BY DAVID SAFFER
Professor Alan Dershowitz is to represent Rabbi Leo Dee pro bono in a lawsuit against CNN.
The case follows CNN anchor Christiane Amanpour’s inaccurate comments following the murders of Rabbi Dee’s wife Lucy and daughters Maia and Rina, in a terror attack last month.
Amanpour, on April 10, referred to the killings on April 7 during her show as a “shootout” in an interview with Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh.
After what appeared a lull in the story, a huge response earlier this month followed Honest Reporting calling on Amanpour to apologise. They tweeted: ‘A shootout is two sides firing at each other. A mother & her two daughters were shot at close range by Palestinian terrorists.’
Amanpour privately then publicly apologised to the Dee family, both were dismissed by the family.
After a week of further complaints, Amanpour apologised on
CNN, on Monday evening. She said: “During that live interview (April 10) I misspoke and said that they were killed in a shootout, instead of a shooting. I have written to Rabbi Dee
to apologise and make sure that he knows that we apologise for any further pain that may have caused him.”
Rabbi Dee has announced he is to sue CNN and Amanpour over
the “shootout” comments and blasted the apology. “Too little, too late, I don’t accept it,” he told Channel 12 News.
Rabbi Dee slated CNN’s bias in
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the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. “They make moral equivalencies between us and between terrorists,” he said. “They keep doing it and they have no intention to stop doing so… that’s what we’re dealing with.”
He told i24NEWS: “It’s not worth the paper it’s printed on, because when you make a statement in front of a hundred million people on prime time television and then you apologise in an email to a single person, it has one one-hundred-millionth of the impact.”
Rabbi Dee also told i24NEWS that CNN’s reporting that his family were ‘killed’, and not ‘brutally murdered by evil Palestinian terrorists funded by Iran’ was typical CNN-ism.
Dershowitz confirmed to i24NEWS he was taking on the Dee case on Tuesday. “This was not a slip of the tongue, this was not an honest mistake,” he said.
The esteemed lawyer explained to the broadcaster: “This is part of a pattern that CNN and Amanpour have engaged in over a decade or more. Amanpour constantly creates a moral equivalence between terrorists who murder people in cold blood and innocent victims, like the three innocent victims in this case.”
Noting observations by CAMERA (the Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting in America), Dershowitz said they had “documented” a long pattern by CNN and Amanpour “constantly citing against Israel” and creating a “moral equivalence between innocent victims of terrorism and actual terrorism”.
The US lawyer and Harvard professor added: “They are not mistakes. They are part of a deliberate pattern of trying to create a moral equivalence of events in which there’s no moral equivalence.
“There’s no moral equivalence between people who shoot families in cold blood and people who suffer as a result of terrorism. So, let’s wait to hear what Amanpour says, not in a scripted apology, but under my cross-examination and the cross examination of other lawyers.”
CAMERA states on its website that it is ‘devoted to promoting accurate and balanced coverage of Israel and the Middle East’.
Amanpour has made controversial comments before. In a 2013 interview with Naftali Bennett, she referred to Judea and Samaria as the “occupied West Bank” claiming it was “an international term”. Last year, when Bennett was Prime Minister, Amanpour, said the West Bank had been occupied since 1967. In 2019, she referred to Haifa as being in the West Bank.
Rabbi Dee’s wife and daughters were murdered when terrorists fired at their car as they were going on a family holiday. Israeli security forces ‘settled the score’ with Hamas militants Hassan Katnani and Maed al-Masri behind the murders. Both were killed in a 90-minute operation earlier this month.
A third Hamas terrorist, Ibrahim Hura, who helped Katnani and al-Masri hide was also killed.
Rabbi Dee and his surviving children have met recipients of Lucy’s donated organs at Rabin Medical Centre in Petach Tikva.
The Knesset passed the government’s budget legislation for the next two years by a majority 64-56 votes in the early hours of Wednesday.
The budget for 2023 is 484 billion shekels (£105bn), in 2024 it is a record 514 billion shekel (£112bn).
Prime Minister Bejamin’s Netanyahu’s coalition backed proposals guaranteeing a comfortable majority. There had been speculation that compromise would not be reached triggering new elections. But Netanyahu’s Likud Party held negotiations with Jewish Power and United Torah Judaism to ensure the budget passed.
Jewish Power received funds for the Negev, Galilee and National Resilience Ministry’s budget.
After an eventful parliamentary session, Netanyahu welcomed the news.
He said: “We are passing a responsible, excellent budget that will faithfully serve the citizens of Israel and lead to an improvement in their quality of life.” He added: “The budget promotes great revolutions
in personal safety, education, transportation and in the fight against the cost of living.”
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich noted: “Passing a budget will allow us stability in government. The Israeli economy is strong. It is one of the best and most stable in the world.”
Netanyahu was heckled at times by opposition members, labelling him a “dictator”.
Thousands of demonstrators, meantime, protested outside the Knesset about the budget and proposed judicial reforms.
Opposition Leader Yair Lapid blasted the budget. He wrote on Twitter: “While you were sleeping, the worst and most destructive budget in the country’s history was passed. This budget is a violation of the contract with Israel’s citizens, which all of us, and our children and our children’s children, will pay for.”
National Unity Party Benny Gantz also criticised the budget.
He said: “The cost of living is rising and the coalition has not introduced a single serious reform to deal with it. People are sitting in traffic jams and the coalition has nothing to say about national infrastructure. People are being murdered in the streets in huge numbers and are afraid to leave their homes and the coalition is busy talking about budgets and jobs that have no bearing on reality. Netanyahu, the responsibility is on you.”
Whilst the budget passed to the coalition’s relief, cost of living and judiciary issues are set to dominate discontent among large sections of Israeli society for some time.
Jewish Leaders at the European Jewish Association passed a resolution in Porto concerning antisemitism and fostering Jewish Life.
It will now be passed to heads of European Institutions, heads of state and key parliamentary and diplomatic figures. EJA voiced concern at the coupling of antisemitism with racism and other forms of discrimination in EU strategies. “Antisemitism is unique and must be treated as such,” the resolution noted.
The motion stated that various points including antisemitism grows annually, is state sanctioned in many countries, propagates hatred against Jews and Israel, and is alone in being given cover by the United Nations. The resolution also noted target groups for hate do not recognise antisemitism as racism but a form of discrimination, Jews are accused of ‘privilege’ or ‘leveraging’ the Holocaust, and antisemitism is bound inextricably in Jew
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hatred with Zionism.
Jewish leaders called on heads of the EU to initiate legislation preventing those with avowed antisemitic positions from running for office in EU institutions and unreserved support for the State of Israel, including a democratically elected government. They also called on all parties in Israel to rise above their differences.
The Jewish Weekly’s representative praised the event as it gathered together individual organisations fighting antisemitism. “Awareness of global antisemitism through the media is essential,” they noted. “We, as the media, have a duty to inform readers We all have a role to play in informing readers that there is somewhere to turn to should they experience or see antisemitism. We highlight organisations fighting this ongoing battle and will continue to do so.”
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed his cabinet meeting in the Western Wall tunnels in honour of Yom Yerushalayim (Jerusalem Day) last Sunday.
Israel’s leader offered his opening remarks to Palestinian Authority chairman Mahmoud Abbas after his comments to the United Nations last week that Jewish people had “no links to the Temple Mount” and eastern Jerusalem was part of the Palestinian Authority.
Netanyahu noted: “Today we are at the foot of the Temple Mount upon which King Solomon built the First Temple of the Jewish People. It is the heart of the historical State of Israel, the City of David, and has been here for 3,000 years. The deep ties between the Jewish people and Jerusalem is one that has no parallel among the nations. Jerusalem was our capital around 1,100 years before London became the capital of England, approximately 1,800 years before Paris became the capital of France and around 2,800 years before Washington DC became the capital of the United States.”
Adding a further historic context, he said: “Fifty-six years ago, in the Six Day War, we unified Jerusalem and the fight for its unity has not ended. Time and again, I have been forced to repel international pressure on the part of those who would divide Jerusalem again, and by Prime Ministers of Israel who were prepared to give in to those pressures, and were even prepared to concede the Jewish people’s holiest places. We have acted differently. Not only have we not divided Jerusalem, we have built and expanded it. I am proud to have had the great privilege of building new neighborhoods in Jerusalem, such as Har Homa, Givat Hamatos and Maaleh Hazeitim, in which tens of thousands of Israelis live. We did all this together in the face of great international pressure. We stood against these pressures.”
Netanyahu added: “I am proud that the governments we have headed have led great expansion and development in all
parts of the city, western and eastern, on behalf of its residents. I am proud that we have brought about American recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and the transfer of the US and other embassies to the capital, and our hand is still extended.
“More embassies will be transferred to Jerusalem. But the work is not over and the challenge is yet before us. There are those who want to divide Jerusalem and say so openly. Only the national camp led by us will safeguard a strong and united Jerusalem. We must continue to maintain our government.”
Netanyahu said his government had restored national honour with the flag march through the streets of Jerusalem and in the IDF’s Operation Shield and Arrow military operation against Islamic Jihad.
He also told ministers it was essential MKs pass the state budget.
Netanyahu was aware National Security
Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir controversially visited the Temple Mount hours earlier.
Egypt and Jordan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hamas and the Palestinian Authority, condemned Ben-Gvir’s visit as “provocative”. Egypt called on Israel to stop adding to existing tensions.
Ben Gvir stood by his decision, he said: “I am happy to go up to the Temple Mount, the most important place for the people of Israel. We are the owners of the house here. All the threats of Hamas will not help, we are the owners of Jerusalem and the whole Land of Israel.”
Netanyahu, meantime, attended a State Ceremony at Ammunition Hill for Jerusalem Day. He noted: “Despite the threats, and I would say, because of the threats, I directed that the flag march be held with the participation of thousands, properly and along its customary route.
“We dealt heavy blows on those who
The National Jewish Assembly has congratulated the European Jewish Association on the resounding success of its annual conference in Porto last week.
Under the theme “Shaping the future of European Jewry together,” the conference brought together leaders and representatives from Jewish communities across Europe to address pressing issues and forge a path towards a vibrant and secure Jewish future on the continent.
“Rabbi Menachem Margolin, Chairman, and Founder of the EJA, organised a
significant and impactful event,” a spokesman said. “His dedication to promoting Jewish unity, strengthening Jewish identity, and defending Jewish rights is exemplary and serves as an inspiration to us all.”
NJA sent a delegation including Managing Director Steve Winston together with Vice Chairmen Laurence Julius and Keith Rowe. They participated in panel discussions, workshops and networking sessions, sharing their expertise and insights on topics of relevance to British and European Jewry. Winston said: “This conference succeeded
in bringing together representatives from across Europe and the UK, and highlighted that, no matter how large or small our respective national communities are, we all share the same common challenges. It was an invaluable experience and made it clear that, as per the intentions of the EJA’s conference, we are indeed one, and together we are stronger.”
NJA commended the EJA for its efforts in promoting Jewish life, culture and values throughout Europe.
The conference provided a platform to
attacked us in the Gaza Strip and I believe that the message was received and not just by them, but in other places in our region as well, that saw the impressive operational capabilities of the State of Israel. And if an additional reminder proves necessary to restore deterrence, it will also come.”
In his address, Netanyahu said Jerusalem had always been the capital of the Jewish people, he praised the development of Jerusalem and vowed to advance construction despite international criticism.
Netanyahu said Jerusalem attracted visitors and encouraged all faiths, tolerance and co-existence.
“Although from time to time this complicated city has friction and tension we are determined to keep her an open city and uproot violence,” he said.
Security officials allowed the thousands of marchers to take the traditional route through the Old City.
discuss combating antisemitism, safeguarding Jewish heritage and fostering interfaith understanding. “By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, the EJA has demonstrated its commitment to inclusivity and collective action,” said a spokesman.
“The success of the annual conference is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the EJA to the well-being and flourishing of Jewish communities across Europe. NJA stands in solidarity with the EJA and its ongoing efforts to address the needs and aspirations of European Jewry.”
Over 160 Jewish communities, organisations and faith leaders have called on the United Nations to use the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance working definition of antisemitism.
The global initiative comes as UN Under-Secretary-General Miguel Angel Moratinos heads a meeting in Cordoba, Spain where the UN action plan will be discussed next month (June 20-21).
The Anti-Defamation League, B’nai B’rith, Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organisations, European Jewish Congress and World Jewish Congress are among signatories from 66 countries appealing to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Moratinos “to ensure the IHRA definition is referenced positively” as an educational and monitoring tool.
UN staff should be trained by key stakeholders to recognise and respond to antisemitism.
Ambassador Ronald S. Lauder, WJC President commented on the letter. He said: “The importance of the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism cannot be overstated. It is the most widely adopted and accepted definition by governments, institutions and organisations around the world. It’s essential to effectively combat antisemitism, because it allows
policymakers worldwide to identify and respond to all forms of Jew hatred, including those that may be more subtle, but no less insidious.
“The international Jewish community would be gravely disappointed if the IHRA definition were not exclusively included in any action plan and would see it as not representative of their experiences and the true manifestations of modern antisemitism.”
Evelyn Sommer, WJC Chair, North America, added:
“It is the only definition that clearly, specifically and accurately describes the aspects of the antisemitism that is threatening Jewish communities and individuals around the globe, including Jew-hatred, discrimination and physical attacks, and the kind of anti-Zionism that disguises antisemitism by denying Jewish self-determination. The UN was founded in the aftermath of the Holocaust and to fail to adopt this tool to combat this enduring hatred is a betrayal of that original noble intent of the UN to finally erase hatred and bigotry from all society.”
The letter states: ‘We have long recognised that in order to combat antisemitism
we must understand it. Key to these efforts is employing a clear and comprehensive definition that explains the multiple forms antisemitism may take. It is our collective view that the non-legally binding IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism is an indispensable tool to understand and fight antisemitism, and one that can be used entirely consistently with fundamental human rights standards. Indeed, any UN Action Plan must acknowledge the importance of the IHRA Working Definition to the vast majority of Jewish individuals, organisations, and communities who are the primary targets of antisemitic hatred, discrimination and violence.’
Campaign Against Antisemitism are among signatories. They note that Guterres has acknowledged the importance of the definition, stating that “antisemitism is not a problem for the Jewish community alone” as it threatens “all people’s human rights”.
The UN’s Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief in 2019 observed that antisemitism is the “canary in the coalmine of global hatred” and “toxic to democracy”.
The definition identifies and tackles
anti-Jewish hatred.
CAA noted that the UN is not immune to antisemitism and is viewed by many Jews around the world as hostile to our community and insensitive to its aspirations. CAA added that UN resolutions and activities are harmful to the welfare of Jewish people while UN officials have held antisemitic views.
CAA and other organisations have documented numerous incidents, reporting UN-funded organisations, including UNRWA, for teaching hatred and violence towards Jews.
CAA noted that the call from Jewish organisations comes after activist groups including Amnesty International, Jewish Voice for Labour and Human Rights Watch called on the UN not to adopt the definition.
A spokesman observed: “Fighting antisemitism may not be popular because Jews are one of the world’s smaller minorities, but if the UN is not able to help protect the world’s more vulnerable communities, then what purpose does it serve? It therefore behoves to the UN to adopt the Definition at its forum on antisemitism in Cordoba next month.”
National, state and local governments, corporations, sports franchises, academics and universities have adopted the IHRA definition around the world.
Iran is constructing ‘floating terror bases’ Defense Minister Yoav Gallant told delegates at the 2023 Herzliya conference at Reichman University on Monday.
Gallant detailed the Iranian regime’s strategy to adapt merchant vessels into military ships armed with UAVs and missile systems together with advanced intelligence gathering in the Middle East region.
Noting the terror bases were an extension of Iran’s ongoing maritime terrorism, Gallant added: “Iran aims to expand its reach to the Indian Ocean, the Red Sea and even the shores of the Mediterranean. This is a structured plan designed to threaten trade and flight routes, both military and civilian, and to create a permanent threat in the maritime arena.” Gallant continued: “This is a troubling policy of maritime terrorism. Iran conducts itself in this context more like a collection of pirates than a civilised nation.”
The defense minister said Israel would confront Iranian terrorism in the air, sea and land through international cooperation.
Regarding Iran’s nuclear program, Gallant noted: “Iran, with nuclear weapons, poses a severe strategic threat to the entire world, including Israel and other countries in the Middle East. Enriching uranium to 90% would be a grave mistake on Iran’s part, and the regime in Tehran should
understand that this would come at a heavy price and have severe consequences for the Middle East. When it comes to Iran’s intention to acquire nuclear weapons, all options are on the table.”
He added: “With the changes in the Middle East, Iran is moving westward and attempting to create a land bridge from the Persian Gulf to the Mediterranean Sea through its proxies, aiming to dominate the extremist Shiite ideology and the Iranian regime of darkness.
“Since I took office, the number of Israeli attacks against Iranians in Syria has doubled. As part of this campaign, we systematically work to target Iranian intelligence capabilities in Syria, these attacks cause significant damage to the consolidation efforts of the Revolutionary Guards, just a few kilometers from the Israeli border.
Syria’s rejoining of the Arab League will be inconsequential for Israel as long as Syria remains fertile ground for Shiite terrorism and allows Iran and its proxies to operate from its territory. As long as this is the situation, Syria will encounter the strength of our security system. However, it is important to emphasise that our target is Iranian activity, not the Syrian state.”
IMOD Director General, Major General (res.) Eyal Zamir, addressed the conference on transforming Israel into an ‘AI powerhouse’ similar to its standing in cyber by increased research and development.
Zamir noted the ‘Iron Beam’ laser power system is being developed at an “impressive pace” and Israeli defense industries are working “around the clock” to make it happen.
He explained: “The key to victory in emerging and future battlefields lies in the relationship between military power, the use of technological, advanced and innovative tools, and the ability to continually ensure superiority over our enemies in these fields. This is a complex task, especially due to rapidly changing strategies among players in the Middle East.”
Zamir added: “Our cyber capabilities are among the most advanced in the world and are constantly being enhanced. Some define AI as the next revolution on
the battlefield. AI technologies will create many additional capabilities including the operation of platforms in groups and swarms and independently operated combat systems. These technologies will integrate into the battlefield and provide an advantage to those who know how to develop them and use them operationally.”
Zamir said an increased research budget was necessary to develop cutting-edge technology.
IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Herzi Halevi warned on Tuesday that Israel had capabilities to act against Iran.
He would not go into detail, but reportedly said: “We have the capabilities, it is significant and important.”
Regarding Hezbollah being a challenge in Lebanon he reportedly observed: “It believes that it understands how we think, and that emboldens it to challenge us when it is confident that it will not lead to war. I see this as a good opportunity to create surprises.”
As for Judea and Samaria, Halevi said a “functioning” Palestinian Authority was preferable to the “rise of Hamas to power”.
Halevi heralded Israel’s policy of targeted assassinations during the campaign against Islamic Jihad in the Gaza Strip.
“When there is a senior terrorist operative doing everything to harm Israelis, we will do everything to remove him from the equation,” he explained.
Philanthropists Dr Susan and Professor Henry Samueli have donated $34 million to establish a cancer research institute at Beilinson Hospital, Petah Tikva.
Professor Gal Markel, who also directs the Davidoff Cancer Center, will head up the institute.
The Samueli Institute will comprise intelligence experts, artificial intelligence, behavioural researchers, cancer scientists and clinical team of the Davidoff Center. One of the largest databases in the world is available to the Institute under general rights.
Markel is delighted the Davidoff Center is leading pioneering research into cancer treatment.
He reportedly said. “We strive to break through from the molecular level to the digital level, with the aim of curing and extending the life expectancy of cancer patients, while improving their quality of life. Together we will decipher the map of cancer and its treatment anew.”
He added: “We will create new insights based on hitherto untested information axes, which will be refined for development of original approaches and technological solutions or in partnership with experts and industries from all over the world.”
Susan and Henry Samueli said in a statement: “The next significant leap in cancer research will result from a scientific fusion of the 'man at the center' approach together with research medicine and translational biology, which will be accelerated through the breakthrough technology of artificial intelligence. Our expectation is that the Samueli Institute will challenge existing perceptions and create a better future for cancer patients.
“The true measure of the institute's success will be the adoption of our innovation in other leading institutes around the world. We believe in the leadership of Professor Markel, in the unique medical system and in the spirit of the Davidoff Center, Beilinson Hospital and Clalit Health Services, to successfully implement this tremendous project.”
The Samueli family promoted research and development at Tel Aviv University in 2019.
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BY HARRY SIMONSPrime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attended a state ceremony for Ethiopian Jews who died on route to Israel at Mount Herzl in Jerusalem.
Netanyahu met with Ethiopian Jewish community religious leaders who raised issues including a shortage of synagogues for the community. They also cited problems of Jews in Ethiopia looking to relocate to Israel.
Netanyahu instructed Director General Yossi Shelley to appraise what assistance is possible with the Religious Services Ministry and Aliyah and Integration Ministry.
He said: “You have a channel of communication. We are in favour of resolving these problems. We have proven this in the past and together we will prove it again. This is important.”
Netanyahu was moved to hear these stories. “The heart breaks,” he said. “It is very important to me. I have said this and I want to say it again here. It is of utmost importance that all Israeli children know this story. It is important because it is about the Jews of Ethiopia and because it is the essence of the return to Zion and of our revival.”
MK Tsega Maleku joined religious leaders and Zera Aharon from Samai Elias at the meeting.
Israel and Montenegro Ministries of Defense have signed a 20 million Euros export agreement for Elbit Systems-made weapons.
As part of the contract, Elbit will supply 120mm mortar munition systems that can be mounted on 4x4 armoured vehicles as well as the training of soldiers and officers at the Elbit-IMI Academy in Israel.
IMOD Director of SIBAT Brig. Gen. (Res.)
Yair Kulas and Montenegro Director of Logistics Col. Vladan Martic signed the agreement in a ceremony at IMoD HQ in Tel Aviv.
IMOD Director General Maj. Gen. (Res.)
Eyal Zamir, backed the agreement between ministries, the third between the countries in recent years.
Kulas said: “Montenegro is a partner and ally of Israel and faces complex security challenges like other European countries. Israeli defense industries are able to provide them with technological solutions of the highest standard.”
Udi Vered, Elbit General Manager commented: “Elbit’s solutions provide the optimal response to the growing needs in Europe. We are committed to providing both products and professional service at the highest level to our partners and customers.”
Rochelle from London is part of a fundraising campaign for Tomer Devorah Seminary in Jerusalem.
The 19-year-old spent a year at Tomer and wants more girls to enjoy the experience.
The seminary has worked hard for the past few years to create a fundraiser to offer scholarships. This gives girls who otherwise would not have the opportunity a chance to attend the seminary. Every penny raised goes directly to help fund someone’s tuition.
Rochelle said: “I was fortunate enough to go to Tomer and met girls my age from all over the world. They were from many different backgrounds, but the one thing we had in common was a desire to grow and connect up to our Judaism. Over the year, I’ve had a chance to learn from and develop relationships with many amazing Rabbis, teachers and mentors, and create relationships with people I believe will be able to help guide me through the next stages of my life. I have also been able to explore the beautiful land of Israel on trips up and down the country, and spiritual by spending many a Shabbat with different families all over the country.
“Whoever donates, we will be eternally grateful for their support.”
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So it goes on. The smug and self congratulatory Match of the Day presenter, Gary Lineker, is to receive a Sports and Human Rights award at a ceremony hosted by Amnesty International in Rome on Wednesday, 24 May.
He has been described as a staunch advocate for the rights of refugees and migrants. You could not make it up. This is the man who compared the immigration policy of the UK Government to the policy of Nazi Germany in the 1930s for which he was taken off the air by the BBC. Remember, this followed a tweet containing false information condemning the shooting of a Palestinian footballer by Israeli soldiers, the footballer turning out to be a Hamas terrorist who was shooting at the soldiers. Does this man have no shame? He is both disruptive and dangerous and should
be properly sanctioned by the BBC, as well as the other football pundits who have consistently supported him.
This is so patently wrong. It should also be noted that he will be soaking up praise in Italy, a country led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni who has warned of “an invasion” of migrants and refugees. I fail to see Lineker’s criticism of this policy.
It should be noted that Amnesty International is no friend of the State of Israel and that he will be receiving his award alongside a Palestinian footballer.
All sane people should be criticising the granting of this award. As has recently been said, “perhaps it is time for Gary Lineker to hang up his microphone, as he did his boots long ago”. I sincerely hope so.
Jonathan Metliss Action against DiscriminationThe National Jewish Assembly hosted a virtual event on Yom Yerushalayim featuring Jerusalem Post Editor-in-Chief, Avi Mayer.
British broadcaster Jonny Gould ’interviewed Mayer who shared his vision for diverse opinions with a commitment to Zionism. He noted the lamentable rise of antisemitism in the USA.
A spokesman said: “Mayer's commitment to promoting open dialogue is commendable. His vision aligns with the principles upheld by the NJA. We applaud his dedication to providing a platform for diverse voices within a Zionist framework.”
NJA extended its appreciation to Gould and 100 attendees for joining the call.
They noted: “We continue to strengthen the Jewish community and advance its three pillars of supporting Israel, promoting Jewish life and fighting antisemitism.
The Conference of European Rabbis has called on European governments to condemn inflammatory statements by Tunisia President Kaies Saied following Israel’s fiveday conflict with Palestinian Islamic Jihad militants in Gaza.
Saied remarked that while Tunisians “protected Jews during the Holocaust”, Palestinians are killed at the troubled border with Israel.
CER President, Chief Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt, blasted Saied for implying the Jews of Tunisia were responsible for the IDF bombing Gaza. Goldschmidt also noted that the Tunisian government had yet to visit victims of the recent terror attack at a synagogue in Djerba. He said in a statement: “Through such wanton remarks, the President continues to incite further hatred and even attacks against the country's Jewish community, heaven forbid. Since the attack, the Jewish community of Djerba has not been visited or contacted by any members of the government. The Tunisian President together with the relevant authorities should instead be offering support to the Jewish community and working to ensure its safety.”
Five people died in the terror attack during Lag BaOmer festivities at the Al-Ghriba Synagogue last week.
An Israeli national, Aviel Haddad, and his French cousin Ben Haddad, were among the dead.
Gunshots were heard outside the
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has welcomed a $305 million five-year artillery agreement with the with the Dutch Ministry of Defense.
synagogue with thousands of Jews and Israelis in attendance.
CER expressed its shock at the deadly terror attack. Goldschmidt said after the attack: “Yet again, we grieve for the loss of life at the historic Synagogue in Djerba and pray for the recovery of the injured. Our hearts go out to Chief Rabbi Bitan and the Tunisian community. The world must unite and loudly condemn yet another cowardly attack on Jews at worship.”
EJC President Ariel Muzicant added. “The threat of terror remains real and all countries have heavy responsibilities to isolate not only the terror organisations but also the terror states who support them. The swift actions of the Tunisian police undoubtedly prevented what would have been an intended mass murder inside the synagogue.”
Tunisia used to have over 100,000 Jews, around 1,000 remain in the small Jewish community. The pilgrimage to Africa's oldest synagogue draws Jews from Europe to Djerba. Al Qaeda terrorists attacked the synagogue in 2002 with a bomb, killing 21 Western tourists.
Israel’s Ministry of Defence will supply 20 Elbit Systems-made PULS (Precise & Universal Launching System) artillery rocket systems to the Royal Netherlands Army.
SIBAT Director, Brig Gen Yair Kulas and Lt Gen M.H. Martin Wijnen of the Royal Netherlands Army signed the deal in the Netherlands last week (Wednesday).
This is the first GTG defense exports agreement between Israel and Netherlands. It is one of the largest deals between Israel and a European country in recent years. Gallant approved the deal led by Director General of the Israel Ministry of Defense, Maj. Gen. (res.) Eyal Zamir.
Elbit Systems will supply the artillery rocket systems on the COMMIT selected truck platform, missiles of various ranges, training and support services. PULS supports free-flying rockets and precision guided rockets and missiles from 12km to 300km. The launching system can be mounted on a range of wheeled and tracked platforms, providing a reduction in costs for legacy fleets.
Kulas said: “This event symbolises the strategic relationship between our
countries and constitutes an opportunity to strengthen our partnership.”
Butzi Machlis, Elbit President and CEO hailed the groundbreaking agreement as it would enhance the Netherland Army's ability to provide effective indirect fire support.
He added: “It will also provide interoperability with NATO customers that have acquired these systems. This contract further validates Elbit Systems' cutting-edge military technologies and our strong partnerships with NATO countries across Europe.”
Gallant noted: “The Israeli defense establishment continues to be a source of national pride and international success. Solutions developed by Israeli defense industries allow us to strengthen our ties with countries around the world and enhance our global position. I commend this important agreement signed together, and am confident that our cooperation will continue to grow.”
Rare 1,800-year-old marble artefacts on a merchant ship shipwrecked in the coastal waters of Beit Yanai near Netanya have been discovered.
The relics, weighing 44 tons, is the oldest sea cargo from the Eastern Mediterranean. Items include Corinthian capitals, partially carved capitals and marble columns. It is thought the items were destined for a temple or theatre.
Gideon Harris, an experienced swimmer, contacted the Israel Antiquities Authority with the discovery.
Koby Sharvit, Director of underwater archaeology at IAA, was aware of shipwrecked cargo but did not know the exact whereabouts as it was covered by sand.
He observed: “Recent storms must have exposed the cargo, thanks to Gideon’s important report, we have been able to register its location and carry out preliminary archaeological investigations, which will lead to a more in-depth research project.”
From the angle of wreck on the seabed it is believed the ship’s crew encountered a storm in shallow waters and dropped anchor to prevent the ship from grounding.
“Such storms often blow up suddenly along the country’s coast and due to the ships’ limited maneuvering potential, they are often dragged into the shallow waters and shipwrecked,” noted Sharvit. “From the
size of the architectural elements, we can calculate the dimensions of the ship. We are talking about a merchant ship that could bear a cargo of at least 200.
“These fine pieces are characteristic of large-scale, majestic public buildings. Even in Roman Caesarea, such architectural elements were made of local stone covered with white plaster to appear like marble. Here we are talking about genuine marble. Since it is probable that this marble cargo came from the Aegean or Black Sea region, in Turkey or Greece, and since it was discovered south of the port of Caesarea, it seems that it was destined for one of the ports along the southern Levantine coast, Ashkelon or Gaza, or possibly even Alexandria in Egypt.”
Sharvit has welcomed Harris’ report. He said: “Land and Sea archaeologists have long argued whether the Roman period imported architectural elements were completely worked in their lands of origin, or whether they were transported in a partially carved form, and were carved and fashioned at their site of destination.
“The find of this cargo resolves the debated issue, as it is evident that the architectural elements left the quarry site as basic raw material or partially worked artifacts and that they were fashioned and finished on the construction site, either by local artists and artisans or by artists who were brought to the site from other countries, similarly to specialist mosaic artists who traveled
from site to site following commissioned projects.”
Harris has received a certificate of appreciation for good citizenship.
Eli Escusido, IAA Director, noted: “Gideon’s report epitomises the value of a citizen’s awareness regarding antiquities and even more the importance of reporting them to
the Israel Antiquities Authority. The cooperation of the community plays an important role in archaeological research. We ask citizens who come across antiquities in the sea to note the exact location and to call us to the site. This provides invaluable information contributing to the history and cultural heritage of the country.”
The Clean Speech Project UK was a huge success! The project, run by Seed & GIFT and sponsored by Wohl Legacy, is all about shining a light on the way we communicate and encouraging people to choose positive speech over negative speech. Debuting last year, this May there were over 75 schools, shuls and communities involved in the Clean Speech Project; teaching syllabuses, running parent-child learning, events and programmes, a workshop at Ernst & Young for sixth form students about communication in the workplace and events and programmes across communities, including the Clean Speech RRUS women’s learning event with over 250 women learning. Aside from the directly educational resources, there were Clean Speech games resources, and even a primary school Clean Speech compliment T Shirt whereby children are given a T Shirt to part-design and their parents write a compliment to their child on it to wear in school. There were hundreds of families who attended parent-child learning in schools across the country and over a thousand people who signed up for the daily Clean Speech videos from a different
educator each day.
The Clean Speech Project has also produced various resources for communities
- from Shavuot shiurim to a booklet by Judge Zeidman KC comparing English Defamation Law to Jewish laws on Lashon Hara, to a Shul Clean Speech Magazine; there’s even a children’s storybook book produced for the project.
Co-founder and Seed’s Director of Education Rabbi Daniel Fine commented ‘Never have we communicated as much as we do, and never has communication been the cause of such stress and misunderstanding. Based on a hugely successful campaign in Colorado, the Clean Speech Project UK is one of the most creative and impactful projects I’ve worked on - and it’s been brilliant to work alongside the educational innovation and experience of Rabbi Avrohom Zeidman and GIFT. The feedback has been brilliant – with many people commenting that this project has changed the way they communicate. The number of communities embracing the project and adding their own event or programme has been superb – it shows how important the project is.’
270 people gathered at the Jumeirah Carlton Tower Thursday (18thMay) as Tikva UK held its first gala dinner in 4 years.
Guests included Tikva staff and alumni alongside the Duchess of York, singer and presenter Ronan Keating, Spurs’ Eric Dier and Made in Chelsea’s Mark-Francis Vandelli.
Tikva UK CEO Karen Bodenstein said: “Whilst we were delighted to have so many friends of the charity together in person again, the ‘Unbreakable’ dinner was an important opportunity for us to share with our loyal donors the story of what has happened to our community since war broke out.”
In the first days of the war, Tikva facilitated the evacuation of 4,500 people out of Odessa. 1000 Tikva children and alumni families are now living under Tikva’s care in Romania, while 1,200 elderly people and 200 children and their families who were unable to leave are still being cared for by Tikva in Odessa.
Tikva’s search & rescue team continues to bring in new children affected by extreme poverty, neglect and abuse.
Guests heard from alumni Vika Gashenko who described her nightmarish early childhood and how Tikva ‘saved’ her to become ‘…more than a home. It’s a future.’
Dinner chair Arabella Spiro said ‘Since
the last dinner we’ve experienced a global pandemic and war has returned to Europe. Too many lives have been lost. But Tikva’s commitment to those who need help has remained unbreakable. This is only thanks to the unwavering support of our supporters and we are so grateful.”
Over 1,500 people attended Norwood’s Carnival at The Grange Academy, Bushey on Sunday.
The inclusive summer funday event, which raised £22,500 for vital services, was designed for people with a range of needs and abilities in an accessible surrounding. Residents from at Norwood’s supported living homes, support workers and volunteers attended.
Fairground style activities for all ages included a bungee jump, animal rides, carousel and balloon modelling. Carnival
challenges corner included beat the goalie and obstacle course. The carnival crafts area offered hair braiding, a glitter bar, jewellery making, slime and edible bracelets.
Activities for young people with sensory needs included a quiet area, soft play and silent disco.
Music and singing sessions were provided by Sensory 4 Tots, Ilana Banana, Linzie Musical Group and Ady’s Babies Music Group.
The event also featured a concert stage
with performances from musical acts Soul Jump, HJPS choir, Sinai Jewish Primary School Choir, Brass Beats, and dance acts Stage Coach Stanmore & Harrow Weald, North London Stars and Vanessa Class School of Dance.
The carnival was preceded by a mini sponsored cycle challenge for Norwood’s youngest supporters. Nineteen children raised over £3,250 in sponsorship.
Norwood Chief Executive Naomi Dickson was “blown away” by the event.
She said: “The people we support were at
the heart of the event, not only attending, enjoying, eating and meeting, but volunteering helping and supporting. Mingling in the crowds were people who use our services, supporters, staff and volunteers, all enjoying the atmosphere and each other’s company. We demonstrated that inclusivity isn’t something to talk about, but something we do well. Events like these are at the heart of Norwood’s values.”
Sponsors included Panther Securities Plc, Gardnor Group, Suzie & Andrew Miller and Phase Two Senior Club.
JDA welcomed the Chief Rabbi where he delighted members, volunteers and staff with a visit. Before opening up the floor for a Q&A session, he started by saying, “I love this place. The people responsible for running this facility make everyone in the community very proud.”
There were lots of questions about his recent experience staying at St James’ Palace and participating in the Coronation ceremony. Asked how he felt about being invited to the Coronation, the Chief Rabbi responded with, “I was there to represent the Jewish community in the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth.
“Our wonderful King and Queen wanted to recognise everyone from all faiths and
as a mark of respect, they invited me along with five other faith leaders to represent our communities. It was an honour and a privilege.”
He spoke enthusiastically about the dress rehearsal for the Coronation, shared funny anecdotes, posed for selfies, learnt some sign language, reminisced with members from his time as Rabbi at Kinloss, spoke about his forthcoming investiture where he’ll receive his knighthood and proudly shared the news of a new siddur he launched during a reception at his home.
JDA member Anne Hart ended the Q&A with a heartfelt thank you. She said: “Thank you for sacrificing your time by coming here today – it means so much.”
The Whisky Event 2023, hosted by The Whisky World, drew to a close on Sunday after an immensely successful evening, with over 600 attendees at the iconic Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane London.
In April, more than 100 golfers attended the eighth biennial Golf Fore Chai golf day at Hartsbourne Country Club.
The event, hosted by Golf Fore Chai Committee members; Jo Fogel, Carolyn Joels, Suzanne Richmond and Serena Smaje, raised over £72,000 for Chai’s ‘Children, Teenage and Family Service.’
A shotgun start kicked off the round of golf. Following the tournament, guests were welcomed by Jo Fogel, Chairman of the Golf Fore Chai Committee who presented awards to the winning teams.
The winning men’s team comprised of Barry Burns, Andrew Cohen, Malcolm Miller and Simon Berg. The winning ladies team comprised of Vicky Schaverien, Belen Gonzalez Terol, Alison Levy and Stacey Miller.
Following the event Jo Fogel said: “I am completely overwhelmed that in these very difficult times we managed to smash our
target and raise more than £70,000 to go towards employing additional child counsellors. This was only made possible by the unbelievable generosity of our sponsor Oakfield and all of our loyal supporters. Thank you to Carolyn Joels, Suzanne Richmond and Serena Smaje who were a great help in organising this event and enabling us to reach our goal of £500,000 raised from our 8 golf days!”
Chai’s Chairman, Louise Hager said: “To Jo, Carolyn, Suzanne and Serena – there’s always been a synergy between the Golf Fore Chai Committee and Chai. Attention to detail runs throughout the whole organisation and you too strive for and achieve this at every event that you organise. You continue to innovate and your loyalty and commitment goes above and beyond - it is never taken for granted and is deeply appreciated by us all.”
The festival, which has rapidly become a highlight in the whisky events calendar, showcased the unparalleled diversity and quality of whiskies from around the globe. An incredible 72 brands from 8 countries, including Scotland, Japan, the United States, and Israel, were represented, allowing attendees to experience a journey across a world of whisky.
“We are extremely proud of this year’s event. The response from both attendees and exhibitors has been simply outstanding,” said Abe Lubelsky, Organiser of The Whisky Event. “Our goal was to celebrate whisky in all its glory, educate attendees, and foster a sense of community among whisky lovers. The evening was more successful than we could have ever anticipated.”
The show offered attendees the chance to taste a wide range of whiskies, including rare and unique expressions, attend expert-led masterclasses, engage in spirited discussions with brands, and enjoy a lavish kosher buffet.
In an opportunity to see whisky from
different perspectives, The Whisky Event featured the biggest names in the industry and new artisan makers, side by side. From Johnnie Walker and Uncle Nearest, through Talisker and Glenfiddich, to Spiritfilled and Chapter 7 - an amazing array of brands were on offer.
Masterclasses on Diageo’s Prima & Ultima collection, hosted by Colin Dunn, and on Yamazaki’s 2022 Cask Series, hosted by Raffaele Di Monaco, were an opportunity to learn in-depth about these prestigious collections.
The response to the event has been glowing. From whisky lovers, through leading influencers, to industry professionals, the conversations on the night, and after the event, have shown the joy the whisky community takes from The Whisky Event. “The Whisky Event is one of the highlights of the year,” said attendee Ed Leigh, an expert in independent whisky brands. “The range of brands, and the whiskies they bring, is superb. It really is the ideal opportunity to explore the best brands, try unique whiskies, and discover new artisan whisky makers.”
“We are already looking forward to 2024 and making The Whisky Event 2024 even bigger and better. We want to continue to make this the must-attend event for all whisky lovers and enthusiasts,” added Lubelsky.
Dear Rabbi
My partner and I are discussing our future. He questions the need for marriage and insists we are perfect as we are. We have been together for a year and we are now discussing having children. He insists marriage is just a piece of paper and that we can bring and raise happy children into the world without the need for marriage. I am more a traditionalist and think, as much as we enjoy our time together as partners, if we want children, we should get married first. We’ve been bantering this back and forth for a while now and believe it or not, we’ve agreed to write into you (his idea not mine), anonymously, to get your take on it. I think it is obvious to both of us what you are going to say, but we would like to hear some rationale behind your opinion. I hope you can publish this as I believe many others have a similar dilemma. Thank you in anticipation.
Dear Wedding Blues
I maintain that it is only in strong stable families, as underpinned by the sacredness of marriage that one learns trust, confidence, discipline and other such life lessons. In marriage one learns emotional intelligence, essential for maintaining happiness going forward. In marriage one learns the art of cooperation and the spirit of care for others.
It is a fact that children born in stable families are advantaged in almost every area for the rest of
their lives. And strong marriages, not always, but mostly, need the institution of marriage. Only political correctness and the desire to be non-judgmental leads us to deny that fact.
Some will argue that marriage is only a piece of paper. It isn’t. It’s a publically demonstrated act of commitment!
Some argue that cohabitation is just as good as marriage. It isn’t. Statistically, and you can research this, relationships of cohabitation in the absence of marriage, usually last an average of two years. And even those that might eventually get married – the majority tend to end in divorce.
Here’s the real kicker: Britain has the highest level of children born outside marriage in the Western world. According to UNICEF, Britain has the unhappiest children in the Western world. The two are undeniably correlated.
Parenthood is sacred only within the sacred bond of marriage and we have to recognize marriage, not cohabitation as in the best interest of children, lest they are victims for generations to come. So instead of wedding blues, let’s hear some wedding bells (well, you know what I mean) and send me an invite.
I’ll be there!
Dear Rabbi
I’m not Jewish but I am close to several Jewish families and I get invited to several of their festivals. I have sat in a Sukah hut and I have eaten matzah on Passover eve. I am now invit-
ed next week for the Pentecost festival. I am told it is celebrated with cheesecake and I would love to understand the significance of that. Also, is it appropriate to bring any cheesecake to my host or is there something special and holy in the way that it is made.
Ravnoy
The festival of Shavuot is a Jewish festival which takes place on the 50th day after the first day of Passover. It commemorates the day in which we received the Torah at Sinai and were formed into nationhood, and tasked with becoming trailblazers of morality to civilization. At that moment, we were given more than just the Ten Commandments (as often mistakenly assumed) but also all the other laws of the Torah. Those laws included the laws of kosher; the prohibition against milk and meat and the preparation process required for consuming meat. To that end, immediately thereafter, the Jewish people were not ready to eat meat as they would have to properly prepare it first (ritual slaughter, salting the meat, etc.). In addition, a number of their vessels will have been deemed not kosher as they would have previously contained milk and meat mixtures. Being Jewish –we always have to eat – and the one thing readily available was dairy. Hence it is customary to have dairy in commemoration of the giving of the Torah and the immediate effects of that. Though any dairy can suffice –yes even some pizza with a glass
of milk - cheesecake is the preference of choice mostly because it is more of a delicacy and also particularly tasty. (Unless you’re privileged to have a motherin-law like me, who makes the most amazing cheese blintzes, Pavlova and krémes - a Hungarian delicacy that gives you a taste of heaven. Yes, I’m hoping if she
reads this she’ll make me some extra).
The only thing holy in the way it’s made is the special blessing recited by the manufacturers: “Please G-d, make sure this limits weight gain and doesn’t cause too much rise in anyone’s cholesterol so that they’ll keep coming back for more.”
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What are the core beliefs for religious Jews, sometimes referred to as Religious Zionists, who also view Medinat Israel as authored by Hashem? The radical political swings of the past thirty years have muddled some of these central values. Here are Ten Commandments for Religious Zionists.
The establishment of Medinat Yisrael is a divinely authored event, which signals the start of our national redemption. For two thousand years we were scattered amongst foreign nations, facing relentless violence and hostility. Now that we have returned to our ancient homeland, history is back on track. The ingathering of Jews from across the globe, the agricultural renewal of our previously arid homeland, and the exponential surge in our economic prosperity, not to mention our successful resistance of our surrounding hostile neighbors, are all signs that Hashem has returned His people to His country. It is impossible to determine how quickly the process of geulah will unfold or how many twists and turns will occur. It may take twenty years, or it may take two hundred years. Either way, the process has begun.
We were chosen by Hashem to represent Him and to inspire humanity toward monotheism and morality. As part of this mission, we were selected to live in the land of Hashem, to better broadcast these messages. One day, when Hashem’s presence is roundly acknowledged, our divine rights to this land will also be fully recognized. However, our world is still fractured and our rights to Israel are still hotly contested. To one degree or another, we must still operate within international codes and make concessions for diplomatic considerations. However, political concessions should not blur our conviction that all of Israel has been earmarked for our people, and that, one day, our rights will be universally acknowledged. We are not obstacles to peace nor are we occupiers. One day the entire world will see it that way, but until that day we, ourselves, must maintain our own religious and historical clarity.
Living through a new era of redemption must not sever us from our glorious past. Jewish history is linear, and our return to Israel was enabled by the heroism of the past generations which preserved Jewish
emunah, religion and identity through brutal conditions of exile. Though they never walked in Israel, their historical footprints crisscross our modern state. Our return in 1948 was a culmination, not an overhaul.
Bifurcating between the gloomy pre1948 era of suffering and the exhilarating post-1948 era of pride amputates us from our past. Simplistic caricatures of the weak “Jew of exile” often referred to as the “yehudi galuti” are intellectually bankrupt and historically disrespectful. Moreover, they are especially toxic for religious identity which is predicated upon accepting the authority and masorah of past generations.
Jewish history did not begin in 1948 and religious people must be more adept at incorporating the spectacular triumphs of the present with the steadying traditions of the past. This is one of the primary challenges facing religious Zionists who view the state of Israel as a new era in history.
It is impossible to determine why the privilege of returning to Israel wasn’t afforded to previous generations, which may have been more deserving than ours. One thing though is clear: being chosen carries duties and responsibilities. In addition to renewed religious commitment, we are duty-bound to actively contribute to this Jewish renewal. We are composing the final chapters of Jewish history and our stories will be retold by future generations. Living in the modern state of Israel isn’t just a luxury, but a mandate. We aren’t here merely to enjoy the comforts and luxuries of Medinat Yisrael.
Living in a sovereign Jewish state, we are finally empowered to determine the shape of our broader society. Geulah isn’t merely religious or geographic but is also societal. In our zeal to settle the land or to reinvigorate Torah and mitzvoth we tend to overlook the broader social agenda. Promoting social and economic welfare are less exciting than settling hilltops, but are also part of our religious and redemptive agenda.
Hashem is compassionate and desires kind and moral behavior. Sadly, Islamic fundamentalism has hijacked the face of Hashem, recasting Him as angry and bellicose. There is no joy in heaven when innocent people suffer. By crafting a sympathetic society of justice and civility, we showcase the true face of a
compassionate God.
Facing persistent military aggression, we are forced to tenaciously defend ourselves. Amidst these efforts we must also protect the rights of innocent civilians who are often caught in the crossfire. Obviously, our own security takes prece dence, but we cannot completely ignore our moral conscience. Without moral behavior, we lose our divine deed to this country. We should be proud that the IDF is a moral army. Hashem is certainly proud.
I dislike the misleading term “Religious Zionism” because it implies that commitment to the state of Israel is a political ideology which is merely appended to religious identity. Commitment to our divinely inspired return is an integral and inseparable aspect of religious identity. I am not a religious Zionist. I aim to be a deeply religious Jew, for whom dedication to Medinat Yisrael is a crucial aspect of my frumkeit.
If everything stems from religion, we must treasure our deep partnership with Charedim who are also deeply religious, despite disagreements about how to express religious passion. Furthermore, without renewed religious commitment our return to Israel isn’t sustainable. By investing massively in Talmud Torah, Charedi society advances our overall process of Jewish geulah. It is illegitimate to view ourselves as sincerely religious people if we dismiss others who are equally passionate about our shared religious values and practices.
We share a different, but important partnership with secular Israel. Our return to Israel, under the banner of secular nationalism is a divine mystery for which we have few answers. We anticipate an era of widespread religious revival, but until that day we embrace secular Israel as partners, as part of Hashem’s larger plan of historical reconstruction, and as hinged to our common destiny. Additionally, we have much to be inspired by the ideals of this value-driven community. Secular Israelis are an indispensable part of our one, indivisible family.
Several central elements of the public common must be regulated by religious standards. Kashrut, Shabbat, and marriage and conversion, all must be regulated by religious guidelines. However, in other areas of public life, we must be careful about aggressively
imposing religious standards upon an unwilling secular population. Imposing religion rarely ends well, and, more often it boomerangs, generating unhealthy alienation toward religion. Much of secular Israel is traditionalist or ‘masorati’ and still harbors affectionate sentiments toward religion. If religious Jews forcefully legislate religious laws, these sentiments can quickly turn sour.
Respecting government institutions
Operating in a democracy often means conforming to disagreeable policies and laws. Political dispute, public protests and civil disobedience are all legitimate tools of the democratic process. Sadly, sometimes political tensions and irresponsible leadership incite the disrespect of public symbols of government. Government symbols, such as security forces or elected officials, are shared national “representations” whose value is much larger and much more important than any specific political issue. A policeman symbolizes much more than whatever law he happens to be enforcing. Our grandparents could only dream of Jewish security forces or of a Jewish parliament. Disrespecting national symbols and institutions tarnishes the larger divine and historical narrative of our return to statehood and sovereignty.
These are our core values. In the long term, compromising these values is never worth it. Values are far more important than any fleeting issue.
The writer is a rabbi at Yeshivat Har Etzion/Gush, a hesder yeshiva. He has smicha and a BA in computer science from Yeshiva University as well as a masters degree in English literature from the City University of New York.
BY RABBI SHMUEL REICHMAN
In our previous article, we began exploring the deeper nature of Nadav and Avihu’s sin. While we began by sharing some of the more practical approaches, Rashi quotes a Midrash which fundamentally shifts our perception of Nadav and Avihu. The Midrash explains that Moshe already knew that two of the holiest people in Klal Yisrael would die on this very day, the day of the chanukas haMishkan. Moshe originally thought that these two people would be Aharon and himself, but it turned out to be Nadav and Avihu instead (Vayikra 10:3). This Midrash makes it clear that Nadav and Avihu were on a tremendously lofty level. If so, how could they have done something so egregiously wrong — something that resulted in such a harsh heavenly punishment?
The Ramban therefore suggests that the only problem with Nadav and Avihu’s avodah was that they brought the Ketores offering without being commanded to do so. This view is drawn from the explicit statement of the pasuk itself, as it says that Nadav and Avihu brought an offering “Asher lo tzivah osam — That they were not commanded to bring” (Ibid. v. 1).
Based on this, however, we face a new difficulty. If Nadav and Avihu’s sin was only that they did something that they were not commanded to do, our question is actually strengthened: What was so abhorrent about their actions that it merited such extreme punishment?
The first explanation we gave for this puzzling statement lies in the concept of ego. As human beings, we are naturally resistant to external instruction or direction, preferring to do things only when we want to do them. Obedience to others requires sacrificing our ego, our sense of control, and our illusion of being ultimately superior. The essence of a mitzvah, however, is negating our ego and submitting to the will of Hashem. Hashem gives us instruction in the form of mitzvos; we obey them because He told us to, and by doing so, we submit our ego to Him. We may not understand or agree with everything, but in performing mitzvos, we acknowledge Hashem as the ultimate source of truth and His instructions as the guide to ideal living in this world. We affirm that the source of truth does not lie within our limited selves but within the infinite source of reality, i.e., Hashem.
The second explanation for why the performance of a mitzvah is superior to an act of one’s own volition requires a deeper understanding of mitzvos. The simple understanding is that a mitzvah is a command from Hashem, requiring us to obey His will. The Maharal, however, suggests a fundamentally deeper understanding of mitzvos. He explains that the word and concept of mitzvah is rooted in the word “tzavta,” the Aramaic word for “connection.” (See also Shelah Hakadosh, Yoma; Derech Chaim, Tochachas Mussar (16); Berachos 6b; Sefas Emes, Parashas Eikev 632.) A mitzvah isn’t
simply obeying a command, as a soldier obeys the will of his commander. Rather, it is a way for us to connect, spiritually and existentially, to Hashem, our source of existence.
When we perform an action, we act as an extension and manifestation of the one who willed and commanded it. To illustrate, when you decide to lift your arm, the act originates within your will, and your lifted arm is an expression of that original will. When Hashem commands something and we fulfill that command, we bond to and become part of something infinitely greater than ourselves, i.e., Hashem. Hashem wanted this to happen, and you are now accepting His will, attaching yourself to it, and making His will your own (Avos 2:4.). By performing this act, you become a true embodiment and reflection of Hashem in this world. This is why it’s infinitely greater to be commanded than to act spontaneously. When you do something — even something good — without being commanded, all you are reflecting is yourself. It is your personal form of avodah, self-contained, limited, and disconnected from Hashem. Instead of manifesting something transcendent, all that you manifest is yourself.
The ultimate depth of this is that as a tzelem Elokim, your own root will is Hashem’s will. You don’t “sacrifice” your will to adopt His will; rather, you become deeply self-aware to the extent that you realize that His will is your root will. This comes with the realization that you are neither the center of the world, nor the source of your own existence. Hashem is. Let us briefly explore this topic.
Many people believe that before Hashem created the world, there was simply nothing. On the contrary, until Hashem created the world, there was only Hashem Himself. As the Arizal, Ramchal, and others explain, Hashem created the world by making a makom, a space, within Himself. Just as everything in the physical world requires space to exist, existence itself requires a space to exist. If you have a cup completely filled to the brim with metal, you will not be able to pour any water into it. Only if there is a space in the cup, if there is room for the water, can you pour water into the cup. Before Hashem created the world, there was no space for us to exist, as all of existence was occupied by Hashem — ein od mi’levado. To create the physical world, Hashem made space within Himself for us to exist. This is why Hashem is referred to as the “Makom of the world,” the place of the world (Midrash Tehillim 90; Rashi, Avos, perek 2). We exist within Hashem, so to speak; He is our makom.
Just imagine if you created a person within your mind, gave him a life story, a family, a role to play, etc. You have now made space — within yourself — for this person to exist. However, he only continues to exist so long as you continue to think about him and give him existence. The same is true for each of us; we only continue to exist as long as Hashem continues to will us into existence. This is the true nature of a mitzvah. A mitzvah connects us to Hashem and His
will, attaching us to the ultimate Root of reality, the Source of all existence, the Makom of the world. Just as the boy in the introductory story suddenly realized that the world was infinitely more expansive than his tiny house, a mitzvah allows us to expand infinitely beyond the limited borders of our ego, connecting to the transcendent. In doing so, we become partners with Hashem Himself, and our sense of self expands infinitely.
We can now understand the Ramban’s explanation behind the severity of Nadav and Avihu’s sin. Nadav and Avihu were not commanded to bring the Ketores offering; they brought it of their own limited desire and volition. In doing so, they reflected their own ego and nothing more. True, they had pure intentions, but this was not the will of Hashem. (This is also one of the explanations of Adam HaRishon’s sin, the cheit ha’egel, Shaul HaMelech’s sin, David HaMelech’s sin, and many other fundamental errors throughout Tanach. While these applications are beyond the scope of this article, this shows how far reaching this principle is.)
Nevertheless, we are still left with one big problem. Granted, this may not have been the ideal form of avodas Hashem, since Nadav and Avihu acted without being commanded. However, did this action really deserve the death penalty? We do not generally consider someone who acts without being commanded to be a sinner. On the contrary, they may even be a righteous person. They are simply not as lofty as someone who does this act through the direct command of a mitzvah, which is infinitely greater. Based on this, why were Nadav and Avihu deserving of death? The answer to this lies in the time and place of this incident.
Every process is made up of multiple stages. The first stage is the spark of creation, which is followed by a slow process of expressing that original root seed, finally culminating in the finished product. Take, for example, the growth of a tree. First, there is the seed, which goes through a slow growth process as that seed is expressed, and eventually there is a full tree. Human beings go through this same process as well. Every person begins as a zygote, a single cell, which grows and develops into the end result — a fully formed human being.
In every process of creation, the root, the seed, is the most crucial and potent phase. This formative stage is also the most delicate. Any error or imperfection that occurs at this stage will have cataclysmic results. For example, if a child cuts his finger at the age of seven, the injury will be minor at worst. However, if there is even a minor glitch in the DNA of a zygote, even a single chromosome missing, everything can go wrong and the results can be catastrophic!
This is the key behind the P’nei Yehoshua’s famous question regarding the miracle
of Chanukah. He asks why it was necessary for us to find an untainted jar of pure oil (shemen zayis zach) when we defeated the Greeks and reclaimed the Beis Hamikdash. There is a principle that “tumah hutrah b’tzibur” — when everyone in the community of Klal Yisrael is impure, you don’t need pure oil; impure oil suffices. Rav Yosef Engel explains that while this is normally true, this specific case was an exception. This was not just a standard case of lighting the menorah, this was the chanukas haMizbei’ach, the inauguration of the Temple. Since this was the inception, the root period of creation, everything had to be perfect. The oil therefore needed to be completely pure (Gilyonei Hashas, Shabbos 21b.).
So too, Nadav and Avihu sinned during the original chanukas haMishkan. The Nefesh Hachaim explains that this building of the Mishkan was like the rebuilding of the world. This creative process was in its root stage; anything even slightly amiss would be devastating. We simply could not afford to begin with anything out of place, otherwise the Mishkan would be built on these faulty principles. This is why Nadav and Avihu received such a severe punishment: they sinned at the root stage of the process. Their act, and its repercussions, were multiplied exponentially due to the timing.
Every act we perform is multilayered, and our decisions must reflect this sophistication as well. First, we must determine what exactly we are doing: Is this action a reflection of a deep truth and therefore objectively valuable, or is it meaningless? Next, we must question why we are doing this act: Am I doing it with the intention of connecting with the infinite will of Hashem, or am I simply expressing my own limited ego? As we then proceed to undertake the action, we must ask ourselves how we are doing it: Are we maintaining our commitment to idealistic connection as we perform the act, or are we just going through the motions? May we be inspired to search for the truth, to live by that truth, and to connect with Hashem in the deepest and truest of ways.
Rabbi Shmuel Reichman is a bestselling author, international speaker, and the CEO of Self-Mastery Academy. He has lectured internationally on topics of Torah thought, Jewish medical ethics, psychology, and leadership. His bestselling book, The Journey to Your Ultimate Self, serves as an inspiring gateway into deeper Jewish thought. He is also a business, executive, and leadership coach, with a unique approach based on Torah values. After obtaining his BA from Yeshiva University, he received Semicha from Yeshiva University’s RIETS, a master’s degree in education from Azrieli Graduate School, and a master’s degree in Jewish Thought from Bernard Revel Graduate School. He then spent a year studying at Harvard as an Ivy Plus Scholar. He currently lives in Chicago with his wife and son where he is pursuing a PhD at the University of Chicago. To enjoy more of Rabbi Reichman’s content, to contact him, or to learn more about his services, visit his website: ShmuelReichman.com
Many years ago in America, a young poor boy was having to go door to door selling goods in order to pay his way through school.
He was hungry. So, so hungry that he decided the next house he knocked on he would ask for some food. However, as the door opened, he lost his confidence and instead asked the kindly looking young lady just for a drink of water.
Realising that he was not just thirsty but hungry too, the young lady brought him a large glass of milk.
The boy was so appreciative and drank it slowly. As he handed the glass back he asked, ‘How much do I owe you?’
‘You don’t owe me anything! My mother has taught me never to accept payment for a kindness!’ she replied.
‘Thank you from the depths of my heart’, the boy whispered as he turned around and continued with his lonely evening task.
Years later the young lady became critically ill. The local doctors and hospitals could not even diagnose the problem. Eventually, she was sent to a specialist hospital a few hours away where a Dr Howard Kelly was asked to see the lady, diagnose her and hopefully treat her.
Before entering her room, a nurse gave him her notes. Dr Kelly’s eyes narrowed as he scanned her address. Could it be?
From this moment it was clear to the medical team that Dr Kelly would spare no effort in his fight for this woman’s life.
After a long struggle, the battle was won. Being a private hospital, the woman was fearful to open the bill when it was brought to her room before she was discharged. She was sure it would take the rest of her life to pay for it.
Slowly she opened the envelope and as she opened the carefully folded paper
inside her eyes immediately caught the words at the bottom of the bill, ‘PAID IN FULL – WITH A GLASS OF MILK’
Signed: Dr Howard Kelly
On Shavuos we read Megillas Rus which recounts the kindness of Rus towards her elderly mother-in-law Naomi. Coming from royal lineage in Moav, Rus could have quite easily and understandably returned to her former privileged lifestyle. Instead, she chose to accompany and care for her impoverished mother-in-law however pitiful and degrading that would be. She becomes a fully-fledged geuoress (convert) and Hashem rewards her kindness by choosing her to become the Ima Shel Malchus – Mother of Kings as we know Dovid Hamelech (King David) was her great-grandson!
Two things worth mentioning here –we never know how and when we will be rewarded for a kindness but Hashem clearly ‘holds the score’ and it is never too soon to do a pure act of kindness and giving.
Secondly, given Rus’s non-existent Jewish yichus we might be forgiven in thinking she doesn’t quite meet the criteria, or our expectations, for being the spiritual and physical mother of Dovid Hamelech, who’s descendent in time to come g-d willing will be the Moshiach himself!
It just goes to show those who we may think are on the ‘outside’ or ‘don’t fit the box’ in our social circles and/or communities may be the very people who are destined for greatness and therefore we must not only welcome but learn to cherish.
Wishing everybody a Good Yom Tov Anna Bergson is Rebbezten of St Anne’s Hebrew Congregation and is also a Hypnotherapist & Holistic Health Practitioner. Her website is www.annaholistictherapies. com
Torah were more important than others and therefore one should not stand for the reading of the Ten Commandments but remain seated.
BY RABBI BARUCH DAVIS, EMERITUS RABBI OF CHIGWELL & HAINAULT SYNAGOGUE, DAF HASHAVUA EDITOR-IN-CHIEFThere is thunder, lightning, fire and smoke, the ground shakes and the shofar can be heard loud and clear. And then G-d calls out as He introduces Himself: “Anochi… I am the L-rd your G-d, Who brought you out of the Land of Egypt…”, the first of the Ten Commandments. This was Divine Revelation at Mount Sinai, the most dramatic moment in our history - in human history - our defining moment! Three times a year - with the reading of the sidrot of Yitro and Va’etchanan - and especially on Shavuot as part of the Torah reading for the first day and at the Tikun Leil Shavuot, where we stay up all night
to learn Torah - we relive this moment. As we read about this drama in shul, we stand and listen in solemn silence to the Ten Commandments. Strangely enough, this is not the practice in every shul. Why not?
The Talmud (Berachot 12a) says that, although the Ten Commandments were recited daily in the Temple, along with the Shema and other prayers, this was not permitted elsewhere, for fear that people might say that only the Ten Commandments came from G-d, not the rest of the Torah. Rabbi Moshe ben Maimon (Rambam, 1138-1204) in his Responsa no. 263 was concerned that people might feel (wrongly) that some parts of the
In contrast to the Rambam, the Midrash Bemidbar Rabba (13:16) seems to suggest that this part of the Torah is indeed more important than others, claiming that the Ten Commandments contain all the Torah’s commandments. Many commentaries effectively demonstrate how the Ten Commandments encapsulate all the mitzvot - but that’s for another article.
Rabbi Yitzchak Abarbanel (1437-1508) adds that the Ten Commandments were the only words spoken directly by G-d to Israel and engraved on stone by Him. Rabbi Chaim Yosef David Azulai (the Chida, 1724–1806) adds that since the Children of Israel “stood from afar” when the Torah was given (Shemot 20:14), when the Ten Commandments are read publicly, we should do the same.
Rabbi Moshe Feinstein (1895-1986) suggests it is not just the text itself which is important, but the context in which we received it – Divine Revelation and the only time that G-d spoke directly to an entire nation. Rabbi Feinstein also
connects the custom of standing up for the Ten Commandments with the custom of standing for the reading of Shirat HaYam, the song following the crossing of the Sea of Reeds, sung at the final stage of our departure from Egypt and at a time when the people experienced a very high level of prophecy (Iggrot Moshe, Orach Chaim 4:22).
Rabbi Ovadia Yosef (1920-2013) follows the ruling of the Rambam but suggests that if one is in a shul where the custom is to stand for the Ten Commandments, one should stand up earlier, at least from the beginning of the portion containing the Ten Commandments (Yechaveh Daat 1:29). This is the practice in many communities, albeit for a different reason: so as not to disturb the reading itself. Our custom is to stand when the Ten Commandments are read, but there is no doubt that the apprehensiveness of the Talmudic sages and the Rambam - that people might think that only the Ten Commandments are important - is a major concern. Learning Torah on Shavuot reminds us that the entire Torah is Divine, and this is what we have in mind when we stand for the reading of the Ten Commandments.
Instead, she chose to accompany and care for her impoverished mother-in-law however pitiful and degrading that would be.
BY RABBI DANNY BAIGEL
LSJS recently extended its library to include a rare books room. It homes approximately 1,500 books printed between 1500 and 1800. Two months ago, I was sitting in this room as part of a meeting that was assessing our teacher training provision. At one point, one of the external professionals praised our provision, commenting on the up-to-date research we provide as part of our training programme. As they said this, I looked around me and thought about the age of the books and the timeless wisdom they have provided for generations. It is true that our teacher training programme at LSJS proudly share the latest findings in educational research with our trainees. However, we do this within the context of our tradition. Navigating a balance of this tradition – rooted in authentic Jewish
values and teachings, alongside the latest research and contemporary challenges – is something that the Jewish Studies teachers at our schools must grapple with on a regular basis.
The texts within our Jewish Studies curricula remain largely the same. The values that teachers hope to instil have not changed. However, modern educators have developed our understanding of how children learn, and are sensitive to the contemporary challenges that our children encounter. In order to teach effectively in our everchanging modern world, teachers must have time to stop and take stock.
We at LSJS provide this opportunity for educators in our annual Conference for Jewish Studies Teachers and Informal
Educators in Secondary Schools. This year’s conference took place last week when we had the honour of hosting over fifty educators. It was an opportunity for our educators to step out of their busy schedule and invest in their own learning and expertise. Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis, in his keynote address, reinforced that Jewish life requires all of us to be lifelong learners. Even the most knowledgeable people in our tradition are each referred to as a ‘Talmid Chacham’, a student of wisdom. LSJS supports our teachers to continue in their role as ‘students’ in the world of Jewish education. Teachers deserve time to reflect and space to consider how they can innovate back in their classrooms.
Rabbi Shimshon Raphael Hirsch, in
his writings on education, explains how the educator must always be cognisant of the future pathways of the students in front of them. In a message to teachers, he writes that educators should “let the conception of the future course of their life determine the education you will give them”. Our conference certainly embodied this maxim. LSJS challenged our teachers to rethink how the core, traditional values, texts and concepts need to be framed to support the children in our classrooms in the course of their lives going forward. We want our teachers to have the opportunities they deserve to continue learning. By investing in our teachers, providing them with time to learn, develop and collaborate, the children in our classrooms will ultimately reap the benefits.
Rabbi Danny Baigel, Secondary Programmes Manager and Jewish Career Pathways Director at LSJS. To find out more about how you can start your career as a teacher please contact danny.baigel@
In order to teach effectively in our everchanging modern world, teachers must have time to stop and take stock.
The King of Kings - Hashem Himselfhad a great gift – The Torah. Who would want to receive it? He went around to various nations but they all said, “What does it say in it?” G-d replied with a type of Mitzva that ran contrary to their habit and they declined, “Sorry, it’s not for us!”
When He reached the Jewish people and asked do you want the Torah, they replied, “Na’aseh Venishma” – we will do and then we will try to comprehend. Early in one’s life, when following an adult’s instruction, this is a really important concept to come to terms with, that not always do we understand why we are told to do or not to do something. The nation too was then in its infancy and therefore needed to agree to keeping the Torah’s laws before understanding why.
So, for 5 (or 6) days we prepared and surrounded Mount Sinai – a humble mountain. We were told to surround the mountain with a fence and to be super careful not to go up the mountain – not even to touch it! It was super important that the Torah reached EVERYONE, not only the “holy people” who are able to climb high in life, but even “simple people” who don’t have the greatest minds must all receive an equal chance to succeed in learning and keeping the Torah.
On the great morning, fifty days after leaving Egypt, the Jewish people awakened to the sound of the Shofar – Hashem was there before us! . Many people stay up in the night learning Torah to show our keen interest in receiving it.
Arriving at Har Sinai – they hear the
first two commandments directly from Hashem, but it is too dramatic for them and they beg Moshe to continue instead – and so he does, giving the other 8 commandments. The Jews go home to eat – but wait! The pots and pans we used yesterday are now not kosher! We can’t cook any meat so what shall we eat? And so they ate milky products instead, and this is one of the many reasons that Jewish people have a custom to eat milky products on Shavuot
On Shavuot we also read the story of Ruth – the great-grandmother of King David (who died on Shavuot) and which is jam-packed with kindness to teach us that Torah must go with Derech Eretz – with being humane and acting with kindness. At first, the family of Elimelech
are punished for abandoning the Jewish land and its people during a famine – a lack of kindness. Then we see the extreme kindness that a former princess shows her mother-in-law, insisting that she would join her on her return journey and stay with her for ever. Finally, the great kindness that Bo’az – the leader of the generation, does with his cousin’s family, and meriting to be the ancestor of the Moshiach, may he come speedily in our time.
The Torah teaches kindness from beginning to end, and in order to receive the Torah one must ensure to always try to become a kinder person. That way, we hope to see even more kindness from Hashem too!
Shavuot means weeks. It marks the completion of the Omer (the seven-week period between Pesach and Shavuot).
It is customary to eat dairy foods on Shavuot. There are a number of reasons for this custom… how many can you find?
G-d gave the Torah to Moshe on Mount Sinai on Shavuot
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.
Last week’s words
Use the area below to write the words you have found.
Q: What do you call a boomerang that doesn’t come back?
A: A stick!
Q: What did the big flower say to the little flower?
A: Hi Bud!!
Q: Why couldn’t the pony sing?
A: Because she was a little horse!
Q: What time do ducks wake up?
A: At the quack of dawn!
1. What has four letters, occasionally has twelve letters, always has six letters, but never has five letters…
2. It starts out tall, but the longer it stands, the shorter it grows. What is it?
3. A cowboy rode into town on Friday. He stayed in town for three days and rode out again on Friday. How?
3. His horse is named Friday
Here are some words you may have found from last week – you may have found more! Answers 1. That’s correct! 2. A candle.
Using all the shapes on the left can you make the mountains shape on the right?
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For more recipes and inspiration visit my website: www.jewishcookery.com
New season baby vegetables are particularly flavoursome and look very attractive at Shavuot time. I like to make this salad with a colourful mixture too. They develop from the same seeds as their bigger ‘brothers’ – the secret is the way they are grown. Spring water and harvesting them after two weeks instead of three to four months provides a more sophisticated way of eating vegetables.
Baby leeks, carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, cauliflower, broccoli, radishes, beetroots, turnips, courgettes are all good examples which are now readily available in your local supermarket.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes Serves: 6
Ingredients
250g miniature new potatoes – halved
150g baby carrots – scrubbed but not peeled, halved lengthways
150g baby turnips – trimmed
150g baby beetroots – cut in half
150g courgettes – cut in half, leave raw
Dressing
100g blanched hazelnuts – roasted and roughly chopped
2 tablespoons mustard
2 teaspoons honey
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
200g soft cream cheese
2 tablespoons each fresh mint leaves and basil leaves- leave whole Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1) Make the dressing by combining all the ingredients together. Set aside.
2) Cook the baby potatoes in boiling water for about 8- 10 minutes or until soft. Drain and set aside.
3) Cook the carrots, beetroots and turnips by either steaming for 8 minutes or cooking in boiling water. (Cook separately)
4) Combine all the cooked vegetables and raw baby courgettes in a salad bowl.
5) Stir the dressing into the cooked vegetables.
6) Season the cream cheese with salt and pepper and dollop onto the cooled salad.
To serve the stylish way: Sprinkle with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Manchester City wrapped up the Premier League title without kicking a ball last week.
Pep Guardiola rang the changes for a routine victory over Chelsea at the Etihad Stadium after Arsenal failed to win at Nottingham Forest.
City have won five titles in the last six seasons as they continue to dominate the English game.
With the first leg of the treble settled City will look to defeat Manchester United in the FA Cup final and Inter Milan in the Champions League final next month.
City sharpshooter Erling Haaland is running out of games to match or better Everton legend Dixie Dean’s all-time
record of 60 goals 96 years ago. Given Guardiola only allowed him 15 minutes against Chelsea it seems doubtful he will rewrite the record books but he has set a modern day mark.
Away from the title race, which failed to spark in the end due to the Gunners poor end of season form, bar a freak set of results United will join City, Arsenal and Newcastle United in the Champions League next season.
Liverpool and Brighton will play in the Europa League. West Ham will join them should they defeat Fiorentina in the Europa Conference final. Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur and Brentford will battle it out to take part in the Conference competition next time around.
The relegation battle goes to the final
day but Everton are favourites to survive following the weekend’s results. As Everton scrambled a last minute injury time draw at Wolves, Leeds United went down to a dispiriting 3-1 defeat at West Ham and Leicester City failed to get the better of Newcastle in the Monday night fixture. Southampton have already dropped into the Championship.
Should Everton defeat Bournemouth at Goodison Park, Leeds and Leicester, who host Tottenham and West Ham respectively, will be relegated.
After the last round of fixtures, all eyes will focus on City’s attempt to match Sir Alex Ferguson’s treble-winning team of 1999.
United will be desperate to win the FA Cup at Wembley following their EFL Cup
success against Newcastle in March as it will deny Guardiola and co a chance of emulating their historic feat.
But given City’s run of form, and strength in depth of a stellar squad, Erik ten Hag’s side are up against it. However on the day anything can happen. Should United shock their seemingly unstoppable neighbours the first ever Manchester ‘derby’ FA Cup final will head to Old Trafford.
City though have other ideas before they attempt to land the ‘big one’ for the first time in their history when they face Inter Milan at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul.
Guardiola, for all his successes as a manager with 34 major titles under his belt, knows he will be defined at City by triumphing on the biggest stage of all. He has lifted the iconic trophy twice with Barcelona. At Bayern Munich he won honours galore but failed in Europe. Victory over Inter Milan will cement City’s status at the top table.
