but with Klarsfeld at the helm the future is bright and markets globally are going to hear and be using products sooner rather than later. Klarfeld genuinely holds the belief that the best is yet to come and Cannabotech will becoming a leader in a new industry.

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• DNA screening, conducted by one of the world’s leading DNA laboratories. This enables us to personalize the program for the solutions your body needs. The DNA test will offer insights into the functioning of your immune system, your endocannabinoid system, your metabolism, how you respond to fitness and movement, any mineral and vitamin sensitivities, and how your body reacts to certain drugs. The DNA report will also help analyse your individual responses to a range of health-being challenges – including stress and sleep, mood support, anti-aging, skin health, immune function, and healthy muscles, joints, and bones. • The My-being app | This enables you to track your progress during your journey based on a range of health parameters, and further personalize your program over the months. Crucially, it’s designed to help you stay active, remain motivated, and not give up on the process midway.

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• Monthly 1:1 session with a healthcare professional | They will accompany you throughout the whole process, offering human insights into your progress, giving extra support, and helping you make the most of your My-being journey. • M²CBD-based personalized kit | Every month, you’ll receive a set of products, based on our unique M²CBD formula – a powerful combination of functional mushrooms (to strengthen your immune system) and pharmaceutical-grade, isolated CBD (to target your endocannabinoid system). Each product aims to support a specific area, from mood to sleep to skin health, to help keep you on track.

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9 DECEMBER 2021

Police appeal for witnesses as BoD & CAA blast BBC over antisemitic incident BY DAVID SAFFER The Metropolitan Police Service has called for witnesses following an antisemitic attack on a bus carrying 40 Jewish teenagers on Oxford Street celebrating Chanukah (November 29th). The furore following the antisemitic incident has seen the Board of Deputies and Campaign Against Antisemitism blast the BBC over its coverage. CAA has announced a “BBC News: Stop Blaming Jews!” protest outside Broadcasting House on Monday. Video footage appears to show a group of men making Hitler salutes, spitting, striking windows and threatening a private bus-load of Jewish teens. Footage also shows teenage passengers dancing in the street before being forced back onto the private bus. The Met have released images of three men to whom the force would like to speak. “Our investigation into this appalling incident continues,” commented Detective Inspector Kevin Eade. “Despite extensive inquiries over the past week, we are yet to make any arrests, however, I am confident that somebody will recognise the people in these images, and I would urge anyone who does to contact us immediately.” CAA spokesperson urged members of the public to help the police identify suspects and persons of interest behind a “heinous” antisemitic attack. “If you recognise these individuals, please contact the police or us on a confidential basis,” a spokesman said. The Board slated the BBC over “deeply irresponsible journalism” and has called on the organistation to discipline those responsible, correct its report, apologise to victims and undergo training to improve the BBC’s ability to cover the Jewish community with “accuracy, understanding and respect”. CAA labelled the incident “outrageous”. Like the Board, they have called for action. CAA want the BBC to reveal evidence that

an anti-Muslim slur can be heard on the bus, explain why claims of the slur is “asserted as fact” while antisemitism is “caveated as mere allegation”, investigate why a journalist previously appearing to belittle antisemitism wrote an article on antisemitism appearing to do the same and reiterated a call for them to adopt the International Definition of Antisemitism. CAA have again offered to provide BBC with antisemitism training. Prime Minister Boris Johnson condemned footage as “disturbing” at the time. BoD President Marie van der Zyl slammed “harmful framings and allegations” on the BBC News website and London television broadcast. “By reducing this obvious antisemitic incident to a mere “allegation”, your report has the effect of casting doubt on the attackers’ antisemitic motivations,” she wrote, adding that the BBC had obscured facts. Ms van de Zyl continued, “Jewish children and their minders were targeted because they were Jews.” Noting the video was a “clear and indisputable display” of antisemitic harassment, the Board’s chief added, “Your report does not inform, nor does it educate. In fact, it causes harm. It harms Jews directly, and it also harms societal understanding of antisemitism.” Ms van de Zyl said a news segment suggested Jewish victims “may have been responsible for instigating the attacks”. “This is a horrendous allegation, completely bereft of any evidence, and a deeply incendiary insinuation that is tantamount to victim blaming,” she fumed. “The allegations made against the Jewish victims are wholly without substance or merit.”

Both the Board and CAA referenced a BBC report referring to antisemitic acts as mere “allegations” while reporting an unsubstantiated allegation of ‘racial slurs’ about Muslims as fact. CAA wrote, “The public reacted to the article with fury, with nobody able to identify any “anti-Muslim slurs” in the audio accompanying the video. Despite justifiable calls for the BBC to release the evidence for its assertion, it has failed to do so, instead merely amending the article to refer to an “anti-Muslim slur” in the singular.” Ms van de Zyl continued, “The victims of antisemitic abuse are now being smeared as racists and therefore somehow less deserving of sympathy or, in the worst case, deserving of the abuse they received. This is deeply irresponsible journalism.” “The BBC’s refusal to retract and apologise

to the victims has caused further distress and compounded the harm,” she added. Ms van de Zyl added that antisemitic incidents were at a record high in the UK so it was “deeply disturbing” the BBC had been “careless” and “cavalier” in its response to the Jewish community and wider public outrage, and “obdurate” in a refusal to retract then apologise to victims. CAA’s Stephen Silverman noted there was a “swell of outrage” in the Jewish community over the antisemitic incident. CAA called on the latest case to be taken seriously after a poll last year revealed two thirds of British Jews were deeply concerned by BBC coverage of matters of Jewish concern and 55% by its handling of antisemitism complaints. Shneor Glitsenstein, Director of the Chabad Israeli Centre Golders Green was on the bus with the teens. In the aftermath of the incident, he commented, “We were attacked on the streets of London for being Jewish and celebrating Chanukah. While our bus contained no references to Israel, we were clearly a Jewish group. The young men who surrounded us were not engaged in political protest, this was a bigoted antisemitic attack in the heart of London, seen by dozens of others, who stood by silently.” Police reportedly stopped the bus in Grosvenor Place to check on the welfare of the passengers. Anyone with information should contact the police on 101 or the Charing Cross Hate Crime Unit on 07900 608 252 (Ref no: 6184/29Nov) or tweet @MetCC or e-mail Campaign Against Antisemitism at investigations@antisemitism.org

Shuls part of Omicron mask measures BY ADAM MOSES Synagogues in England are part of new regulations regarding wearing masks announced at a Downing Street briefing on Wednesday evening after the emergence of the Omicron variant. Shuls had a choice about wearing masks for services under relaxed measures but that changes tomorrow when face coverings are compulsory in most public indoor venues including places of worship. There are exemptions in venues where it is not practical to wear one. The United Synagogue has stated that face masks are now required for all attendees (apart from the service leader or speaker)

for all indoor services and activities. This is apart from when eating or drinking, or for those aged under 11, and will take effect as of tomorrow. On Shabbat or for any busy service or activity, all attendees are recommended to take a lateral flow test shortly before coming to shul (just before the start of Shabbat in that case), and only attend if their test is negative. Service leaders and speakers who do not wear a face mask must do a lateral flow test, and maintain additional distancing from congregants. All other guidance remains in place. From Monday, those who can will be advised to work from home. And from Wednesday, subject to parliamentary approval, the NHS Covid Pass on the NHS App will become

mandatory for entry into settings where large crowds gather including unseated indoor events with 500 or more attendees. This measure could impact larger synagogues. The rule also applies to unseated outdoor events with 4,000 or more attendees and any event with 10,000 or more attendees. People will be able to demonstrate proof of two vaccine doses via the app. To date the United Synagogue has released information on implications of new regulations for Jewish communities across the United Kingdom. An update is expected. Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed England will move to Plan B following the rapid spread of the Omicron variant in the UK. Tougher measures were “proportionate

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and responsible” as the new variant “could lead to a big rise in hospitalisations and therefore sadly in deaths,” he said, during the press conference. Regarding work, in Scotland, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has told employers that staff who worked from home at the start of the pandemic can do so again, until at least mid-January. In Wales, employers are encouraged to let people work from home where possible. In Northern Ireland, ministers said more people working from home would help to reduce the risk of infection inside and outside the workplace. Guidance on changes will be available on www.gov.uk in the coming days.

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Israeli mum of five recovering after terror attack BY ADAM MOSES An Israeli mum of five is recovering from stab wounds following a terror attack in Sheikh Jarrah in east Jerusalem on Wednesday. Moriah Cohen, 26, was treated by emergency services before being taken to Hadassah Mount Scopus Hospital. She is in a stable condition. According to police, Cohen was walking with her children, including a baby, when a Palestinian female teenager stabbed her

in the back. Her children were not injured. Prime Minister Naftali Bennett praised the quick actions of security forces after arresting the teenage assailant. “I wish a hasty recovery to the woman who was on her way to kindergarten with her young children. We will not allow terrorism to lift its head,” Bennett said. Moriah’s husband, Dvir Cohen, received news from a neighbour about the attack whilst on reserve duty in the IDF. Dvir said his wife was doing well and his family together with Jewish residents were

being harassed by neighbours. “I expect the police to be more present in the area,” he reportedly said, adding that his family would not move from the area. The suspect, a member of a well-known Arab family in Sheikh Jarrah, was arrested in a nearby all-girls school she attends soon after running from the scene of the attack and taken into custody. Her parents were also arrested with the school’s head teacher, a teacher and another student for questioning. The perpetrator’s family claimed a threat

Anne Frank memorial among global antisemitic attacks BY ADAM MOSES The Anne Frank memorial in Boise, Idaho was reportedly vandalised with swastikas and antisemitic graffiti last Saturday. Dan Prinzing, Executive Director of the Wassmuth Centre described the incident 12 months after it was last defaced as “a sad day” and questioned why “hate has become so emboldened.” Boise Mayor Lauren McLean condemned the attack on Twitter, stating, “The antisemitic messages contained in the graffiti found along the Greenbelt put a literal and figurative stain on our community. This will not be tolerated. Hate speech is reprehensible. It is not who (we) are as a city and is not part of our shared values. I invite all good people of Boise to stand with me, as I stand with our Jewish neighbours, to rebuke this hate.” Chief Ryan Lee of the Boise Police Department said, “We are reaching out to Jewish leaders in our community to let them know we will not stand for such hateful and abhorrent behaviour in our city.” The memorial, dedicated in 2002, is at Boise’s Wassmuth Centre for Human Rights. The crime is amongst the latest antisemitic incidents around the world reported by World Jewish Congress, who have condemned all hate attacks, in its November 2021 monthly review. Amongst a plethora of incidents worldwide a white supremacist sticker was spotted on a Jewish grave in Tasmania, Australia. The vandalism was reportedly discovered

by a Jewish mother and daughter visiting the cemetery. A journalist on one of Brazil’s largest broadcasters said on television that the only way Brazil could match Germany’s wealth was by killing its Jews. Journalist Amanda Klein reportedly asked Jose Carlos Bernardi, of Jovem Pan how Brazil could reach the economic development enjoyed by Germany. Bernardi caused outrage in his response, reportedly replying, “Only by attacking Jews will we get there. If we kill a gazillion Jews and appropriate their economic power, then Brazil will get rich. That’s what happened with Germany after the war.” Bernardi has apologised for his “unfortunate remarks” in a statement, adding that the intention was to highlight the injustice done to Jews by Germany not recommend it. WJC-affiliated Jewish Confederation of Brazil said Bernardi’s remarks caused “distress and pain” to Jews and stressed it was offensive to compare political issues to the Holocaust. WJC condemned Bulgarian media outlets who accused the head of the Bulgarian Jewish community Dr. Alexander Oscar of crimes. Oscar is renowned for fighting hate speech and discrimination. WJC called on Bulgarian authorities to protect the local Jewish community. The President of Colombia Ivan Duque has condemned police cadets who dressed up as Nazis in a ceremony to honour Germany. Any apology for Nazism was “unacceptable”, he said. Duque confirmed those responsible

The Anne Frank memorial in Boise, Idaho

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

would be held to account, the academy head was dismissed. The ambassadors of Israel and Germany called on Colombia to educate people about the Holocaust. In Lyon, France, a teenager was arrested after brandishing a knife in front of a Jewish high school while shouting “dirty Jews”. Rabbi Menachem Margolin, European Jewish Association chairman called for education against antisemitism. He noted, “The fact that something like this is happening in 2021 in France means Europe is failing miserably at preventing the recurrence of violent antisemitism.” An 11-year-old Jewish boy was allegedly attacked by two 14-year-olds near Paris. It is understood the suspects will be charged with antisemitic violence. It is believed a suspect stated they were unaware of a Nazi salute, the other knew the gesture. Lawyers suggested the pair were influenced by a video game. In Germany, a group of 150 neo-Nazis marched in residential areas to commemorate Rudolf Hess. “The neo-Nazis show their contempt for our history and the victims of the Shoah,” commented Josef Schuster, Central Council of Jews in Germany president and a WJC vice president. “Even more important are the counter rallies. I am happy about every courageous person who opposes rightwing extremists.”

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over eviction was behind the attack. The teen’s family is among several Palestinian families due to be evicted after a court ruling over ownership. Protests with police sparked hostilities with Hamas earlier this year. The attack came days after a car-ramming attack in the West Bank and two weeks after a stabbing in the Old City of Jerusalem. Security officials said that recent terror attacks are being carried out by lone assailants. In Italy, politician Fabio Meroni, from Lissone, referred to life senator and Holocaust survivor Liliana Segre by her tatto from Auschwitz concentration camp. The President of Milan’s Jewish community Walker Meghnagi condemned the “ignoble attack” on Segre. It was not “tolerable” for a person holding public office to use such “vile” terms” he said. South African Sports Minister Nathi Mthethwa called on the Miss South Africa Organisation and contestant Lalela Mswane to withdraw from a Miss Universe competition in Eilat. WJC-affiliated South African Jewish Board of Deputies blasted Mthethwa. “South Africa has diplomatic ties and extensive commercial trade relations with Israel,” they noted. “It engages in events such as this one, such as hosting the Israeli Davis Cup team in 2018. The way we influence situations is to engage, not to withdraw. The SAJBD believes that closing doors merely isolates us from contributing.” In Oviedo, Spain, vandals defaced a Holocaust memorial. WJC-affiliated Federation of Jewish Communities of Spain called on Spanish authorities to condemn the acts and implement educational measures. In the United States, residents in Texas received antisemitic pamphlets filled with pebbles alleging Jewish leaders controlled the media and the COVID-19 agenda. In New York City, authorities are investigating a Jewish man being assaulted and a bottle being thrown at a Jewish pregnant woman in in Crown Heights, New York. Anti-vaccination protesters in New York were also seen wearing yellow stars and displaying swastika signs during a demonstration outside a Jewish Democrat assemblyman’s office. Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz condemned the incident. ”To openly display Nazi symbols outside the office of a Jewish legislator is despicable,” he said. “People are free to express their opinions on vaccine policy and on any issue, but I draw the line at swastikas.” New York Mayor Bill de Blasio slammed the symbols as “an insult to our Jewish community, especially our Holocaust survivors who have endured real pain”. He added, “This is what antisemitism looks like.” In Kiev, Ukraine, a menorah was vandalised whilst in Dnipro, five teenagers were arrested suspected of knocking over a menorah. And in Nikolayev, near Odessa, a large menorah was damaged.

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OPINION

9 DECEMBER 2021

The opinions on this page do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper

Time to look again OPINION PIECE BY ROBERT FESTENSTEIN There is little doubt that the attack on the ‘Chanukah bus’ last week amounted to a deliberate attack on Jewish children. What is also beyond doubt is that the BBC were desperate to make us believe something different. One of the entries on the BBC website (as commentary to the video) said: “An alleged anti-Semitic incident on a bus in central London is being treated as a hate crime, police have said. According to police, the abuse took place on Oxford Street on Monday night, when people on the bus had been out celebrating the Jewish festival of Hanukkah. A video on social media appears to show a group of men spitting and abusing passengers.” The video is very clear about what the attackers are about. They are clearly seen spitting, throwing Nazi salutes and one of them takes his shoe off and uses that to strike the bus. How is a Nazi salute alleged? How can a video which shows the spitting and shoe strike be described as ‘appears’? The answer is both simple and sinister.

Simple because the BBC too often only acknowledges an attack as anti-Semitic if it meets their pre-determined criteria which are all about the perpetrator. The attack can only properly be described as anti-Semitic if the attacker is white and has far right sympathies. If these conditions are not met, then the qualified words are moved in, as with the video commentary – ‘alleged’ and ‘appears’. Not only were the BBC conditions not met, but they were also faced with the difficulty that this attack on Jews was undertaken by people who were not white. To make matters worse the man using his shoe served to narrow down his likely identity. In Arab cultures, the shoe has long been used as the object of insults due to its association with dirt and with being put on the foot, the lowest part of the body. Faced with their worst nightmare – video evidence of a man likely to be a Muslim attacking a bus full of Jewish children – the BBC resorted to the well-used strategy of victim blaming. In addition to using qualifying words they then lied about what was said by the children by claiming that they were using anti-Muslim language. Suddenly the attack was less important, what was more significant was the language used by the children on the bus.

And that’s how it’s done. When faced with evidence of an anti-Semitic attack which involved at least one Muslim man, the BBC smoothly turned it around to blame the Jews. Suddenly the focus was on what was said on the bus and the attack became less significant.

THE [BBC] CHARTER SETS OUT THE BBC’S PUBLIC PURPOSES AS FOLLOWS:

1. To provide impartial news and information to help people understand and engage with the world around them. 2. To support learning for people of all ages. 3. To show the most creative, highest quality and distinctive output and services. 4. To reflect, represent and serve the diverse communities of all of the United Kingdom’s nations and regions and, in doing so, support the creative economy across the United Kingdom. 5. To reflect the United Kingdom, its culture and values to the world. The BBC has manifestly ignored these principals. The Zionist Central Council in Manchester has been following this and other reports for some time and it is time for a formal complaint to be made. Our

complaint to the BBC is as follows: a) You mis-reported the bus attack by the use of qualifying words when the evidence was there to make such qualification unnecessary and breaching the requirement of impartiality of principle 1. b) You failed to report the significance of the use of the man’s shoe in Arab culture c) You fabricated that there had been the use of anti-Muslim language by children on the bus as it was being attacked in breach of principles 3 and 5 d) You have wholly failed to serve the Jewish community when its members have come under attack, in breach of principle 4. We await the results of your investigation with interest and in the meantime repeat our concern that the BBC has an in-built prejudice against Jews which sadly so clearly manifested itself last week. Robert Festenstein is a practising solicitor and has been the principal of his Salford based firm for over 20 years. He has fought BDS motions to the Court of Appeal and is President of the Zionist Central Council in Manchester which serves to protect and defend the democratic State of Israel.

UNIVERSITY JEWISH CHAPLAINCY ARE LOOKING FOR:

HEAD OF FUNDRAISING

University Jewish Chaplaincy supports thousands of students at universities around the UK. Our Chaplains and Chaplaincy couples are there for Jewish students of all backgrounds, providing a warm, vibrant, inclusive and inspiring Jewish environment. Our goal is to give Jewish students – wherever they may be – an enriched and supported Jewish experience on campus. We are seeking a Head of Fundraising who would like to make a significant difference to Jewish student life on campus and to manage and develop all aspects of our fundraising. The core focus of the role will be the development and implementation of a fundraising strategy, donor and grant stewardship, and the running of fundraising appeals, with oversight of the organisation's marketing and communications.

Salary £40-£45k per annum, full-time preferable but will consider part time with flexible working For more information and a job description please email: office@mychaplaincy.co.uk Closing date 31/12/21 www.mychaplaincy.co.uk Charity Number: 1126031

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International Superstar Nissim Black rocks Chabad of Essex in his first ever full London Concert On Wednesday 1st of December Chabad Essex made World Music History when they brought the Famous American-Israeli Rapper Nissim Black to the UK for a ONE NIGHT London Chanukah Concert at The City Pavilion Essex as part of Nissim’s “Bright Lights Tour 2021”. This was Nissim Black’s first ever full concert in London. Nissim has visited and performed in London before, however, each time was for small private events, this was his first full stage production performance in London and Chabad were honoured to have had this special opportunity. Led by Chabad Buckhurst Hill, with Shluchim Rabbi Odom & Henny Brandman with a dedicated production team of Adrian Silas, Adrian Lee, Esther Joseph and their Shluchos Sonia Beame and Morrisa Schuler, over 600 people from across Essex and London were blown away with Nissim’s energy filled and inspiring performance. Rabbi Odom Brandman, of Chabad Buckhurst Hill, who oversaw the concert, said “Nissim has an amazing story, he is a unique and special character and was both a total pleasure and professional to work with and was inspirational and uplifting to everyone at the concert”. Chabad across Essex has 9 public Menorahs and holds events every evening of Chanukah. Last year, as the UK was in partial lock-down over Chanukah, they thought out of the box and put on a phenomenal Drive-In Concert attended by nearly 1,000 people. This year, in the spirit of Chanukah of always growing and doing bigger and better, they decided they needed an international celebrity to star at this year’s Chanukah central event. Finding the right venue and securing everything needed to pull such a huge event proved extremely challenging, but

Nissom Black in action

Rabbi Odom Brandman with Nissim Black

PHOTO: YOSSI ABRAMS, CHERISH SHOTS

the spiritual investment into the community was the driving force that made it all worth it. Nissim Black has been a gangsta rapper, a gang member, and a faith seeker. But it is his current incarnation that is here to stay: an

African American Chasidic Jew who brings sharp beats and hooked-filled rhymes to the masses. His single of 2020, “Mothaland Bounce” is a confluence of everything he’s ever done, and everywhere he’s ever been. The vibe is old school, but the song is thoroughly fresh, pairing big beats with an African hook and a catchy chorus for a video that has already garnered over 4.5 million views on YouTube! The venue was transformed by the amazing talent of CVS International complete with a star cloth backdrop, lights, huge screens and spark effects. Over 600 people of all ages and backgrounds gathered together in the plush Millennium Suite for the Musical Rollercoaster of 90 non-stop minutes of incredible songs & tracks by Nissim that made for a totally memorable evening and event for one and all.

Rabbi Sacks Chair of Modern Jewish Thought established BY SIMCHA ABIR LSJS has announced that Rabbi Dr Raphael Zarum will become the first Rabbi Sacks Chair of Modern Jewish Thought. Rabbi Dr Zarum will teach, write and publicly amplify teachings of one of our generation’s greatest Rabbis. “It is the honour of my life to spread the teachings of Rabbi Sacks, may his memory be a blessing, and to take the opportunity of this new appointment to focus further on teaching, writing and sharing in this wonderful tradition of ours.” Lady Elaine Sacks welcomed the appointment. “At LSJS, Rabbi Dr Zarum has been a colleague and student of my dear husband for more years than I can remember. He is an

old and dear friend and is the perfect choice.” Joanne Greenaway, LSJS CEO, said “We are honoured at LSJS to be continuing the legacy of a Torah giant who played such a pivotal role in the development of our institution and our outlook. I am excited for this opportunity for Rabbi Dr Zarum to amplify Rabbi Sacks’ teachings and take them to new audiences.” She added, “I would like to thank our friends at the Rabbi Sacks Legacy Trust for their support and we look forward to working closely with them.” LSJS thanked the Zandan family, from Austin, Texas, for establishing the new position. “We very much want to keep Rabbi Sacks’ work and impact growing,” said Peter Zandan.

As Rabbi Dr Zarum takes up this post, LSJS welcomed Michael Rainsbury as Head of Adult Education. Michael completed his MA Jewish Education and trained as a teacher at LSJS. His experience as a formal and informal educator in the UK and Israel, they noted, would enable him to build on the growing international learning community at the organisation. LSJS added that previous roles at Yeshivat Eretz HaTzvi, Bnei Akiva JRoots and King Solomon school would bring new approaches to the adult education programme. For details of the Sacks Chair or LSJS telephone 0208 203 6427 or email lsjsadmin@ lsjs.ac.uk

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During a quick costume change for Nissim, Rabbi Odom Brandman of Chabad Buckhurst Hill and Rabbi Aryeh Sufrin MBE of Chabad Gants Hill and Head Shliach to North East London & Essex, took to the stage to light a huge Menorah and share some words of inspiration with the crowd. Rabbi Sufrin spoke amount the amazing growth of Chabad across Essex now with 9 public Menorahs and Rabbi Brandman spoke about the tremendous effects our positive displays of Jewish Pride can have on our communities. The night was an amazing experience from start to finish for everyone and without a doubt the big highlight of Chanukah in Essex 2021. One of the Chabad Team heard a little boy turn to his mother on the way out and say: “that was the BEST DAY of my LIFE!”. A teacher from a London Jewish School who brought a group of 23 teenagers said “the positive Jewish effect of such a concert, is more than 6 months of Jewish Studies lessons in the classroom”. – Rabbi Odom Brandman commented, when you hear things like this, makes it all worth it! One not to be forgotten and one to make Chabad Essex once again stand out as a leading force here in the UK when it comes to Community. After the concert Nissim came back to Chabad Buckhurst Hill where Rabbi Odom Brandman presented him with an inscribed Tanya printed in the Chabad House and one of the last remaining bottles of Chabad Buckhurst Hill’s famous Menorah Whisky from 2009. As for next year and how to go “Higher” and have more “Change” as two of Nissim’s song titles are named it is a question that can only be answered when you remember that Chabad Essex is always saying ”Expect The Unexpected”.

9 DECEMBER 2021

Tzipi meets Jewish youth groups

Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely meets Jewish youth movements

Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely hosted representatives from Jewish youth movements for a candle lighting ceremony during Chanukah. Movement workers and members of the youth organisations including FZY, Bnei Akiva, BBYO and Tribe joined the Ambassador and her family for refreshments and music in celebration of the Jewish festival. The evening followed a social action project headed by the Embassy, in which the ovements were given Chanukah cards to send to Israeli Youth group ‘Krembo Wings’ an organisation which provides extracurricular activities for children with additional needs. The project, as well as the evening, more

generally, aimed to strengthen the connection between the next generation of Jewish people in Israel and in the Diaspora. Ambassador Hotovely shared words of encouragement and inspiration with the guests. “I have long been passionate about strengthen the bridge between young people in Israel and the UK,” she noted. “The Israeli embassy will keep on working closely with youth movements and I look forward to hearing and learning from you, our future leaders.” Event attendee, Sammy Kemp commented, “It was an incredibly enjoyable evening and a pleasure to have such close engagement with the Israeli Ambassador and other movements.”

On the last day of Chanukah, Manchester Mesivta held a minyan and freshly cooked breakfast for year 7 pupils and fathers. After their pancakes and waffles, they all took part in the Ovos Uvonim learning together. Freshly cooked pancakes and waffles being served

PHOTO: LAWRENCE PURCELL.

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Education Minister visits Kisharon Noe School

Kisharon Noé School hosted a visit from Education minister Baroness Barran

Education minister Baroness Barran visited Kisharon Noe School last Thursday. Baroness Barran, whose government remit covers faith and free schools like the Noé school, saw the rebuilt premises, met staff and children, some with profound learning disabilities. The Baroness heard how the pandemic had changed the teaching profession and was taken round the school by Headteacher Dr Emily Haddock and Chief Executive Richard Franklin. Gary Mond, BOD Senior Vice President and Chair of the Community and Education Division, joined the visit. They discussed challenges of delivering an education that satisfies families of all levels of Jewish orthodoxy including the importance of curriculum and safeguarding.

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The Baroness took interest in hearing positive feedback from parents on their children’s home learning experience and was pleased to about access to teachers daily and tailored online lessons. Kisharon Chief Executive Richard Franklin asked Baroness Barran to clarify funding of further education for people with learning disabilities following the allocation of over £1bn for social care over the next three years. This cash injection followed the publication of the social care white paper last week. They also spoke about OFSTED inspector recruitment and SEN requirements. Dr Emily Haddock welcomed showcasing Kisharon and discussing challenges faith schools face.

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Chanukah fun for Camp Simcha families

Chanochi (left) and Ian Pearl

Inflatables, games, arts, crafts, a stilt-walker, candy floss and Chanukah nosh brought festival fun to Camp Simcha families as the charity welcomed them back to its first in-person party for two years.

Over 130 family members enjoyed the fun-filled afternoon at JFS in Kenton, as they worked their way around three rooms of activities. Camp Simcha Head of Services Daniel

Dina Kahan

Gillis said: “It was wonderful to be able to welcome our families back to a party after so long. We put a lot of thought into making

it as safe as possible for them – and it was wonderful to see them relaxing and enjoying themselves. “While the children had fun, many of the parents really enjoyed being able to see each other and chat face to face again. While we have arranged virtual meet-ups, just having the time and space to chat with other parents who are facing similar challenges is really beneficial – not to mention the emotional boost of seeing their children have a great time.” Camp Simcha parent Nikki Bloom from North London was attending an in-person event for the first time, having come to the charity during Covid-19. “Camp Simcha first started supporting us mid-pandemic after my son Joey was diagnosed with a Wilms’ Tumour,” said Mrs Bloom, “so this is the first party we have been to and I was absolutely blown away. “It was just incredible and it was full of happiness and joy, rather than a room full of people coping with terrible challenges. People were enjoying themselves and it felt like an amazing escape from real life. “Joey had the best time. We couldn’t attend the Camp Simcha outings when he was having chemotherapy because of the risk of infection so it was lovely for me to see him running around and having fun without worrying about infection – and having the strength to enjoy himself.”

Chanukah Melaveh Malka at Stenecourt

The youngest walking on hot coals

PHOTO: LAWRENCE PURCELL.

Walking on hot coals with a temperature of 6000C were these brave people at Broughton Jewish Cassel Fox Primary School. The hot coal fire walk was under the expert guidance of two times Guinness World record holder Scott Bell.

Ian Rosenhead and Rav Ari Silbermann

This past Saturday evening, Stenecourt held a Chanukah Melaveh Malka. Attendees were treated to live Chanukah music from Rav Ari Silberman of Mizrachi UK, accompanied by Mr. Ian Rosenhead. The

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communal menorah was lit by Avi Kleerekoper and all the children were treated to chocolate gelt, sufganiyot and glow sticks. Following the concert children enjoyed making Chanukah crafts.

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Lighting up the lives of older people this Chanukah This Chanukah, Jewish Care has brought light and joy, supporting older people in the community. Residents in care homes, older people living and members of community centres are delighted to be back together again to celebrate Chanukah in-person, with candle-lighting, doughnuts, latkes and entertainment together with Rabbi Junik, Jewish Care’s Spiritual and Pastoral Lead. At Jewish Care’s Holocaust Survivors’ Centre, members enjoyed a full programme with the regular Yiddish and Kiddush groups in-person and hybrid activities on Zoom for those at home. Staff and volunteers lit Chanukah candles through the week with members and enjoyed Chanukah songs, entertainment and doughnuts. Residents at Jewish Care’s Hyman Fine House in Brighton, received Chanukah gifts at Jewish Care from the online knitters at Jewish Care’s Supportive Communities Knit, Stitch and Natter group. The knitters sent the residents woolly hats and scarfs in a range of colours for residents to choose from. Jewish Care’s befriending service is still on hand to help many older people staying at home, ensuring they stay connected and receive the support they may need. Since the pandemic began, Jewish Care’s Volunteers team have coordinated the befriending service, which has expanded from calling around 150 older people a week, to calling up to 900 people a week. The befriending team are working with nearly 30 volunteer

Jewish Care Hyman Fine House delighted with Chanukah gifts

coordinators, who supported 375 volunteers to deliver this much-needed service. One volunteer, Alan, calls Albert every week and, coincidentally, found out after they were introduced, that Alan used to work with Albert’s brother. Both Albert and Alan enjoy their calls together very much and spend a lot of time reminiscing. Albert says, “It’s nice to receive a call from someone who will chat!”. The volunteers team also coordinate numerous volunteers who are delivering latkes, doughnuts, latkes and candles with Jewish Care’s Meals on Wheels this Chanukah,

GIFT Lights up Manchester Students at the King David School in Manchester have given out ‘hug tokens’ to friends and family, after watching a Sparks of Giving video made by GIFT. Head of Kodesh, Rayna Glickman wrote to the GIFT team after she had shown her pupils the special Chanukah edition of Sparks of Giving: ‘We were watching your Sparks of Giving video and discussing how we can show love to another person and on the spur of the moment we decided to make ‘hug tokens’ just Children from King David Primary School Manchester with the Hug Tokens they like you demonstrated on made after watching GIFT’s ‘Sparks Of Giving’ your video, for the children to give out to a short video based on the week’s Torah portion, inspiring young people to give and family and friends.’ Rabbi Avrohom Zeidman, GIFT’s Senior make a difference to others. The videos are Educator, noted, ‘It is great to see how in watched in almost 20 primary and secondKing David School the theory of giving is ary schools across London and Manchesbeing put into action. Headteachers ap- ter, with parents and adults watching too proach me on a regular basis explaining after being encouraged by their kids. Over how much the pupils love watching the 60 acclaimed videos have been made since videos and really relate to the importance the series was launched. of being a giver. These students are a perfect example of fulfilling GIFT’s mission, For more information, visit https://www. to inspire and enable lifelong giving in the jgift.org/education/sparks-of-giving To sign up to the weekly broadcast, email community.’ Each week, GIFT’s education team posts education@jgift.org

stopping for a chat. They might be the only person that the recipient sees all day and so volunteers really help to light up their lives all year round. The Jewish Care Direct Helpline, along with the Social Work and Family Carers Team, support 1300 people to receive the care they need. People like Delia, a full-time carer, who is living with a disability. Delia says, “The Family Carers Team are amazing, and make me I feel that I am not alone.” Gifts kindly given through the Jewish Care Families fundraising initiative are brightening the day for Jewish Care residents, tenants

and community centre members too. Gifts have been wrapped by volunteers and personalised Chanukah cards made by young volunteers from JC Families and Cards for Care. Children from twenty schools, including Immanuel College and youth movements, are bringing warmth and joy to older people at Jewish Care. Muriel Marks, who is a resident at Jewish Care’s Kun Mor & George Kiss Home, was delighted with her gift from JC Families and her Chanukah card made for her by 5-yearold, Asher Raymond. Muriel says, “I’m very happy to receive the gift and looking forward to my first Chanukah at the home.” Asher adds, “I had so much fun making the cards and wrapping presents!” Daniel Carmel-Brown, Jewish Care Chief Executive, says, “We continue to be inspired by the message of hope and light in the Chanukah story. We are pleased that older people supported by Jewish Care will be able to celebrate a really special Chanukah again this year and we thank our supporters for their continued support and once again ask for their generosity to help us light up the lives of thousands of our clients this Chanukah and beyond.” If you’d like to make a donation to Jewish Care, please call 020 0922 2600 or donate securely at jewishcare/donate and to find out more about Jewish Care services contact helpline@jewishcare.org or 020 8922 2222.

Peles performs in aid of Simcha LaYeled

JNF UK CEO Shai Bezalely - Tzemach Production Team-Idit and Dikla Cohen-min

Israeli Keren Peles entertained a fundraising evening at the Leonardo Hotel in London for Simcha LaYeled on Sunday. The JNF UK sponsored evening hosted by international journalist Shirit Gal Kedar aimed to raise £108,000 to support children with severe physical disabilities but normal cognitive abilities in Israel. Funds will help Simcha LaYeled offer 60 children from Be’er Sheva and southern district of the country a chance to become active members of society. Gideon Falter, JNF UK vice chairman was among key speakers. “When you see the impact Simcha LaYeled is having on these children, you cannot help but be inspired to help raise the funds that are needed,” he said. Gabriella Pfeefer and Idit Cohen lit the Chanukiah.

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Idit’s mother, Dikla, moved the audience with her day-to-day experiences and noted how the charity aids her family’s mental health and parental well-being. An emotive duet of “Great Light” by Idit and Gabriela received a standing ovation. JNF UK Fellowship Programme members were able to experience first-hand how the charity helps children in need in Israel’s peripheries. Dr Shai Bezalely, JNF UK CEO, commented, “We are proud to be part of life-changing events and fundraisers like Simcha LaYeled, and that the community, along with our Fellows, are able to gain a deeper understanding of the importance of the work we do and the lives we affect.” Simcha LaYeled thanked 300 Israelis living in London who came to support Israel and the special activities of our association.

22 COMMUNITY

Work Avenue recruitment fair a hit

Over 50 people take part in Chanucut

One on one consultation at the recruitment fair

Over 75 people attended the first recruitment fair held by Work Avenue. The employment and business charity responded to an “explosion” in vacancies in recent months. The Work Avenue team put on a ‘Coffee, Cake & Career’ morning to meet a range of new clients as they currently have a record number of positions to fill. There are 130 currently on the jobs board. Yael Solomons, Work Avenue’s Job Placement Manager, said, “There really has been an explosion in vacancies, with so many employers in the community choosing to advertise with us. It was wonderful to meet all these new applicants and we are expecting lots of placements as a result. “This was our first recruitment fair, but it won’t be the last.” Over 125 vacancies have been filled by Work Avenue in 50 communal organisations over the last two years through its jobs board. The charity has also helped hundreds more into work through its mix of workshops, seminars and one-to-one expert advice – all of which are free of charge. Positions filled range from entry level admin roles, through to mid-management and office staff, up to COOs and CEOs. “Even during the darkest days of the pandemic there was some community

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recruitment going on, but there has been a significant uplift this year,” commented Work Avenue CEO David Arden. “Not only do Work Avenue reach more people keen to hear about exciting career opportunities within the community, and beyond, than anyone else, but our main purposes are charitable, so we are not focussed on making a profit.” He added, “Our aim is to operate at the heart of the Jewish community, helping people find work and business and charities find staff, in order to improve the lives of the community we serve.” Noa Girls, which offers practical, emotional and therapeutic support for adolescent girls in the Orthodox community, has been using Work Avenue to help fill roles for several years. Director of Operations Judy Silkoff said, “Work Avenue is so much more cost effective for us than using a recruitment agency, they are great at sending candidates to us for consideration and are always so helpful and supportive. Their service is of real benefit to the community and events like this recruitment fair will expand their reach even further.” The Coffee, Cake & Career event saw members of Work Avenue’s team set up stalls featuring job roles from admin to finance to sales.

The fourth Zichron Menachem Chanucut was held Erev Chanukah at Hasmonean Boys School on Sunday. Some 48 participants from three years old to adult pre-registered but five others supporting friends and family donated hair. There was a fun and emotional buzz with bouncy castles, face-painting, glitter art, nail and make -up, as well as nosh bags, candy floss, popcorn and doughnuts. Suri Friesel, a cancer survivor who had previously received a Zichron Menachem wig before her chemotherapy, was grateful to now be able to give back. Miriam from Manchester was determined to join ChanuCut, they came for a few hours and went back home for candle lighting. Shoshi who booked in for her own haircut was delighted that her daughter joined her for an amazing cause. One of the hairdressers, described the atmosphere as “electrifying”. A make-up volunteers donated her hair some time ago and was delighted to be back helping children in a different way. Zichron Menchem UK chairman, Eli Seliger, was delighted to hold the party after cancelling 12 months ago due to the pandemic. “As always, we are moved by the generosity of our hair donors and the volunteers who give of their time and expertise so willingly,” he said.

Leah Gefen

Details of how to join the Great Lengths project or next hair party: adina@zichronuk.org

St Albans Mayor joins Chanukah celebrations

JNF UK legacy clients celebrate Chanukah in person Clients and friends of KKL were treated to a spectacular Chanukah celebration at the first in-person get-together of JNF UK’s legacy department in two years. The socially distanced event was the first face-to-face event that some clients had been to since the start of the pandemic. Alongside a lunch, entertainment was provided by Daniel Benisty, who sang ‘big band’ songs and a few classics from the musicals. Carolyn Addleman, Director of Legacies, said, “It was a real privilege to see how

delighted everyone was to be out of their homes and able to come together in person again to celebrate Chanukah together.” Director of Community Relations David Goodman led Chanukah lighting. KKL holds events at significant times of the year to help prevent some of its clients from celebrating alone. During the pandemic KKL hosted events on Zoom, including a Chanukah lighting with young musicians from a Music Conservatory in the Negev that had recently been renovated by JNF UK.

Mayor of St Albans Cllr Edgar Hill with St Albans US co-chair Elissa Da Costa-Waldman and Rabbi Daniel Sturgess

Mayor of St Albans, Cllr Edgar Hill, joined this year’s lighting of a giant Chanukiah in the town centre last Sunday. The ceremony, organised by St Albans United Synagogue, took place at the Clock Tower. Canon Kevin Walton from St Albans Cathedral and representatives of local Jewish community lit candles. A large crowd watched under the guidance of the synagogue’s minister, Rabbi Daniel Sturgess, whose 10-year-old son Yeshaya lit a candle. Synagogue members

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handed out doughnuts. In his address, Rabbi Sturgess said that the messages of Chanukah are as relevant now as they ever were. “Religious freedom is not something we take for granted in the UK in 2021,” he said. “Chanukah reminds us to be grateful for all that we have in our lives, but it also reminds us to be a light in the world and to spread kindness and light wherever we go.” The Mayor commented, “It is great to have this spirit of inclusion in St Albans.”

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COMMUNITY 23

Aish ‘White Party’ Jewish community represented at the ‘Wood’ celebrates Chanukah

Jonathan Metliss and Rabbi Hughes

The Jewish community were well represented at Boreham Wood’s FA Cup tie on Monday night.

In the press box at Meadow Park for the second round match against local rivals St Albans City were Jonathan Metliss, Chairman of Action Against Discrimination, The Jewish Weekly and solicitors Axiom Stone DWFM, and Rabbi Jonny Hughes, Rabbi of Radlett Synagogue and currently on sabbatical. Rabbi Hughes is a former professional footballer who played for Reading and Swindon Town. They saw Boreham Wood win 4-0 and march on to a Third Round tie at home to AFC Wimbledon in January. “We survived traffic jams, freezing cold weather, pitch invasions and hurling missiles. But it was great fun,” said Metliss. The pair were well looked after with home officials and stewards escorting them into and out of the ground before and after the game.

Seed Lights Up Schools This Chanukah

One on one consultation at the recruitment fair

On Saturday night London’s young Jewish community celebrated Chanukah like never before, all in white! Aish Young Professionals hosted London’s first ever Chanukah en Blanc in a studio converted beautifully into a magnificent white wonder just off the trendy Bermondsey Street. Young Professionals had a chance to meet each other, socialise and enjoy some wonderful Chanukah treats as well as get to know some of our YP staff and team in London. The event featured upbeat music from DJ Dan Kraines and Richie Sax, as well as a range of gourmet canapes and drinks. Of course no Chanukah event is complete without a smorgasbord of beautiful and tasty donuts at the buffet statio. For many of those who joined us, the highlight of the evening was the experience of having hundreds of young Jews joining together in a powerful and moving Havdalah ceremony

and the lighting of Menorah. The bright light of the Chanukah menorah that shown that night will definitely be something that stays deep in the hearts of all there that night as Aish YPs rapidly growing community celebrated as young proud passionate Jews. “It was just so nice to get out again and see people as well as participate in this fun festival. Things aren’t fully back to normal yet but it felt so normal and special at the same time to be part of this Chanukah together.” Suzy, YP attendee. “It was an absolute pleasure celebrating Chanukah with so many young Jewish professionals in central London. The atmosphere and energy throughout were incredible, the highlight being our live Havdalah concert followed by a candle lighting. We were so glad to see so many faces together that have been apart for so long.” Rabbi Eli Birnbaum, Aish UK Director of Education.

Mizrachi UK raises over £750,000 Rosh Pinah boy with his Seed Chanukah game

The Seed schools programme is thriving under the able leadership of Rabbi Daniel Fine. Last week our schools department launched Seed’s own original Chanukah game (see attached image), distributing game boards and dreidels to 2,000 families from eight London schools, plus over 900 dreidel-themed activity packs. We devised the game to encourage families to discuss Jewish topics at home, asking players to answer questions such as “Who is your Jewish role model and why?”. Our friends at Norwood even asked

us for some game boards for their service users - watch how they used them here: https://www.facebook.com/norwooduk/ videos/924517358471327/ Additionally, our schools team ran inschool Chanukah sessions for 600 parents and children at London schools Wolfson Hillel, Etz Chaim and Mathilda Marks, as well as North Cheshire in Manchester. We also prepared and distributed 455 Chanukah-themed arts and craft packs for Hertsmere Jewish Primary School families to do together at home.

Weekend of Mizrachi UK’s ‘InUK from across the communispiring Leaders: Influencing our ty has been inspiring. This has Future’ campaign culminates in reaffirmed our standing in the £750,000 online fundraiser communities that we support. Mizrachi UK’s ‘Inspiring Leaders: The money raised from this Influencing our Future’ campaign campaign will go a long way to harnessed support from across the ensuring we can continue to UK and team leaders from across provide Leadership Programthe generations to deliver an imming, Community Engagement pressive result. Programmes and further the By late Monday night, the 219 Rabbi Andrew Shaw Yehudi Initiative. On Monday night, as the fundraising teams and close to 2,300 donors from across the globe and had campaign came to a close, Mizrachi UK’s raised over £750,000. Remarkably Mizrachi Chairman, Steven Blumgart reflected, “It was UK’s Yehudi young volunteers rallied to sup- important for us that our campaign not only port the fundraiser and generated close to raised money but also the profile of Mizrachi £55,000. UK. We are working with schools, campuses Speaking as the educational organisation and communities and we hope the success met its target, Mizrachi UK CEO Rabbi An- of this campaign will serve to inspire our deddrew Shaw said, “The support for Mizrachi icated team to do even more across the UK.

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Looking for answers? Send your question to Rabbi@RabbiSchochet.com SHOULD I TELL THEM I’M NOT VACCINATED? Dear Rabbi I attended a Chanukah party last week and of course the conversation of vaccines came up. I was asked if I got mine and I chose to say “yes,” even though I didn’t. I simply didn’t want to cause an argument in the middle of the party. My wife insisted to me afterwards that I should not have lied and that if I choose not to vaccinate I should be open and honest about it and stand up for my principles. My question is, is it proper to be less forthcoming about your vaccination status in order to avoid unnecessary arguments or harassment? David Dear David Everyone’s favourite dinner table topic. Did you get vaccinated? Did you get your booster? Which one did you get? Was it Pfizer? Did you have a reaction? And then there are the so-called sophisticated who like to talk Delta, Omnicron etc. (They’re usually the ones who never say “covid” but “covid 19”). Can’t we talk about something else for a change? There are two issues at play here. The first is the requirement to get vaccinated. As discussed here before, most Halachic authorities maintain that one has an obligation to take medically recommended vaccinations. On the basis of the Torah mandate, “and heal he shall heal” we derive that G-d gives man licence to heal and we do not say, “If G-d made me ill, He will make me better.” Or worse still, “if G-d wants me to get Covid then I will

get it and it is not for me to resist it through a vaccine.” To be sure, Judaism believes in man’s free will and the significance of our actions, and not in pre-determinism or fatalism. As in the words of the commentaries on the Talmud (Bava Kama 85a) one is not allowed to rely on miracles but must follow the way of the world. That said, the question is misleading because it presumes that one who is unvaccinated is more likely to transmit infection. This is factually incorrect. According to all research, individuals who have had all the relevant vaccine doses, while unlikely to get the infection themselves, are nevertheless just as likely to transit the infection as an unvaccinated individual. As such, there is no point or purpose in revealing to others that you are unvaccinated if that’s going to trigger tensions. But if asked, rather than outright lie about it, one can be economical with the truth for the sake of broader harmony, with a line something like, “why would anyone not want to be vaccinate?”

WHY DID SHE SUFFER? Dear Rabbi My wife was diagnosed with Non Hodgkin Lymphoma in 2013.During the four years she was ill she had numerous surgeries, radiotherapy and sadly passed away in Nov 2017 age 67. She looked after her mum who had a stroke; she looked after her dad for 10 years with cancer; she looked after me with health issues and was so good to lots of relatives. Why does such a caring person have

Pirkei Avot

‫ּדֹוס ַּתאי ְּב ַר ִּבי יַ ּנַ אי ִמּשּׁום ַר ִּבי ֵמ ִאיר‬ ְ ‫ַר ִּבי‬ ,‫ֹׁוכ ַח ָּד ָבר ֶא ָחד ִמ ִּמ ְׁשנָ תֹו‬ ֵ ‫ ָּכל ַהּש‬,‫אֹומר‬ ֵ ,‫ַמ ֲע ֶלה ָע ָליו ַה ָּכתּוב ְּכ ִאּלּו ִמ ְת ַחּיֵ ב ְּבנַ ְפׁשֹו‬ ‫ּוׁשמֹר‬ ְ ‫ֶׁשּנֶ ֱא ַמר (דברים ד) ַרק ִה ָּשׁ ֶמר ְל ָך‬ ‫נַ ְפ ְׁש ָך ְמאֹד ֶּפן ִּת ְׁש ַּכח ֶאת ַה ְּד ָב ִרים ֲא ֶׁשר‬ ָ ֶ‫ָראּו ֵעינ‬ ,‫ יָ כֹול ֲא ִפּלּו ָת ְק ָפה ָע ָליו ִמ ְׁשנָ תֹו‬.‫יך‬ ‫ּופן יָ סּורּו ִמ ְּל ָב ְב ָך ּכֹל‬ ֶ )‫לֹומר (שם‬ ַ ‫ַּת ְלמּוד‬ ָ ֶ‫יְ ֵמי ַחּי‬ ‫ ָהא ֵאינֹו ִמ ְת ַחּיֵ ב ְּבנַ ְפׁשֹו ַעד‬,‫יך‬ :‫יס ֵירם ִמ ִּלּבֹו‬ ִ ‫ֶׁשּיֵ ֵׁשב ִו‬

Rabbi Dostai ben Rabbi Yannai said in the name of Rabbi Meir: Whoever forgets one word of his study, scripture accounts it to him as if he were mortally guilty, as it

to suffer so much? I know we all have to die but why the need for suffering before that? And do you believe we go to the next world when we do pass? Noah Dear Noah It is precisely the answer to your second question that balances somewhat your first question. Yes, fundamental to Jewish belief is that when we leave this world we go somewhere else. That “somewhere else” is a place where one basks in the euphoria of Divine bliss. Can I describe that to you? No, because I have never been there (and hopefully won’t be there for a long time to come). Think about your hand inside a glove that is moving. To the outside observer the glove is moving, but in reality it is of course the hand that is the essence and that is moving. So too, the soul is contained within a body. The soul is the essence and while it comes into this world for a period of time, it is contained within a body. The body, like the glove, remains totally ineffective without the soul, and the soul too cannot achieve anything here if not contained within the body. Together they go through a journey. Sometimes it is a smooth ride. Other times it could be quite rough, as in the case of your beloved wife. I cannot tell you why one person suffers more than another, or indeed why there is suffering in the world altogether. What I can tell you is that there are checks and balances and whatever a person endures in this world, for whatever the reason, will be

balanced against the even greater reward they will receive in the next world. Of course the ideal would be not to suffer here and still experience immense reward elsewhere, but that ultimately is G-d’s accounting, and “My thoughts are not your thoughts.” Take some comfort, even if only a grain of comfort, in

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For Refuah Shalema for Mordechai Ben Chaya Sara is said, “But take utmost care and watch yourselves scrupulously, so that you do not forget the things that you saw with your own eyes” (Deuteronomy 4:9). One could [have inferred that this is the case] even when his study proved [too] hard for him, therefore scripture says, “that they do not fade from your mind as long as you live” (ibid.). Thus, he is not mortally guilty unless he deliberately removes them from his heart. This Mishnah is very difficult to understand! How is it possible that one can be found guilty on his life just for forgetting one word of his studies? It sounds

almost barbaric! The truth is the language of the Mishnah is meant to help one gradually adjust to the importance and brilliance of the Torah and of living a Torah lifestyle. By devoting oneself to proper and serious study, one will cling to Hashem and never stray. If one’s attitude is lazy and they are not concerned with remembering all of Hashem’s Torah, then they don’t take life serious enough for the true Torah Jew. It is definitely a very high level to be on but that doesn’t mean we must not try!

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knowing that your wife is somewhere else – receiving immense reward. And indeed, as I often say, when one is taken so young and before their time, there is obvious need for another angel in heaven. From your description of your wife, she was clearly an angel to so many here on earth.

Perek 3: Mishna 8

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Torah from Israel

JUDAISM 27

Vayigash: Do You Speak Hebrew? BY RABBI MOSHE TARAGIN They couldn’t believe their eyes- having assumed for twenty-two years that Yosef was lost to slavery or even murdered, they could hardly imagine that he currently stood before them as the second most powerful man on Earth. Flabbergasted and speechless they wondered about the identity of this intimidating accuser turned “loving brother”. Could this really be Yosef? Maybe he was an impostor or perhaps this was just another stage of his crafty manipulation. Looks can be deceiving but language is very reliable. The midrash reports that by speaking directly to his brothers in Hebrew, Yosef convinced them of his true identity. Prior to the great reveal, he communicated with them through a translator, pretending to be Hebrew-illiterate. Hearing him speak Hebrew convinced the skeptical brothers that this foreign-looking man was their longlost brother. Language is that powerful. Our return to our homeland and to historical relevancy has awakened a language which had been left for dead. For centuries, Hebrew was spoken in the rooms of study and the halls of prayer, but hadn’t been used colloquially. Suddenly, lost language was resurrected, thereby refreshing Jewish identity. In our new world, speaking Hebrew is essential for religious identity for several reasons:

IS IT A MITZVAH?

Hebrew is termed “lashon hakodesh” or a sacred language. Generally, language has no objective or absolute meaning. All language is merely a convention- words and meanings agreed upon by communities, countries or ethnicities. Language, by definition cannot be holy and certainly can’t be holier than other languages. Hebrew is different. It is the language of Hashem, the language He employed to create His world and to reveal His will to humanity. Some- including the Rambam- asserted that there is a formal mitzvah to know or even to speak Hebrew. Likewise, many applied halachik guidelines to any texts written in Hebrew- even without Torah content. For example, some debate the permissibility of bringing any Hebrew text into an unclean environment such as a bathroom. Even if there is no formal mitzvah to speak Hebrew, this language is a gateway to greater access of Torah. Over the past forty years we have experienced a literary revolution, as enormous volumes of Torah have been translated into English. This has transformed Torah study, making it accessible to countless non-Hebrew speakers. However, as valuable as this shift has been, direct and frontal encounter of Torah in its original language is far superior-intellectually and spiritually- to studying translations. Additionally,

from a purely practical standpoint, in the internet age, Hebrew facility provides access to a vast world of Torah information written only in Hebrew.

LANGUAGE AND IDENTITY

The midrash depicts the Jewish slaves in Egypt as completely abdicating religious practices and sinking into the surrounding pagan culture. The weight of two centuries of bondage was too difficult to bear. Yet, to their credit, by speaking and naming children in, Hebrew they preserved their basic Jewish identity. Their core of Jewish identity was safeguarded and ultimately served as the platform for a national religious rejuvenation. Religion is built on national identity which forms around cultural factors such as food, art, music and, of course, language. Hebrew language familiarity reinforces Jewish identity, which in turn, enables religious development. By contrast to the Jews in Egypt, after the destruction of the first Mikdash, the exiled Jews in Babylonia discarded Hebrew language, while deeply assimilating into the local cultures. This abandonment of Hebrew, made it extraordinarily difficult to disengage from Babylonian culture. Ezra is distressed by his unsuccessful attempts to separate Jews from their Gentile wives. If only they had spoken Hebrew, it is unlikely that many would have intermarried to begin with. Throughout our exile we erected language barriers to defend against cultural encroachment. The Ladino language preserved Jewish identity among many of Jews expelled from Spain in the 15th century. Likewise, for hundreds of years, Yiddish served to blockade Central and Eastern European Jewry from cultural assimilation. Today, in many insular Hasidic circles, Yiddish is employed in a similar strategy of ethnic preservation. Our language has always been a tool for upholding Jewish identity in a foreign, and oftentimes, hostile environment.

A COMMON DENOMINATOR

The Jewish world is badly divided along ideological, religious cultural and even political lines. Across the Jewish world, the seismic events of the past two centuries have elicited differing responses, leaving our people badly splintered. Sometimes it feels as if what divides us is greater than what unites us. Even opinions about our “common” state of Israel sharply differ. There are very few broad-spectrummed unifiers of all Jews. By definition, language is a great unifier as it enables communication. Two Jews can communicate in Hebrew no matter how many “points of difference” separate them. Often, by speaking common language we are able to discover “common

The midrash reports that by speaking directly to his brothers in Hebrew, Yosef convinced them of his true identity. language”. Yosef was separated from his brothers for over two decades and, undoubtedly, looked and acted very differently from them. Yet, language melted all the barriers and bridged across all the lost years. Unfortunately, many parts of the Jewish world are still resistant to Hebrew. For some, the shift has proven too technically challenging. Even in Israel “pocket communities” of olim, have continually resisted broad-scale Hebrew adaptation, creating bubbles of English language and culture within the Hebrew state. Relocation to a foreign country is difficult enough. Switching to a different language, for many, can be professionally and emotionally handicapping. Traditionally, some opposed the adaptation of Hebrew on ideological grounds. As this linguistic revival was largely driven by secular Zionists, many feared that the language had been ideologically weaponized. Speaking Hebrew would legitimate anti-religious agendas. Gradually, as Hebrew language has expanded, this concern has faded. Modern Hebrew is no longer the province of secular Jews aiming to modernize or debunk tradition. Of course, in his sefer, Va’yo’el Moshe, the Satmar Rebbe registered numerous ideological oppositions to speaking Hebrew. By and large, these objections are reflective of his strong prejudice against the state of Israel. Others wonder whether modernized Hebrew has been so radically altered that it bears little resemblance to original Hebrew. It is difficult to jump–start languages which have been dormant while human experience has evolved. Suspended languages cannot coin words for newly developed technologies, inventions or ideas. This has forced the introduction of many foreign words into Hebrew, diluting it from its original Biblical version. In truth, incorporation of

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foreign words is natural for any language and certainly necessary for a revived language. The Torah itself contains numerous “foreign’ words and, likewise, Rabbinic language blends words from many different languages. In part, Hebrew is such a rich language precisely because it is multi-layered. It draws from Biblical Hebrew to Talmudic Hebrew to Medieval Hebrew and even includes several Yiddish’isms. Modern Hebrew is a kaleidoscope whose changing colors represent the changing tides of Jewish history. Ironically, access to Hebrew familiarity is easier and more enjoyable than in the past. Traditionally, Hebrew was taught in classroom settings, with an emphasis upon formal rules of grammar. This very technical training was off-putting to many, and smothered interest in speaking Hebrew. Today, through the internet and social media, exposure to casual Hebrew is readily available. It is more effortless and certainly more enjoyable to “speak” Hebrew than ever before. We have opened the door onto the final stage of history. Will the end of history resemble the arch of the original Egypt redemption? Will Hebrew language form the “identity platform” upon which widespread religious revival will occur? By speaking Hebrew, we rebuild Jewish identity, throw open new gates of Torah study and bond with Jews across the world. The midrash asserts that when the world is finally redeemed, all of humanity will speak the common language of Hebrew. It pays to speak Hebrew. It pays to get a head start on the future. The writer is a rabbi at Yeshivat Har Etzion/ Gush, a hesder yeshiva. He has smicha and a BA in computer science from Yeshiva University as well as a masters degree in English literature from the City University of New York.

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Weekly Dvar Torah F R O M E R E TZ Y I S R A E L

Uniting the Nation BY RABBI YOSEF ZVI RIMON

In the Amida, we pray for kibbutz galuyot (ingathering of exiles): “Sound the great shofar for our liberty, and raise a banner to gather our exiles, and gather us together from the four corners of the earth. Blessed are You, Hashem, Gatherer of the dispersed of His people Israel.” What do we mean exactly when we ask, “gather us together from the four corners of the earth” to our land? Obviously, we want all the Diaspora Jews to come and settle in Eretz Yisrael. But what is the purpose of kibbutz galuyot? Simply put – to build a country. After all, there is no state without a people, and kibbutz galuyot is necessary for constructing the State of Israel. It seems to me that there is a deeper meaning behind the beracha of kibbutz galuyot hinted at in this week’s parasha and haftarah. Vayigash tells of the end of the

confrontation between Yosef and his brothers and of the reconciliation and unity in the family. The topics of healing rifts and unification are also found in the haftarah, where the first stage of kibbutz galuyot is explained: “I will assemble them from every quarter.” Immediately following this, and also at the end of the haftarah, it is presented that kibbutz galuyot leads to the revelation of Shechinah: “My Presence shall rest over them; I will be their G-d.” This is, in fact, the order of the blessings in the Amidah – first, the berachot of the tzibbur, opening with “Sound the great shofar” and leading to the inspiration of Shechinah: “And return in mercy to Jerusalem, Your city,” “Speedily cause the sprout of David, Your servant, to flourish.” The message that emerges from this is clear: The Shechinah is bestowed upon Klal Yisrael. Not on individuals. When Klal Yisrael is in Eretz Yisrael, it is not just to prepare the infrastructure for the state; it

Vayigash

is not just to create a strong nation; it is not just to settle the land. Kibbutz galuyot leads to the discovery of the Shechinah. The haftarah explains that kibbutz galuyot is not the only condition – but also unity: “And you, O mortal, take a stick and write on it, ‘Of Yehuda and the Israelites associated with him;’ and take another stick and write on it, ‘Of Yosef – the stick of Ephraim – and all the House of Israel associated with him.’ Bring them close to each other so that they become one stick, joined together in your hand… I will make them a single nation in the land, on the hills of Israel, and one king shall be king of them all. Never again shall they be two nations, and never again shall they be divided into two kingdoms.” (Yechezkel 37:16-17, 22) This haftarah is written about us! We are privileged to be living the reality of kibbutz galuyot. It is even possible that most of Am Yisrael is already in Eretz Yisrael! The continuation of kibbutz galuyot and

the inspiration of the Divine among us is not in our hands, but we can be a “great shofar” – we can awaken and meet G-d in the Land of Israel and achieve unity. This will require vigorous cooperation and brotherhood, the unification of all of Am Yisrael to be the basis of the Divine and worthy of redemption. The unity of the people is such an important message nowadays. Rifts exist amongst us and the division caused by disagreements endangers the unity of our nation. Only by connecting all of Israeli society, through genuine cooperation, in mutual support can we bring about kibbutz galuyot and merit the coming of the Mashiach.

Rabbi Yosef Zvi Rimon is Head of Mizrachi’s Educational Advisory Board and Rabbinic Council. He serves as the Rabbi of the Gush Etzion Regional Council, Rosh Yeshiva of the Jerusalem College of Technology and is the Founder and Chairman of Sulamot. He is a member of Mizrachi’s Speakers Bureau (www.mizrachi.org/ speakers).

“His sons and grandsons with him, his daughters and granddaughters and all his offspring [Yaakov] brought with him to Egypt” (Bereishit 46:7)

Sidra Summary the room. He reveals his identity and asks if his father is still alive. He tells his ashamed brothers not to be sad; G-d had sent him on this mission in order to sustain them during the famine.

3RD ALIYA (SHLISHI) – 45:8-18

1ST ALIYA (KOHEN) – BEREISHIT 44:18-30

22 years after Yosef was sold by his brothers, they now face the prospect of their father Yaakov ‘losing’ another one of his sons, Binyamin. Yehuda does not yet know that the viceroy of Egypt standing in front of him is actually Yosef. He approaches Yosef, recounting Yosef’s demand to see Binyamin and Yaakov’s reluctance to let Binyamin leave. Having already ‘lost’ Rachel’s other son (Yosef ), Yaakov did not want disaster to befall Binyamin.

2ND ALIYA (LEVI) – 44:31-45:7

Yehuda states that if they return without Binyamin, Yaakov will surely die. Yehuda offers to take Binyamin’s place and remain as a slave to Yosef. Yosef orders everyone apart from his brothers out of

Yosef tells the brothers to go back to Cana’an to relate to Yaakov that he (Yosef ) is alive and is the viceroy of Egypt. Yaakov should come immediately to Egypt; Yosef will ensure their safety and sustenance in the remaining five years of famine. Yosef and Binyamin cry on one another’s necks.

4TH ALIYA (REVI’I) – 45:19-27

Pharaoh instructs Yosef to give his brothers wagons. Yosef sends them back with money and provisions for the journey. He sends 20 laden donkeys for Yaakov. The brothers return home and tell Yaakov that Yosef is alive and is ruling over the land of Egypt. Initially, Yaakov does not believe them.

5TH ALIYA (CHAMISHI) – 45:28-46:27

Yaakov travels to Egypt, stopping at Beersheva to bring an offering. G-d appears to Yaakov in a night vision, allaying his fears of leaving Cana’an to go to Egypt, and promising to make his progeny into

a great nation. The Torah lists the 70 members of Yaakov’s household who came to Egypt. Point to Consider: Which person is missing from the list of 70? (see Rashi to 46:26)

6TH ALIYA (SHISHI) – 46:28-47:10

Yosef and Yaakov meet in the region of Goshen. Yosef falls on Yaakov’s neck and cries. Along with five of his brothers, Yosef goes to inform Pharaoh of his family’s arrival and tells him that they are sheep and cattle farmers. Pharaoh grants them the right to live in Goshen. Yosef brings Yaakov to meet Pharaoh. Yaakov blesses Pharaoh, who asks him his age.

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7TH ALIYA (SHEVI’I) – 47:11-27

Despite the famine in Egypt, Yosef makes sure that his family has food. The starving Egyptians give Yosef their animals in return for bread. The following year, they sell their land to Pharaoh in return for food and seed. They become serfs to Pharaoh, and are to give him one fifth of all produce from that land. Yosef fixes this as a national statute. Yaakov’s family increases greatly.

HAFTARAH

Yechezkel prophesies that the tribes of Israel will eventually be reunited and will reject idol worship and sin. They will be ruled over by a king from the House of David.

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Vayigash: Fit to be King? BY GAVRIEL COHN Yehuda, one of the key personalities of this week’s sedra, was blessed by his father to be the royal tribe, to carry the kingship of Israel: “Your father’s sons will prostrate themselves to you... The sceptre shall not depart from Yehuda… to him will be a gathering of peoples.” In Jewish Law, these kings, members of the tribe of Yehuda (although there were other kings as well), were to be given immense privileges and honour, as the Rambam details: “The king must be treated with great honour...We may not ride on his horse, nor sit on his throne, use his sceptre, wear his crown, or use any of his utensils... He cannot renounce his honour... When he desires, the nation must present themselves before him. They should stand before him and prostrate themselves to the ground. Even a Prophet must stand before the king and prostrate himself before him… the King should not stand before anyone... the Torah has granted him great honour and obligated everyone to revere him” (Hilchot Melachim, chapter 2). Doesn’t this seem jarring? Firstly, the idea of one person being so exalted above all others, lavished with such honour, seems contrary to the fact that, as we recite in our weekday prayers, all the Jewish People are “brothers”? Secondly, why was Yehuda the one chosen to be blessed with this royal office; how did he deserve the kingship, to have ‘his bothers prostrate themselves before him’? A superficial reading of the story perhaps even gives the opposite impression of Yehuda. Yehuda played a crucial role in

Vayigash RABBI DR RAYMOND APPLE

WHY WAS IT JUDAH?

It was Judah who stepped forward on behalf of the family (Gen. 44:18) and made a proposal to Joseph, who he thought was an Egyptian without any sign that he was their long-lost brother. Rashi thinks that Judah spoke harshly to Joseph, but others say that Judah was a clever diplomat and preferred to have Joseph on side. The proposal he put before Joseph was that he, Judah, would stay behind in Egypt and be a servant in place of Benjamin. Why was it Judah who was the spokesman? Because he was the one who had promised Jacob that he would look after his brother Benjamin. Why should Joseph be willing to accept the proposal, since presumably he thought that all the brothers were of similar strength and capacity?

the questionable selling of Yosef, sending him down to Egypt. Yehuda then left his family and wandered off into Canaan. He then became entangled in a relationship with Tamar. How was Yehuda the archetype of royalty then, entrusted to rule over the Jewish People? Really, we’ve misunderstood everything about Jewish kingship and about Yehuda. A Jewish King, the Torah rules, can only be appointed “from among your brethren,” a native Jew, a “brother.” This is because, as the Rambam explains, a king serves as a representative of the people. A Jewish King, remarkably, is meant to be almost an embodiment of the Jewish People, to personify the entire nation: “his heart is the heart of the entire congregation of Israel.” Precisely because of this, Jewish Law demands that a king is bestowed with such grand honours from each and every individual member. “No one may ride his horse, sit on his throne, or use his sceptre” as doing so would be an affront to the nation as a whole; all must prostrate themselves before the king as he personifies the entire Jewish People. In turn, the king must humble his heart and fill it with the needs of his nation, his brothers. As the Rambam so stirringly writes: “The King should not treat his people with overbearing arrogance, as the verse states, ‘he should not lift up his heart above his brothers.’ He should be gracious and merciful to the small and the great alike, involving himself in their welfare. He should protect the honour of even the lowliest of men. When he speaks to

the people as a community, he should speak gently, as Scripture states, ‘Listen my brothers and my people’... He may not amass silver and gold for his personal treasury, boosting his pride or glorifying himself. All the gold and silver which he accumulates should be given over to the Temple treasury and kept there for the needs of the community… He should be involved with… the needs of Israel by day and by night” (Hilchot Melachim, chapters 2-3). These kingly attributes, possessing empathy and dedication to one’s people, were personified by Yehuda. Yosef, despite being divinely charismatic and an apt political strategist and leader, was tragically separated from his brothers, as Yaakov notes in his blessing to him (see Rashi, 49:26). Yehuda, on the other hand, was, in his father’s words (playing on Leah’s original naming of her son) “acknowledged by them.” He was part of the family, wrapped up in their lives. Yehuda arose, as a Jewish king must, “from among his brethren.” Although that was what made him such an entangled, tragic player whilst navigating between his brothers, Yosef, Tamar, and his father; it was also why all of his actions throughout the heart-wrenching situations he sought to steer were fuelled by empathy and understanding. Yehuda’s heart was filled with compassion for his people, as a Jewish king’s must be. He begged his brothers not to sell Yosef, as “he is our brother, our flesh.” So distressed was Yehuda by his father’s inconsolable grief over Yosef, that he

A Jewish King, the Torah rules, can only be appointed “from among your brethren,” a native Jew, a “brother.” It seems that Judah was making the point that Joseph would find it in his own interest to have Judah and not Benjamin as a slave since Judah was older, stronger and more experienced than the young and untried Benjamin.

THEY CALLED US JOSEPH

Because Joseph looked after his family in Egypt, the name Joseph is given to the Jewish people as a whole; the Psalmist says, “G-d leads Joseph like a flock” (Psalm 80:2). The Psalm for Thursday also calls the people Joseph (Psalm 81:6). Samson Raphael Hirsch explains the use of the name as a symbol of the Jewish people maintaining their morality even in foreign lands, i.e. a symbol of the place of the Jewish people in world history. One can add that Joseph symbolised Israel because he was the man who said “No” when tempted to sin by the wife of his employer Potiphar. A further example of his morality is given in the Midrash Yalkut Shimoni, which says that Joseph repaid evil with good: his brothers acted badly towards him when he was a youth, and Joseph bestowed

JUDAISM 29

wandered away, veering off into Canaan (Bechor Shor). When Tamar showed Yehuda his ring, cloak, and staff, proving that he was the father of her child, Yehuda instantly admitted so, that “she is right.” He had no inflated sense of importance or position, his “heart was not lifted above his brothers.” Finally, as the opening of our sedra so dramatically describes, Yehuda fearlessly approached who he believed to be Pharaoh’s most senior minister, begging him to enslave himself instead of Binyanim. As Yehuda advanced closer, our Sages say he was clutching his sword, poised to draw it, so determined was he not to allow Binyamin to suffer, bound by the promise he had made to his father to bring Binyamin home. In an impassioned plea, Yehuda pours out his heart to this Egyptian ruler, spilling out all the empathy and compassion he has for his family: “My lord, have you a father or a brother? We have an old father and a young child of his old age. His brother is dead, and he is the last surviving child of his mother’s. His father loves him. This boy cannot leave his father… His soul is intertwined with his (the boy’s) soul.” That is why the kingship was granted to Yehuda. He was as a true leader of the Jewish People: a brother amongst brothers, whose heart was bursting with their concerns. Bestowing lavish honours upon such kings is thus purely an act of honouring those who they so whole-heartedly represent – their brothers, the Jewish People. [As an aside, the question of whether a Monarchy is indeed the ideal form of Jewish government is another issue, let’s leave that for another Friday night!] Gav is an informal educator at Immanuel College, teaching Kodesh to Sixth Formers. Questions? gavcohn@gmail.com.

good on them when he was in office in Egypt and had power over them.

SAYING THE SHEMA

Gen. 46:29 tells us that when Jacob met up again with his son Joseph after many years apart, they embraced and (according to the sages) Joseph said the Shema. The Shema is a declaration of G-d’s existence, unity and uniqueness. It begins, “Shema Yisra’el” – “Hear, O Israel”. Since Israel is one of the names of Jacob, the Shema is in the first instance an announcement addressed to Jacob. It not only tells the patriarch that his son believes in G-d but that he loves the Almighty, fulfilling the command, “Love the Lord your G-d with all your heart, soul and might!” How does one love G-d? The Hebrew word for love is said to derive from a root that means to give. G-d loves us by giving us a wondrous world; we love G-d, not by giving Him a world but giving Him the worldly gifts of sacrifices and offerings. Rabbi Raymond Apple was for many years Australia’s highest profile rabbi and

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the leading spokesman on Judaism. After serving congregations in London, Rabbi Apple was chief minister of the Great Synagogue, Sydney, for 32 years. He also held many public roles, particularly in the fields of chaplaincy, interfaith dialogue and Freemasonry, and is the recipient of several national and civic honours. Now retired, he lives in Jerusalem and blogs at http://www.oztorah.com

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You Become What You Believe

BY RABBI SHMUEL REICHMAN Have you ever been scared of something, simply because you’ve never done it before? I most definitely relate. Just a couple weeks ago, my life changed forever. My wife and I received a tremendous blessing from Hashem: we welcomed our firstborn son into the world. About a week later, he received his name (Yosef Baruch) and his Bris Milah as we welcomed him into Klal Yisrael. As excited as we are to see what this beautiful neshama will become, it is a daunting new stage of life. For many of us, the fact that we’ve never done something before holds us back from even trying. But have you ever committed yourself to tackling a problem, spent the time and effort to figure it out, and then, through trial and error, eventually solved the issue? Such accomplishments create the most incredible feeling. In our previous article, we began developing strategies for overcoming our inner fears so that we can fully unlock our potential and achieve the extraordinary. In this article, we will delve deeper into this topic and continue exploring the strategies we can use to overcome fear.

1- BELIEVE THAT YOU CAN FIND THE SOLUTION

There is a key decision that each of us must make at some point in our lives: we have to decide whether we are capable of figuring things out, of learning and growing, or whether we are static and incapable of improvement. Having a growth mindset – the belief that we are capable of growing, adapting, and learning – is one of the most important human beliefs. The moment we decide to have a growth mindset, an adaptability mentality, we can embrace any new challenge Hashem sends our way. Instead of seeing every challenge as another obstacle that can crush us, we realize that we can meet any obstacle and solve any problem. Will there be uncertainty, struggle, and failure along the way? Certainly! (As a matter of fact, the one thing you can be certain of is that nothing in life is certain.) But with a growth and adaptability mindset, we can embrace the challenges and uncertainty of life, and ride the difficult waves

that Hashem sends our way. That’s not to say this is easy. It’s not. Figuring it out can be grueling and tiresome. But that’s the greatness of being human: we have the ability to embrace struggle and push through it, growing each step of the way. Whether it’s fixing a broken sink, learning a new skill or language, or developing a new passion, there are different avenues we can take to navigate the uncharted waters of life. The simplest option is trial and error; we can try one way, and if it doesn’t work, we can use different methods until one finally works. We can use other models of success as our inspiration and keep on practicing until we find our own version of success. The easiest way to model success is to find a teacher or expert and have them guide you through the process. Once they teach you their path, you can practice until you are able to replicate it yourself. Nowadays, there are also videos, online courses, and books that can guide you every step of the way. Beyond this, we must also learn how to utilize our resources and resourcefulness to find other forms of help. Think about your network: who do you know who is extraordinary at what you would like to accomplish? If no one comes to mind, who do you know that might know someone who fits this description? We’re all part of an incredible web, a network of relationships. Learning how to navigate that web can provide you with the exact resources you need. While reaching out to others for help and guidance may seem like a way of relying on others to solve your problems for you, this is not necessarily the case. Unquestionably, the ideal is to develop the skills ourselves and not rely on others to solve our them for us. However, we cannot always do everything ourselves, and getting help and guidance from the people around us can be exactly what we need to help us reach our goals. The key is finding the proper balance between investing in ourselves and taking ownership of our growth while still recognizing where other people can help and guide us along that journey.

2 - DEVELOPING MASTERY

One of the greatest contributing factors to fear is doubt. We doubt ourselves and fear the possibility of failing, so we often don’t even try. While we already discussed the importance of believing in our ability to figure things out and the value of trial and error - learning from our mistakes, there is an additional tool that helps silence our inner doubts: mastery. When we can get to the point where we are so confident in ourselves and our skills that we no longer have any doubts, we can say goodbye to our fears. Of course, one needs to balance the idea of mastery with two factors: 1- Nobody is perfect 2- Everything comes from Hashem. So nothing is ever guaranteed. But that being said, think about the times when fear has had the greatest impact in your life. In most cases, our fears are based on uncertainty and the unknown. We

wonder, “what if this happens?… What if I mess up?” But what if we could get to the point where we are so confident in ourselves, because we’ve practiced so many times- to the point where we’ve mastered it- and have such complete trust in Hashem, that we enter into a state of certainty. Not absolute certainty, as there’s no such thing, but certainty to the point that fear no longer holds us back. I remember when I first started speaking in public, far before I was traveling to conferences and major events. I started out by taking any and every opportunity I could get, speaking in local shuls and lots of smaller venues. In the beginning, I was extremely nervous before every single speech I gave. But why? Why are so many people scared of speaking in public? The truth is, there are several factors. On a simple level, we fear messing up or forgetting what we were supposed to say and looking like a fool in front of everybody. In a deeper sense, we know that the moment we open up our mouth, the whole room will see what goes on in of our heads, what we truly believe, and who we really are,; thus, the moment we open our mouth, the audience won’t only judge our speaking abilities, but they’ll judge “us.” For most, this second factor, while the more significant of the two, is overshadowed by the simple fear of messing up and looking like a fool. At first, I thought the best way to overcome my fear of messing up was to review every single word of my presentations over and over again, so that when it came time to speak, I would have no trouble recalling what I had prepared. And this worked: I was able to give my lecture exactly as I had practiced it. But after a few years of experience, I came to realize that the single best way to prepare for a lecture or presentation was not to spend countless hours “memorizing” the material; it was to “become” the material, to become the ideas. When you talk “about” ideas, the distance between you and the content comes through in the presentation. But when we can become the ideas, embody them, live and breathe them, then there is no chance of messing up or forgetting them. Just like you wouldn’t have trouble sharing your name, when the ideas we talk about become so intimately one with our inner selves, when we open our mouths and present, we are simply sharing our “name” with the audience. This level of connection with the content requires a level of mastery and certainty that only comes with a lifetime of immersion, commitment, and trust in Hashem. And just as this works for public speaking, it also works for just about every other area of life as well.

5- FLOODING: THE POWER OF IMMERSION

Flooding can be an immensely effective tool for your arsenal. If you’re like me, you probably have certain fears that are irrational, that other people don’t understand. While some fear heights, others are scared of spiders, or water, or public. As we discussed, we often build our fear into

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something infinitely expansive and insurmountable. It becomes an untouchable and immovable obstacle within our minds, to the point where we can’t even conceive of the possibility of overcoming it. One way to approach this type of overwhelming fear is to engage in what is known as “flooding,” where you immerse yourself within the very thing that you are afraid of. The idea is as follows: if you expose yourself to the fear in a controlled and measured way, you can slowly show yourself that your fear is not as bad as you thought, and you will therefore be able to overcome it. It’s usually best to start out small, and then step by step, expose yourself to greater and greater amounts or levels of your fear, until eventually, you no longer feel any of the fear. I used this very strategy to overcome my fear of blood. When I was in high school, I wanted to become a physician. There was only one problem: I couldn’t handle blood. Whenever the doctor drew blood from my arm, I passed out. Still determined to become a successful doctor, I decided to watch a recording of an open-heart surgery. A few minutes later, I woke up on the floor, still in a daze. Knowing that a doctor who can’t deal with blood was not a great match, I made it my mission to find a way to overcome my fear of blood. I immersed myself in this project, viewing different photos and videos of blood every day. I started small, with photos of people receiving shots. Then I moved on to simple cuts and bruises. After a few weeks, I progressed to videos of simple hand surgeries. After several months of flooding, I came to the final test: open-heart surgery. And for the grand finale, I watched the original video that had caused me to pass out a year earlier. This time, the results were much better (the patient survived both times by the way.) In our next column, we will delve deeper into this topic and finish exploring the strategies we can use to overcome fear. If you enjoyed this article and want more, then visit my website (ShmuelReichman. com) and learn more about Self-Mastery Academy, my online course. Join our vibrant community of 100’s of people striving to become their greatest selves. Rabbi Shmuel Reichman is an author, educator, speaker, and coach who has lectured internationally on topics of Torah thought, Jewish medical ethics, psychology, and leadership. He is the founder and CEO of Self-Mastery Academy, the transformative online self-development course based on the principles of high-performance psychology and Torah. After obtaining his Bachelors degree from Yeshiva University, he received Semikha from RIETS, a Masters degree in Jewish Education from Azrieli, and a Masters degree in Jewish Thought from Revel. He then spent a year studying at Harvard as an Ivy Plus Exchange Scholar. He is currently pursuing a PhD at the University of Chicago. To find more inspirational content from Rabbi Reichman, to contact him, or to learn more about Self-Mastery Academy, visit his website: ShmuelReichman.com

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Vayigash

Vayigash Word Search

The big moment had arrived. Yehuda, realising that the second-in-command of Egypt may take his brother Binyamin as a slave, approaches this gentleman and pleads with him not to. He tells him how his father is old and if he is separated from Binyamin it could mean he would die! Yosef (who until now hadn’t explained who he really was) finally tells the eleven men that he is actually their brother whom they sold to Egypt! The brothers are stunned! Yosef arranges for their father to be brought to Egypt. Serach the daughter of Asher gently tells Yaakov (who is now 130 years old) that his

beloved child is actually still alive! Yaakov travels down to Egypt to finally meet up once again with his beloved longlost son! He meets Yosef, Yosef cries on his shoulder while Yaakov says Shema. Yaakov meets Pharaoh and then settles down in Egypt with the seventy or so members of his family. He will finally enjoy 17 years of bliss, knowing that his family are safe and sound and still keeping the Torah which was super impressive for Yosef who had been away from home for twenty two years!

BINYAMIN • DONKEYS • EGYPT • FAMILY • GOSHEN • IDENTITY • PHARAOH • YAAKOV

Tangram Challenge!

Using all the shapes on the left can you make the person in the boat shape on the right?

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adassa and Rivki stepped out of Kosher Nation into the freezing cold. The wind was still howling and they had to shout in order to hear each other speak. “It’s really cold!” shouted Hadassa. “And windy,” yelled Rivki. “Let’s try and get back as quickly as possible,” said Hadassa. “Hold on to my hand.” Rivki grabbed her big sister’s hand, which felt like a strong anchor as the wind buffeted her from all sides. The sky was getting darker and darker, with storm clouds overhead and night falling. Hadassa and Rivki made their way very cautiously and slowly back down the road towards their home. Suddenly all the street lights went out. Rivki froze in her tracks. She did not like the dark, and while it wasn’t pitch black, it was very dark in the storm, especially without the street lights. “What are we going to do? I can’t see anything. How will we find our way home?” Rivki called to Hadassa over the wind as she started to panic. “Don’t worry, Hashem will look after us. He will show us the way.” Hadassa shouted back. “Will you tell me a story?” asked Rivki, huddling closer to Hadassa. “I’m scared.” “Of course”, said Hadassa as she put her arms around Rivki to give her a big

Light in the Dark - Part 2

hug. “Once upon a time there was a brave group of Jews called the Maccabees…” “...but they only found one small pot of pure kosher oil that they could use to light the Menorah. That small pot only had enough to last for one day, but Chanuka was eight days and-” “Why have you stopped?” asked Rivki, as Hadassa suddenly stopped the story short and started rummaging in the Kosher Nation bag. “Because the story reminded me about these!” Hadassa whipped out the two torches they had just bought as presents for their siblings from Kosher Nation. “We

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can use these to help us get home!” Rivki sighed in relief. She took the dreidel one and Hadassa took the candle one. They turned the torches on and were delighted that they could see a few feet in front of them. “Wow,” said Rivki. “You were right, Hashem is looking after us.” Slowly, holding hands, they made their way back down the street. Carefully they made sure to avoid fallen branches and other debris in their path. Finally, after what seemed like hours, they arrived safely home.

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KIDS 33

“Baruch Hashem!” Ima ran to hug Hadassa and Rivki as they entered. “We were so worried about you when the street lights went out. We were just about to come out looking for you!” “It was a miracle, Ima” said Rivki. “Hashem saved us!” After Abba had lit the Chanukia, Hadasa and Rivki told the tale of what had happened. “It’s because you were doing the mitzva of going to get the oil for Ima and also buying Yehudis and Shloime presents that you were helped by Hashem!” Chaim shouted excitedly. “Well we don’t know for certain the reasons for why things happen, only Hashem does, but we can definitely thank Hashem for protecting Hadassa and Rivki.” Abba said calmly. “And now, I think it’s time to celebrate!” “Who would like warm fresh home-made jam doughnuts?” Ima said, smiling widely. “Me!” Everyone shouted together. Laughing and giggling the whole family tucked into their Chanuka treats. As well as delicious doughnuts, there were crispy, golden latkes and large amounts of chocolate Chanuka gelt. “This is the best Chanuka ever!” said Rivki to Hadassa. “I couldn’t agree more,” replied Hadassa, giving Rivki a big hug. “And we haven’t even opened Great Aunty Devorah’s presents yet!”

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Vayigash

In a nutshell Yehuda is aware of Yosef’s apparent plans to take Binyamin as a slave and is equally aware that there is no way in the world that the brothers can return home without Binyamin. He therefore approaches Yosef – the second in command in Egypt and pleads his point. He starts off respectfully, comparing him to Pharaoh (which was a compliment, a criticism and a threat all at once – see Rashi…) and explains the entire story from the beginning ending with the famous words, “For how can I go up to my father without the lad with me?!”. Yosef can no longer hold himself back and the great moment of revelation arrived. He shooed all the Egpytians out of the room and said the (also) famous words, “I am Yosef – is my father still alive?”. The brothers were completely shocked and Yosef continues, “Don’t worry about having sold me here – for G-d sent me to sustain you (and all the countries affected by the famine for that matter)”.

Yosef arranges his father’s transport to Egypt. Yosef sends items that hint to Yaakov that he remembers the Torah they learned 22 years earlier. Serach, daughter of Asher, gently breaks the news to her grandfather, after all this is quite heart-stopping information! Yaakov travels down to Egypt, receiving prophecy on the way – this is after all, the beginning of the long Jewish exile in Egypt, which will contain (rest for the immediate future but would be followed by) suffering, sweat and tears for a significant part of 210 years. Yaakov sends Yehuda ahead of him – to establish a place of study. The Jewish people always had their priority in educating the next generation. Yaakov approaches Yosef and they cry. Yaakov has not seen his son for 22 YEARS! In expressing his awesome emotions, he recites the Shema. Yaakov is introduced to King Pharaoh who asks him his age! Yaakov replies that he had lived 130 years,

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.

Use this area to write the words you have found.

l e m

“few and bad” – much heartache involved. Pharaoh asks the brothers of Yosef what their career has been and they advise that they were shepherds. Pharaoh offers the brothers of Yosef to live in Goshen – their own territory. The Torah lists the 70 members of Yaakov’s family. It has been pointed out that only 69 are actually listed. Some explain that Hashem Himself was counted as the seventieth; others say that Yocheved was the seventieth, born as they entered the walls of Egypt. She was later going to be the mother of Moshe Rabbeinu who would redeem the Jews from Egypt. It must have been wonderful for Yaakov to finally be surrounded by all his children and grandchildren and for another 17 years. 17 is actually the numerical value of the Hebrew word, “Tov” and indeed these were “good” years all around, for our dear ansector Yaakov!

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Last week’s words: Here are some words you may have found from last week - you may have found more! ace act arc cab car

cat ice tic acre carb

care cart cert cite crab

crib lace lice race rice

talc brace bract cabal caber

cable carat caret cater clear

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cleat crate lacer react relic

trace trice cartel claret racial

rectal relict article cabaret calibre

citable recital bacteria bacterial calibrate

9 DECEMBER 2021

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Q: Why did the astronaut want to leave the party? A: The atmosphere wasn’t right. Q: Why don’t acrobats work in the winter? A: They only do Summer-saults! Q: What do you comb a rabbit with? A: A hare brush

(Answers at the bottom of page upside down)

1. What has a neck but no head?

Q: Why was the baby strawberry crying? A: Because his mom and dad were in a jam!

2. What type of cheese is made backwards? 3. What ship has two mates, but no captain?

3) A friendship

2) Edam 1. A bottle

1. Big dipper 2. Forever 3. Bee in a bonnet

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4. Crack of dawn 5. No through road 6. Shrinking violet

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Lewis last minute winner Sixteen-goal Lions keeps Hendon top rout Scrabble in Cup BY DAVID SAFFER Reiss Mogilner scored six goals as Maccabi London Lions thumped Scrabble A in the second round of the Cyril Anekstein Cup. The Premier League side racked up a 16-0 win with Daniel Green and Michael Kenley both bagging a hat-trick. Ed Brafman, David Dinkin, and Adam Hassanali completed the rout in a mismatch of a tie. Lions could have scored in the opening minute of the clash but soon opened the scoring and led 9-0 by half time. The Division One team, though outclassed, battled away to the end. Lions boss was lost for words at full time such was the display from his team who Ethan every Kesselrespect opens the for Geez Park Rangers gave toscoring the opposition. “I’m not really sure there’s anything to BY DAVID SAFFER say, we are happy to make it through to the Second placed Borussia Jewdinese collected the points as Redbridge Jewish Care next round of the cup,” he commented. Hendon of the Purple forfeited their clash. HendonUnited UnitedSports Sportsremain ran out top 3-1 victors PremierLeague League One after outfi a thrilling 4-3London win at Scrabble vs Mill Hill Dons and Straw Hat against t North 16-goal LondonFortune Lions London Bears. PiratesMaccabi vs Temple A both fell to waRaiders. The league leaders took the lead three terlogged pitches. The Premier side led early in the second timesonly against the Bears own must-win Divisiongame, Two ”leaders Geez Park Rangers half for Raiders to courtesy equalise of butanstruck commented Galaxy playgoal late along withtostrikes Avi in Korman made it 10 wins as many games with two goals book from a place round er-manager Lukefrom Lewis. and Dovi before conceding in the a 4-0 Park Calcio who three of theFehler competition. “Wewin sat over backMillbrook and allowed Oakwood the last minute. Super Gav Lewis settled battled hardthe throughout. Hendon now turnsub their attentions to the ball, given one-man advantage and the contest withtravel an injury time goal.A for a looked Rangers thethe match in blustery league as they to Oakwood to dominated hit them on counter attack “Whattop a magnificent match, ” summed up with conditions. crucial of the table clash on Sunday pace. Ethan Kessel, with a double, Hendon boss David Garbacz. “They equal- and Jordan Grundman scored the vic(10am). “Both goals came down the for right-hand ised threeKristall’s times but westunned showedthe fantastic tors who also forcedthe anfiown goalinto at Rowley Daniel team league side. Leigh crossed rst one Cohen Lane. character pick ourselves up won to score leaders lasttomonth when they 2-0, aa to finish, before slotting home himself. Up performance from dramatic winner with a great finisha from victory would move them to within point to “Another first we go.fantastic ” Lewis. ” He with added, “Credit the Bears for the noted Two Rangers of Hendon a match in to hand. Thboys,” e Division titleboss raceBen alsoLeslie. took their contribution a great gameofbut even a“We are also happyleaders to have Herstwood got anothElsewhere in thetolatest round fixtures, twist withvery league bigger credit the lads Galaxy for coming er clean sheet. is adefeat long way to go, 10-man NorthtoLondon madeaway it a Vale going downThere to a 2-1 at Temple with three title massive ” Division One Fortune. but we are hungry and want to continue three-way race points. in the only Hendon HMH and are currently improve.”B have played a game more clash of the head day after defeating Oakwood B. toFaithfold favourites in thesaw titlered race having lost one than TheVale league pacesetters are nine Jamie Murray early on but Galaxy but moved level with a 5-3points win at game all season. Chigwell clear ofLondon Real Madreidel who defeated Brady rallied with goals Club from de Josh Cohen moved and Ja- North Raiders Masters. into Leigh fourthto spot behind 4-2 FCJacob 4-0 and a point further of London cob record an Oakwood importantwith 2-1 aaway Kalms struck twiceahead for Fortune who victory at bottom club Faithfold White. Athletico who were in cup action. win. scored through leading scorer James MilOnly one match in Division OneCare survived The most exciting game of the weekend Galaxy head Redbridge Jewish A in letwith his 17th goal of the season. wintry conditions Brook Farm Rovers saw Hapoel the table by just oneas point after 10 matches, TheQarabagel result wasand all the moreHampstead remarkable edgedplace homeFairlop 2-0 against Hampstead Ducks play out an astonishing thriller with third FC are five points be- as Temple were down 13-goal to 11 players with with awith Samtwo Georgevic brace to cement a top ‘keeper Hapoel Ben coming out on top 7-6. a shoulder hind games in hand. Rebuck dislocating three inscored the titlefor race. Prais,up. Mikey Leibovitz and Jordan Rafiplace Bloom Oakwood. in Sam the warm Stoke are top though a clash bagged a brace apiece. Matt Da“It wasSalmon a fantastic performance in a Conn “Thisallwas a fantastic win given the with FC East London Bees was postponed. vidson scored an instinctive backheel.

PHOTO: DAVID SAFFER

Stand in manager Marcus Foux described the performance as a “brave win”. Ben Binder scored twice as Temple Fortune B edged past Camden City 2-1. The match between Redbridge Jewish Care White and Oakwood Town was postponed. Aaron Searle scored the only goal of a tough cup tie as injury hit Oakwood defeated Maccabi London FC in the second round of the Peter Morrison Trophy. “Huge credit to the boys for getting the job done,” commented O’s Lewis Blitz. “It was a great result, we are looking forward to trying to go all the way in this competition.” In the Cyril Anekstein Cup first round, London Athletico won 3-0 against Boca Chillers with Rafi Rees (2) and Saul Fenton scoring. The match between HMH and NWL Azurri was postponed.

PHOTO: DAVID SAFFER

“It was a proper old school performance, we battled and defended for the 90 minutes and took our chances. Experience proved to be the winner.” Action from Geez Park Rangers versus Milbrook

circumstances,” said delighted Fortune boss Simon Linden. “We had a number of players out, Rebuck got injured, so I couldn’t have asked any more from the players. We wish Ben a speedy recovery. “It was a proper old school performance, we battled and defended for the 90 minutes and took our chances. Experience proved to be the winner. It’s a big win, one we will enjoy and we hope to build on it in 2019.” He added, “This win marks 50 years as a football club and will be one Nigel Kyte and everyone associated with the club from day

PHOTO: DAVID SAFFER

one will enjoy.” Vale boss Jacob Emanuel was quick to wish Rebuck well following his injury. “First and most importantly, everyone at Vale would like to wish the Fortune ‘keeper a quick recovery, we hope to see him back on the football pitch as soon as possible,” he said. As for the defeat, Emanuel commented, “It doesn’t matter how big a squad you have, you can never account for unavailability or injury. Only five of today’s team played in our recent win over FC Team, a lack of togetherness and poor individual

Milbrook’s goalkeeper Clark Pollins makes a brave save against Rangers

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PHOTO: DAVID SAFFER

TREK TO SAVE LIVES No amount of tests or forms would stop 16 trekkers getting on a plane to Jordan for MDA UK’s inaugural, groundbreaking Jordan360 trek in October - the first group trip abroad since the start of the pandemic. The 7-day trek gave participants a chance to appreciate Jordan’s beautiful sites, including Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba and the Dead Sea, together with the opportunity of saving lives along the way. The journey encompassed a range of geopolitical issues, including Israel’s newfound role in the region. In exploring the key partnership between MDA and the Jordan National Red Crescent Society (JRC), trekkers were able to see and hear first-hand how Israel, Jordan and their Gulf neighbours are working together to help save lives.

Image credit: Michael Mattison

In Amman, trekkers were addressed by HE Dr Mohammed Al-Hadid, President of the JRC, and shown around the hospital where MDA has funded a new operating theatre. Dr Al-Hadid has helped bring the JRC and MDA closer together, to share knowledge, expertise and innovative medical technology. Trekkers visited the Dead Sea area before heading south to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Petra. They enjoyed outdoor camping in Wadi Rum, meeting the local Bedouin community and all the stunning sights along the way.

will be offering a series of treks - in Israel, in Jordan, and both together. To register your interest in any of our treks, please visit mdauk.org/trek or contact joshuadiamond@mdauk.org

It was a delight to see the co-operation between the two countries. - Elaine Bermitz, Trekker

We were delighted to have been able to share this experience with the brilliant Robert Rinder, whose insights you can read more about in the article overleaf. So far, trekkers have raised over £80,000 which will be donated towards rebuilding the MDA ambulance station in Rahat, the largest Bedouin town in the world. Following this success and in view of the high demand for our Jordan360 trek, next year we 6234 MDA Red Shield Winter 2021 JT Wrap v2.indd 3

Image credit: Courtenay Marsh 01/12/2021 13:01

A BEACON OF LIGHT

by Robert Rinder

Of all of the privileges that you get for being in the public eye, the best one in every sense is bringing light to charities and organisations that people would otherwise not know about. I remember my first conversation with Daniel Burger some years ago. “MDA… it’s the ambulance service, isn’t it?” “Yes” he replied, “but did you know that it isn’t funded by the Israeli government, but by the International diaspora?” I had no idea – in many senses it’s unthinkable. A nation with the most obvious demand for frontline medical services. It made no sense. But on reflection it made all the sense in the world. That we, Jewish communities around the world and within Israel itself, understand so fundamentally the threats to ourselves and each other. Making it natural that we would fund MDA’s frontline services. And so I began my quest to discover the work of Magen David Adom. With each new example, each new piece of evidence of their work, something even more critical emerged. A realisation not just how obviously essential the services they provide are; be it the provision of blood or responding to emergencies. But that they are an example of something more powerful, more rich and important, now more than ever. Their work alongside otherwise hostile partners, to cross lines and deliver blood and critical first aid. The advances in technology, which

make MDA the most advanced and innovative ambulance service in the world; and how each service is funded through a community’s shared understanding and fundamental belief in the importance of life. For me, MDA has become the most articulate expression of how I respond to anybody whose views on Israel have tipped into antisemitism, which has become tragically and frighteningly pervasive in the past decade. It’s with this in mind that I had the gift of going to Jordan to walk alongside those raising funds for this essential charity. It was the very essence of a simcha, a collective group of people walking proudly in joy with one another. Culminating for me in a meeting with the President of the Jordan National Red Crescent Society, HE Dr Mohammed Al-Hadid, who spoke so powerfully about the possibilities of peace when enemies begin to work as partners and come to rely on one another. It’s hard to think of a better expression of light and hope than that. All of which is embodied in MDA. What a gift it is, was and shall continue to be, to champion MDA’s incredible, magical work.

MAGEN DAVID ADOM UK MARKS ABRAHAM ACCORDS ANNIVERSARY Magen David Adom UK marked the 1st Anniversary of the signing of the Abraham Accords with a series of events featuring HE Dr Mohammed Al-Hadid, President of the Jordan National Red Crescent Society and former Chair of the Standing Commission of the Red Cross and Red Crescent.

It is hard to imagine how quickly the geopolitics of the region have evolved and how Israel and her Gulf neighbours have become partners and allies – at government level as well as people-to-people. As we and the world continue to adapt to constant change, we are so proud of the fact that Magen David Adom is always choosing humanity over politics in its mission to save more lives.

Dr Al-Hadid addressed and impressed MDA UK donors and friends about the humanitarian work he and The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies have been involved in together with Magen David Adom in Israel.

- Daniel Burger

Dr Al-Hadid’s insights into the Red Cross movement demonstrated a different side of Israel, which surprised some key politicians and church leaders who were previously not sympathetic to Israel.

@Magen David Adom UK @mda_uk @MDAUK_

Magen David Adom UK, Winston House, 2 Dollis Park, London N3 1HF | T 020 8201 5900 | E info@mdauk.org | www.mdauk.org 6234 MDA Red Shield Winter 2021 JT Wrap v2.indd 4

01/12/2021 13:01

The Jewish Weekly Issue 215

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