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Truce negotiations ongoing for Israeli hostages BY DAVID SAFFER

PARASHAT VAYISHLACH SHABBAT: London Manchester Leeds Liverpool Birmingham Antwerp Bournemouth Gateshead Jerusalem

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commanders. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told NATO foreign ministers in Brussels yesterday that the US want the pause in fighting between Israel and Gaza extended and was working towards that aim every day. “It’s continuation by definition means that more hostages would be coming home, more assistance would be getting in to Gaza,” he told the meeting. “Clearly, that’s something we want. I believe it’s something that Israel

Negotiations are continuing between mediators in Qatar to extend a six day ‘pause in fighting’ between Israel and Hamas at the time of going to press. Israel are seeking more hostages to be freed from captivity by Hamas terrorists in Gaza. A complication is Hamas are unaware where the remaining hostages are located as they are being held by other terror factions. News broke yesterday afternoon that the IDF Yahel Shoham, 3 years old, was one of the 13 Israeli hostages released late Saturday is looking into a claim by Hamas that the under the terms of the temporary truce. Around also wants.” 10-month-old baby Kfir Bibas, was killed with 1.7 million Gazans have moved to the south Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant have consisthis 4-year-old brother and mother in an Israeli of Gaza. The temporary four-day ‘truce’ saw 50 Israeli ently said that the IDF will resume operations air strike. The family have asked for privacy. Ten Israelis were released last night. Seven- captives escorted by terrorists from Hamas and throughout negotiations in Qatar. ty-one Israelis and over 20 foreign nationals Palestinian Islamic Jihad to the Red Cross. They “We are committed to completing our mishave been released since last Friday. Israel has were transferred to Israeli hospitals for medical sions, freeing all the hostages, destroying that released over 200 Palestinians as part of the evaluation before being reunited with families. terror organisation above ground and below deal. Four hostages were previously released According to Israeli media reports and mil- ground and, obviously, that Gaza not revert to and one rescued. The bodies of two hostages itary intelligence, 5,300 Hamas terrorists have what it was and that it does not pose a threat to have been recovered inside Gaza. been killed. They include Hamas brigade com- the State of Israel,” said Netanyahu this week. Humanitarian aid continues to arrive in Gaza manders, battalion commanders and company Continued on page 2

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Continued from page 1 Bicom, meantime, have speculated that the Qataris and Egyptians have proposed a deal to end the war and free all Israeli hostages. In exchange the Gaza Strip would be demilitarised and Israel would release thousands of Palestinian terrorists. Israel would not target senior Hamas officials. They leave Gaza, as Yasar Arafat did to Lebanon in 1982. Pressure has increased significantly on Israel in recent days to end the operation. White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said Tuesday the US would “not support” further Israeli military operations in southern Gaza Strip before guaranteeing not to displace civilians. Emotional scenes of Israelis being reunited with family and thanking medical teams in hospitals have been seen this week. But details have also emerged of conditions hostages were held. Some were treated

reasonably, others experienced violence. They were also denied food and water for long periods. The IDF and Israel Security Agency confirmed this week ‘precision strikes’ against five high-ranking Hamas commanders before the ceasefire agreement went into effect. Ahmed Ghandour was commander of Hamas’ Northern Gaza Brigade. He played a key role in the October 7 massacre. Aiman Siam, head of Hamas’ Rockets Array, Wael Rajeb, deputy commander of Hamas’ Northern Gaza Brigade, Farsan Halifa, a senior operative in Hamas’ Judea and Samaria Headquarters and Rafet Salman, commander of the

30 NOVEMBER 2023

Combat Assistance Unit were also targeted. Halifa was killed in the same strike as Ghandour and Siam.

Hostages returned to Israel. Some reunited with their family, whilst others spending time with the designated soldiers of the IDF

Parliament ‘hostage’ vigils

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The Board of Deputies is holding small weekly vigils outside Parliament for the return of the hostages. They are calling for members of the Jewish community and allies to join the effort. “While a number of hostages have been released in recent days, there are still more than 150 hostages being held by terrorists in Gaza”, said Board of Deputies President Marie van der Zyl. “It is vital that the general public not be allowed to forget their plight, and it is important for all of us to continue to make it clear to those at the heart of Westminster that any lasting peace is impossible as long as a single hostage remains held by terror groups in Gaza. We continue to call to Bring Them

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Home.” The Board is looking for those who are willing to volunteer a couple of hours of time, on Tuesday or Wednesday afternoon, to join vigils, from Tuesday 5th December. These will continue to be held each week that Parliament is in session. “We hope that we will soon see the return of every man, woman and child held hostage in Gaza by Hamas and other terror groups,” said a Board spokesman. Volunteers will be contacted with a date, time and venue in the Westminster area. Vigils will be staffed by the Board and are being co-ordinated with the police and CST.

WHAT’S INSIDE THIS WEEK WHAT’S INSIDE THIS WEEK 01 News 30 Judaism 04 News 28 Cookery 14 Opinion 15 Opinion 30 Judaism 38 Family Fun 22 16 Obituary Games 36 Kids 40 Expert Advice 18 Games Community 38 Youth 24 45 Travel 26 Feature 25 Community

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100,000 march against antisemitism BY DAVID SAFFER

British Jews across the UK marched against antisemitism last Sunday. The show of solidarity by over 100,000 people was the largest Jewish protest since the Battle of Cable of Street in 1936. Members of the Christian, Hindu, Muslim, Iranian, Ukrainian, Indian and Kurdish communities joined in solidarity. Campaign Against Antisemitism organised the protest. Chief Rabbi Sir Efraim Mirvis and Jewish leaders were supported by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, government ministers, MPs across the political divide, actors including Dame Maureen Lipman, Elliot Levey, Eddie Marsan and Tracy-Ann Oberman, broadcasters Julia Hartley-Brewer and Vanessa Feltz, TV personalities Rachel Riley, David Baddiel and Robert Rinder, and historian Simon Sebag Montefiore. The rally started outside the Royal Courts of Justice in The Strand, proceeded on the Embankment to Trafalgar Square before speeches outside Parliament. Chief Rabbi Mirvis called for a strengthening of community cohesion. Regarding increased antisemitism, the Chief told everyone to “call it out when you see it”, “call it by what it really is… Jew hatred”, “be vigilant and report every incident” and “arrest every perpetrator and bring them to justice”. He added: “We must teach our children that the superheroes of our society are those who pursue peace and loving kindness, not those who glorify violence and

murder. We must teach people that they must draw their conclusions from historical facts not from what they see and hear on social media.” Home Office Minister Robert Jenrick noted: “There is one fundamental freedom we must reclaim and that is the freedom from fear. A Britain where Jewish people are afraid is not Britain.” Security Minister Tom Tugendhat and Universities Minister Robert Halfon, Marson and Oberman also addressed the crowd. Chazan Jonny Turgel and Israeli singer Rita also performed. Theresa Villiers was among MPs in attendance. In Parliament, Villiers has called

Chazan Turgel performing

PHOTO: STUART MITCHELL/CAA

on police to use the “full force of the law” against anyone committing hate crimes. The march followed weekly pro-Palestinian marches in central London. CAA noted the Jewish community has witnessed mass criminality, glorification of terrorism, support for banned terrorist organisations and incitement to racial or religious hatred against Jews. There have also been genocidal chants,

Hamas-style headbands, antisemitic placards, calls for jihad, songs about slaughtering Jews and Islamist flags. Gideon Falter, Chief Executive of Campaign Against Anti- Full streets of London semitism, said: “Week after week, central London has become a no-go zone for Jews. The sad truth is that Jews do not feel safe in our capital city. The voice of decency has been heard, it is a voice that demands action. British Jews do not believe police treat antisemitic hate crime like other forms of hate crime. It is time that the police prove them wrong.” He added: “Antisemitism is up by over 1,000%, almost 70% of British Jews are hiding their Jewish identity and almost half of the community are considering leaving the country due to antisemitism. Britain is at an inflection point. If the authorities believe that our streets and our country should be safe for all Britons, including British Jews, they must act against hate before it’s too late.” The Met Police arrested two people. Tommy Robinson, former leader of the far-right English Defence League, was warned to stay away by organisers. Police escorted him from the march. Another man was arrested for making antisemitic comments when the crowd left Whitehall.

Terrible Events in Israel and Rising Antisemitism:

A CAA survey of British Jews has revealed shocking antisemitism insights since the October 7 terror attack by Hamas in Israel. The poll showed 90% of British Jews avoid travelling to a city centre if a major anti-Israel rally takes place, 69% PHOTO: STUART MITCHELL/CAA are less likely to show visible signs of their Judaism and almost half have considered leaving the UK. Over 60% have experienced or witnessed an antisemitic incident or know somebody who has since the October massacre. Of deep concern, also, is 16% believe police treat antisemitic hate crime like other forms and two thirds believe police apply a double standard. The poll of 3,744 responses was taken November 12-17 2023. CAA’s survey was modelled on the National Jewish Community Survey conducted by the Institute for Jewish Policy research. Duplicate responses were kept to a minimum and removed from the sample.

PHOTO: STUART MITCHELL/CAA

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Musk meets hostage families BY ADAM MOSES

SpaceX founder Elon Musk toured Kibbutz Kfar Aza with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday. Sha’ar Hanegev Regional Council acting chairman Yossi Keren and IDF Spokesperson Liad Diamond briefed Musk on the massacre at the kibbutz. Musk and Netanyahu visited the Leibstein family residence where Musk heard about the heroism of Ofir Leibstein, Sha’ar Hanegev’s chairman murdered in exchanges of fire with Hamas terrorists at the kibbutz. Musk also visited the Itamari family residence where he heard about Avigail Idan, 4, whose parents were murdered. She was released from captivity this week. Musk went on to hold a meeting with President Isaac Herzog in Jerusalem. Representatives of families of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza attended. President Herzog said, “The world is ever-changing and you are at the forefront of so many technologies and developments which look forward for humanity. On the other hand, you’ve seen how evil can supersede everything. You’ve seen what hate can bring about, you’ve seen how thought turns into evil, into hate, and into bloodshed. Whilst you look forward with the most advanced technologies on Earth, it is clear the oldest disease in humanity, antisemitism, lurks underneath and impacts

so many societies.” they will think that the murder of innocent He added: “Jew hatred impacts the be- people is a good thing. That is how much haviour of human beings around the world. propaganda can affect people’s minds.” You have a huge role to play. We need to Following discussions with Netanyahu, fight it together because on the platforms Musk called for education so the new genwhich you lead, unfortunately, there’s a eration of murderers are not trained to be harbouring of a lot of all the hate, which murderers. Musk added that it was imporis Jew hatred, of antisemitism. We need to tant is try to build prosperity. discuss how to combat this hate to make Herzog thanked families for telling their the world a safer place. It always starts with the Jews, it never ends with the Jews, and we must change this equation.” Musk was emotionally impacted by visiting the places where Israelis were brutally murdered and watching a video of terrorists rejoicing. “Celebrating the murder of innocent people is extremely disturbing,” he told Herzog and the families. “We have to do whatever is necessary to stop the hate. These people have been fed propaganda since they were children. It’s remarkable what humans are capable of if they’re fed falsehoods, from when they are children, Elon Musk and President Herzog meeting with the families of hostages

stories and said it was important Musk heard from them. “It is a very important way of bringing it to decision makers in the world and humanity at large,” he said. “The war is about humanity. Are we on the side of humanity or are we caving into a new world order where Jihadists will run the world. This is the dilemma.”

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PSA confirm Ali's High Court appeal

BY ADAM MOSES

An appeal is set to take place at the High Court against pharmacist Nazim Ali over ‘Jew-hate’ rantings whilst leading a pro-Hezbollah ‘Al Quds Day’ rally in London in 2017. Campaign Against Antisemitism has pursued the case for six years and welcomed the announcement by the Professional Standards Authority but noted its caution after the General Pharmaceutical Council only issued a warning against Ali last August over his conduct. “We have been here before,” a spokesman said. CAA and the Board of Deputies blasted the GPhC ruling against Ali that only two comments of four were deemed antisemitic based on how a “reasonable person” would understand them. “That showed a disturbing lack of seriousness toward racist conduct as it pertains to Jews and was therefore unacceptable to us,” CAA observed. In spite of the challenges, CAA are determined to win, noting: “Let there be no doubt, we will continue to pursue justice against the leader of the infamous 2017 pro-Hizballah ‘Al Quds Day’ march no matter how long it takes.” Stephen Silverman, CAA Director

of Investigations and Enforcement at Campaigns, described the GPhC summer ruling as a “slap-on-the-wrist sanction” toward racist conduct to Jews. The Board condemned the decision as “totally irresponsible” and a “serious failure” to protect the public against hate speech. Amanda Bowman, BoD, criticised a failure to consider a High Court directive to evaluate the cumulative impact of Ali’s words and public confidence in the pharmacy profession. She called on the PSA to review the decision. A previous GPhC decision to let Ali off with a warning was quashed following CAA action to the Professional Standards Authority. CAA has brought a private prosecution, launched a judicial review and submitted an initial complaint to the GPhC to secure justice. Ali’s reported 2017 statements before a pro-Palestinian crowd holding Hezballah flags and placards deemed antisemitic were: “Any Zionist, any Jew coming into your centre supporting Israel, any Jew coming into your centre who is a Zionist, any Jew coming into your centre who is a member of the Board of Deputies, is not a Rabbi, he is an imposter”; and “They are responsible for the murder of the people in Grenfell. The Zionist supporters of the Tory Party.”

The latter comment referred to the Grenfell fire tragedy where 72 people died four days before the march. Reported comments not considered antisemitic were: “It’s in their genes. Zionists are here to occupy Regent Street. It’s in their genes. It’s in their genetic code” and “European alleged Jews. Remember brothers and sisters, Zionists are not Jews”. CAA asked the PSA to consider the International Definition of Antisemitism that makes clear the word “Zionist” or “Zio” is a term of abuse and has no place in a civilised society. The GPhC warning statement to Nazim Ali at Pro-Hezbollah Rally Ali noted. ‘…

behaving professionally is not limited to the working day, or face to face interactions. The privilege of being a pharmacist and the importance of maintaining confidence in the profession calls for appropriate behaviour at all time’.

PHOTO: CAA

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AG A I N S T A N T I S E M I T I S M AND EXTREMISM Antisemitic graffiti on an East London building, October 2023

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Jewish councillor sacked over Israel motion BY DAVID SAFFER

Hertsmere Borough Councillor Graeme Alexander has been sacked from a senior role on the Labour cabinet after abstaining from an all-party motion supporting Israel’s ‘right to self-defence’. The ‘Opposing Terror and Promoting Peace and Community Cohesion’ motion, worded jointly by the three political group leaders at Hertsmere, was proposed and discussed at a full council meeting last week (November 22). Thirty four of 36 councillors present voted cross party to support the motion. Liberal Democrat Councillor for Bushey North, Louise Nicolas, also failed to support the motion. In the furore that followed, including Senior Hertsmere Conservatives writing to Labour Group and Hertsmere Borough Council leader, Cllr Jeremy Newmark, the following day, Newmark acted decisively, sacking Alexander, who is Jewish, from his post in the administration’s cabinet. Newmark explained why neither he nor

Hertsmere Labour agreed with AlexanAlexander, having previously indicated der’s immediate ceasefire call, in line that he would vote in support of the with national Labour Party policy. motion decided to break the whip and “I believe Cllr Alexander’s actions abstain when it came to the vote. In his stem from his sincere, deep humanitarspeech during the debate, he articulatian and compassionate worldview,” he ed a personal and passionate call for said. “Nevertheless, they are naive and an immediate ceasefire to end human misguided.” suffering.” Newmark rejected suggestions that The Conservative Group are deeply Alexander was anti-Israel or pro-Hamas. concerned the councillors abstained on “He is a hard-working local councilthe motion. lor who I am sure will learn from this Opposition leader Cllr Morris Bright incident,” he observed. “I am proud of the said the group “fully supported” Newway that under our leadership Hertsmere mark’s sacking of Alexander, Labour’s Council has suprecently elected Boreported Israel and hamwood Brookmeadow worked assiduously member, for failing to follow to maintain positive his group’s policy on a “most community coheimportant of motions” to sion around the residents across all commuborough.” nities, especially Elstree & A Hertsmere Borehamwood. Hertsmere Council’s Labour has the second largest numand Cooperative ber of Jewish people in the Group spokesperUK after Barnet. Counsilor Graeme Alexander son added: “Cllr Bright wrote to Council

deputy leader, Liberal Democrat, Paul Richards, to ask what action he intended to take over Nicolas. Richards, Bright said, told him that he trusted his councillors to use their own judgement and did expect Nicolas to step aside. Bright noted: “I think both members should reflect not on what their own personal views might be but what on balance the majority of their electorate would feel about the motion and the sentiments raised within it and represent those views. That’s what we are all elected to do.” Alexander’s speech is available on the council’s webcast. The motion read: ‘Council notes and condemns the October Hamas massacre, calls for an end to terror, regrets all loss of innocent life and supports all genuine moves towards peace that recognise Israel’s legitimate right to self-defence. Council further notes and endorses its community focussed response to these events and thanks officers for their work in facilitating this process.’

Lineker shares Gaza 'genocide' tweet BY DAVID SAFFER

Action Against Discrimination chairman Jonathan Metliss has blasted Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker’s recent tweet on X where he endorses comments from an academic who describes Israel’s IDF actions in Gaza following the October 7 massacre as “textbook genocide”. Journalist Owen Jones interviewed Israeli-American historian Prof Raz Segal. Lineker shared the video with a caption: ‘Worth 13 minutes of anyone’s time.’ Metliss views the MOTD host’s comments as potentially a “serious breach” of the BBC’s social media guidelines and “not fit” for purpose. BBC staff are reportedly “furious” at Lineker’s comments. Metliss has previously criticised Lineker for backing a proposed pro-Palestinian demonstration on Armistice Day and criticising former Home Secretary Suella Braverman for calling the demonstration a ‘hate march’ through London. “He just cannot resist himself and has serious previous form in this area, including his criticism of the shooting by the IDF of a Palestinian footballer who turned out to be a terrorist and likening the current government’s immigration and asylum policy to that of Nazi Germany in the 1930’s,” Metliss

said. “He is an adevening when he mitted supporter of spoke about antisemthe disruptive eco itism in football on group Just Stop Oil, her ‘Jews don’t count’ which compared oil topic. company executives Metliss explained to the Nazi architects how he felt about the of the Holocaust inFootball Association, cluding Adolf Eichand other football mann. And he acauthorities, clubs, cepted a Sports and politicians and police Human Rights award letting down the UK in May from AmnesJewish community. ty International who He cited incidences a hardly a friend of including the failure the State of Israel.” of the FA to light up Metliss added: the Wembley arch “Having been susat a recent England pended by the BBC vs Australia game, (from MOTD), the waving of Palestinian flags by Liverpool and disruptive Lineker Celtic supporters and should be removed a number of current from the BBC once players, exclusion of and for all, and for A screenshot of Gary Lineker’s X feed good reason.” the Star of David from Segal is an associthe flag of the Chelsea ate professor of the Holocaust and geno- Israel Supporters Club and chanting of the cide studies at Stockton University. Y-word by Tottenham Hotspur supporters. Metliss criticised Lineker during an inRegarding Palestinian flag waving at terview with LBC presenter Rachel John- games and by players, Metliss told Johnson on her weekly programme last Sunday son: “Nothing could be closer than Nazi

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Germany in the 1930s where signs of antisemitism were removed. It is absolutely scandalous. That is why I started AAD, I felt football authorities were not giving proper credence to antisemitism in football. And that is still my view.” He added: “Where is the disciplinary action against clubs and individual players. Letters have been written to the Football Association who have been absolutely limp in their response. Standard responses are… ‘we are looking into it’ or ‘there is nothing we can do’.” Metliss and AAD have spoken out on the Y-word for many years as it “provokes and encourages” antisemitic behaviour by fans of other clubs. He told Johnson: “I have a running dialogue with Tottenham on the Y-word, which a number of distinguished football commentators object to. The Y-word, it’s very controversial, although Tottenham, in its wisdom, have said they want to move on from the Y-word. The view held my many including a former FA chairman, is equally on my side. The Y-word provides the platform for antisemites at other football clubs to legitimise it. At a recent Chelsea vs Fulham match, Chelsea fans were chanting ‘yiddo’ and no Tottenham fans were there!”

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NEWS 11

Cameron Israel visit BY DAVID SAFFER

Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron met Israeli leaders and families of hostages a day before the first Israelis were released from captivity. Cameron went to Kibbutz Be’eri to witness the horrific October 7 attacks. He also met Palestinian leaders and aid agencies to discuss the UK’s role in humanitarian support. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met Cameron in Jerusalem. He told the UK’s former prime minister: “We hope to get our hostages out but it’s not without its challenges. Then we’re committed to getting everyone out.” Netanyahu added: “We’ll continue with our war aims, namely to eradicate Hamas, because Hamas has already promised that they will do this again and again and again. They’re a genocidal terrorist cult. There’s no hope for peace between Israel and the Palestinians, between Israel and the Arab states, if we don’t eradicate this murderous movement that threatens the future of all of us.” Netanyahu told Cameron that Israel faced a battle of civilisation against barbarism. “It’s the worst savagery perpetrated on Jews since the Holocaust,” he observed. “Just as the world united to vanquish the Nazis or vanquish al-Qaeda after 9/11 or vanquish ISIS, we have to unite to vanquish Hamas.”

Relating the terror attack to 9/11, Netanyahu said Israel had suffered twenty 9/11s. “It’s as though 50,000 Americans were slaughtered in a single day and 10,000 were held hostage,” he noted. “What kind of people do this? These monsters have to go. We’ll pursue the battle until that goal is achieved, and we give a different future for Gaza and for us.” Cameron responded: “We stand with the people of Israel in sympathy for what you have gone through,” he said. “There’s a huge amount of trauma in Israel because of the taking of 244 hostages. I’m not sure anyone can fully understand and share that trauma.” Regarding the potential humanitarian pause, he noted: “It’s an opportunity to crucially get hostages out and to get aid into Gaza. There’s never an excuse for this sort of hostage taking. All the hostages should be released. I hope everyone who’s responsible and behind this agreement can make it happen, to bring relief to those families, including, of course, British nationals who have been taken hostage. Let’s hope that that can be delivered.” Cameron added: “It is vitally important we demonstrate to the Palestinian people, to the world, that we want to help. It’s essential to be able to get the aid around Gaza to work desalination plants, to make sure that hospitals can run. I think there’s a real opportunity to use this pause to

help deliver that.” situation and were taking steps to inCameron also met President Isaac crease assistance to Gaza citizens. “Rest Herzog, who told him: “You’ve come here assured, we are committed to whatever is when we are in a major crisis, a major necessary, according to the basic rules of challenge, dark days of agony, pain, international humanitarian law,” he said. sorrow, atrocities that emanate constantCameron responded: “I went to ly 24/7. We are only now deciphering so Kibbutz Be’eri and won’t forget what I many facts about that horrific, atrocious, saw. It makes a very deep impression.” He barbaric and sadistic attack on the people added: “You have our support. We stand of Israel.” with the people of Israel at this difficult With a ‘truce’ anticipated, Herzog time. Today is obviously a day where we commented: “We are waiting to hear the hope for this humanitarian pause. I hope whereabouts of women and children takthat all those that are responsible for en hostage by Hamas. We are waiting to negotiating can carry it out because it is see some of them return in the first phase an opportunity to get hostages out and so that some of the humanitarian dilemthat will end suffering for some families. mas we are faced with when it comes to Hostage taking is immoral, and wrong our hostages, at least will be resolved. and a terrorist tactic.” But the story is not over. We are at war against one of the worst terrorist organisations in history, a terrible war machine with a Jihadist, Islamic, ISIS type ideology that must be eradicated.” He added: “I always say if it wasn’t for Israel, Europe would be next.” Herzog said Israel was aware of PHOTO: GPO the humanitarian Lord Cameron in conversation with Prime Minister Netanyahu

CAA welcomed Millard conviction BY ADAM MOSES

Campaign Against Antisemitism have welcomed the conviction of former barrister Ian Millard for posting ‘grossly offensive’ material to Jews on his blog at Southampton Magistrates’ Court last Friday. The offences related to the Communications Act 2003. CAA persisted in the prosecution for seven years after a reluctance by the Crown Prosecution Service. Stephen Silverman, CAA Director of Investigations and Enforcement, said: “Holocaust-denial and antisemitic conspiracy theories have no place in decent British society. British Jews are under assault from antisemites in real life and online, and the fact that a former barrister could commit acts of anti-Jewish racism is utterly abhorrent.” He added: “It is lamentable that, not

for the first time, the CPS initially tried to avoid prosecuting and then dragged its feet after we brought criminal antisemitic behaviour to its attention. What hope are Jewish people in this country supposed to have if the CPS refuses to prosecute individuals spewing antisemitic bile? Justice has been served, albeit much later than it should have been. The reluctance of the CPS in prosecuting individuals like Mr Millard sadly just reinforces the importance of our work.” Charges related to five blog entries to Millard’s website. In a 2021 post, Millard reportedly wrote: “Where Jews exist in any but very small numbers, non-Jews will always be exploited, and can never be free. That is as true in Europe (and including the UK) as it is in the Middle East.” In 2021, he also reportedly wrote: “Americans have little choice but to see the world largely

through the Jewish, Zionist and Israeli lens. Fact. They are also brainwashed from childhood with ‘holocaust’ propaganda and fake history.” CAA noted that Millard defended himself, admitting ownership and editorial control of the blog, but he did not admit posting the posts. Millard accepted ‘sentiments expressed’ in posts. CAA added that during Millard’s time on the stand, he portrayed himself as a ‘victim of a Jewish plot to crush free speech’. And he boasted about the number of visitors to his blog around the world. Millard maintained posts were ‘perfectly acceptable’. Attempting to defend his Holocaust-denial, Millard reportedly said: “There’s history and there are views of history and people are entitled to adopt whichever view they want.”

Millard noted there were “a great number of hoaxes” around the Holocaust, reportedly stating: “It’s the only history that’s acceptable and I disagree with that.” CAA said that Millard told the court Jewish control of media was ‘pervasive’ and claimed British politics was controlled by Zionists. Judge Peter Greenfield condemned Millard’s posts as “grossly offensive to Jews and a multiracial society.” He said: “This is antisemitic… it’s Holocaust-denial, and therefore it is grossly offensive.” CPS Prosecutor Philip Allman said that offending was at the “high end of culpability”. CAA suffered repeated setbacks by the CPS going back to 2016. In April 2023, CAA were informed that the CPS would prosecute Millard.

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Sivan distinguished Israeli jou scholar willRahav-Meir, be touring theaNew York/New Jersey area t the scholar themes ofwill renewal, choices, and community. be touring the New York/New Je

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Presents: Reflections of the War in Israel

Building families during these trying times with Sivan Rahav-Meir! During these trying times and as we approach Hanukkah, EFRAT welcomes students, parents, and community members to a soulenriching experience. Sivan Rahav-Meir, a distinguished Israeli journalist and Torah scholar will be visiting the London community to speak about the current situation and the hope in rebuilding during these special times. She will speak on the themes of renewal, and family building during these trying times. She will also share some of the efforts of EFRAT in helping displaced mothers and children during these trying times.

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Sivan a distinguished mostRahav-Meir popular isfemale media figure and by the Je media personality in Israel, Post as one of the 50 most Jews wor Sivan is ainfluential distinguished me recognized byRahav-Meir Globes newspaper Esteemed for herpopular insights Israel TVnewspap news and as the country's most Israel, recognized byonGlobes female mediaTorah figure and by the she seamlessly bridge impactful lectures, most popular female media figure and Jerusalem Post as one of the 50 Jewish realms of journalism and scholarship. Sivan Rahav-Meir is aworldwide. distinguished media mostPost influential Jews as one of the 50 most influential J personality in Israel, recognized by Globes Esteemed for her insights on Israel Esteemed for hermost insights Israel TV newspaper as the country's popular on female TV news and her impactful Torah media figure and by the Jerusalem Post as one seamless of impactful Torah lectures, she lectures, she seamlessly bridges the the 50 most influential Jews worldwide. Esteemed realms of journalism and Jewish and Jewish schola realms for her insightsof on journalism Israel TV news and her scholarship. Since 1977, EFRAT has been a impactful Torah lectures, she seamlesslybeacon bridges of hope the realms of journalism Jewish scholarship. over 84,000 womenand who once believed ending

About Sivan About Efrat

pregnancies was their only option. Our unwave commitment to providing financial aid, essentia supplies, therapeutic care, and medical guidanc Sincethat 1977, EFRAT has beacon ensures every woman canbeen bringaher baby i over 84,000 women once believe world with dignity, joy, andwho peace of mind. Since 1977, EFRAT has been a beacon

About Efrat

About Efrat Efrat About

of hope for over 85,352 women pregnancies wasa their option. Ou Since 1977, EFRAT has been beacononly of hope for who once believed ending their over 85,352 women believed ending commitment toonce providing financial aid, pregnancies was theirwho only option. For more information: 954-953-2825, ext. 102 their pregnancies was their only option. Our Our unwavering commitment to irism@cribefrat.org / info@cribefrat.org supplies, therapeutic care, and medica unwavering commitment to providing financial providing financial aid, essential aid, essential supplies, therapeutic care, andcan bring h ensures thatcare, every supplies, therapeutic and woman medical guidanceensures ensuresthat thatevery every woman can medical guidance world with dignity, joy, and peace of m bring her baby into world woman can bring herthe baby intowith the dignity, joy, and peace mind.joy, and peace of world with of dignity, Now mind.during the war Efrat is helping hundreds Now during the war Efrat helping of displaced families andistheir children with ext. 102 For more information: 954-953-2825, hundreds of displaced families and child including essential supplies for mother and irism@cribefrat.org / info@cribefrat.org their children with essential supplies toys and gifts to bring smiles to the thousands of for motherchildren and childallincluding displaced across Israel. toys and gifts to bring smiles to the thousands of displaced children all across Israel.

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OPINION

Keep Marching OPINION PIECE BY ROBERT FESTENSTEIN

I went on the march last Sunday in London. From outside the Royal Courts of Justice on the Strand to Parliament Square. I was one of 105,000 people demonstrating against anti-Semitism and reinforcing the right for Jews to walk the streets of London. It was very good to see so many people there from outside the community supporting us, giving up their time on a wet November afternoon to show that they share our concerns and are prepared to stand with us. There were of course some communal groups who didn’t come, some small others not so small, but that didn’t really matter. It didn’t matter because the success or otherwise of the march did not depend who did not turn up, it depended on those who could be bothered to acknowledge the danger we are in and turned out to support us. For those who did not choose to promote and attend the event, well, that just says more about them

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

than I can. afterwards, not necessarily walking, but What reassured me is that I got the reporting anti-Semitic incidents where and impression that the organisers – Campaign when they occur. It is crucial that we all Against Anti-Semitism will not stop at the should do this because the current wave of march last Sunday. anti-SemThey will continue in itism, over their stated objectives 1000% over to call out Jew-hate last year is when they see it and affecting try and so something us all. I call about it. And that is out the BBC what we should all be as a special doing. I know I have mention said this before and because it bears repeating. of their The latest research disgraceful shows that the bulk and blatant of UK citizens do bias. Readnot care for calls for ing some of intifada or jihad on their reports the streets of London and listenor anywhere in the ing to their UK for that matter. reporters PHOTO: STUART MITCHELL/CAMPAIGN AGAINST ANTISEMITISM It is also known that demonvery many of these are not enthusiastic strates for me that they have given up any complainers. idea of neutrality in reporting. It is up to us who were prepared to go Hamas are still not called terrorists. on the march that we should keep going The ghastly attempts by the BBC to

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30 NOVEMBER 2023

demonstrate some equivalence between Hamas and the IDF and their slavish attachment to the numbers of casualties put out by Hamas just show that the BBC will every opportunity they can to discredit Israel. I am certain that such is the level of antagonism towards Israel, that the BBC have in this way contributed to the rise of Jew-hate. They are not responsible for it starting, but they have certainly made their contribution by stirring the flames of Jewhate around the country. Complain and report wherever you can. Above all make sure your MP knows how you feel. Nothing will happen unless we make an almighty fuss about the anti-Semitic incidents and the way in which the war has been reported by the BBC, and other broadcasters. Like I say, keep marching. 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.

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Who are our friends? OPINION PIECE BY GARY MOND

Since the start of the war on 7 October, one recurring theme has been whether, and if so to what extent, the Jewish community has friends in the UK. Levels of antisemitism have been skyrocketing. Many Jewish people (who are law-abiding, respectful citizens of this country and have friendships with other like-minded people of all faiths or none) are suddenly finding that those whom they have known and got on well with for many years are turning against them. In essence, a belief has developed that Jewishness constitutes support for Israel’s military actions, even though Israel is acting in self-defence against genocidal groups who want to destroy Jews, be the latter in Israel or elsewhere in the world. Instances of these types, combined with the ferocious fundamentalist Islamist-backed chanting and slogans seen at marches in the UK, have led to soaring levels of fear, even terror, among Britain’s Jews. In particular, relationships between Jews and Muslims have become much more difficult. I would argue that the situation is actually relatively simple. To be a friend, one has to

believe in the concept of Israel as a Jewish state. Two types of groups come to mind. First, the Zionist Christian supporters (examples include Christian Friends of Israel, Christians United for Israel and Christian Action Against Antisemitism) who are large in number, fervent in their beliefs and determined to find ways of increasing support for Israel in churches and throughout Christian communities in the UK. Their message also includes love for their Jewish friends. It is most unfortunate that major British Jewish groups have – at least to date - failed to work closely with them. Some Jewish leaders feel uncomfortable with the passionate Zionism emanating from these groups – indeed, it is unbridled Zionism, no ifs and no buts, which too many in our community do not share. Others believe, wrongly, that the Christians have a messianic agenda to convert Jews into Christians. Our Jewish leaders have, for many years, eschewed working closely with major pro-Israel Christian groups and chosen instead to embark on interfaith work. In principle, interfaith work, if done with the right partners, is beneficial, especially if it involves an educational dimension whereby Jews have the opportunity of learning about other faiths and adherents to other

faiths can learn about Judaism. If effective this should lead to a more cohesive society. However, in many cases over the years it has involved seeking to work with those who refuse to accept the legitimacy of the Jewish state of Israel, or who criticise it unfairly. For example, back in 2013, in what many regarded as a watershed decision, the Board of Deputies approved a resolution to work with Oxfam. When such interfaith partners refuse to accept the right of Israel to either exist or to defend its citizens, the Jewish community in this country should completely desist from working with them. They are not our friends, and it is an act of surrender to simply say “oh well, Israel is the elephant in the room, we can’t talk about it”. The second prominent group of non-Jewish friends are the (mostly) conservative-leaning writers, activists and political commentators. A fantastic example of this has been the formation of British Friends of Israel, which initiated the October Declaration in response to the massacres, and comprises many leading personalities from a wide range of backgrounds and professions, the overwhelming majority of whom are not Jewish. It was the brainchild of the author. journalist and photographer Laura Dodsworth and has been actively promoted

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by the popular and brilliant Telegraph columnist, Allison Pearson. It is also clear, from their shows, that Israel is strongly supported by many non-Jewish presenters on TV at GB News and Talk TV, with examples including Patrick Christys, Darren Grimes, Andre Walker and Jacob Rees-Mogg, as well as many others. One may or may not like their political stances, but there is no question that, in what has become a life-or-death struggle for Israel and indeed Jews worldwide, they are our friends. Another great example, who will be well-known to many of those following the news closely, is the highly erudite author Douglas Murray. In conclusion, what should we do, both during this war and afterwards? It is fundamental that we recognise who our friends are, and who they are not. Speeches, presentations, articles and other types of action are decisive. The Jewish community needs to work closely with those who ARE our friends. Going forward, that is what the National Jewish Assembly intends to do. Am Yisrael Chai! Gary Mond is the Chairman of the National Jewish Assembly.

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Obituary

Singing with the heavenly choir Chazan Zvi Lider was born in Jerusalem in 1953 to a highly distinguished family of Rabbonim. His great-grandfather was Reb Boruch Ber Leibowitz of Kamenitz. Reb Boruch Ber in addition to being a great tzaddik was known to have been blessed with a fine voice. Zvi studied at the Etz Chaim Yeshiva in Jerusalem. It was only after his yeshiva days that Zvi was heard singing and told that he has potential as a Chazan. Zvi trained under the well known Chazan Noach Schall of New York and also attended Manhattan’s College of Music. His first position was in Charleston, South Carolina. After that he was cantor in Berlin, Germany for 4 years. He also held positions in Stuttgart and Saarbrucken whilst living in Germany. When in Germany he often gave concerts and on more than one occasion, non-Jews came up to him after the concert and told him how moved they were by his fine emotive singing even though, they did not understand the Hebrew language. Chazan Lider used to say the most important part of chazonus is the kavanoh and Zvi was a true exponent of the Zooger style of chazonus. Zvi was a freelance cantor. For 5 years,

he officiated for the High Holidays at the prestigious Zichron Kdoshim Synagogue, Montreal. He also officiated over the High Holidays in Panama, Kingston on Thames, Woodside Park, London and Newton Mearns Synagogue, Glasgow. During the year he had officiated in St John’s Wood Synagogue, Mill Hill Synagogue, Edgware Synagogue, Finchley Synagogue, Heaton Park, Manchester, Vilna, Strasbourg and Antwerp. More recently, on a regular basis, he officiated at The Singers Hill Synagogue in Birmingham and was greatly admired for his leyning skills. Zvi could prepare the most difficult sedra, with little notice. He not only would get the words right but the trop too. Zvi was in demand over Pesach where he sang and entertained in many leading hotels in Israel, Italy, Spain, Croatia, Greece, Monaco and Amsterdam. Zvi loved singing at simchas and was in great demand to sing Rosenblatt’s Ana Avda and Pinchik’s Roza D’Shabbos. His favourite chazonim were Kwartin and Izanbach whose style of davening he emulated. Zvi was a very close friend with the world renowned cantors Shimon Kugel z”l and Pinchos Cohen.

I was privileged to be a close friend of his for over 20 years. Whenever I visited him, I always asked him to compose settings of prayers on the spot and Zvi loved the challenge and I encouraged him to record them. Some of these pieces were released on his CD Av Horachamim. Zvi loved learning Talmud with a chavrusa and was a popular figure in Golders Green kollelim. Chazan Lider was blessed with a rich baritone voice. He practiced sight reading every day and played piano. Zvi lived in Golder Green but had close connections to Stamford Hill. As a freelance chazan, Zvi was not always employed, sadly a lot of people who were in a position to help him did not always do so. This hurt Zvi greatly. In the last 2 years of his life, he had cancer, yet in the early stages of his cancer, he still officiated without anyone knowing of his discomfort and pain. In the last few months of his life, Zvi was cared for at Schonfeld Square where he was

well looked after. Zvi passed away with no children. His hebrew name is Zvi ben Harav Avrohom. May his dear soul rest in peace and may he now sing with the heavenly choir. Chazan Yehuda Marx

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COMMUNITY 25

GIFT leads humanitarian mission to Israel Rabbi Sandor Milun, Managing Director of GIFT, spearheaded a humanitarian journey to Israel alongside a group of 13 volunteers from the UK. Coordinated by Tzvi Sperber from JRoots on the Israeli end, the mission aimed to provide handson assistance and support to communities in need. GIFT, an organisation committed to inspiring and facilitating giving, embarked on a four-day trip that encapsulated their core mission. The team engaged in various activities, including packing essential supplies, visiting displaced families, offering condolences at a house of mourning for a young girl, delivering provisions, participating in farming activities such as harvesting sweet potatoes, and organising BBQs for displaced communities and

Rabbi Milun getting his hands dirty in the farm

soldiers. “At GIFT, our ethos revolves around inspiring giving, so it was a natural step for us to create this impactful journey. Our experiences ranged from visiting families to farming, and the impact was immeasurable,” Rabbi Sandor Milun expressed. Initially met with skepticism when proposing the idea of farming in Israel, the team’s efforts yielded tangible results. Their involvement ensured that produce, such as buckets of sweet potatoes, made it to the market, highlighting the direct contribution they made to the community. The genuine gratitude exhibited by every Israeli they encountered left an indelible mark. “Witnessing the appreciation for our hands-on assistance, rather than mere observation, was profoundly moving. It elevated the sense of unity and solidarity,” remarked Rabbi Sandor

Milun. Reflecting on the experience, Rabbi Sandor Milun emphasized, “It was undeniably one of the most powerful four days of my life. The palpable sense of togetherness, shared loss, and the resilient spirit to live in peace resonated deeply. Israel felt safer than our Taking a second to capture the moment own cities, and the warmth of the people’s appreciation was families by the thousands of volunteers overwhelming.” across the country is on another level of “Aside from the practical mission to ‘special’. I feel privileged to have experiparticipate in some small way in the enced this intense sense of peoplehood, national volunteering effort, we shared amongst the many other emotions felt on amongst all the people we met, a powour trip.”- Jamie King, a member of the erful sense of purpose and a quiet but GIFT trip determined resolve to move on and surThe trip not only symbolized support vive. We took strength from this resolve but also fostered a sense of unity and and felt proud (and safer) knowing that empathy among the team members, the people we met in Israel are a part reinforcing the importance of active of our worldwide Jewish family. The joy engagement in humanitarian efforts. and togetherness brought to bereaved

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Siyum on Masheches Sukka JNF launches Voices from Israel Current and former members of The Beis programme of Ohr Yerushalayim in Manchester, joined by their wives, gather for a Gala Siyum on Maseches Sukka led by Rabbi Zechariah Reznick at the Loft @

Celias on Tuesday night. The event also marked the end of Rabbi Reznick’s entertaining bi-weekly shiur at the chabura after 6 years, having finished 3 masechtas in that time.

Menorah Foundation is 'Outstanding' Menorah Foundation School is delighted to announce the exceptional outcome of its recent Section 48 Kodesh inspection, receiving an overall effectiveness rating of ‘Outstanding’, the highest possible rating. The inspection, assessing six core areas including Overall Effectiveness, Behaviour and Personal Development, Teaching and Learning, Pupil Outcomes, Leadership and Management, and SMSC (spiritual, moral, social, and cultural) Development, revealed outstanding performance across all categories. The school’s governors attributed the achievement as a testament to the unwavering dedication and hard work demonstrated by the students, faculty, and the entire school community. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our remarkable Kodesh teachers whose boundless enthusiasm and commitment shine through in their daily efforts, consistently surpassing expectations”, expressed Head Teacher Holli Hunter. As well as praising the school’s Kodesh staff, both Rabbi Jay and Mrs Levy, Menorah Foundation’s Head & Deputy Head of Kodesh, were keen to emphasize that the success of the Kodesh Department could only have been achieved with the steadfast support of Mrs Hunter and all of the Chol staff, a factor which was also noted by the inspectors as a significant strength of the school, contributing to its warm and cohesive atmosphere. Mrs Levy, said: “This achievement resonates deeply with our commitment to delivering high-quality Jewish education and nurturing a strong Jewish ethos within our school. It underscores the exceptional conduct and engagement of our students, showcasing their profound

understanding and appreciation for our Jewish heritage.” “Menorah Foundation wants to express its gratitude to the parents for their continuous support and partnership, recognizing the pivotal role they play in creating a nurturing environment for students.” While celebrating this remarkable success, Menorah Foundation remains steadfast in its dedication to ongoing improvement in the realm of Chinuch, understanding the need for perpetual mindfulness, care, and nurturing in education. “We emphasize that these results, while outstanding, do not signal complacency. Chinuch remains an evolving focus, one that demands constant attention, something we are deeply committed to and will steadfastly uphold in the future”, added Rabbi Jay. This outstanding achievement is a cause for celebration for all of the Menorah Foundation community; a collective demonstration of their commitment to providing an exceptional education rooted in Jewish values.

Headteacher Mrs Holli Hunter

JNF UK launched its Voices from Israel series with Professor Jonathan Dekel-Chen last Thursday. During the event he spoke to an audience of 120 campaigning for the safe return of his son Sagui, of Kibbutz NirOz, who is a JNF UK employee. Jonathan spoke about life before the events of October 7, comparing kibbutz life to the “Zionist dream”. The Kibbutz has seen a population growth as many young families. Two of his children moved to the Kibbutz to raise their children as they had been raised. In a harrowing Sagui Dekel-Chen account of the attack that left surviving members “shattered remnants of the community”, Jonathan spoke about his son Sagui’s bravery as he engaged for hours with around 200 terrorist commandos who executed or took captive anyone they could find. All contact was lost with Sagui. He is believed to have been taken hostage. It is known that 28 people from NirOz were murdered by Hamas terrorists and 80 taken captive of 400 people at the Kibbutz that morning. In the wake of the terrorism, hundreds of civilians from Gaza looted then burnt the Kibbutz leaving only a “burnt out shell.” Jonathan is unsure what will happen in the long-term. In the short-term, surviving members want to stay together, by the end of December they will move out of an Eilat hotel where they have been staying to a new neighbourhood outside of Kiryat Gat for a year to 18 months. The aim in the coming months is for families to reclaim a daily routine and get children back in school. Jonathan has been campaigning since Sagui was kidnapped for his safe return. He explained that he joined the forces with 10 families who are also American dual nationals. They have been using that as a platform to advocate with the Biden Administration and Congress. JNF UK first met Jonathan and Sagui through The Bikurim Performing Arts School in the Eshkol Region of the Negev. The Dekel-Chen family approached JNF UK to help them establish a worldclass music school in the desert. With a dream to give gifted musicians from Israel’s peripheries the chance to

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realise their artistic potential, visionaries Jonathan, his two sons and Tamar Kedem Siman-Tov established the school in 2014. It has expanded to train students across the performing arts spectrum. Tamar, her husband and children were brutally murdered by terrorists. Sagui has worked tirelessly for over eight years to help strengthen the Negev and Gallil. JNF UK is praying for Sagui’s safe return to his family. JNF UK Interim CEO Elan Gorji said, “We are deeply moved to have had Professor Dekel-Chen launch our Voices series. His personal story was not only insightful but moving and heartbreaking when describing what happened on that day. The tragic events of October 7 have touched our organisation directly. Sagui’s is absence is keenly felt, and we continue to pray for his safe return. “The collaboration with the Dekel-Chen family through performing arts school reflects our commitment to supporting initiatives that empower communities and nurture talent in Israel’s peripheries. The dream of establishing a world-class music school in the desert, tragically marred by the loss of Tamar and her family, remains a testament to the resilience and determination of those who strive to make a positive impact.” Professor Dekel-Chen is the Rabbi Edward Sandrow Chair in Soviet & East European Jewry at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, where he holds a dual appointment in the Department of Jewish History & Contemporary Jewry and in the Department of General History. He is a frequent commentator and interviewee on East European affairs and the Middle East for media outlets that include the BBC, AP, Reuters, Washington Post, Bloomberg, Radio France and Voice of America.

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Waking Up in the Morning, and Dressing

Rav Chaim’s Tikkun Chatzos is worn out from use.

1. When Rav Chaim woke up, he recited Birchos HaTorah (see below, recited Tikkun Chatzos in a beseech 3), and then ing manner. He sat on a regular not remove his shoes or place chair, and did ashes on his head. He general ly recited only Tikkun Leah, not Tikkun Rachel or any additional supplications. See Shulchan Aruch 1:3 and Mishnah Berurah 9. In recent years, Rav Chaim usually awakened shortly after midnigh t to recite Tikkun Chatzos and to learn without interrup tion until the morning. In the earlier years, Rav Chaim would sometimes learn until very late at night and consequently wake up somewhat later. Nevertheless, if he awoke before alos hashachar, he would still recite Tikkun Chatzos, even though it was past midnight. To those who inquired with regard to Tikkun Chatzos, he likewise ruled that it may be recited any time before daybreak. If it happene d that Rav Chaim awoke after alos hashachar, however, he would not recite the Tikkun.

Rav Chaim explained that the reason he did not recite Tikkun Rachel was because he usually did not recite Tachanun, since he often serves as a sandek or a mohel davens in his minyan. When Tachanun is not recited, neither is Tikkun Rachel. Rav Chaim was asked if the Chazon Ish said Tikkun Chatzos, and he answered that he does not know whether the Chazon Ish recited Tikkun Chatzos, but his father, the Steipler Gaon, did recite it.

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2. Rav Chaim made every effort to be learning or davening during the times when night turns into day and day turns into night, as the Shelah Hakadosh wrote. See Mishnah Berurah 1:2.

When night turns into day and day turns into night.

Tikkun Chatzos In the picture, Rav Chaim’s siddur is closed after he used it to recite Birchos HaTorah, and he is holding the Tikkun Chatzos in his hands, preparing to mourn the Churban in the dark of night.

Top: Studying Shulchan Aruch, Hilchos Maachalei Akum, while the clock on the shelf shows 3:15 a.m. Bottom: The clock on the shelf shows a little after 5 a.m. Rav Chaim’s face also shows the freshness of a new morning accompanied by chiddushei Torah.

This gorgeous, coffee-table size book brings us the halachic sources and background of Rav Chaim’s practices throughout the year, while hundreds of beautiful photos, some of them rare, give us a powerful visual glimpse of his greatness. AVA I L A B L E A T Y O U R L O C A L H E B R E W B O O K S E L L E R D I S T R I B U T E D B Y L E H M A N N S > E M A I L : I N F O @ L E H M A N N S . C O . U K > W W W. L E H M A N N S . C O . U K

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ASK THE RABBI Looking for answers? Send your question to Rabbi@RabbiSchochet.com JEWS AND TURKEY Dear Rabbi As an observant and learned Jew I am aware that many fellow Jews celebrate Thanksgiving in the United States, much as they do Xmas and Halloween. What disturbs me is that while those are always non-observant Jews who don’t know any better, many observant Jews are also guilty of celebrating Thanksgiving with a turkey and all. Isn’t this wrong and in violation of the prohibition, “You should not follow in the ways of non-Jews”? Effy

Dear Effy As you profess to be a learned Jew let me share with you the following: The Biblical prohibition against following the customs of non-Jews, is codified by Code of Jewish Law to include manners of dress, haircuts, and even building styles. Tosafot says that this prohibition includes two distinct types of customs: idolatrous ones, and those that are nonsensical; implying even if they are not done with specific idolatrous intent, they would still be prohibited to practice. However, other early commentators maintain that a nonsensical custom is only prohibited when it is entirely irrational, with no comprehensible reason for it, or when it has connotations of idolatrous intent. On the other hand, they maintain, observing a simple custom that has no idolatrous reference, especially if there is a valid reason for its performance, such as giving proper honour or respect, would indeed be permitted. Even as the Vilna Gaon rejects this understanding of the prohibition, the Rama and the Beis Yosef, explicitly rule like this. Accordingly, Jewish law maintains that if a custom is secular, and unlike Xmas and Halloween has no idolatrous connection, such a custom may still be observed. Most later authorities concur with this. Thanksgiving has come to symbolise intercultural peace, America’s opportunity for newcomers, and the sanctity of home and family. It’s a beautiful concept, which many observant and learned Jews like yourself, are rightfully “guilty” of celebrating.

AN IMMORAL COMPARISON Dear Rabbi We repeatedly hear Gaza being compared to a concentration camp. I’ve had colleagues at work saying the same to me and I am not sure what the appropriate

response to this is. Can you enlighten? Sandy Dear Sandy As the grandson of Holocaust survivors and the son of one of the “hidden children” I am disgusted by the consistent comparison of Gaza to a concentration camp, drawing parallels between the two. Not only does it disrespect the memory of all the survivors and those who perished it also diminishes the unique and harrowing experiences of millions. The typical comparison to the Warsaw Ghetto is equally flawed. Unlike the Warsaw Ghetto, where starvation prevailed and not a single person was overweight, you’ll see pictures of most Gazan’s looking nourished and well fed. Secondly, the density in the Warsaw Ghetto, housing over half a million Jews in 1.3 square miles without high-rise buildings, contrasts sharply with Gaza’s conditions. Can you assert that Gaza shares the same level of crowding? The answer is no. Can you argue that the Warsaw Ghetto received $40 billion in international aid or boasted 5-star hotels like the Al-Mathaf in Gaza? Once again, the answer is no.

Dear Cassandra I participated as a panellist at a “JLI conference” last summer at which I was asked the question: “Most countries in the United Nations vote against Israel. Are they all wrong?” I told the audience of near a thousand strong: “Yes!” That prompted a loud applause. I then continued: “If you consider the fact that you have Iran and China and Venezuela that are all condemning Israel for human rights violations, it just goes to show the reality and the absurdity of what the United Nations is really all about.” That moment was captured on video and released a short while ago by JLI on YouTube. It has garnered more than 1.4 million views. Someone asked me, “aren’t you scared?” I replied: “I’m never

30 NOVEMBER 2023

scared to speak the truth.” I hope you accept that truth as well.

Follow Rabbi Schochet at: RabbiSchochet.com Twitter: @RabbiYYS Facebook: facebook.com/Rabbiyys

Thirdly, equating the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising to the events of Oct 7th is not just disingenuous, it’s deplorable! The Warsaw Ghetto Uprising was a desperate last attempt to resist a Nazi Aktion aimed at exterminating every last Jew. In stark contrast, how many Nazis or German civilians were subjected to rape, kidnapping, or torture during the uprising? How many German families were bound together with barbed wire and burnt alive? The answer is zero! According to German figures, only 17 soldiers were killed - in self-defence. As the descendant of Holocaust survivors, I find any attempt to draw such comparisons morally reprehensible and an intentional distortion of both history and present reality.

WHAT ABOUT THE UNITED NATIONS? Dear Rabbi The United Nations was established after the Holocaust in an attempt to maintain international peace and security and to achieve cooperation among nations on economic, social and humanitarian problems. What then gives Israel the right to disregard its recommendations for a ceasefire? Cassandra

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

From Ya’akov to Yisrael BY RABBI MENACHEM LEIBTAG

Parashat Vayishlach begins as Yaakov sends messengers ahead, apparently to assess to what extent Eisav is still a danger. However, to Yaakov’s surprise, his messengers come back with a report that he most probably did not expect: Eisav, with four hundred men, was on his way to meet Yaakov! Expecting that Eisav was on his way to kill his entire family, he quickly divides his camp in two (to save at least half of them), then turns to G-d in prayer. Yaakov’s prayer reflects this predicament. On the one hand, G-d told him to return and promised to protect him. Yet on the other hand, G-d never told him to initiate an encounter with Eisav. Did Yaakov think he had made a mistake? Maybe he was supposed to return to Canaan and avoid Eisav entirely? Yaakov now faces a predicament. After all, what does G-d want him to do? After he prays, that evening Yaakov prepares an elaborate ‘peace offering’ for his brother. Hence, it appears that Yaakov has chosen the path of ‘appeasement,’ hoping that his

”He continues on his journey [...], ready to face any future encounter with prayer, wisdom, action, faith and resolve”. brother will be so impressed that he may change his mind. That evening, as Yaakov crosses the Yabok with his family, G-d sends a mal’ach who struggles with Yaakov until the morning. It would only be logical to assume that there is a divine reason for this struggle. If we follow Rashbam’s approach (that Yaakov is running away), then G-d’s message seems to be quite clear. By keeping Yaakov engaged in battle all night long, G-d is not allowing Yaakov to run, thereby telling him that he shouldn’t (or doesn’t need to) run away. In fact,

Rashbam claims that Yaaakov’s injury is a punishment for his running away! This also explains Yaakov’s request for a blessing. The angel blesses Yaakov by ‘changing his name’ from Yaakov to Yisrael. Considering that the name Yaakov implies some sort of ‘trickery,’ while the name Yisrael implies the ability to ‘stand up and fight’; then this ‘blessing’ is simply G-d’s answer to Yaakov – don’t run away, rather encounter your brother! What should we learn from this story? One could suggest that the Bible’s ambiguity is intentional, as there are

Vayishlach

times when we must take action, even when we are in doubt in regard to the true intentions of our enemies. While at other times, it may be better to remain passive. Yaakov leaves this encounter not only limping but also ‘contemplating’ and ‘wondering.’ But he continues on his journey, on his way to Bet-El, ready to face any future encounter with prayer, wisdom, action, faith, and

resolve. So too, in the history of the Jewish people – there are times that we must stand up and fight, and there are times that we attempt appeasement. There are also times when we struggle, and remain limping. Yet we continue to pray, study, contemplate, and persevere with unyielding resolve to achieve our goals. Rabbi Menachem Leibtag is an internationally acclaimed Tanach scholar and online Jewish education pioneer. He is a member of the Miz¬rachi Speakers Bureau (www.mizrachi.org/speakers).

them. G-d appears to Yaakov, telling him to go back to Beit El, where he originally built an altar when escaping from Esav. As the angel had previously foretold, G-d changes Yaakov’s name to Yisrael. Point to Consider: Why did Yaakov rebuke Shimon and Levi? (see Rashi to 34:30)

6th Aliya (Shishi) – 35:12-36:19 1ST ALIYA (KOHEN) – BEREISHIT 32:4-13

Yaakov sends angels to inform his brother Esav that he is returning home, after decades away. Yaakov’s message offers Esav the chance to make peace, but also conveys Yaakov’s own strength (Rashi). The angels return, warning Yaakov that Esav is approaching with 400 men. Yaakov becomes afraid, divides his camp into two and prays to G-d for survival.

2nd Aliya (Levi) – 32:14-30

Yaakov sends copious gifts to Esav, hoping to appease him. That night, Yaakov’s family crosses over the Yabok stream. Yaakov is left alone. He is attacked by ‘a man’, identified by the Midrash as the ministering angel of Esav. They wrestle until dawn. The ‘man’, unable to defeat Yaakov, nevertheless dislocates Yaakov’s hip. The ‘man’ then tells Yaakov that his

name will later change to ‘Yisrael’ and blesses him.

3rd Aliya (Shlishi) – 32:31-33:5

Yaakov’s injury is the source of the prohibition of eating the sciatic nerve of an animal. As Esav approaches, Yaakov bows to him seven times. Esav embraces and kisses Yaakov, and they both weep.

4th Aliya (Revi’i) – 33:6-33:20

Each person in Yaakov’s family bows to Esav. Yaakov successfully urges Esav to accept the gifts that he had sent. Esav suggests that he and Yaakov travel together, but Yaakov politely declines. Esav departs for Seir and Yaakov departs for a place called Succot. Yaakov then travels to Shechem.

5th Aliya (Chamishi) – 34:1-35:11

Dinah is captured and violated by Shechem the son of Chamor, ruler of the town. Shechem falls in love with Dinah and asks his father to secure her as his wife, whilst still holding Dinah captive. Yaakov’s sons are outraged. Chamor speaks to them, suggesting that their two families unite in marriage, as well as offering them trade and land prospects. Shechem offers a large dowry for Dinah. Yaakov’s sons trick Chamor and Shechem – they offer the Israelite girls only if all the town’s males are circumcised. Chamor and Shechem agree; all the men of the town circumcise themselves. Three days later, when they are in great pain, Shimon and Levi kill them all, take Dinah back and plunder the town. Yaakov rebukes

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Rachel dies whilst giving birth to Binyamin and is buried in Beit Lechem. After Rachel’s death, Reuven, Leah’s son, moves his father’s bed out of Bilhah’s tent and into Leah’s (Rashi). Yitzchak dies, aged 180. He is buried by Esav and Yaakov. Esav’s descendants are listed.

7th Aliya (Shevi’i) – 36:20-36:43

The Torah lists eight Edomite kings and their origins.

Haftarah (Hoshea 11:7-12:12)

The Haftarah, according to the general United Synagogue custom, is taken from the Book of Hoshea. The prophet refers to events in Yaakov’s life, including his struggle with the angel. Hoshea encourages the people to learn from Yaakov’s responses to the spiritual challenges he faced, so that they can become worthy of being his descendants.

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A Reason to Transcend BY RABBI SHMUEL REICHMAN

It was that time of year again. Once a year, for a single day, the legendary Buddhist guru would emerge from his solitary meditation to greet the public. Thousands of people would flock to his far-flung residence to greet him. Some came to ask questions, seeking his wisdom and advice, while others came just to lay eyes on this legendary figure. The moment had finally come, and a hush fell over the crowd. The guru slowly emerged, and the crowd immediately swarmed toward him. Those in front began reaching out to him, and one by one, he began addressing their questions. The aura of reverence was suddenly broken by a commotion in the back of the crowd. An older woman began pushing her way through the crowd, trying to make her way to the front. Everyone began muttering, wondering why she was so desperate to meet the guru. She must have a very deep, philosophical question. Was she looking for the path toward peace and truth? Was she wondering how to find her unique mission in life? When she finally reached the front, she grabbed onto the guru’s arm: “Moishy!” she chided him. “Enough of this foolishness! It’s time to come home and get a job!” Very often, people believe that true depth and wisdom lies only in far-off places — in Eastern spirituality or Western philosophy. However, the deepest wisdom lies within Jewish thought, in the depths of the Torah’s inner wisdom. One must only seek, and they will find.

THE PURPOSE OF CHUKIM The power and purpose of intellect is an oft misunderstood concept in the Western world, making chukim all the more important to study. A chok is commonly understood in contrast to a mishpat. • A mishpat is a rational, intuitive Torah law, such as the prohibitions against murder and stealing and the command to give charity. Such laws appeal to the human intellect and appeal to the innate moral compass present within all human beings, irrespective of religion, race, or ethnicity. • A chok, on the other hand, refers to a Torah law that seemingly defies human logic and rational explanation, such as parah adumah, kashrus (Jewish dietary laws), and shaatnez (the prohibition against mixing wool and linen). If there is no logical explanation for these mitzvos, what is their purpose? Why would Hashem command us to do something for seemingly no justifiable reason? One possibility is that this type of command engenders obedience and submission to Hashem’s will. A life of truth is a life aligned with a higher will, i.e., Hashem’s will (Avos 2:4). Such a life

requires commitment and discipline. An effective way to discipline oneself is by obeying laws, regardless of whether one understands them. Comprehension and understanding are valuable, but chukim are necessary to create a firm structure of pure obedience to Hashem’s will. However, it is possible that while chukim do not appear to have any rational or logical explanation, this is true only from the viewpoint of human logic and reason. In other words, there is, in fact, a reason for chukim, but these reasons transcend human logic, residing in a realm far beyond our intellectual capabilities. Within this line of thinking, it is possible that while our human intellects cannot grasp the entirety of a chok’s meaning and depth, we can access shards of its meaning. A clear expression of this is the fact that many commentators have attempted to provide explanations for chukim, despite their supposed incomprehensibility. This suggests at least a partially comprehensible aspect to chukim, despite their elusive and transcendent nature.

THE NATURE OF INTELLECT The topic of chukim and our ability to intellectually grasp them raises a more general question: What exactly is the nature and purpose of our intellect? Within Western culture, the intellect is lauded as the be-all and end-all of truth itself. Scientists, philosophers, and atheists often claim that Judaism is dogmatic and irrational, rejecting logic and reason. Is this so? What is the role of intellect within Judaism, and conversely, what is its limit? Do we reject reason, embrace it, or perhaps take a middle ground? The Vilna Gaon famously said, “Where logic and human intellect ends, Jewish wisdom begins.” It seems, therefore, that Judaism does not reject reason and logic but builds upon it. Let us explore what this means.

THE PURPOSE AND UTILITY OF LOGIC Philosophy and logic are useful, often necessary, tools for approaching spiritual truths. For example, one of the most famous methods of proving Hashem’s existence is the “proof by design” approach. The universe is so infinitely complex and vastly beautiful, with endless layers of depth and organization. Examine just a single human cell, and you will be astounded by its sophistication. Analyze the principles of chemistry, and you will be blown away by how perfectly everything fits. The only logical reaction to a universe so organized and sophisticated is to conclude that there must be a Designer who created it. Such a work of art does not simply happen by accident. This proof is a logical one, using the logical alternative of a Creator not existing to prove the existence of one. Many famous analogies are used to describe the likelihood of such a masterpiece happening by accident. One could say that it’s as likely as a monkey

splashing ink over hundreds of pages and accidentally writing a literary masterpiece. It’s as likely as throwing a bunch of metal into a pile and accidentally creating a working watch. Or, it’s as likely as a tornado passing through a junkyard filled with scraps of metal and accidentally leaving behind a brand-new automobile. The point is clear; such a complex and beautiful world must have a Creator. Another logical approach to Hashem’s existence uses the idea of causation. Logically, the world must have a first cause. After all, where did everything come from? We might be able to scientifically explain how things evolved, but this doesn’t tell us where those original things came from. Everything in the finite world can trace itself back to a previous source. Therefore, Hashem must be the source of reality. One might ask, if everything has a source, then must not Hashem have a source as well? The fundamental answer to this important question is that once we realize Hashem is above space and time, the rules of logic, space, and time no longer apply to Him.

INTELLECT PROVIDES LIMITED KNOWLEDGE However, there are also flaws with human logic, and careful consideration of the previously mentioned proofs shows this clearly. One may logically conclude that Hashem exists; the world is so infinitely complex; there must be a Creator behind it. However, there is a fundamental limit to logic. Logic may enable us to know that Hashem exists, but it does not help us know anything about Him. We may know, through reasoning, that there is a Creator, but logic alone does not allow us to have a relationship with Hashem, experience Him, or deeply connect with Him. (Thus, the quality of logical knowledge is limited. It is factual, cold, and external; it lacks intimacy, experience, and deeper connection. One may factually know someone exists, but only once there is a real, deep relationship does the quality of that knowledge become an experiential form of knowledge. This is why the Torah refers to marital connection as daas, the Hebrew word for knowledge (Bereishis 4:1). Daas refers to internal, deep, and experiential knowledge.) But the limits of logic expand far beyond this example. Immanuel Kant, the famous eighteenth- century German philosopher, revolutionized the study of philosophy by questioning the very validity of human intellect itself. (It is essential to point out that while, in the Western world, Kant is credited with this novel idea, Jewish thinkers have already been teaching this concept for thousands of years.) He proposed the following idea: The entirety of physical human experience is transmitted through our five senses. Therefore, our entire conception of the physical world is based solely on our personal, subjective experience. We don’t experience reality itself; we experience reality only as it is subjectively filtered through

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our own physical senses. We imagine that sounds are the way we hear them, sights are the way we see them, and tastes are the way we, personally, perceive them. However, the idea that our “translation system,” i.e., our five senses, allows us to sense things as they truly are is merely an assumption. There is no way of knowing if the world as I experience it is consistent with the objective reality of the world. Perhaps there is an infinite array of possible experiences that our five senses are simply unable to transmit to us. For example, our eyes happen to experience the world through a specific optic lens. But if our eyes were created to see at the quantum level, our perception of reality would be fundamentally different. Similarly, there is no way of knowing if the world as I experience it is identical to the world as you experience it. We could each be living in our own subjective reality, experiencing something completely different. Say that what you experience as blue, everyone else calls green, and what you experience as green, everyone else calls blue. When you were young, you were taught to call what you experience as blue “green,” and what you experience as green “blue.” In essence, there is no way of knowing what anyone else is experiencing; we each experience our own subjective reality. Taking this idea a step further, we can question logical reasoning and conclusions as well. If the rules of physics and logic are based on personal, limited perceptions of a physical reality, human logic is extremely limited. As such, the Western world may be using the wrong tools to understand the ultimate truth. This is the view that the Ramban takes, articulating this point in his commentary to Sefer Vayikra (Ramban, Vayikra 16:8). The Ramban criticizes the assumption that logic is the ultimate tool for determining truth, pointing to the Greek philosophers as a paradigm of those who made this mistake. They denied anything that their intellects could not grasp, anything they could not scientifically quantify. They created a limited subjective truth, confined only to that which they could explain logically. The fault in this lies in the simple fact that rational knowledge is always limited. In our next article, we will delve deeper into this fascinating topic and try to understand it on an even deeper level. . Rabbi Shmuel Reichman is a bestselling author, international speaker, and the CEO of Self-Mastery Academy. He has lectured internationally on topics of Torah thought, Jewish medical ethics, psychology, and leadership. His bestselling book, The Journey to Your Ultimate Self, serves as an inspiring gateway into deeper Jewish thought. He is also a business, executive, and leadership coach, with a unique approach based on Torah values. After obtaining his BA from YU, he received Semicha from YU’s RIETS, a master’s degree in education from Azrieli Graduate School, and a master’s degree in Jewish Thought from Bernard Revel Graduate School. He then spent a year studying at Harvard as an Ivy Plus Scholar.

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Vayishlach

going to meet Eisav, Yaakov realises he has left a couple of jars on the other side of the river. Being a true tzaddik, everything is meaningful and important to him, so he goes back for them. On the other side, a strange man attacks him. All night they fight, locked arm in arm. The sun begins to rise and in desperation, the stranger dislocates Yaakov’s hip. Now Yaakov is left limping, but still, he will not loosen his grip on the stranger. Now the stranger begins to panic! He begs Yaakov to let go. But before Yaakov will release him, he wants to know why, and who this stranger is. Turns out he is the guardian angel of Eisav who was trying to kill Yaakov. Instead, Hashem proves

Yaakov is on his way to see his brother Esav for the first time since he tried to kill Yaakov. Has he forgiven Yaakov? Will he still try to kill him? So, Yaakov sends messengers ahead to Seir where Esav lives. They spot Esav and 400 soldiers heading straight at them! Quickly the messengers return to Yaakov with the dreaded news. “Soldiers... weapons... that means war!” declares Yaakov. Yaakov prays hard, splits up his family and prepares gifts to Esav: gold, silver and jewels, plus over 200 goats, camels, cows, bulls and donkeys. He orders his servants not to give them to Esav all at once, but to spread them out so they look more. In the evening, just before he is

Facts about Parashat Vayishlach Number of Lines in the Sefer Torah - 237 Number of Verses - 153 Number of Words - 1,976 Number of Letters - 7,458

Jewish Riddle This weeks Question: Where in Tefilla do you find four consecutive words that all have the same root?

ANGEL - DINAH - ESAV - GIFTS - SHECHEM - WRESTLE - YAAKOV - YISRAEL

Last weeks Answer: Which four brachot are said exactly once every year? 1) Seeing the first blossoms in the spring 2) Bedikat chametz 3) The bracha of "Nachem" during the Mincha Amida of Tisha B'Av 4) Lighting candles on erev Yom Kippur

Email your name, age, where you live and the answer to office@thejewishweekly.com! Next weeks paper will feature the answer and will mention one person who gave the correct answer!

Dingbats 2

Bait Ail to offer those very Korbanot he promised so long ago. While in Bait Ail, Devora, Yaakov’s mother’s nurse dies. Yaakov buries her under a large tree in Bait Ail. But Yaakov soon receives another piece of bad news! His mother, Rivka, has died at the age of 121. Hashem uses this moment to comfort Yaakov with a promise that he will have many children who will own the land of Canaan. Yaakov and his family head toward Chevron where his father, Yitzchak, lives. Along the way, near Beit Lechem, Rachel gives birth to her second son, Binyamin but she dies at the same time!! Yaakov buries Rachel right then and there.

Parasha Stats

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that He will always protect Yaakov. Yaakov forces the angel to bless him and the angel admits that the brachot do belong to Yaakov. As the sun rises, Yaakov sees Esav and his army approaching. As Esav comes up to him, Yaakov bows before him seven times. This makes Esav calm down. He runs up to Yaakov with thirty years’ worth of hugs and kisses. Yaakov goes to Shechem and Eisav goes to Seir where he wins lots of wars just as Yitzchak blessed him. But in all the excitement there is one thing that Yaakov has forgotten. Remember what Yaakov promised he’d do for Hashem if he came back safely to Israel? Not another step, Yaakov! Hashem orders him to make a U-turn and head back to

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Tangram Challenge! Using all the shapes, can you make the shape on the right?

Word Wheel The goal of a word wheel puzzle is to create as many words possible with the letters in the word wheel.

Each word must contain at least three letters. You can only use each letter once and every word must have the letter in the centre of the wheel.

V T

Last week’s words

Here are some words you may have found from last week – you may have found more!

con coo cos ion ons

son coin cons coos icon

E E

Use the area below to write the words you have found.

ions nous onus sons soon

A F sous cocos coins conic icons

Jokes

scion sonic conics cousin scions

concuss cousins conscious

Riddles

Q: What did the ocean say to the pirate? A: Nothing, it just waved!

1. It has keys, but no locks. It has space, but

Q: Why don’t pirates shower before they walk the plank? A: Because they’ll just wash up on shore later!

2. I’m orange, I wear a green hat and I sound

Q: How did the pirate get his flag so cheaply? A: He bought it on sail.

3. What runs all around a backyard, yet never

like a parrot. What am I? moves?

1. A Keyboard | 2. Carrot | 3. A fence

Dingbat Answers

1. Misunderstanding between friends 2. A splitting headache

3. a wolf in sheeps clothing 4. It’s all Greek to me

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Answers

Q: What has 8 legs, 8 arms, and 8 eyes? A: 8 pirates.

no room. You can enter, but can’t go inside. What is it?

5. No through road 6. Mixed greens

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Flights to and from Israel BY MALCOLM GINSBURG

At the start of December El Al continues with twice daily Boeing Dreamliner services from Heathrow, and up to three times a week from Luton, with a Boeing 737-800. British Airways, easyJet, Virgin Atlantic and Wizz have at the present time withdrawn flights to and from Ben Gurion, travel editor Malcolm Ginsberg reports. There are alternative routings from the UK, typically Athens (both Arkia and Israir) and the same airlines offer flights via several European hubs. At Dubai, Flydubai has a daily service to Tel Aviv, and from Amman Royal Jordanian flies six days a week. El Al continues to operate as normal worldwide, including 15 flights a week from JFK New York. In all there are 191 outbound flights per week from Ben Gurion, a dramatic drop on pre-7 October numbers. Other airlines operating include Blue Bird from Budapest, HiSky Europe – Chisinau, and Red Wings – Sochi. London based Israeli Shai Weiss, CEO of Virgin Atlantic, a major player in the Israel market together with sister company Delta Airline, has issued the following statement: “The safety of our customers and our

teams is our number one priority, always. After careful consideration, based on latest information, sadly we have extended our pause on flying to and from Tel Aviv for the time being. “The situation remains dynamic, so we’ll keep our flying programme under constant review. Our teams will be in contact with any affected customers to discuss their options, which include rebooking to a later date or a full refund. We would advise anyone booked to travel to check their flight status on the website before travelling to the airport.” The Ben Gurion to Ramon International Eilat shuttle by Arkia and Israir functions as WTM Israel 2023

normal. Luton Airport is keen to point out that the DART transit between the Parkway Station and terminal is working as normal with Terminal Car Park 1 open for pre-booked only.

A temporary drop-off zone has been set up in the Mid-Term Car Park and a courtesy shuttle bus is in operation. All statistics supplied by OAG

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