The Jewish Weekly Issue 142

FUNDRAISING PLATFORM

EE FR

CHARITY ACCOUNTS

PAYROLL GIVING CORPORATE GIVING

www.smartgiving.org.uk

MATCHED GIVING

21 MAY 2020/27 IYAR 5780

ewish Weekly Ear Piece 1.indd 1

@TheJewishWeekly 142 23/03/2020 16:39:58

Jewish Weekly - EarPiece 2.indd 1

23/03/2020 16:40:04

EE FR

CHARITY ACCOUNTS

FUNDRAISING PLATFORM PAYROLL GIVING CORPORATE GIVING

www.smartgiving.org.uk

MATCHED GIVING

21 MAY 2020/27 IYAR 5780

ewish Weekly Ear Piece 1.indd 1

@TheJewishWeekly 142

SHULS REOPEN IN ISRAEL PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

Petah Tikva Great Synagogue

BY ADAM MOSES The Chief Rabbi of Israel welcomed the reopening of synagogues under strict social distancing guidelines yesterday.

A maximum of 50 worshippers can pray together but must wear facemasks and be two metres

Jewish Weekly - EarPiece 2.indd 1

23/03/2020 16:39:58

apart.

Rabbi David Lau called on worshippers to follow hygiene guidelines to prevent synagogues facing lockdown measures again as the coronavirus battle continues.

Approval followed a consultation between Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, Health Minister Yuli Edelstein, Interior

Minister Aryeh Deri, National Security Council head Meir Ben Shabbat and other officials on Tuesday night.

Each synagogue will appoint one person to oversee implementation of the new guidelines.

Israel’s total death toll stood at 279 (on Wednesday) but a sense of normality is returning as restaurants could open nationwide.

Customers will have their temperature taken and sign a health declaration on arrival, they must also use hand sanitisers and sit a safe distance from each other.

Staff and waiters will wear masks. Dishes must be washed at a minimum temperature.

Beaches officially reopened yesterday though many Israelis sunbathed and gathered in large numbers in Tel Aviv at the weekend with the country enjoying a heatwave.

Police warned business owners they face fines while police dispersed hundreds of people in

Dizengoff Square.

Ministers meantime lifted a ban on museums according to regulations.

Due to blistering weather, Israel Paediatric Association called for children not to be forced to wear face masks despite health regulations.

In a statement, the association urged Health and Education ministries to revoke regulations.

“During this current heatwave, requiring children to wear masks for long hours is impractical and a significant burden, masks that get wet from sweat will become ineffective,” noted the statement.

“We believe children should be exempt from wearing masks until this heatwave ends.”

New Health Minister Yuli Edelstein, following his appointment in the new coalition government, welcomed a “historic opportunity” to improve the healthcare system in Israel.

23/03/2020 16:40:04

ARI COMES HOME!

Jewish Weekly client Ari Friedlander, from Deli 98 Stamford Hill, came home from hospital this Monday to the delight and relief of his family and friends. Ari was first admitted to hospital on 30th March with COVID-19 and spent three weeks on a ventilator. Ari told the Jewish Weekly he "shouldn't be here". We wish him continued good health and a full recovery.

SEFIRAH: DAY 42 PARSHAT BAMIDBAR SHABBAT: BEGINS London 20:42 Manchester 20:59 Leeds 19:35 Birmingham 20:50 Liverpool 20:59 Bournemouth 20:42 Antwerp 20:18 Gateshead 21:02

I go to Chai for the big

*

* Care is at the heart of everything we do.

During this uncertain time our experienced team is continuing to provide Chai’s big C of Care through phone and web, bringing much needed support to all those who turn to us.

Chai Lifeline Cancer Care Registered Charity No. 1078956

Call 0808 808 4567 or visit chaicancercare.org

ENDS 21:58 22:26 22:20 21:59 22:33 21:51 22:45 22:43

2 NEWS

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

21 MAY 2020

Gabi hails Trump ‘deal of century’

BY DAVID SAFFER New Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi hailed U.S. President Donald Trump’s Mideast peace plan as an “historic opportunity” during his first address in the post.

Trump’s ‘deal of the century’ calls for a Palestinian state in the troubled region but annexation remains a controversial issue for many nations following the narrative.

Citing Trump’s peace plan, Ashkenazi said Trump’s proposal could shape the future of the State of Israel for decades to come.

“The plan will be promoted responsibly and in coordination with the United States, while maintaining existing peace agreements and the strategic interests of the State of Israel,” he explained.

Ashkenazi added, “The United States is Israel’s strongest and most important ally.

I would like to thank the American government for standing firmly with Israel to curb Iran’s nuclear project, as well as its entrenchment along our borders.”

Sitting aside his predecessor, incoming Finance Minister Israel Katz, Ashkenazi said plans were advanced and would maintained Israel’s “peace agreements and strategic interests”.

“We have a duty to ensure we distance our citizens from the risk of war and pursue peace,” he explained.

The new coalition is due to vote on annexation by July 1 but are obstacles need to be overcome.

“I see great importance in strengthening ties with the countries with which we have peace, Egypt and Jordan,” noted

Ashkenazi. “They are the most important allies in dealing with regional challenges.”

Jordan’s King Abdullah II has stated there will be “massive” confrontation between Israel and Jordan if the Jordan Valley is annexed. While stopping short of stating it may end negotiations, as he did not wish to “create an atmosphere of controversy”, all options are being considered.

During the swearing in ceremony, Ashkenazi passionately explained his mission was to “serve Israel and its citizens”.

“The obligation of a country that sends its children to carry out operations along its borders, and beyond them is to ensure that it is doing everything possible to

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA New Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi

distance war, and bring closer any chance for peace,” he said. “I see the Foreign Ministry as an inseparable part of the national security framework of the State of Israel, and its people as ‘warriors out of uniform.”

Ashkenazi paid tribute to the Foreign Ministry for its ongoing actions throughout the coronavirus crisis.

“Foreign service personnel kept embassies open and did not stop conducting their work on behalf of the citizens of Israel, even in the most difficult of places in Asia, Europe and North America, even when they were exposed to, or infected with the virus,” he explained.

“Diplomatic relations, built across many years, assisted in repatriating thousands of Israelis from across the world to their homes, contributed greatly in efforts to purchase medical equipment and medication, and provided valuable information on the activities and exit strategies of the world’s countries.

“Even during this period, Foreign Ministry staff did not desert their core duties, and continued to strive towards advancing Israel’s status.”

He added, “Coronavirus is a global challenge, it also represents an opportunity for us at the Foreign Ministry to assert Israel’s capacity to assist in restraining this global virus.”

During his tenure, the new Minister spoke about broadening dialogue with countries across the world and also continuing the fight with Iran.

“The political campaign to stop the Iranian threat has been, and continues to be, our primary mission,” he said. “Of course,

President Trump Unveils a Plan for a Comprehensive Peace Agreement PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

we must continue to use all the tools available to us within the diplomatic realm, alongside our security activities.”

Turning his attention to the Middle East region, he noted, “Peace with our neighbours is a valuable strategic asset and we must maintain it.

“I see great importance in strengthening our strategic ties with the countries with which we already have peace treaties, Egypt and Jordan. These are allies of utmost importance when it comes to contending with regional challenges.”

Observing that Israel has 100 embassies and consulates across the world, he added, “Israel and Europe are important partners. I am sure the relations we share will be fruitful and beneficial for both sides.”

Ashkenazi also looked forward to strengthen Israel’s economic collaboration with countries in high-tech, science and agriculture.

Levin is new Tourism Minister

BY ADAM MOSES The Board of Deputies has called on the Labour Party to provide an update on specific anti-Semitism cases yet to be resolved by the end of May. Among eleven urgent cases believed to be outstanding where the Party’s disciplinary process failed is former National Executive Committee member Pete Willsman, suspended from the party 12 months ago.

Other members in question include

The Jewish Weekly www.thejewishweekly.com office@thejewishweekly.com editorial@thejewishweekly.com letters@thejewishweekly.com advertising@thejewishweekly.com

councillor, council candidate, CLP chair and branch chair.

Willsman, a supporter of former leader Jeremy Corbyn.

Willsman was recorded by a prominent radio station allegedly claiming that an agent in the Israeli Embassy was behind anti-Semitism controversy against Corbyn.

Corbyn now sits on the back benches following the election of Keir Starmer.

A Board statement noted, “While there may be additional anti-Semitism cases yet to be resolved, we have highlighted these

WHAT’S INSIDE THIS WEEK 02 News 12 Letters 14 Community 22 Feature

24 Judaism 30 Cookery 35 Kids

London tel. 0203

906 8488 Manchester tel. 0161 804 1321 DISTRIBUTED IN: UNITED KINGDOM: LONDON, MANCHESTER, LEEDS, BOURNEMOUTH, GATESHEAD, BIRMINGHAM, LIVERPOOL BELGIUM: ANTWERP

eleven particularly as they are among the most serious we have seen, and would in our view all merit permanent expulsion from the Labour Party.

“In compiling this briefing, we have been grateful for the input of online activists Labour Against Antisemitism, who have been tracking a number of these cases.”

The Board praised Starmer and the other leadership contenders for signing up to the organisations’ Ten Pledges.

Pledge number one states that “all outstanding and future cases” should be brought to a swift conclusion under a fixed timescale.

A third pledge ensures transparency on how cases are dealt with. To this end, the Board wants clarification on the ‘urgent’ cases this month.

A resolution would signal a “significant step” towards healing Labour’s relationship with the Jewish community, noted the Board’s statement.

It added, “In some cases, it may be that the cases have already been closed, in which case we would also like to know about the outcome.

“Given the mistrust that has existed with

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

the current process, we have been pleased to see Sir Keir moving forward on his commitment (Pledge #2) to make Labour’s disciplinary process independent and we hope to discuss this when we next meet in June.”

The Board have further been heartened

by Starmer’s meeting with the Jewish Labour Movement this week. The seventh pledge calls for Labour to reengage with JLM to deliver the Party’s anti-Semitism training programme.

The Board hopes to see progress on this issue after the EHRC releases its much-awaited report.

The Board statement concludes, “Whilst Sir Keir has understandably been focused on the Coronavirus crisis, now appears to be the right time to continue the process of getting Labour’s house in order on the anti-Semitism crisis that plagued the Party under the tenure of his predecessor.”

4 NEWS

21 MAY 2020

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Bibi begins historic fifth term as PM

BY DAVID SAFFER Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has begun a historic fifth term in office after Israel’s 35th government was sworn in following three general elections last Sunday.

Blue and White leader Benny Gantz will serve as Minister of Defence for 18 months before succeeding Netanyahu as part of a unique ‘rotation’ agreement in November 2021.

A record 36 ministers and 16 deputy ministers have begun posts after the Knesset approved the new coalition by 73 votes to 46. Likud’s Yariv Levin is the Knesset’s new speaker.

“This is an important day for the State of Israel,” said Netanyahu. “The new government was established according to the will of most citizens and will serve all citizens.

We have chosen, with great responsibility, to establish an emergency government of national unity.”

He added, “If we had gone into a fourth election, the additional cost would have amounted to NIS 2 billion. The additional cost of a unity government, NIS 85 million a year, (is) infinitely lower than the cost of additional elections. That would have been a real waste. It would have forced us to defer the fallout of the coronavirus to an undetermined date.”

There was relief that finally a new coalition was in place but there are many dissenters.

Joint List and Meretz MKs heckled Netanyahu several times over his impending corruption trial next week. Netanyahu told his detracters they would gain respect if they displayed it.

Aside from the controversy, Netanyahu, in an impassioned address, praised Israel in the battle against the coronavirus pandemic.

“The situation in Israel is different because of the steps taken in time, closing the skies, self-isolation and, of course, the citizens who adhered to the Health Ministry guidelines and the wonderful medical staff,” he said. “But the battle is not yet over. The danger will be removed only when a vaccine has been found and in the

meantime the virus is still here. There is a possibility that a second wave of the virus will hit the world and Israel, as happened with the Spanish flu epidemic 100 years ago.”

Netanyahu also highlighted security threats to Israel, sovereignty over West Bank settlements and accusations of war crimes against IDF soldiers by the International Criminal Court.

On the latter issue, he commented, “The issue of sovereignty is on the agenda solely because I personally acted to advance it openly and honestly for the past three years.”

Gantz, sworn in as “alternate Prime Minister and future Prime Minister,”like Netanyahu, was heckled, but in his case by disgruntled Blue & White members.

The future Prime Minister though did not waiver from his about turn to follow Netanyahu in office.

“We have been through three election campaigns in the past year and a half,” he said. “The people have spoken and left the leaders from both sides of the house to opt for unity or some form of civil war. The people told us ‘Stop fighting among yourselves and start working for us.’

“I, Prime Minister Netanyahu and 71 other public servants decided to assume national responsibility.”

Gantz continued, “This is an equal government, a government of balance and brakes. I and my colleagues chose unity in order to protect the citizens of Israel not only from the challenges facing outside our borders but also from the hatred that erodes within and harms the internal resilience that is vital to our security.

“We chose unity in a period when public officials are being threatened and lines are being crossed against public figures on the left and right.”

Netanyahu led a first cabinet meeting after the ceremony where he again highlighted the ongoing battle against the coronavirus pandemic.

“There is a drop in the number of COVID-19 cases but no one knows if there will be another spike or a second wave and no one can say what the virus will do,” he told watching media.”

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

“We (have) saved thousands of lives, but we must not think the pandemic is over.”

“The new government’s first challenge is jobs, jobs, jobs,” Netanyahu added.

On the issue of settlement annexation, he noted, “These regions are the cradle of the Jewish people. It is time to extend Israel’s law over them. This step won’t bring us further away from peace, it will get us closer. The truth is, and everyone knows it, that the hundreds of thousands of settlers in Judea and Samaria will always stay put in any future deal.”

Netanyahu’s government have until August to pass a new budget.

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo welcomed the new administration.

“We warmly welcome the announcement of the formation of a new Government of Israel,” he said. “We are extremely fortunate to have such strong and experienced partners in Jerusalem, and we will work together to advance the security and prosperity of our peoples.”

Russian President Vladimir Putin added, “I hope that your new government will continue the policy towards the development of friendly ties and mutually beneficial cooperation between our countries.

No doubt, it is in the interests of the peoples of Russia and Israel and is in line with the efforts to ensure peace, security, and

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

stability.”

The swearing in ceremony was delayed from last Thursday as Netanyahu balanced his cabinet. Critics accused the government of creating a huge number of posts.

And there have been political casualties including Likud MK Nir Barkat, who was expected to head up the Finance Ministry.

“Barkat deserves a senior role in both the Likud and the government,” noted Netanyahu. “Unfortunately, it did not work out before the government was sworn in.”

Netanyahu said he would attempt to find a role for the former Jerusalem Mayor.

Aside from his own party, Netanyhau’s political battles are far from over.

Opposition leader Yair Lapid tore into the new coalition during proceedings.

“Today, this building has lost the trust of the Israeli public,” he said.

“People hate politicians, they hate politics. They don’t believe politics represents (their) values. “Politics takes their money and gives them nothing back. There is no connection between politics and the real lives of real people.”

Lapid added, “Israelis deserve better.”

Naftali Bennett said there was no point being a “Minister of nothing.”

Yisrael Beiteinu leader Avigdor Liberman, likewise, slated Knesset members for taking pointless cabinet posts.

Open for new residents.

Call today.

Call 020 8908 4151 • Email info@jewishchoice.org • jewishchoice.org RESIDENTIAL

RESPITE | INDEPENDENT LIVING THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

Extraordinary Care from Extraordinary People

6 NEWS

Chief and Board welcome Organ Donation Act

BY NATALIE ASH Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis and Board of Deputies have welcomed the Organ Donation (Deemed Consent) Act 2019 which came into force on Wednesday.

Organ donations in England has moved to an ‘opt out’ system but consultation safeguards ensure family wishes will be honoured.

The new system includes features to enhance religious freedom including a faith declaration on the organ donor register and an ability for families to access Rabbinic advice.

“It is now clear what the Government’s organ donation reform means in practice,” commented BoD vice president Amanda Bowman. “Families will always be consulted to ensure the deceased wishes are carried out. We have been reassured multiple times on this front.”

Although the new system will not be implemented until after the COVID-19

21 MAY 2020

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

pandemic is over the Board will work with denominations to ensure the Jewish community is aware of how to navigate the new system.

Ms Bowman added, “Our aim must be for as many Jewish citizens as possible to engage with the new system in a way that is compatible with their beliefs so we can save lives and defend religious freedom” Legislation means that adults in England will be considered to have agreed to be an organ donor when they die unless they have recorded a decision not to donate or are in an excluded group.

These include those under 18 years of age, people who lack the mental capacity to understand the new arrangements and take necessary action, visitors to England and those not living here voluntarily and people who have lived in England for less than 12 months before their death.

A family will be approached so faith, beliefs and culture can continue to be respected.

Israel approves cannabis exports

Medical Cannabis PlantPHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

Israel has approved exports of medical cannabis.

The landmark ruling is expected to boost sales by hundreds of millions of dollars.

“This is a significant step for exporters and the Israeli industry, which will enable both the expansion of export opportunities as well as rising employment in the field,” commented Economy Minister Eli Cohen.

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

The decision comes over a year after the outgoing government backed legislation on cannabis.

Cohen’s announcement will not come into force for 30 days. Exporters though are able to apply for a license from the Health Ministry.

Israeli farms are among the world’s biggest producers of medical cannabis.

Currently over 10 farms and five factories in Israel meet Health Ministry standards surrounding production. A number of companies have deals to sell cannabis in Europe and Canada when licenses are approved.

In Israel, medical use of cannabis is permissible. Recreational use is illegal though largely decriminalised.

The Economy Ministry estimates around 60,000 Israelis use medical cannabis, equating to 25 tonnes annually.

Hagit Weinstock, co-founder Weinstock-Zehavi & Co welcomed the news as investors were waiting for approval in the industry.

Benefits of cannabis in the medical industry is an intense debating point. Different nations hold varying viewpoints.

European countries and American states permit medical use. Canada were the first G7 country to legalise cannabis for recreational use in 2018.

21 MAY 2020

NEWS 7

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Stamford Hill Rabbis condemn lockdown breach

Minority of our brethren in Stamford Hill and Manchester embarrass the UK Jewish community by ignoring social distancing during Lag B’Omer

BY DAVID SAFFER Rabbonim have called for community members to follow government’s lockdown rules.

The positive action from major Stamford Hill synagogues comes after disturbing scenes of some 300 men and boys celebrating Lag B’Omer last week. Whilst only involving a minority of the community, Rabbis have jointly declared public gatherings are a “flagrant breach” of governmental guidance.

“It puts lives at risk, causes a lamentable Chilul HaShem, and does tremendous harm to K’lal Yisroel’,” noted a statement to the community.

“COVID-19 has taken a terrible toll on

PHOTO: KPPICS

the community. Many people have been severely ill. Some have yet to recover and too many have tragically lost their lives.

The virus has not gone and the threat remains. The risk of further infections and a second wave hangs over us.”

There is deep concern locally that after two months lockdown a lax by a minority in observing official guidance has started.

“It is absolutely incumbent on everyone to continue to follow the Government rules,” the Rabbis noted.

The Rabbinate of the Union of Orthodox Hebrew Congregations has signed a communal statement backed by the main religious authority in Stamford Hill and senior rabbis at the largest synagogues.

Speaking for the UOHC, Honorary

Officer Shlome Sinitsky said, “Some of the scenes that we have seen were completely unacceptable and not authorised by any religious authority.

“We understand that these past weeks have been an extraordinarily difficult time for people, and that people are weary, but this simply should not have happened.

“People’s sacrifices have brought the virus under control, and we cannot risk losing that. The rabbonim urgently tell people to stick to the guidance.”

The latest Board of Deputies figures show that 458 Jewish funerals have taken place in the UK since the onset of the global pandemic where the deceased contracted Covid-19. The weekly fatality rate is decreasing but the Board continually call for communities to remain vigilant regarding guidelines.

Communal deaths in the UK accounts for a greater rate in related Covid-19 deaths compared to the Jewish population, but compared to Israel where there are 279 fatalities in a population of 9.2 million (6.8 million (74%) are Jewish), makes stark reading.

There are no global figures for Jewish fatalities but thousands of Jews have died from Covid-19.

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

PHOTO: KPPICS ignoring government guidelines

The number of online appeals in the United States regarding financial support for bereaved families is a heart-breaking daily event. Ultra-Orthodox media has reported approaching 1,000 deaths in New York City in recent weeks alone with burials reportedly four times higher since the pandemic began.

Major states with Jewish residents account for 75% of America’s seven million Jews where a significant number are over 65 years of age, making them the most at risk from the deadly virus.

Purim worldwide saw huge gatherings of Jews during lockdowns. It is hoped UOHC’s condemnation over Lag B’Omer celebrations will be heeded in the UK with Shavuot just days away.

8 NEWS

21 MAY 2020

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Board wants update on 11 anti-Semitism cases

the together plan

Jewish Genealogy Research in Belarus A bespoke service offering:

Archive research Keir Starmer

BY ADAM MOSES The Board of Deputies has called on the Labour Party to provide an update on specific anti-Semitism cases yet to be resolved by the end of May. Among eleven urgent cases believed to be outstanding where the Party’s disciplinary process failed is former National Executive Committee member Pete Willsman, suspended from the party 12 months ago.

Other members in question include councillor, council candidate, CLP chair and branch chair.

Willsman, a supporter of former leader Jeremy Corbyn.

Willsman was recorded by a prominent radio station allegedly claiming that an agent in the Israeli Embassy was behind anti-Semitism controversy against Corbyn.

Corbyn now sits on the back benches following the election of Keir Starmer.

A Board statement noted, “While there may be additional anti-Semitism cases yet to be resolved, we have highlighted these eleven particularly as they are among the most serious we have seen, and would in our view all merit permanent expulsion from the Labour Party.

“In compiling this briefing, we have been grateful for the input of online activists Labour Against Antisemitism, who have been tracking a number of these cases.”

The Board praised Starmer and the other leadership contenders for signing up to the organisations’ Ten Pledges.

Pledge number one states that “all

Arrests over anti-Semitic graffiti Two people have been arrested and released on bail in connection with a 9/11 anti-Semitic graffiti incident in Hampstead and Belsize Park in December 2019.

A 26-year-old man and 45-year-old woman will return to court for a racially motivated hate crime later this month.

South Hampstead Synagogue was among a dozen targets of graffiti discovered and reported to Metropolitan Police

on 28th December.

Community Safety Trust information aided Police in the arrests.

Met Police confirmed both arrests in a statement.

Information: Police on 101, quoting reference CAD 7282/28 or Crimestoppers 0800 555111.

Translation services

Please contact us for more information

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

outstanding and future cases” should be brought to a swift conclusion under a fixed timescale.

A third pledge ensures transparency on how cases are dealt with. To this end, the Board wants clarification on the ‘urgent’ cases this month.

A resolution would signal a “significant step” towards healing Labour’s relationship with the Jewish community, noted the Board’s statement.

It added, “In some cases, it may be that the cases have already been closed, in which case we would also like to know about the outcome.

“Given the mistrust that has existed with the current process, we have been pleased to see Sir Keir moving forward on his commitment (Pledge #2) to make Labour’s disciplinary process independent and we hope to discuss this when we next meet in June.”

The Board have further been heartened

by Starmer’s meeting with the Jewish Labour Movement this week. The seventh pledge calls for Labour to reengage with JLM to deliver the Party’s anti-Semitism training programme.

The Board hopes to see progress on this issue after the EHRC releases its much-awaited report.

The Board statement concludes, “Whilst Sir Keir has understandably been focused on the Coronavirus crisis, now appears to be the right time to continue the process of getting Labour’s house in order on the anti-Semitism crisis that plagued the Party under the tenure of his predecessor.”

Local site reports

UK: london@thetogetherplan.com • +44 203 375 0656 Belarus: minsk@thetogetherplan.com • +375 29 627 34 00 www.thetogetherplan.com

The Together Plan is a UK Charity supporting the revival of Jewish life in the former Soviet Union and Eastern Europe through capacity building; skill sharing, education and collaborative programmes.

UK registered charity no. 1154167

We offer the following services:

Fire risk assessments

Fire evacuation plans

Fire Extinguishers

Fire alarms

Emergency lighting

Fire zone plans

Staff Training

Fire awareness

YOUR SAFETY IS OUR PRIORITY.

DON’T BECOME A STATISTIC. Contact us for your free quote

Gerald Henry T: 0161 773 1766 M: 07982 700 018 E.: gerald@dandsfire.com W: dandsfire.com

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

Aliyah Investment & Tax Planning for UK Olim • • • • •

10 years tax free income No inheritance tax Reduce tax on pension income Offshore investing Specialist investment management for Olim

Raymond James Financial Inc (parent co) • 3100 office locations worldwide • $838bn client assets • S&P 500 company (data as at 30.9.19)

“Simon created a low-risk portfolio which has done amazingly well in these troubled times” FP. “His professional expertise has produced excellent results” SF. “Particularly understands the needs of those making aliyah” Anon.

“I have the highest regard for Simon Benarroch... an excellent team” AH.

For more information on our wealth management services please contact Simon Benarroch 020 8202 1944 or email RJUKGoldersGreen@RaymondJames.com www.GoldersGreen.RaymondJames.uk.com Risk Warnings – With investing, your capital is at risk.

Raymond James Investment Services Ltd is a member of the London Stock Exchange and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Registered in England and Wales number 3669657 Registered office Ropemaker Place, 25 Ropemaker St, London EC2Y 9LY.

10 NEWS

21 MAY 2020

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Bibi to appear at opening session of trial

Etihad historic aid flight to Ben-Gurion

BY ADAM MOSES

Etihad Airways has made an historic humanitarian aid flight into Israel to benefit Palestinians during the coronavirus pandemic.

The flight from Abu Dhabi to Ben-Gurion Airport on Tuesday is the first direct commercial flight between the nations.

Although the UAE have no formal diplomatic ties to Israel the flight marks open cooperation between the countries after rumoured discussions over Iran.

Etihad Airways confirmed the flight had no passengers on board and provided medical supplies.

“Aid includes personal protective

Jerusalem District Court has dismissed a bid by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s legal team to exempt Israel’s leader from attending the opening session of his corruption court case on Sunday.

Judges ruled defendants must hear charges they face.

Netanyahu’s lawyers argued yesterday that he understood all charges against him. Exemptions are possible but Netanyahu’s absence in this hearing did not meet relevant principles.

Netanyahu also claimed his security would not adhere to Health Ministry’s social distancing guidelines. The court dismissed this claim, ruling authorities prepare the court adequately.

It was later announced Netanyahu would attend the opening session as requested.

Amit Haddad and Micha Fetman lambasted the State Prosecutor’s Office earlier in the week.

They had applied to Jerusalem’s District Court for Netanyahu (and co-defendant Arnon Mozes in Case 2000) to be absent due to a ‘technicality’.

Israel Securities Authorities prosecutor Judith Tirosh dismissed this appeal.

“This is the opening of the defendant’s trial and carries a legal significance that is written into law requiring the accused to be present at the reading of charges, regardless of the presence of counsel,” she explained.

Tirosh said Netanyahu’s presence in court was important for the public to have faith in justice. His presence though is not be required in all sessions. Requests for exemption would be considered.

Netanyahu faces bribery, fraud and breach of trust charges in Case 1000, Case 2000 and Case 4000. Netanyahu denies all allegations.

Limited courtroom space is available due to social distancing. Each defendant is allowed one defence lawyer to be present at proceedings.

During investigations, he has criticised the media, police, prosecutors and justice system.

Whilst maintaining his innocence, he has labelled allegations a “witch hunt”.

Bribery charges carry a prison sentence or fine. Fraud and breach of trust carry a lesser prison sentence.

Justice Minister Amir Ohana postponed the original trial in March with the start of emergency measures for the coronavirus pandemic.

Mental Health Awareness Week 18 – 24 May 2020

The theme of this year’s Mental Health Awareness week is kindness.

Kindness is the act of doing something motivated by genuine desire to make a positive difference. Kindness and our mental health is deeply connected – it is an antidote to isolation and helps a sense of belonging. It can reduce stress, bring a fresh perspective and deepen friendships.

Kindness to ourselves helps boost our self-esteem.

Join Jami in a series of FREE online events. For the full programme and to book, visit jamiuk.org/mhaw #KindnessMatters #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek Jami Registered Charity 1003345. A Company Limited by Guarantee 2618170.

equipment and medical equipment,” noted a statement from the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process.

“Most notably, it includes 10 ventilators that are acutely needed.”

Israel Airports Authority confirmed the flight, provided through the World Food Program, would land at Ben-Gurion. The UAE government have not commented.

Health officials in the Gaza Strip said they had no knowledge of an aid shipment from Abu Dhabi.

Israeli unofficial ties with the UAE are controversial among Arab nations.

Care home’s welcome news Jewish Choice is welcoming new residents.

The North West London care home has received official news residents do not have Covid-19.

While many care homes are closed to new residents, being independent, Jewish Choice is able to respond to the residential care needs of the elderly in the Jewish community.

Jewish Care locked-down 10 days before

government guidelines.

In with Public Health England and appropriate authorities the care home has maintained our standards for residents in Choice House and independent living apartments.

Carers do not work in other care homes.

Isolation facilities are available on-site and access to Covid-19 testing via a GP.

Dates for your diary Monday 18th May 4:30 – 5:30pm Wellbeing and Self Care (for students 18 plus) Kelly Waldorf, Education Outreach Worker, Jami

Monday 18th May 8:00pm Community Conversation on Kindness, Open to all Tuesday 19th May / Thursday 21st May 11:00am – 1:00pm Kind Co-Working

Wednesday 20th May 2:00pm Head Room Café online Kindness Creativity Session Wednesday 20th May 8:00 – 9:30pm Preventing Mental Health Burnout Phillipa Carr, Education Manager, Jami

Thursday 21st May 5:00 – 6:00pm Youth Session: Self - Care During Strange Days (for young people aged 12 – 16)

Sarit Gafan, Jami volunteer and wellbeing practitioner

Emma Dorman, Senior Education Coordinator, Jami

Tuesday 19th May 4:00pm Poetry Tuesday

Thursday 21st May 8:00 – 9:00pm Open Mic Night – everybody welcome

Tuesday 19th May 6:30 – 7:30pm “If you can be anything, be kind” – a kindness workshop (for ages 18-32) Emma Dorman, Senior Education Coordinator, Jami

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

12 LETTERS

21 MAY 2020

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

From the editor’s desk Last week we ran the front-page headline ‘Shameless’ where we criticised a small minority of our brethren who deemed it permissible to openly flout British law on public streets.

They allowed themselves to be caught on camera dancing around an illegal bonfire and were subsequently broadcasted to millions of people across the country through national newspapers. This caused a tremendous chillul Hashem (desecration of G-d’s name).

As our readers will know, we always take great care to avoid chillul Hashem at all costs. We do not openly attack people unless we feel it is absolutely necessary, and we have become popular as a ‘clean’ publication with high morals that rarely ‘has a go’ at people with sensationalist tabloid headlines.

However, on occasion if we feel that it is absolutely necessary, for example when individuals or groups have severely overstepped the line, shamed our people, endangered lives and created a huge chillul Hashem, then after consulting with our relevant halachic guidance we absolutely will make an exception to ensure the overall good name of our community is upheld and lives are saved.

We repeatedly emphasized that it is only a small MINORITY who feel that they are above the law. Rather than causing more chillul Hashem, we felt this article reduced the chillul Hashem caused BY THE LAWBREAKERS and in fact made a kiddush Hashem by pointing out the truth

that this is only a minority.

Most of the Daily Mail and Metro readers would have seen the article and automatically tarnished ALL British Jews with the same brush. We wanted to make a kiddush Hashem, sanctification of G-d’s name, and point out the crucial fact that most British Jews HAVE indeed strictly adhered to the Covid-19 Laws as passed through Parliament.

Some people told us they agreed with our message but could not understand why we had to make such a strong splash on our front page as it was lashon harah – slander. To be clear, the laws of lashon harah are exceedingly complex. Unless properly studied, many people will say things they should not say and they don’t say things they are in fact perfectly allowed to say.

After checking with our Halachic authorities, we concluded that the mitzvah of saving lives overrides all else, to the extent that our article was not even considered lashon harah, rather it was crucial information for the public to be warned with.

Some complaints we received pointed out the letter that was signed by many rabbis in Stamford Hill saying the same thing as we did, was written in a softer way and asked us why we did not replicate the same soft approach further inside the paper. Others asked why we couldn’t just sweep it under the rug.

Unfortunately, certain people do not listen if they are told politely. The facts

Letters to the Editor

speak for themselves.

Plenty of letters have already been publicised across the UK and the rest of the Jewish world by Rabbis, but a small minority seemly do not take much notice.

We have sadly heard of certain schools, cheders and yeshivas around the world that have remained open during the lockdown in a clear and flagrant violation of government law.

Learn from our own Torah not to sweep things under the rug. We are the only religion that openly criticizes our greatest ever leaders for their sins. Moses was punished for hitting the rock, amongst countless other examples. If Hashem didn’t sweep it under the rug, neither should we.

Look at the attached picture of a frontpage headline in an American non-Jewish newspaper. The widespread Chillul Hashem caused by some self-righteous people is truly shocking and should rightly be condemned.

What this minority do not realise is that this virus started with just a small handful of people and spread across the entire world. Their refusal to adhere to the law could G-d forbid spread the virus around again on a large scale and potentially start a second wave.

Visit charity websites such as Charidy.com and TheChessedFund.com

for countless horror stories of families ripped apart, children losing parents, wives losing husbands and vice versa. See the countless orphans who have buried their parents over the last few weeks and are now left shattered and bewildered.

People taken before their time, with little warning and hardly anyone at their funerals. This is a pandemic that has to date killed 321,000 people worldwide and infected nearly 5 million. One of our clients just came home this week after being in hospital since March 30, spending 3 weeks on a ventilator. In his own words, he ‘shouldn’t be here.’

Another client told me through constant coughing fits that he was so certain of death he called all his children in to discuss his will. Both above people are not elderly.

This newspaper stands with 100% conviction that we ran the correct headline last week in an effort to further save lives and protect our community.

If only one person adheres to social distancing rules and prevents just one single person dying as a result of our headline, then it will be well worth the few clients who told us they will never spend a penny with this newspaper ever again. A small price well worth paying to save lives.

Send in your comments to letters@thejewishweekly.com

Please note: The views of the letters do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper. Letters may be edited and publication is at the discretion of the editor.

Dear Sir The only thing shameful about last week’s front page story, was the headline. Just because we are inundated by anti Semitism doesn’t mean that the Jewish newspapers have to feel they have to join in.

You published a picture with the caption”Ignoring all social distancing rules” but the picture shows that they were in fact observing these rules. To be honest, even if the Jewish weekly had obtained a picture which did in fact show Jews behaving wrongly, is it the job of a Jewish newspaper to publicise this, which transgresses the issur of Loshon Horah against the public and a Chilul Hashem in the public domain.

One knows that other media twist, misinterpret and portray the Jews as bad whenever they can even if they know this to be false, hoping that nobody will examine the evidence clearly, which seems to have been the case here with the Daily Mail, assuming you adopted their picture and caption, but as stated, Jewish papers don’t have to join in the Jew hatred, even though other “Jewish” newspapers do.

And what exactly is meant by the terms “ultra orthodox” “fanatics” that you stated? Are all Jews that obey the Mitzvos categorised that way?

Ann Cohen Golders Green

POEM: WE’RE NOT ALONE As the world is taken over by the virus of Corona, People are filled with fright, “Will it ever be all right?”

The world is filled with uncertainty, tomorrow we can’t foresee.

Will we succeed in finding a cure, so everyone we can reassure?

But we know – ein od milvado - and we rely on You. It’s not our intervention, it’s tefilah and the deeds we do.

We remind ourselves repeatedly with bitochon and deep trust.

Hashem loves us immeasurably and knows what’s best for us He knows the bigger picture, and though we can but try We’ll never understand, and so we dare not ask “Why?” Stay strong, have faith, all will be okay, For our loving Father cares for us, every single day!

By Shifi Godlewsky ( Year 12, Ateres, Gateshead)

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

14 COMMUNITY

21 MAY 2020

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Kindness is keeping residents well As well as the range of activities which now take place virtually in the care home including singing, yoga and entertainers, residents at Jewish Care’s Sidney Corob House for people with mental health needs in West Hampstead, will be focussing on

the theme of kindness as part of Mental Health Awareness Week this week, 18-24 May. Social co-ordinators at the home, Sheree Charalampous and Isabel Fontes are working together to support the residents’ wellbeing.

People are staying connected to their networks of family, friends and volunteers online as well as participating in activities led virtually by the home’s regular entertainers and therapeutic practitioners.

Isabel says, “We see kindness in small gestures, and in the current situation, small gestures become huge. We can see acts of kindness from a person in the home offering a place to sit to another or helping another person. Sometimes silent gestures are most noticeable.”

To begin the Mental

Health Awareness Week programme, residents and staff at Sidney Corob House wrote their own personal words of kindness on sunflowers, decorating the reception area at the care home. Jewish Care’s spiritual and pastoral adviser, Rabbi Junik also gave a virtual talk about kindness to residents.

Social coordinator, Sheree Charalampous, says, “This week, our creative writing and reading groups will focus on a project and readings on kindness. We will also be planting seeds of kindness on the weekend. Our staff will take part in wellbeing programme during our handovers this week, looking at physical acts of kindness, being kind to ourselves as well as celebrating the kindness we have seen emerging from living through the Coronavirus pandemic.”

Since the visits to Jewish Care homes were suspended, many activities have moved online. The arts programme is helping to stimulate creativity and connection and art volunteers are now back online in the home. Residents are enjoying the continuity of the one-to-one classes and group yoga classes online and

the resident’s choir, now being led virtually, is still going strong. They have been singing and dancing and there are regular calls on the iPad to connect residents with their families, friends and volunteers.

Sheree continues, “We are able to support our residents’ wellbeing through a full programme of virtual activities to enjoy and this is helping to keep their spirits up, which is vital to their sense of wellbeing.

Jewish Care’s Sidney Corob House Manager, Sandra Saintus added, “It is so important that, wherever possible, we can keep our residents connected to the people and things that bring us joy and a sense of community. We have seen so many amazing acts of kindness to our residents and staff during Covid-19 from relatives and volunteers from the local community so this is a perfect opportunity to continue to focus on the positive and celebrate these incredible acts of kindness.”

Residents and staff at Jewish Care’s Sidney Corob House create Kindness sunflowers for Mental Health Awareness Week

Behind closed doors vulnerable people at risk need your help People with poor mental health are being hit especially hard by the coronavirus outbreak and demand for Jami’s services is rising daily. For people already living with mental illness, the additional anxiety and physical isolation they are experiencing can be life threatening.

Jami is continuing to provide practical and emotional support for everyone affected by a mental health problem as well as prioritising contact and expanding our services for the most at risk. Core services are provided daily by phone and video conference, supported by friendly doorstep chats, food deliveries and online groups and activities.

We urgently need your support to deliver and maintain these essential life saving services.

Please donate online today at jamiuk.org/crisis

For more information on how to look after your mental health during this crisis, visit jamiuk.org/coronavirus @JamiPeople

JAMIMentalHealth

Jami UK

Registered charity no. 1003345. A company limited by guarantee. Registered in London no. 2618170

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

21 MAY 2020

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Bnei Mitzva who chose to GIFT it Forward on their special day 12 year old Jordan Pearlman, son of Brad and Gabi, is due to celebrate his Barmitzvah in August 2020.

Due to the current lockdown, it is unclear whether it will take place in his Synagogue in Hampstead Garden Suburb or via Zoom, without many of his family and friends.

Jordan has come up with an ingenious idea. He explains ..

“Many of us have been unable to arrange a Barmitzvah, Batmitzvah, Wedding, Bris, and Birthday, Anniversary or Baby Naming ceremony. I have decided to unite us and create a virtual simcha wall on Instagram, which will feature a photograph of yourself or something that is important to you. I would like this wall to be filled with wonderful photos and a reminder that in these strange times we

can still all come together.

I have always been taught the importance of giving charity and I would also like to use the wall as a way to raise money for the three wonderful chosen charities: GIFT – Supporting the most vulnerable and isolating members of our Community Hatzola – providing pre-hospital emergency medical response and transportation at no cost, to the North London community Camp Simcha – improves the quality of life for Jewish families affected by serious childhood illness.”

If you have celebrated a Simcha since lockdown or about to, or it has been affected, and wish to be included on the wall please forward your photo to: virtualsimchawall@gmail.com and include your name, function type (e.g.

Barmitzvah, wedding or other), date and Instagram name.

If you wish and are able to donate please go to www.jgift.org/virtualsimchawall.

You are also encouraged to do an act of kindness.

Please forward to all your friends and Help Build The Simcha Wall 2020/2021

FACE MASKS We have them at very reasonable prices Subject to availability Pack of 50 standard 3-ply @ £33.00

FFP3 single £19.00

FFP2 single £4.50

N95 single £6.00

Price includes delivery to mainland UK Contact graham@cateringresources.co.uk Call 0121 729 7143 or 07889 464583 Pay By Credit Card or Bank Transfer No returns or refunds.

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

COMMUNITY 15

Gentlemen’s Lunch Club goes virtual British Emunah held it’s first online Gentlemen’s Lunch Club through Zoom this week. It is usually held at La Fiesta Restaurant and only attended by men.

With the current situation we held it online and our guest speaker was the Dentist Dr Charles Landau, the historian and passionate public speaker. Charles gave a shiur to 118 men and women on Kaddish - a subject unfortunately all too relevant in the current times. He has lectured previously in the House of Commons as well as around Britain, the United States and Europe. All proceeds from this shiur have gone to supporting the work of British Emunah to break the cycle of neglect and abuse suffered by the 10,000 at risk and vulnerable children and families in Israel.

To find out more about our next events and the work we do or to donate please visit www.emunah.org.uk

16 COMMUNITY

21 MAY 2020

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

JNF UK raises thousands for emergency supply boxes

JNF UK’s response to support the largest civilian response to the coronavirus in Israel

As Israelis prepare for the ‘new normal’ with social restrictions continuing to be eased, many are grateful for the vital support they received during the national quarantine.

One particularly vulnerable group are the elderly, who are much more susceptible to the disease. While some relied on family and other support networks to avoid going out, many others were isolated and struggling financially. For people in this category, staying safe at home was yet another challenge they had to overcome.

JNF UK’s response was to support

the largest civilian to citizens all over response to the corothe country. Israelis navirus in Israel, which from all backgrounds Matching campaign sees benefitted, whether focused specifically on helping individuals nearly £50,000 raised they were Jewish who are both over 75 (including Holocaust for vulnerable Israelis and living below the survivors), Arab, Druze poverty line.

Bedouin. struggling with lockdown. or Yonatan “Buy A Box. Save A Galon, CEO Life” was a matching campaign which of JNF UK, commented: saw JNF UK doubling all donations made “What’s better than knowing your towards the purchase of emergency sup- donation could save a life? Knowing ply boxes. Each box contained enough it could save two. food and hygiene products - including By matching all hand sanitiser – to last a month. donations, JNF UK In the space of a fortnight nearly was able to double £50,000 was raised, paying for over 500 of the impact of this these supply boxes. campaign - meaning The boxes were packed and distributed twice as many vulnerby Latet, the charity overseeing the camable Israelis were paign in Israel. Working in 80 different given a lifeline during locations in tandem with 180 different the recent lockdown.” organisations, Latet delivered the boxes

Supply Box Packing

A Natural Health-Supporting Breakthrough More people are learning that Myshroom mushrooms have a mix of special chemistry which benefits the body’s ability to fight and prevent chronic diseases. In ancient texts originating in China over thousands of years ago is recorded that various species of mushrooms were used to treat various illnesses. We have found hybrid mushroom strains from universities that possess health supporting chemistry, and are considered “medicinal.” Myshroom® products include proprietary blends of hybrid-strains of extreme-quality medicinal mushrooms created in the labs of universities targeted to support the Immune and nervous systems. These products are the ultimate natural health improvement solution. Add the powder blends to your favorite foods and drinks to support your health, fitness, and life.

Benefits of Myshroom® Blends

The Science behind MyShroom®

Brings the body’s functions into balance: ➢

Supports the immune system

➢

Supports the modulation of the immune system

➢

Supports the nervous system

➢

Supports blood sugar balance

➢

Supports liver and kidney function

➢

Supports brain function

➢ ➢

Supports hormone function Supports fitness, exercise-recovery, skin-aging, and quality of life

Extreme-quality Pure, Organic Mushrooms

Made from proprietary hybrid-strains of medicinal mushrooms developed at university laboratories ➢ Grown in a sterile environment with sterile air, water and organic certified substrates (no soil used) ➢ Consists of proprietary blends of the whole medicinal mushrooms, with no extracts or chemicals ➢ Myshrooms are organic, vegan, non-GMO, glutenfree, soy free and an essential part of a diet

➢ During the growing process, the mushrooms exude unique chemistry to digest food from our pure organic substrates ➢ The natural chemistry contains beneficial enzymes, proteins, polysaccharides, other molecules and all the essential amino acids ➢ The chemistry found in the mushroom blends supports the immune and nervous systems ➢ Various molecules have been found that may cause the break down various gram-negative bacteria cell membranes causing cell death which are resistant to antibiotics ➢ The chemistry found in the mushrooms supports flow of glucose, adrenaline, and insulin into human cells ➢ Myshroom blends support cholesterol levels, ATP production in all cells, dilation of blood vessels and the absorption of free radicals ➢ Myshroom blends consist of 100% rare medicinal mushroom strains ➢ Medicinal mushrooms are a safe food to consume by the FDA

More information can be found at www.mycoldiscovery.com Products come in various formula blends: ➢ Immune Health, Neural & Cognitive Health, Liver Health and Blood Sugar Health Products come in various size packages:

➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢

1.3 pound, 20.8 oz., (590 grams), [236 teaspoons] container .65 pound, 10.4 oz., (295 grams), [118 teaspoons] container .43 pound, 6.9 oz., (196 grams), [78 teaspoons] container 2.7 grams per teaspoon Dosage averages from observations: 4 to 24 teaspoons a day

For pricing and to order: www.myshroom.com 267-355-3925 info@myshroom.com

Note: Myshroom® products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. All statements have not been evaluated by the FDA

Copyright © Myshroom 2020 Document: 2/2020 SEE OUR CROWD FUNDING SITE LINKED TO OUR WEB SITES TO FUND MORE TRIALS AND TO SAVE MORE LIVES

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

21 MAY 2020

COMMUNITY 17

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

KKL – You can always rely on us The seismic change in everything we as well as the danger to older people with do, from shopping for food to travelling underlying health problems. around or undertaking the important KKL’s response has been one of reastask of writing a will, is beyond anyone’s surance and dependability. An imporimagination. tant part of KKL’s work People wearing masks is pastoral care and we and gloves in the street have used this time to and queues outside connect with clients and banks, post offices and reassure them that they supermarkets, stretchare not forgotten. Prior to ing back because of Pesach, many of our more social distancing, are vulnerable clients received now the norm, and a hand-delivered parcel there is an extra dose of food essentials to help of British patience and them celebrate the festival community spirit that in some small way. In prewill bring back memovious years, KKL has been ries for some of wartime able to host an interactive England. pre-Pesach Seder for these Many in our commuclients. nity are lonely and unInstead of visiting clients derstandably anxious. for a chat and a cup of tea, These are challenging each one is being called on times for those who a regular basis by a memare vulnerable and find ber of our team to ensure themselves in isolation they are managing, to offer for an unknown period help or simply to act as a of time, not seeing anshoulder to cry on. other person for weeks.

Additionally, we have We have read much produced a special newsDavid Goodman, Director of on the effect of this pan- Community Relations letter with interesting ardemic on mental health, ticles and puzzles to keep

NEWS IN BRIEF

Manchester muggings

them busy. This is particularly welcomed by clients who have little or no access to the internet.

The current pandemic has seen a surge in demand for advice on will writing.

Restrictions around social distancing and self-isolation have made it more challenging for practitioners. Many practitioners are sending out will questionnaires and arranging to meet via video conferencing to discuss matters in more detail before preparing documents for signature.

KKL is following guidelines on will preparation using independent solicitors (practitioners) to overcome some of the problems associated with the drafting and witnessing of wills. KKL is assisting those who recognise the importance of putting in place an up-to-date and valid will, notwithstanding the restrictions that are currently in force.

Carolyn Addleman is Director of Legacies at KKL Executor & Trustee Company Ltd, a subsidiary of JNF UK. To find out more about its work, call 0800 358 3587 or email carolyn@kkl.org.uk

A number of attempted muggings have taken place in the heart of Manchester’s orthodox Jewish community.

Four separate incidents have been reported to local neighbourhood watch group Shomrim.

Attacks occurred in New Hall Road, Albert Avenue, Broom Lane and Kersal Dale Wetlands.

A local resident, who did wish to be named, told The Jewish Weekly that a 12-year-old Jewish boy on his bike was surrounded by a mob of youths who threatened to “smash him on the head”.

“It was a really frightening sight,” they said.

“I could not believe what I was witnessing.”

CST are aware of the incidents.

Stamford Hill eruv

Rabbonim have started the process of setting up an eruv in certain areas of Stamford Hill in north London.

Local rabbis have stated anxiety over families during lockdown, especially those with numerous children in small houses. Staying indoors is particularly tough for them throughout Shabbat.

Work on the initiative began two weeks ago after discussions evaluated options available.

The initiative is being facilitated by the Union of Orthodox Hebrew Congregations.

It is hoped the eruv will be operational this Shabbat. Organisers behind the project have confirmed the eruv will be available for local families to use by Shavuot next week.

NEW

Be Fruitful FRUIT AND VEGETABLES

HIGH QUALITY FRUIT AND VEG DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR

ORDER ON WHATSAPP FRESH PRODUCE STOCKED EVERYDAY!

Be Fruitful

ORDER ON WHATSAPP

FRUIT AND VEGETABLES

HIGH QUALITY FRUIT AND VEG DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR

BUNCHES STARTING FROM £6.50

Monday – Friday NEXT DAY DELIVERY 6:30 – 18:30 GAURANTEED! Sunday 6:30 – 16:30

SAME DAY DELIVERY FOR ORDERS PLACED BEFORE 12PM

BOUQUETS STARTING FROM £20

DELIVERY LOCATIONS

EDGWARE. STAMORE, HENDON, HATCH END, PINNER, GOLDERS GREEN, BUSHEY, RADLET, TOTTRIDGE, BOREHAMWOOD, DAVID ZAX FINCHLEY, MILL HILL

17 Glengall Road Edgware HA8 8TB

Tel: 0208 958 1388/0208 958 5053 Whatsapp: +44776 711 4444 Web: www.andrewsbefruitful.co.uk

DELIVERY LOCATIONS EDGWARE, STANMORE, MILL HILL, HENDON , GOLDERS GREEN, DAVID ZAX FINCHLEY HATCH END, PINNER, BUSHEY, TOTTRIDGE, RDLETT AND BORHAMWOOD

17 Glengall Road Edgware HA8 8TB

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

Tel: 0208 958 1388 / 0208 958 5053 Whatsapp: +44776 711 4444 Web: www.andrewsbefruitful.co.uk

18 COMMUNITY

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Manchester Machzekie Hadass Shul closed MACHZEKIE HADASS SHUL CLOSED...

NO MINYANS ALLOWED

Dayan Chaim Heimlich checking if Mezzuzots are needed to the refurbished MH Shul Beis Hamedrash, Monday

Dayan Chaim Heimlich, Rosh Hadayonim, at Manchester Machzekie Hadass Shul pictured in the refurbished Beis Hamedrash on Monday evening to look at the removed doors ,the Dayan paskend that no Mezzuzot are needed on the two posts, the Beis Hamedrash notice

21 MAY 2020

Yossi Leitner ready to make a delivery of goods from his shop Foood+ located in the car park of the Manchester Jewish Community Centre, Bury Old Road, corner of Park Road, Prestwich.

PHOTOS: LAWRENCE PURCELL

board has been empty since the Shul was closed, in normal times it’s always full of so many things going on in the Kehillah.

The Shul is closed because of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic with Government guidelines of no large gatherings.

NHS Clapping in Wellbeck Grove, Broughton Park

PHOTO: LAWRENCE PURCELL

DELIVERIES FOR THE SELF-ISOLATING AND LOCKDOWN CUSTOMERS. Mr Leitner makes daily deliveries to homes from as close to his store just for those in self isolation and Lockdown , also delivering to Broughton Park, Prestwich, Whitefield ‘’And we deliver to St Annes, on the Fylde Coast., Commented Mr Leitner’’.

Thinking about ALIYAH? PHOTO: LAWRENCE PURCELL

A neighbour put up this NHS Banner outside their home to show appreciation from the Jewish community in Salford to the heroes of the NHS.

Contact the Jewish Agency for Israel certified by the Israeli government to facilitate Aliyah!

0-800-051-8227 | 020-8371-5250 | gci-en@jafi.org

PHOTO: LAWRENCE PURCELL

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

21 MAY 2020

COMMUNITY 19

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

SHAVUOT MENU Available for home delivery

Rabbi Rickman brings Shul members with families and children closer together Rabbi Rickman had the idea to bring Shul members with families and children closer together during this period of self-isolation and lockdown. He now holds regular Friday night services before

Shabbat begins, bringing 5 years old to 10 year old children together with the oldest members of the Shul, whilst also attracting non Shul members to join in from the wider community.

10%off When spending £50 before 10am Sunday 24 May Code: BHFD 20

See full menu and order from

www.jasmine-catering.co.uk

Or contact Jonathan on

07476 217 948

Banoffee Cheesecake Photo: © Jeremy Coleman • Design: @v_gilad

Rabbi Benjy Rickman, assistant Rabbi at Holy Law Shul, Prestwich and head of Kodesh at the King David High School, pictured on Sunday morning after his Zoom session with over forty five Yavneh and Yeshivah Boys.

EXCLUSIVE TO MENDY’S

LUNCH DEALS

PHOTOS: LAWRENCE PURCELL

UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT

PELTER’S FRESH SANDWICHES, SUSHI & SALADS

DWICH DEAL N A S

SUSHI DEAL

SALAD DEAL

BUY A SANDWICH OR A SALAD BOWL & GET A FREE DRINK

BUY SUSHI OVER £4.50 GET A FREE DRINK + CHOCOLAT E BAR

BUY 3 SALADS & GET 1 FREE

Mendys Foods Ltd, 15-19, Edgwarebury Lane, Edgware HA8 8LH Tel: 020 8958 3444 • Email Orders: shop@mendys.co.uk THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

@mendyskosher

20 COMMUNITY

21 MAY 2020

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Camp Simcha Brings Smiles To Hospital Patients And Staff A surprise pizza delivery and box of treats from Camp Simcha brought a big smile to the face of a 12-year-old patient at Great Ormond Street Hospital this week.

Amelia, from Leeds, who suffers from a ‘Swan’ (Syndrome Without A Name) condition, has been admitted for an intense and gruelling treatment regime for the next two weeks.

Mum Lisa, who is isolating with her at the hospital also received a goodie package from the charity. She said they felt totally spoiled by the gifts and treats, which were ‘a real boost’ for them both.

Amelia is just one of the children Camp Simcha is reaching out to in hospitals, both via the direct care they give to families the charity supports and also through its hospital outreach programme.

Since the COVID-19 emergency began, many of the seriously ill children the charity helps have had a prolonged stay in hospital to receive treatment for their conditions.

In addition to supporting these families with a range of bespoke practical and therapeutic services, Camp Simcha has been sending in toys, DVDs, activity packs and specially-requested gifts for other

children on the wards. Packs of hand creams and snack boxes have also been sent in for nurses and care teams.

Camp Simcha Hospital Co-ordinator Joanne Woolich says: “We have been in touch with the nursing teams at various hospitals throughout, letting them know that we can help with requests for the children and the hospital teams.

“There has been a really positive response from the hospitals, who very much appreciate this kind of support at the moment to provide for both the children and the staff.

“Serious childhood illnesses do not stop occurring even though the world is in the grip of this terrible health pandemic. Children are still being be admitted to hospitals for urgent and life-saving treatments and Camp Simcha is still getting the same number of referrals as it did prior to Coronavirus. The difference now is that parents and children are trying to navigate this with the COVID-19 emergency in the forefront and that is just terrifying and, at times, unbearable for them. In addition many who would have been treated at their local hospitals are being diverted to GOSH. r"sb

& International Shipping We pack, move & relocate homes and businesses

isolation aggravating GOSH Delivery

H otels are presently closed, but if you had an apartment in Ashkelon opposite Delivery for the Paediatric Therapies Department

“Most of the children who are spending prolonged periods in hospital can only have one parent with them and no visitors; that is incredibly isolating for both the parent and child.

“Finding small ways to keep the children’s spirits up and occupy them – with a surprise gift or a care package - can make a huge difference to their well-being. Staff are also under a huge amount of pressure so we are pleased to be able to help them in any way we can.”

To date Camp Simcha has delivered over 350 cuddly monkeys, as well hand creams, toys, gifts, DVDs, arts and crafts packs and snack bags to the Whittington, Royal London, Great Ormond Street, Evelina, Manchester Children’s, Stanmore Orthopaedic, Barnet and Edgware hospitals.

Naomi Joseph, Clinical Lead for the Paediatric Therapies team, Barnet and Chase Lodge Hospitals, said: “‘’We were so delighted to receive a surprise delivery of cuddly monkeys, snack packs and a lovely poem of thanks from Camp

00542

020 8338 3999 / 020 8371 4103

www.kingsremovals.com

being in

doesn’t have to be

Shipping to Israel lbt ylybvm Kvrb @kingsremovals

ashkelon properties

Left: Barnet CS delivery. Right: Amelia at GOSH

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

the beach*, you could be relaxing in isolation looking at the sea and basking in the sun – and/or renting it out for a great income.

*15% down payment with mortgages available, bank guarantees and rental income in excess of 3.5%

}

david zwebner

Licensed real estate professional with over 40 years of experience

CALL TODAY! L I V E

O P P O S I T E

T H E

S E A

0544-332621

davidz@A shkelonProperties.com

Simcha. It made us feel particularly special knowing that we are appreciated for what we do, and receiving the gifts was a real lift for all the staff.’’

21 MAY 2020

COMMUNITY 21

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Jewish Leadership Council appoints Joint Interim Chief Executives The Jewish Leadership Council (JLC) is delighted to announce that Claudia Mendoza and Michelle Janes are to be appointed Joint Interim Chief Executive Officers with effect from 23rd June 2020.

To ensure maximum continuity, current Chief Executive Simon Johnson has agreed to remain with the JLC as Company Secretary and as a consultant until the end of the year.

Claudia is currently the JLC’s Director of Policy and Public Affairs. She has led her team on some of the most significant moments our community has seen for generations. She joined the organisation in 2011 bringing her expertise in policy, public affairs and relationship building.

Michelle is currently the Executive Director of Lead, the Leadership Development division of the JLC. She has brought her strengths in organisational and strategic development as well as relationship building to enable success for teams and individuals across communal organisations.

They will be taking on this role alongside their existing responsibilities. Simon has been CEO Since October 2013. He announced on 1st February 2020 that he

intended to step down.

Commenting on the appointments, Jonathan Goldstein, the Chairman of the JLC said: “We are delighted to introduce new Interim Leadership for the JLC to give us continuity, advance our strategic projects, led ably by David Davidi-Brown, and to maintain the efficiency of our operations. Having spent considerable time with both Claudia and Michelle, we are of the view that they have the full complement of skills to guide the JLC through these challenging times building on the excellent platform developed by Simon. The Trustees are enthused about the impact this change could make.

We also wish to thank Simon for his sterling service over the years. He has led the JLC with distinction. We will be sorry to see him go and wish him well for the future” Claudia Mendoza said “It is a tremendous honour to be leading the JLC with Michelle through this difficult period.

I am hugely proud of our community and my priority will be to magnify and amplify the voices of our members, many of whom are exemplars of the very best of

Unprecedented Worldwide Achdut Learning Experience

Yeshivat Hakotel

For the first time in Jewish history, on the date when the Jewish people first arrived unified at the foot of Har Sinai, four Israeli Chief Rabbis (past and present) along with Chief Rabbis from countries around the world, are scheduled to speak together with Roshei Yeshiva of yeshivot from around the world from a wide hashkafic spectrum. They are joined by leading speakers (men and women) from around the world and leading chinuch couples who will speak about educating children.

The program includes speakers from all of our communities- Ashkanazim and Sepharadim, Litvacks and Chassidim, Yeshivish and Modern Orthodox, and includes

over 80 sessions delivered by over 90 of the best known speakers in the Anglo Torah world.

The program is being sponsored by leading organizations in each country around the world that has a significant English speaking population, including OU, World Mizrachi, Office of the South African Chief Rabbi, and Aish Latin America. Yeshivot and Seminaries as well as local shuls and schools around the English speaking world have also joined as co-sponsors .

We anticipate viewage of well over 100,000 which will make this program the largest learning program since the original Kabalat Hatorah at Har Sinai.

The program is dedicated to the memory of the Novominsker Rebbe, Rav Yaakov Perlow zt”l, head of Agudath Israel, member of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah and a leader whose wisdom and guidance benefitted all of Klal Yisrael.

The incredible list of speakers and more information about the program are available at www.vayichan.com or through Rabbi Reuven Taragin (0584702471- best by whatsapp)

Claudia Mendoza and Michelle Janes are to be appointed Joint Interim Chief Executive Officers

civil society”.

Michelle Janes said “It is with pride and honour that I am able to bring my varied skills and experience to lead this organisation along with Claudia. Our members are at the heart of all we do and together with them we will strive to strengthen and support the growth and development of our wonderful community”.

Simon Johnson said “I am delighted that Claudia and Michelle have been appointed to act as Interim CEOs. They

have both been hugely valuable colleagues, well respected amongst the members, in the wider community, and beyond. I am thrilled that their talent has been recognised as leaders of the superb JLC team. They will do an outstanding job and will be extremely well supported by Director of Community Strategy, David Davidi-Brown. I am pleased to remain as Company Secretary of the JLC until the end of the year to ensure the timely handover of JLC’s outstanding governance”.

SING FOR JEWISH CONTINUITY

Music makes our prayers even more beautiful THERE ARE 64 – CHOOSE YOURS!

SHABBAT MORNING SERVICE

FREE ON ALL MUSIC STREAMING SITES SEARCH: WE SING WE STAY TOGETHER FREE DOWNLOADS

www.wesingwestaytogether.com ENCOURAGE AND SHARE #WESINGWESTAYTOGETHER

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

22 FEATURE

21 MAY 2020

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

From the front line…

BY JACQUELINE CURZON Covid-19 is still dominating the headlines.

Some readers were alarmed when I mentioned I may have had a dose of Covid-19, as my symptoms ticked the WHO boxes. Aside from the most common symptoms of fever, dry cough and exhaustion, the less common symptoms include myalgia, arthralgia, sore throat, diarrhoea, headache and anosmia.

Numbers of new cases are rapidly falling, with encouraging figures showing that London is almost case free, but we must continue to ‘stay alert’ and stay well.

Scientists on the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group (NERVTAG) who help to shape the Government's response to Covid-19, have shown concern that individuals with lesser known symptoms may not be self isolating and are not being tested. Peter Openshaw (Professor of Experimental Medicine, Imperial College) sits on NERVTAG and says it's important that people have a wider perception of the disease, because up to 1 in 4 with non-standard symptoms might not self isolate, nor - like myself - be officially diagnosed.

Schools have become our next achilles heel, making huge headlines which I'm following avidly. With 5 of my own children still in education - 3 in primary school - I know it's unsustainable for the unions to prevaricate about a return to work. Our medical personnel have remained at work, and they are on the front line, frequently doing this without adequate PPE. Even if the NHS is under-equipped, they are not bleating like the union leaders. Teachers understand that the education of a whole generation is now at stake, from nursery to tertiary education, and clarification from the health and scientific experts has reiterated that it is indeed safe for primary children to return. A phased return is encouraged, but unions are instructing staff not to 'engage' until an impossible checklist is met. If the unions get their wicked way, schools won't go back until there's adequate PPE for an entire workforce [hey, we didn't manage it for critical NHS staff], there are zero new cases of Covid still emerging [that might be never] or until there's a vaccine, tried, tested and approved. By then there may be a new virus on the rampage! I think the unions may prefer us to continue home-schooling aka 'Carry-On Teaching' (like the comedy series). I don't think this is representative of the views of teachers on the ground. We have already had a virtual 'summer holiday,' with a real one due in 8 weeks.

Please give us a break in between, perhaps time for parents to return to work, and - more importantly - to let our children try and catch up with lost education, and reconnect with their peers. For a significant group of young people, social isolation is particularly cruel and damaging. The unions are at odds with the populace, and they will never engender

Jacqueline Curzon PHOTO: LARA MINSKY PHOTOGRAPHY

Does our diet really need the equivalent of a Hollywood makeover? the same level of support or love afforded to their counterparts in the NHS; any clapping for the former will be s-l-o-w and measured.

Before leaving the playground, mention must be made of Professor Neil Ferguson, the Covid modelling man from Imperial College, who was required to stand down recently from SAGE after a 'miss' demeanor.

He has been royally criticised by both computer and scientific analysts over his data projections, which forced our controversial national lockdown and the subsequent crippling of our economy. The data is apparently impossible to replicate, with his graph lines looking more like a 'bowl of spaghetti' than that of a reliable computer model. David Richards, co-founder of data tech company WANdisco, says any business that relied on this coding for their software 'would likely go bust.' Our economy may take generations to recover, which will impact most on younger people, who were least affected by the pandemic. I'm not saying lockdown was unnecessary, that would be disingenuous, but an earlier shutdown of the travel systems, particularly airports, non essential services and prioritising the most vulnerable (like care homes, which have been decimated) would have been a good start. We could - as I implied recently - have taken his scaremongering predictions with a healthy pinch of salt. We have become paralysed with inertia.

Moving forwards, we must take greater care when accepting 'predicted death rates,' and overblown statements, regardless of whether they be for Covid-19 or cancer.

On the latter topic, my weekly sojourn into stats, research and stories of survival highlights a very interesting trend. Where people might be told, for example, that they have 6 months to live. If one looks at the statistical graph, where 6 months is the median (the high point of the curve) the downcurve tails off over a longer period. So, if we say 8000

people a year in the UK will likely acquire pancreatic cancer, 4000 of them may be dead at 6 months, but the other 4000 may variously survive up to 5 years, or longer.

Now, I'm not a betting individual, but I'm going to tell myself I have to be in the second half of the graph, as I'm approaching 2 years, come September. But I still have to do whatever I can to creak forward to 3 years.

My latest feel-good reading is a book called Anti-cancer (Dr David Servan-Schreiber), which I think I picked up at a second-hand bookstore. Previously, I have dipped into it, but it deserves a proper read. Servan-Schreiber, a neuroscientist, who had brain cancer, shares lots of analytical data and eye-popping info about the food industry. There is a whole gamut of dietary foods which can replicate beneficial pharmaceuticals, and simultaneously shut off supply lines to the cancers. I read this with great interest and very honest self reflection. I thought of all the 'bad things' I've consumed over the last 15 years. Even before my diagnosis I would drink a diet coke each day and enjoy a chocolate bar. That was my daily sin, but retrospectively - over a period of some years - it makes for a horror story. As a parallel, a person who smokes 2 cigarettes a day does not really expect to get lung cancer, for we are told everything in moderation is ok. But with our whole world living on false premises, maybe even a little of the naughty things is not okay, not any more. You become (essentially) what you eat….

I remarked previously that many years ago we ate simple homemade foods, without lashings of additives and preservatives, and as a family, we never ate out. Back in the 70s and early 80s, the incidence of cancer was still held in check, but farming and food industry changes have genetically altered our food map. Products from cattle, sheep, poultry, along with the various bi-products of milk, eggs and cheese are not the same as those we previously took for granted.

Livestock are now pumped full of hormones to fatten them up, to make them produce milk quicker, and antibiotics to make them healthier. Chickens are turned into super fowl, and fish like salmon and trout are farmed with astaxanthin to improve their colour. Nothing we eat is exempt from tinkering, and tampering with nature comes with consequences. If you look up omega 3 and 6, found in vegetable oils, you will see that omega 6 is much less healthy, with its pro-inflammatory qualities, and it is found in a myriad of foods. In the 1970s, a person consumed roughly 5kg of O-6 per annum. By 2010, it was closer to 15kg. If we consume Omega 3&6 in synchrony (50:50 ratio) we stay healthy. If we consume them in a disproportionate 20:80 ratio, we consume very high doses of O-6 which pushes our glucose through the ceiling, elbows us towards diabetes and obesity, and further

raises our predisposition to acquire or activate cancer. Even grain is not exempt: wheat, rye and other grains are not equal. They are also modified, which impacts not just on the bread and pasta we eat, but also on the highly refined flour we use at home for our 'healthy' culinary delights. For us in the kosher realm, bakery goods likely have trans fats as they can't contain (healthier) butter, given we require our products to be parev.

Eggs and milk, sold as organic, may contain few or zero pesticides, but they still come from animals, which - if not fed exclusively on grass - are still high in omega 6s. Taa-da!

We concede our 21st century dietary landscape sees us eating far more ready-made products, and enjoy a significant amount of eating out, too. Restaurants and take-aways undoubtedly use these same modified ingredients, so you can let your non-active cancer cells glut on carcinogenic fuel foods, morning, noon and night. Does our diet really need the equivalent of a Hollywood makeover:- fillers, implants, botox, colourants, anti-ageing?

I used to dismiss 'organic this and that,' as a bourgeoisie fad, but boy I wished I'd known the actual science behind these alternatives.

The friends I know who were 'organic' are generally all still here, and they're not in my cancer club either. Ignorance is not bliss.

I'd like to direct readers to a TED web presentation titled 'How to starve cancer with food,' by Dr William Li. It discusses anti angiogenesis, the cutting off of supply lines which fuel cancers. I guarantee having watched this, your life will be forever altered and p"G you will a) not fall into the same dietary hole I've landed in, and b) alter the direction of any active or inactive cancer you might have. I only wish I'd known about all this 10 years ago. But there is no point in me reminiscing on my past, where I obviously failed in terms of quality-eating. I guess I thought by not having a diet full of junk food, that was good enough, but I now don't believe it was. Part of the guilt one may face is if you are shopping for a large family and thinking of convenience, perhaps unhealthy shopping is a price that (unwittingly) most of us are willing to pay.

If you have cancer you are advised to hold back on red meats, avoid processed meats, saturated fats and milk chocolate amongst other things. What can we eat freely then?

Fortunately there is a huge list: fruits galore - redcurrants, blackberries, strawberries, blueberries, cranberries, pomegranate, grapes (red & black), peaches, plums, nectarines, grapefruits, oranges; omega 3 oily fish - mackerel, sardine; cabbage, broccoli, beans, lentils, peppers, garlic, ginger, onion, leeks, shallots, mushrooms (oyster & shiitake); turmeric, green tea; walnuts, pecans and hazelnuts; canola and olive oil (cold pressed). Lastly, you can round off your healthy meal with dark chocolate ( >70%) and a glass of red wine. Raise your glass now to Tom Moore, who is to be knighted for his unparalleled efforts. L’chaim!

Now that should keep us smiling!

Have a great week.

Jacqueline x

To support Jacqueline in her battle with pancreatic cancer, please go to: www.gofundme.com/f/jacqueline039s-front-line-cancer-battle-fund THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

In Partnership

Proud Members

24 JUDAISM

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

ASK THE RABBI

21 MAY 2020

Looking for answers? Send your question to Rabbi@RabbiSchochet.com SHOULDN’T I BE LOOKING AFTER NUMBER ONE? Dear Rabbi You wrote in your last column how we are all witnessing quite amazing acts of chesed, which is of course a beautiful thing. But in this current climate of uncertainty, shouldn’t we also consider thinking a little more about ourselves? There is a paramount important Jewish principle of “your life takes precedence!” We don’t know what tomorrow brings and with the world in complete disarray we should surely be making sure we can survive the economic storm as much as we are battling the pandemic.

Reuven Dear Reuven The Talmud cites a famous about two men travelling together in a searing desert. One traveller has no water left at all, and the other has enough water for only one of them to survive. If he shares some of his water with his travel mate, neither of them could survive. Says Ben Petura: “It is preferable that they both drink and die, rather than one seeing his fellow’s death.” In his view, the person with water does not have more rights to his water than his fellow traveller, and so he cannot keep the water for himself. The Talmud then says that Ben Petura taught this approach “until Rabbi Akiva came and taught “your life precedes that of your fellow.”

The question that arises is, which one of the two opinions is correct? Is Ben Peturah right that I have to share my water with my friend even as that means neither of us are likely to survive? Or

is Rabbi Akiva correct in that it is my water and I am morally right and entitled to save my life even if it means my friend perishes in the process?

Intuitively, we would have assumed that Rabbi Akiva is correct. After all, why should both travellers die, if one life can be saved? And besides why should the traveller who owns the water not be entitled to save his own life by drinking his own water?

Why would he be required to share it?

That is indeed the Halacha but note the words of the Talmud: “Ben Petura taught his perspective until Rabbi Akiva came along and established that this is not the Halacha.” In other words, Rabbi Akiva may be Halachically right. But intuitively, in the grand scheme of things, Ben Petura is morally and fundamentally correct.

You see Ben Petura’s view reflects the way we are to look at our fellow – as no less deserving of anything than we are.

We shouldn’t have a sense of entitlement over anybody else.

We are all one and the same.

Even the water in our knapsack must be shared with our fellow, because we are all equal before G-d. We must care for others no less than we care for ourselves.

So yes, practically, Halachically, we are to save ourselves before saving others. But in principle, we must never see ourselves as more deserving of anything than our fellow is.

You know how companies subject potential candidates to some random questions sometimes to determine suitability in working for the organisation. There was a certain Chesed organization that

Tehillim Psalm 142 This week’s psalm is famous for being a psalm that people say at large gatherings of Tehillim when the Jewish nation are in desperate need. David was hiding from King Saul, who was trying to kill him.

Saul was David’s father in law. After marrying his daughter Michal, Saul turned against David as he thought that he was trying to take the throne from him. So he relentlessly pursued David, as he thought he was legitimately allowed to kill someone who was being ‘Mored b’Malchus – Committing treason against the King.’

Ultimately, Hashem sent Shmuel hanavi, Samuel the Prophet to inform Saul of his wrongdoing, and tell him that if he was prepared to die on the battlefield, fighting to protect Eretz Yisrael, then Hashem would accept his Teshuva. Saul obeyed and is thus remembered as

was interviewing candidates for the position of director general of the organization, and it posed to them the following question: You are driving on a frigid, snowy day, and you pass by a bus stop and see three men waiting for the bus. One is an elderly man, shivering from the fierce cold. The other is a doctor on his way to the hospital where patients are waiting for him.

And the third is your best friend.

The car you drive has only one passenger seat. To whom do you offer a ride?

One candidate said right away that the driver should look at the bigger picture and offer a ride to the doctor, who needs to get to the hospital as quickly as possible in order to treat patients and thereby save more lives. A second candidate said that without doubt, you have to address the here and now and offer the ride to the elderly man, who could get seriously ill waiting out in the cold. A third candidate disagreed with both, arguing that the very definition of friendship means commitment to the other, and so a person’s best friend takes precedence over everybody else.

But the right answer was given by the fourth candidate. He said that the driver should get out of the car, give the keys to the doctor who should then drive himself and the elderly man, while the driver waits for the bus together with his best friend.

There is no reason to think that we are more entitled to a comfortable ride than those who do not have a car. We are all equally humble creatures sharing G-d’s earth.

Yes, Halacha follows Rabbi Akiva’s opinion that we are to

save ourselves first. However, Ben Petura’s view must shape our overall outlook on our fellow. If they need our help, we must share what we have with them, and never for a moment believe that we deserve more than they do.

We read in last week’s Torah portion about the Jubilee year which was a time of great celebration in Israel during the Temple era. One of the primary rituals during those Jubilee years was a special blowing of the Shofar. Why? The commentaries explain that people took a potential financial hit during that year.

There were a lot of clemencies put into motion as part of the celebrations. All servants had to be set free. All outstanding debts were cancelled. Land purchases were always leased within the jubilee cycle and would now

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

This Psalm is a refuah sheleima for Shmuel Yosef ben Faiga Chaya a Tzadik.

‘Koli el Hashem ezak, koli el Hashem etchanan .. I cry out to Hashem with my voice, With my voice to Hashem I plead.’ There are many forms of prayer. The most intense form is when someone cries out from the bottom of their hearts. These prayers will always be answered even if we cannot always see it. We must take great faith during these difficult times to cry out to Hashem to remove this deadly virus in our world, speedily in our days, Amen.

To sponsor a Tehillim for £36 call 0203 906 8488 or email office@thejewishweekly.com

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

revert back to the original owners. You were just coming out of the back of a Sabbatical year, on the 49th year where your land was already lying fallow. You might have found it psychologically, emotionally, and certainly financially difficult.

But the shofar was sounded all around for one and all to hear.

It reminded everyone that, “hey you are not alone. Everyone is in this together.” Nothing strengthens the spirit of mankind like universal public action, and the awareness that “everybody is a part of it” is the greatest source of encouragement.

Indeed may all those who mourn find solace – may G-d wipe away tears from off all faces and may we merit an end to all this suffering for once and for all, forever more.

26 JUDAISM

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Torah from Israel

21 MAY 2020

Six for six: How the World Changed in Six Days

BY RABBI MOSHE TARAGIN The actual state of Israel was established 72 years ago in 1948. However, the modern state of Israel as we know it, was launched in 1967. The six-day war was so revolutionary and so transformative, that in many ways, it was more groundbreaking than 1948. Thousands of years ago, G-d created our natural world in six days.

Fifty-three years ago He reshaped history in six quick days. Here is a list of the six major revolutions which occurred during those 6 days in June: Six for Six!

1.THE RETURN TO THE BIBLICAL “CORRIDOR”

In 1948, Jews were graciously “permitted” to return to a carved-up parcel of Israel.

This immigration soothed the world’s conscience after the horrors of the Holocaust and, additionally, solved the ugly issue of unwanted Jewish refugees. By contrast, in 1967, we returned to the Biblical corridor – a passage of land which cuts through the heart of Israel and the heart of Jewish history. This territory stretches from Shechem in the north, snakes its way through Jerusalem, bends toward Beit Lechem and Chevron finally levels off in Be’er Sheva in the south. Jewish history, narrated in the book of Breishit, emerged in these lands and our return to this Biblical passageway signaled the resurgence of the History. Jews actually living in the provinces of original Jewish history signals the acceleration of history in a way that the important but indefinite events of 1948 did not.

2) A EMERGENT SUPERPOWER

Life in Israel between 1948 and 1967 was harsh and unforgiving- riddled by food rationing, numerous wars of attrition and by stifling diplomatic isolation. Indeed, our beloved state provided a respite from the tumultuous and tragic years of the Holocaust and certainly fulfilled a centuries-long dream of resettling our homeland. However, life continued to be difficult and conditions were austere. The miracles of 1967, the courage of our soldiers, and, of course, the palpable Divine intervention created a swell of national pride or “komemiyut” which transformed the fabric of Israeli society. Israel’s successful handling of the corona virus (so far, and with G-d’s help it will continue) has confirmed the strong feelings of pride which Israelis sense in their country. Societies with pride and national unity will navigate this medical and financial crisis more successfully than countries which

are either disunited or disillusioned. The restoration of our national pride began in 1967. Ironically, the War of Independence in 1948 is sometimes referred to as komemiyut because, for the first time in thousands of years, Jews defended themselves from military aggression. In truth, the miraculous events of 1967 established far greater komemiyut than the ambiguous victory of 1948.

3. JEWS FLOCKING HOME

The return to Yerushalayim and the surrounding environs beckoned international Jewish interest in their homeland.

Prior to 1967, much of the emigration to Israel consisted of aliyah of distress- Jews fleeing persecution in Arab countries.

Between 1948 and 1967 the financial hardships in Israel were so severe that more people emigrated from Israel than to Israel. That all changed in 1967- the magnetizing effect of Yerushalayim as well as the slow but steady economic improvement in Israel drew the interest of Jews from across the globe. Many made aliyah and still more became more embedded in Israeli life- whether through purchasing real estate or increasing their frequency of visits. The worldwide Jewish stake in Israel spiked after 1967.

4. GRADUAL DIPLOMATIC ACCEPTANCE

Prior to 1967, Israel was a diplomatic pariah. Despite the broad support afforded Israel during the UN votes of the ’40s, Israel was soon plunged into diplomatic isolation. Much of the third world was aligned with Arab interests and the large Communist bloc which dominated Europe, China and parts of Latin America routinely exhibited diplomatic hostility toward our country. The US arming of Israel began in earnest only after the military victory in 1967. In 1967, we literally, stood “alone” on one side of the river, facing off against an entire world; we had assumed the role of our ancient grandfather, Avraham, who had also opposed an entire world of idolatry. If our mission in Israel is to inspire an entire world toward utopia, then international acceptance of Israel is a crucial element of that vision.

Though full embrace of the Jews in their homeland will only be achieved when history ends, the slow but steady diplomatic progress witnessed over the past twenty years is part of our redemptive advance. Over the past few weeks, as the enduring tensions between the USA and China flared, it was interesting to witness each country reinforcing its relationship

Knowing that we have constructed a strong and successful Jewish state feeds Jewish confidence across the globe. with our state of Israel. Israel’s standing among nations transformed after 1967.

5. RELIGIOUS REVIVAL

The legendary scenes of Israeli soldiers sounding the shofar while standing at the newly liberated Kotel galvanized an entire people. Witnessing G-d’s explicit intervention in the historical process prompted a revival of religious sentiment. Over the past 50 years Israel has rightly established itself as the epicenter of worldwide Torah study. The euphoric aftermath of 1967 launched the national religious world of yeshivot and Torah institutions, which, alongside the Charedi Torah world, has dramatically augmented the spread of Torah study. Beyond the advances in Torah and halachik observance, our country has also witnessed a revival of ‘traditionalism’ amongst a majority of Israeli Jews who identify as “Masorati”. They may not may not adhere to strict halachik regulations but they believe deeply in G-d and in His historical mission for His people. 1967 altered the religious landscape of Israel!

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

6) THE CONFIDENCE INDEX OF WORLDWIDE JEWRY

Over the past fifty years, Jews across the world have become more engaged in local governance, culture and society.

Previously, Jews envisioned themselves as living along the margins of societybarred from prestigious schools, law firms and country clubs. Modern Jewish communities generally display far more confidence and participate more extensively in their local societies far more than Jewish communities of the past. Much of this confidence stems from the komemiyut achieved in Israel during the 1967 war. Knowing that we have constructed a strong and successful Jewish state feeds Jewish confidence across the globe.

Six days and six seismic shifts in Jewish history !

Rabbi Moshe Taragin has taught at Yeshivat Har Etzion in Gush Etzion, for the past 22 years.

BAMIDBAR

THE

BAMIDBAR

21 MAY 2020

info@torahactionlife.com

www.torahactionlife.com

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488 info@torahactionlife.com www.torahactionlife.com

‫בס״ד‬

JUDAISM 27

THE C O M M U N I T Y

that states: “The 10 Commandments were given, 5 on one tablet and 5 on the other tablet”. The Mechilta implies that the Ten Commandments are not only read downwards as in a list, but can also be read across the two tablets. (1st together with 6th commandment, 2nd together with 7th commandment) The Mechilta continues and shows a connecLONDON’S LEADING PLATFORM FOR STUDENTS AND YOUNG PROFESSIONALS tion between the parallel commandments on the LONDON’S PLATFORM ANDfrom YOUNG PROFESSIONALS When we are jealous of our friend can also be read across the two tablets. (1st two tablets.

There LEADING is another lessonFORtoSTUDENTS be learnt our Parsha sheet is sponsored by Lirfuat Rav Yona Ben Chava Betoch Shaar Cholei Yisrael together withCholei 6th Yisrael commandment, 2nd together For instance, children. One might thinkis sponsored that when taking it be their wealthsays or the their the Mechilta first position comParsha sheet

by Lirfuat Ravcare Yona Ben Chava Betoch Shaar mand is “I am the L-rd your G-d” and the parallel of children we are only investing in the ‘future’. with 7th commandment) message are we telling our childre sixth command is “You shall not kill”. This implies, In JONATHAN actual fact we could be investing in the RABBI TAWIL that one who commits murder is not only sinning Iyar 28th 5780 Iyar 28th which 5780 imbued his father pre-school program, his father the pre-school program, whichthe imbued against his fellow man, but we he is are -- as itgetting were -- di-acros The Mechilta continues shows a clear. connection present too! message ites and thefor rest ofand the8:42 nation The na- BEGINS:The SHABBAT 8:42 SHABBAT BEGINS: PMis very the youngest children with athe loveyoungest for Judaism. children with a love Judaism. minishing thePM Divine image, for man was created was, as aENDS: whole, counted to their between thetionSHABBAT parallel commandments on the 9:58 PM “according other one has better". If we ar SHABBAT ENDS: PM in the9:58 Divine image.

DIRECTOR DIRECTOR legions,” – their task was to defend the people.

On the portal of the classroom, there was a All of the examples of the Midrash seem to On thetwo portal of the classroom, there was a Children are amazing, we enjoycolourful their young spirit tablets.

THE for WEEKLY jealous of our neighbour’s house, The Levites were counted their jobQUOTE of “guardimezuzah. Normally a mezuzah is TAL make sense...until the last one. colourful mezuzah.

Normally a mezuzah is "Happiness a gift and thewere trickstaTAL deal ensuring ans of the charge of the issanctity.”

They and invest a great thattothey have supposed be placed at the bottom of the teaching our ch It is etc. writtenwhat “Honourwe Yourare Father and Mother” supposed tonot.beIt placed at the bottom the is not expect but to delight "Happiness is a gift and the trick tioned to watch overtoof the Holy it, Temple. top third of the doorpost.

This one was the Mechilta says the fi rst the best education and turn out successful. Yettop thirdForof theinstance, and the parallel commandment is “You Shall Not expectwe it, but to delight in have never suffices.

This one wasarenot.

It it when Though legions counted at aitficomes." ghting age, is not towhat was placed lower - at the bottom third of thedoorpost.

Covet”. The in Midrash continues:”Any it when it comes." person who is command is "I am the L-rd your G-d" and the there is a side benefit to children apart from children, guardians of the sanctity of our nadoorpost. The teachers explained to both Rabbis was placed lower - atour the bottom third of the jealous will ultimately give birth to a child who will > MAZAL TOV TOas early as possible. must be the reasoning the downward adjustment. doorpost.

The teachers explained tocounted bothAbramson Rabbis parallel sixthtion, command is "You shall not kill". curse his the wonderful Nachat they provide.

RavforWolbe father and teaches who will giveus, respect Emma and Michael and family TheownMidrash thatto in ad ThetheTorah teaches us that we must teach our "This way, the children will be able to reach the on occasion of Noa turning Batmitzvah the reasoning for the downward adjustment.

POSITIVE ATTITUDE someone who is not his own father”. implies,children thatfrom onean who commits murder is Abramson zts’l writes (Sefer Alei Shor): "There Emma Michael and family early age, we must invest inand their mezuzah,is andno kissgreater it." Rabbi Yaakov This Kamenetzky whichthat is the inherently wrong, Whatattitude is the connection Midrash is try"Thistheway, the children will be able to reach the Moshe was told to count the Jewish nation. zts’l smiled. "We must not lower on the occasion of Noa turning Batmitzvah education and ensure the continuity of our heritmezuzah, for POSITIVE ATTITUDE > UPCOMING EVENTS not only sinning against his fellow man, but he factor in improving one's character than having POSITIVE ATTITUDE ing to tell us?

"Take a census of the entire assembly of the the children to kiss it. Instead, mezuzah, a corrosive effect on our children we must and raise kiss the it." Rabbi age. Yaakov Kamenetzky When we are jealous of our friends -- whether it was told to help count infl the uence Jewish nation. lower Facebook Live andforInstagram Children of Israel Moshe according to their families... is -as it were --important diminishing the Divine image, children."

Children can our own zts’l smiled.

"We must not the mezuzah, child, to reach the mezuzah at its proper level.

It is to invest in our youth – for they Moshe From was told to years count"Take nation.of“Take the students of ofthethe fledgling institution, Rabbi not be inhappy with be theirlearn wealth or theirto position life -- what mes-what twenty ofthe ageJewish and up...everyone whoentire a census the assembly For our upcoming events check our website www.torahactionlife.com What we must do is put a step stool in order for was are the future. the his children to kiss it. Instead, we must raiseDivine the for man created in the image. inlegion…" life. a census of path the to entire assembly of the Children of Benjamin Kamenetzky showed father the presage are we telling our children? goes out the (Bamidbar 1:2-3).  Facebook Livewhat and Instagram Children of Israel accordingthe to children their families... he really has is parents. Th to reach higher child, -- to thetoproper Thereatisitsanother lesson to be learnt reachlevel the proper level. the Torah Parasha Sheet from our Israel according to their families... From twenty school program, which imbued the youngest chil-mezuzah Sponsor The message we are getting across is that “the From twenty years of age and who ofup...everyone the mezuzah! Raise the child at an early age children.

One might think that when taking care of For our upcoming events check our website www.torahactionlife.com every tribe exceptout thatto of dren with a love for Judaism.What we must do is put a step stooland in share orderyour forsimcha years ofThis agecount and included up...everyone who goes him beIf we unsatisfi ed jealous with his o other one has to better”. are constantly to reach the their height ofown the mitzvah,All instead ofthe examples of of Midrash seem to person might able to(Bamidbar live with children we are onlythe investing in the ‘future’. goes out the legion…"

1:2-3). with thousands in your community, Levi. A They were reserved for to a be separate count. the legion…”

(Bamidbar 1:2-3). of our neighbour’s house, car, honour, etc. what On the portal of the classroom, theretowas a higher -- to the proper level children reach lowering the mitzvah to the the child!" eventually searching for someone In actual fact we could be investing in theSponsor pres- the Torah Parasha Sheet their count was not of menbut agedto twenty andhis poor character, see own children with make sense...until the last one. call 07759 550 102 or email info@torahactionlife.com we are teaching our children is that what we have This And count included every tribe except that of colourful mezuzah. Normally mezuzah is supof athe mezuzah!

Raise ent thetoo! child at an early age and share your simcha This count included every tribe except that of up.

Theirs began with a much younger crew. father/mother fi gure. never suffi ces.

Levi. They were reserved forcharacter a separate count.

And is posed to be placed at the bottom of the third of the mitzvah, instead of difference between the counting the improper traits aTheadifferent matter. to reach theoftopheight Children are amazing, we enjoy their young with spir- thousands in your community, Levi.aged Theytwenty were and reserved count.

The Midrash teaches us, that in addition to their count was not of men up. for of Levites the separate doorpost.

This onethewas not.isItvery wasclear. placed it and investDVAR and the rest of nation a great deal ensuring that they have TORAH P1 lowering the mitzvah to the child!"

"Count the sons of Levi … every male from one It is written "Honour Your Father and Mother" He views it more as a disadvantage, and this this attitude which is inherently wrong, we also their crew. count was not of lower men aged twenty andthird of the doorpost. The Theirs began with a muchAnd younger - at the bottom call 07759 Posivitve Attitude the best education and turn out successful.

Yet550 102 or email info@torahactionlife.com month of age and up shall you count them" The nation was, as a whole, counted "according youth areonprecious they co corrosive effect our children.and A child RABBI JONATHAN TAWILis "You Shall have aOur “Count the sons of Levi … every male from up.

Theirs began with a much younger crew. teachers explained to both Rabbis the reasoning and the parallel commandment to their legions," – their task was to defend the could in time force him to clean up his own act therethe is acounting side benefi t tothe children apart from the (Bamidbar 3:14-15).

The difference between of will learn not to be happy with what he has. And one month of age and up shall you count them” forpeople. the downward adjustment.

“This chil- wonderful Nachat they provide.

The Levites were counted for way, their the job of in lessons from their surroundings Not Covet".

The Midrash continues:"Any person and improve himself.

Levites and the rest of the nation is very clear. what he really has is parents. This DVAR TORAH P2 (Bamidbar 3:14-15).

DVAR TORAH P1could lead him dren will be able to reach the mezuzah, and kiss "guardians of the charge of the sanctity."

They thea sons of Levi Our Sages ask why"Count was there difference when… every male from one Rav WolbeA Tale zts’lofwrites (Sefer Alei Shor): “There Two Survivors our present as eventually our future. to beAttitude unsatisfi ed with hisas ownwell parents, nation was, as a whole, counted "according who is “We jealous ultimately give birth to a child Posivitve watch overThe thezts’l Holy Temple.

Our Sages whytribe was erence it.”were Rabbi Yaakovto Kamenetzky smiled. it cameask to the ofthere Levi?aofdiffage month andwhen up shall youstationed count them" is nowill greater factor in improving RABBI DOVIE SHOCHET one’s character searching for someone RABBI JONATHAN TAWIL else to be his father/mothit came to the tribe of Levi? theirthe legions," –tocurse theirthan task wasown to defend must not lower the mezuzah, children having children.”

There's an interesting (Parshat Yitro)toat afor (Bamidbar 3:14-15).Mechilta who will his fathertheand who will give er fi gure.

Though legions are counted fi ghting age, our Why did the infants, one month and above, get Why did the infants, one month and above, get kiss it. Instead, we must raise the child, reachwere Children people.

The to Levites countedcan for help theirinfl jobuence of our own path in life.

MayareHashem Bless us andtake ensure youth precious and they thatSurely states: "The 10started Commandments were given, to someone whoCHACHAMIM is They nottohis own father". guardians of the level. sanctity ofrespect our OUR P3 ownDVAROur counted? the count should have started counted?

Surely the count should have at thechildren, mezuzah at its proper What wenation, must do TORAH P2constantly A person might be able live with their "guardians of the charge of the sanctity."

Our Sages ask why was there a difference when RABBI ABBA in lessons fromup theirwith surroundings.

They values affect our from musta be counted early for as the possible. to reach at a like later agerest likeofthethe rest of theand tribes? a later age the tribes? is put step stool inasorder the right Survivors 5 on one tablet 5 on the other tablet".

The to see his own children withA Tale of Twothem werechildren stationed to watchpoor overcharacter, the Holy but Temple. it came to the tribe of Levi? present as well as our future.

When Rabbi Benjamin Kamenetzky founded the higher -- to the proper level of the mezuzah! Raise improper character traits is a different matter. HeRABBI DOVIE SHOCHET is the connection that the Midrash isP3trying May Hashem Bless us and ensure that we bring implies that founded the TenTheCommandments Torah teaches us that we mustWhat teach our WhenMechilta Rabbi Benjamin Kamenetzky Yeshiva of South Shoreback in the late 1950s, he the child at an early age to reach the height of the views it moreHALACHOT as a disadvantage, and this could from an early age,Though we must invest are in counted at a fighting the Yeshiva of South Shoreback in the one late children legions ourOver a Whole Food Recitingage, a Beracha them up the right values from birth.

Why did the infants, and above, to tell are not only read downwards as in a list, but ■with Shabbat Shalom invited his illustrious father Rabbi Yaakov Kame- month mitzvah, instead of get lowering the mitzvah tous? the in time forceProduct him to RABBI cleanELI upMANSOUR his own act and im1950s, he invitedcounted? his illustrious father Rabbi their education and ensure children, the continuity of our of the sanctity of our/ nation, guardians OUR CHACHAMIM P3 Surely the count should have started netzky zts’l, to visit the school. After an impressive prove himself.

Yaakov Kamenetzky zts’l, to visit the school. child!” heritage.

RABBI ABBA must be counted as earlyThere’s as possible. at a later age and like tested the rest of the tribes? tour, inAfter which interviewed an interesting Mechilta (Parshat Yitro) Shabbat Shalom. anhe impressive tour,teachers in which he interviewed The difference between the counting of the Lev-

C O PMaMr aUsNhI aT YS h e e t Parasha Sheet

RABBI JONATHAN TAWIL RABBBI JONATHAN TAWIL

THE WEEKLY QUOTE

> MAZAL TOV TO

> UPCOMING EVENTS

Kid’s

teachers and tested the students of the fledgling It is important to invest in our youth – for they e Q&A & STORY Tim The Torah teaches us that we must teach our When Rabbi Benjamin Kamenetzky founded institution, Rabbi Benjamin Kamenetzky showed are the future. 

RABBItheDOVIE HASMONEAN children from an early age,HIGH we must SCHOOL invest in Yeshiva ofSCHOCHET South Shoreback -in RABBI the late AT This newsletter contains Divrei Torah and may contain Sheimot - Please dispose of accordingly RABBI DOVIE SCHOCHET - RABBI AT HASMONEAN HIGH SCHOOL

P4

HALACHOT

P3

Reciting a Beracha Over a Whole Food Product / RABBI ELI MANSOUR

1950s, he invited his illustrious father Rabbi their education and ensure the continuity of our Yaakov Kamenetzky zts’l, to visit the school. heritage. as per the gemora’s dictum,teaching “able to retainus this concept of humility worthlessness or ble and write about himself in the Torah that traits he is theand most how humility, they were upon their connotes passing, these traits After an impressive tour, inhumble which he interviewed ’s the words of the Torah”. from the person to have lived? Can we truly call nothingness - this could not be further Kid sense] Q&A & STORY P4 were not invest found least–infortheir That one must It is his important in [at our youth they complete teachers and tested the students of the In light of the above we canacknowledge now also understandand re truth. someone whofledgling boasts about or her toown Time  any other institution, Rabbi Benjaminstrengths Kamenetzky showedhumble? are the future. among person.

Of Rabbi Bamidbar always before Real humility is transcendence.

To beYehudah humble why Parashas and talents Over a thousand strengths and isnot let read them go to

Shavuos. Bamidbar means “in the desert”. The transcend one’s inner being and become years later, this same question arises once more Hanassi ismeans saidtoSheimot that upon passing, humility 1 This newsletter contains Divrei Torah anditmay contain - Pleasehis dispose of accordingly time that th teachsame us that the Torahremember was given in a dein touch and one with the Divine. To do this, one Rabbisthe but in a different setting. andholy fear nullifi ed.strengths Uponand hearing thissert because a desert is a lowly barren waste-land must were recognize that their talents are The gemora in Sotah relays of certain indi-of sin from Hashem. When we do this, we gift fromtold Hashem, must be"Do utilized in dividuals who epitomized certain character remark,traits RavaYosef thewhich Rabbis, not saywhich symbolizes humility. Paradoxically, it was humble and as perwhich the represents gemora’s dic given on a mountain and how upon their passing, these traits were not vine service. To use them till their full potential, specifically that humility has inbeen nullifi ed forhadI still existmight and strength. This teaches us that real huARE YOU HUMBLE? mind that if Hashem bestowed found [at least in their complete sense] among any bearing retain the words of the Torah”. person, they may other person. Of Rabbi Yehudah Hanassi it is said tothese (meaning say gifts thatupon heanother too epitomized thehave traitmility is not achieved by the absence of a sense of The gemora in Taanis teaches that the words of the ‘self’, rather it is by acknowledging it and transthat upon his passing, humility and fear of sin were accomplished and achieved more. humility)".

How can Rav Yosef truly claim to be Torah only rest upon the humble, “Just as water nullified. Upon hearing this remark, of

By Moshe writing that he was humble and by Rav forming the ‘self’’ into the service of Hashem.

Rav Yosef told 1we can now als leaves from a high place and flows to a low place, the Rabbis, “Do not say that humilityhumble In light of the whenYosef heproclaiming is seemingly showing In this merit may we allabove celebrate this coming to have perfected theoff? trait of huhas been nulso too the words of Torah are only retained by the lified for I still exist (meaning to say that he too epit- mility, they were teaching us this very lesson. That Shavuos in Eretz Yisroel with the coming of Moshiwhy Parashas Bamidbar is always thatthethe words of How can Rav Yosef one must acknowledge and recognize their ach. humble”. The gemora in Taanis teaches omized trait of humility)”.

Shavuos. Bamidbar means "in the This begs the the following how could the the strengths and not let them go toworld waste, but at thethe trulyhumble, claim to be "Just humble as when heThere's is seemingly a mistaken notion in the that Torahquestion, only rest upon Torah then be given to Moshe on Har Sinai who showing off? time remember that they are a gift from humility connotes worthlessness or Rabbis teach us that the Torah wa water leaves from a high placeThere’s and fla ows to a low concept of same mistaken notion in the world that the Hashem. When we do this, we are then truly hum- Shabbat Shalom! seemingly was anything but humble? Did he not

ARE YOU HUMBLE?

place, so too the words of Torah are only retained nothingness - this could not be further from the THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM truth. by the humble".

desert because a desert is a lowly b land which symbolizes humility. P it was specifically given on a mo

28 JUDAISM

Bamidbar RABBI DR RAYMOND APPLE

WHY COUNT THE PEOPLE?

The Ramban (Nachmanides) wonders why Moses took a census of the people.

He gives two answers. The first answer is that the count showed that God knew and loved every individual.

The second: it showed that Moses and Aaron realised that each Israelite was distinctive and needed handling in their own way.

The first answer is clear since God sees and understands every one of the world’s population. But the second answer?

How can Moses and Aaron be expected to know every one of the 600,000 male adults – two million people when we include the women and children?

A rabbi sometimes despairs of relating to every one of his congregation. Even large congregations do not number anything like 600,000. Yet the Ramban says that all the people were known to the leaders.

Moses and Aaron did not keep to an ivory tower or focus on any one group.

They went out and about and visited every home and family. Hard work, but without it there was no relationship or rapport.

The Talmud (B’rachot 28a) criticises Rabban Gamliel who had no idea of the poor conditions in which Rabbi Y’hoshua lived.

WHAT DOES BEMIDBAR MEAN?

21 MAY 2020

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

We tend to think that B’midbar means “In the wilderness”. That is not the only (or the best) translation.

Why, asks Dr Aviva Gottlieb Zornberg, do we not link it with dabber, to speak?

In that sense the book we commence this week is a historical narrative that speaks of the forty years in which the adult generation that left Egypt grows old and the youngsters become adults.

The new adults have their own ideas and reject some of the ideas of the past: an example is the challenge that Korach mounts against Moses and Aaron, whom he sees as facing a new future with old thinking.

THE RIGHT NEIGHBOURHOOD

In their comments on the sidra B’midbar, the sages offer an ethical analysis of the layout of the camp of Israel in the wilderness.

The Levites took up the centre block and around them were placed the Israelites in four groups of three tribes.

In the east were Judah, Issachar and Z’vulun, just outside the families of Moses

and Aaron.

Possibly because these three tribes had such neighbours they were inspired to become great leaders, judges and scholars in later history.

“It is well with the righteous, and well with his neighbour,” says Rashi (on Num. 3:38), quoting the sages.

The tribe of Reuben, on the other hand, were not so fortunately placed. They were adjacent to the family of K’hat, from whose midst arose the rebellion of Korach. Maybe because of this, the Reubenites did not make such a great contribution to later history.

“Woe to the wicked, and woe to his neighbour,” say the rabbis, in words quoted by Rashi on Num. 3:29.

Sometimes a neighbourhood is just not right for you, even today.

When looking for a house it is not just a

“It is well with the righteous, and well with his neighbour,” says Rashi (on Num. 3:38), quoting the sages.

question of “location, location, location”.

An even more important criterion is “environment, environment, environment”.

It’s not merely, “Who am I?” but “Who is my neighbour?”

Rabbi Apple served for 32 years as the chief minister of the Great Synagogue, Sydney, Australia’s oldest congregation. He is now retired and lives in Jerusalem. Rabbi Apple blogs at http://www.oztorah.com

Mesillat Yesharim: Part 38 RABBI MORDECHAI ULLMAN Ramchal has so far explained how Chassidus is performed. How does it affect thought? We have all heard of the concept of doing Mitzvot altruistically - for the sake of G-d. There are those, however, who believe that so long as they are not performing Mitzvot with the intention of earning physical reward, they are serving G-d at the highest level.

This is incorrect, for although serving G-d in order to bask in His presence in the World-to-Come cannot be condemned, the very highest level is when one serves G-d without any intention of remuneration at all. All the absolute Chassid cares about is, “Do my actions bring more honour to G-d’s name or not?” . The Chassid, out of true love of G-d, is very keen to see himself and other people serving G-d and giving honour to His name.

As part of the Chassid’s desperation for G-d to be given the honour that befits Him, he also becomes distressed at the lack thereof. So, naturally, the Chassid

is anguished at the destruction of the Beit Hamikdash and of the lengthy exile that resulted. A person should never say, “Who am I to mourn the Temple’s destruction and can my prayers really help to bring back the Beit Hamikdash?!”

A person was created as an individual.

Adam was one person. We were not created in bunches, like grapes are. This is to teach us that every person is precious.

Every person who makes an effort in serving G-d and prays for the restoration of His presence in this world, causes G-d to be happy - even if the specific request is not answered immediately. This is required of everyone - to pray and plead for G-d’s glory to once again be revealed to the world.

Finally, the Chassid does everything in his/her power to pray for his nation, to defend them and beg forgiveness for their sins.

To summarise: the Chassid shows love for G-d not only in action but in purity of intent, wanting only Kavod Shamayim to be increased and only blessings to fall upon Klal Yisroel!

CONSIDERING ALIYAH? Join hundreds of British Olim making their Aliyah dream a reality.

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

DOV NEWMARK: dov@nbn.org.il www.nbn.org.il 0800-075-7200

WORKING IN COOPERATION TO BUILD A STRONGER ISRAEL THROUGH ALIYAH

Every one of us, together

In the current climate, we know how important your jobs and businesses are to you Work Avenue is totally committed to supporting you in these uncertain times

BUSINESS ADVICE

EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT

WORKSHOPS

IT COURSES

Our Employment Support & Business Advice services are free Book now: 020 8371 3280 theworkavenue.org.uk/meeting OUR TEAM ARE HERE AND READY TO SUPPORT YOU Emma

Mel

Yael

Richard

Heather

Hannah D

Jo

Hannah M

Charity No. 1164762

30 COOKERY

21 MAY 2020

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Peanut Butter Pretzel Cheesecake This is a rich but utterly delicious cheesecake. Looks impressive and a recipe for all peanut butter lovers!

Preparation Time: 40 minutes Cooking Time 1 hour 15 minutes plus chilling

Another delicious recipe from Denise Phillips For more recipes and inspiration visit my website: www.jewishcookery.com

Serves: 10

Ingredients Base 130g crushed salted pretzels 75g plain flour 75g porridge oats 200g dates -pitted and chopped Pinch salt Filling 200g smooth peanut butter 675g cream cheese 180g light brown sugar 2 large eggs, room temperature 60g sour cream 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract ½ teaspoon salt Filling 225g mini pretzels 100g chocolate - melted 25g chopped pecans 2 tablespoons date syrup

FREE online classes

Everyone is welcome.

To watch and join you need to be my facebook friend.

https://www.facebook.com/denise.phil lips.9085

Every Friday at 10am for Adults Every Tuesday at 11am for Children

www.jewishcookery.com

Method 1. Preheat oven to 180C. 2. For the base, combine all the ingredients into a food processor.

Whizz together so that it forms a sticky mixture.

3. Line and grease with a little vegetable oil a 22cm loose based cake tin using baking parchment paper.

4. Press the base mixture into the prepared cake tin.

5. Make the filling: Using a food processor, combine peanut butter, cream cheese and brown sugar and beat until smooth. Add eggs

one at a time, beating well in between.

6. Add the sour cream, vanilla and salt and mix until just combined.

Pour over the prepared base.

7. Bake until the cheesecake is just set in the centre, 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes.

8. (Cheesecakes tend to crack if you do not use a bain marie (water bath). Double wrap the outside of the cake tin in aluminium foil and place in a baking dish. Place on an oven rack and pour in enough boiling water to reach halfway up the pan. Bake as directed.)

9. Let it cool 1 hour on a wire rack, then refrigerate until totally chilled, at least 4 hours and up to overnight 10. Decorate the cheesecake: Dip one side of each pretzel in melted chocolate then stick it on the side of the cheesecake. Repeat to cover the entire side of the cheesecake.

11. Top the cheesecake with pecans.

Drizzle with more melted chocolate and date syrup.

Making the Perfect Cheesecake

BY DENISE PHILLIPS As we approach the ‘cheesecake festival’, I thought I would share some hints and tips to make the perfect one. A cheesecake is made in three sections, the base, the filling, and the topping. Each one of these layers is an opportunity to create a special impact on your taste buds and a wow factor on the appearance.

The base needs to be prepared in a tin that has a loose base and ideally with a spring form opening to make it easy to release. Always line the cake tin with greased baking parchment paper. For a sweet base cheesecake, you can opt for shortcrust pastry, crushed biscuits, chopped nuts with dates, oats flavoured with any citrus zest, cinnamon, coconut, chocolate, or no base at all!

The filling always uses room temperature cream cheese. Just about every cheesecake recipe calls for “softened” cream cheese — and that is no accident.

Softened cream cheese is creamier when mixed, and it blends better with the other ingredients in the recipe. If the cream cheese is too cold, your mix will be lumpy, and so will your finished cake.

The best cheesecake recipes include

a small amount of flour or potato flour (like as little as one tablespoon). This tiny addition really makes a difference! The starch interacts with the egg proteins and prevents them from curdling. This means a creamier texture and less risk of cracks.

Mixing your cheesecake batter is a delicate balance. You must mix the cream cheese enough to remove any lumps but incorporating too much air into the mix can cause the cake to rise too rapidly in the oven, then fall, then crack. Since eggs are the part of the mix that really holds air, a good guideline is to mix thoroughly at first, when you are combining cream cheese and sugar, but blend more gently once the eggs are added. Also, scrape, scrape and scrape again while mixing to make sure no

lumps are clinging to the sides of the bowl.

Cook your cake in a bain marie or water bath, or if you have a steam oven use 20% in the combination mode of cooking with 160C. The water helps the heat disperse evenly, resulting in an evenly baked cake without those dreaded cracks. Wrap aluminium foil around the base and sides of your cake tin, then fill a roasting tin with boiling water so that it comes to about halfway up the sides.

Your cheesecake is done when the edges and top look set. Do not overcook it as it will set.

It is especially important to let your cake cool very gradually. I like to turn the oven off and leave my cake to cool completely overnight. Transferring it to the fridge will make the cheesecake ‘sweat’ with condensation and the shock of the temperature can cause cracks in the cake.

The topping traditionally is sour cream, but you can add chocolate, caramelised nuts, cocoa powder, fruit, cream, pretzels, toffee sauce, sugar brittle to name just a few options. And this can camouflage any cracks too should they appear.

I hope you like my new peanut butter and pretzel cheesecake recipe above.

Chag Sameach

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

Networking Events for Jewish Singles

Only

£15

The Recipe for Romance – Even in LockDown Six men & six women chat & meet via Zoom – curated by Denise. Meet someone special in the comfort of your own home. Totally safe.

Sun 24 May : Age: 45-60 Sun 7 June : Age:45-55 Sun 14 June: Age: 55-65 Sun 21 June: Age:30-40

To Book: call Denise on 07803 895341

denise@dateonaplate.com www.dateonaplate.com

VIRTUAL SEMINAR WITH

LIVE Q&A

EMUNAH & TORAH MIN HASHOMAYIM W IAL C PE

OMEN’S LE CT UR

E

S

SUNDAY GUEST SPEAKERS:

Rabbi Dr Akiva Tatz

Rabbi Gershon Miller

Rabbi Yechiel Spero

Rabbi Goldwasser

MARCHING TOWARDS SINAI WHAT IS REAL FAITH?

CONNECTING TO OUR INNATE EMUNAH

TOUCHED BY FAITH

EMUNAH: FAITH ON FIRE

10:15

11:30

13:00

20:00

MONDAY GUEST SPEAKERS:

Rabbi Dovid Orlofsky

Rabbi Aubrey Hersh

Rabbi Dovid Gottlieb

THE DAIRY DILEMMA

PROVING SINAI - BIBLE CRITICS, MESORAH & ARCHAEOLOGY

THE MULTIPLE LAYERS OF NA’ASEH VENISHMA

11:30

13:00

10:15

24-25

SUNDAY

MONDAY

MAY

10:15 - 14:00 UK TIME

LIVE ON

FO R ALL TALK S VIS IT: www. j l e . or g. u k / s h a v u os

JOIN JLE’S 50,000 WEEKLY ONLINE VIEWERS (figures independently verified by Facebook Data Analytics 04/05/20 | 11/05/20 | 18/05/20)

This programme has been sponsored l’illui nishmas Reb Avrohom (Romi) Cohn z’l

Finding the right gift is like looking for a‌

20% OFF

ONLY ÂŁ7.19 EACH

+P&P

Quote JW6 at checkout to claim your 20% discount.

BUY NOW exclusively from

hermieshop.co.uk and to see many more great designs Quote JW6 at checkout to claim your 20% discount.

20% discount applies to mugs only. Offer ends at 11.59pm on 30/06/20

34 KIDS

21 MAY 2020

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Bamidbar

Bamidbar Word Search

Welcome to the fourth book of the Torah!

Bamidbar is always read the week before Shavuos and this year is no exception!

(Although the exception this year is that we will continue to read it at home instead of shul.)

Moshe is told to count the people, not the first time and not for the last time either. This shows how precious we are to Hashem. Have you got something precious that belongs to you? You probably count it pretty often! So now you understand.

One tribe is counted separately - the tribe of Levi.

The nation camped and travelled around the Mishkan in all four directions - north south east and west, but Levi was

closest to the middle - right nearby the Mishkan.

Each tribe had a flag and knew it’s place. It’s really important to know where you belong and to know where things belong.

Finally we are taught about the special process of carrying the Mishkan and it’s furniture from each stop on the journey through the wilderness to the next stop.

Levi was privileged to carry out the task - with each of the three families - Gershon Kehas and Merari doing a different part.

It was wonderful then to be counted and it remains wonderful to count each day till our greatly anticipated Yom Tov coming up next week! Count each day and make each day count!

Tangram Challenge!

C

W

R

L

A

D

B

M M

U

I

B

R

L

T

P

E

S

S

C

I

C

N

M

A

V

V

S

K

K

B

P

A

D

W

R

R

F

E

Y

Y

S

E

M

N

Q

B

L

U

R

W

J

X

P

P

H

I

G

A

X

T

B

Q

U

D

B

Z

A

S

A

O

J

K

V

D

C

I

E

V

L

E

W

T

H

N

Z

V

G

E

K

P

F

B

G

U

E

Q

L

T

Y

O

F

A

Q

I

C

S

F

I

U

U

V

C

V

B

B

R

J

I

L

I

O

X

P

C

O

U

N

T

Q

Q

C

Z

Q

F

Q

Y

N

V

K

A

M

N

Z

CAMP • COUNT • DESERT • HALF • SHEKEL • SINAI • TRIBES • TWELVE

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

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

21 MAY 2020

KIDS 35

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Bamidbar In A Nutshell We begin the fourth book of the Torah Bamidbar! Once again we are reminded how precious the people are to Hashem - and we are counted once again. But first, the name of the sidra and the stress on its events being not only ​around​Sinai but in the “wilderness of Sinai”. This is to teach us - especially in the week prior to Matan Torah - that one’s success in Torah (which was given at Sinai) largely depends on how humble they make themselves, like a humble desert.

But the good news is that through studying Torah a person transforms a desert into a delightful garden.

So the counting begins, all men over the age of twenty are counted and leaders are appointed over each tribe. Each individual brings proof of their ancestry and thereby shows which tribe they belonged to. Then the Sidra lists the size of each tribe. When the results were all counted they came to the grand total of 603,550.

One tribe was counted separately, though. Can you guess which one? Yes! Shevet Levi! G-d chose them

because they chose G-d! Remember the golden calf?

They didn’t take part! The tribe of Levi was counted from one month upwards and they camped in the immediate vicinity of the Mishkan. They totalled 22,000.

Which leads us to a special element of the journey through the desert - the encampment. It wasn’t haphazard - it was orderly. The 12 tribes were split into the four directions surrounding the Mishkan and that is the direction in which they travelled throughout the forty years. Heading each of the four groups were Yehuda, Reuven, Ephraim and Dan. Each tribe had a flag with their unique graphics.

Moshe was then told to appoint the Leviim as the representatives of the Jewish people, in place of the firstborns. Loyalty pays, as the saying goes.

Finally the Sidra details the transportation of the Mishkan and it’s furniture, a job that was granted to the Leviim, who were invited to work from age 30 till 50. Levi was divided into three groups, Gershon,

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.

Kehas and Merari. Kehas did the super important transportation, the Aron and Shulchan etc, whereas Gershon and Merari carried the Mishkan itself and its coverings using wagons.

Each time they travelled, Aharon and his children (who were from the family of Kehas) would respectfully approach the Paroches, the dividing curtain, and bring it down. There are those who explain homiletically that “when they travelled, they went down” meaning that when “out and about” a person may be faced with all kinds of things that pull them down, whether spiritually or emotionally. It’s not such a bad idea to be at home a bit more than usual as we express so joyously three times a day, “Ashrei Yoshvei Bei’techa” - oh how fortunate is one who can reside in Your house! We can turn our own house into a house for Hashem and enjoy His company for a few extra minutes (or longer) by being locked-Up instead of locked-Down!

Use this area to write the words you have found.

t f

o r

a

o n

n e

Last week’s words: Here are some words you may have found from last week - you may have found more! con cot coy

cut icy mic

tic cion city

coin coni cony

icon count cumin

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

tonic tunic commit

county community

36 KIDS

21 MAY 2020

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Q: How do you stop an astronaut’s baby from crying?

A: You Rocket!

Q: When does a joke become a “dad” joke?

A: When the punchline becomes apparent!

Q: How do we know the ocean is friendly?

A: It waves!

(Answers at the bottom of page upside down)

1. What five letter word becomes shorter when you add two letters to it?

Q: What time is it when a clock strikes 13?

A: Time to get a new clock!

2. Which letter of the alphabet has the most water?

3. What type of cheese is made backwards?

3) Edam 1. Short

2)C.

1. Earrings 2. 3 Little Pigs 3. Double Cream

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

4. Growing old 5. Chicken Little 6. First aid