The Jewish Weekly Issue 208

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ALTA O”H LOSES HER FIGHT FOR LIFE

EDITORIAL, BY YOSSI SAUNDERS

Alta Fixsler’s parents did everything they could. They fought heroically, taking on courts and Governments around the world. All they wanted was some humanity for their desperately ill daughter. They didn’t find it in the courts or corridors of power in Westminster but they did find it in the common man.

The thousands of men and women around the world who donated hundreds of thousands of pounds to help cover legal fees and the rest of their expenses to take on the ‘compassionate’ hospital who cared so deeply for Alta’s pain that they wanted her dead as soon as

was ready at a few hours notice to fly from New York to take Alta out of her hospital prison. Ultimately all in vain.

It was heartbreaking on Monday night when the news was confirmed to me by a close confidant of the family. All the intense efforts of so many people around the globe, all fallen on the deaf ears of our government, who are too busy drinking the night away at party conferences to care about prolonging a little girl’s life, PHOTO: YWN a family’s hope and prayer. A secular Jewish newspaper in ‘humanely’ possible.

British politicians turned a blind this country published an article eye as dozens of their American recently in which the writer stated counterparts signed letters to get that due to Israel’s treatment of the Alta a visa to come to the USA. Palestinians, they were ‘ashamed Israeli hospitals also said they to be Jewish.’ I am now ‘ashamed would take her. A Hatzolah plane to be British.’

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II DEFICIENCY CONGENITAL AMEGAKARYOCYTIC THROMBOCYTOPENIA CONGENITAL DISORDER OF GLYCOSYLATION IA CYSTIC FIBROSIS DIHYDROLIPAMIDE DEHYDROGENASE DEFICIENCY FAMILIAL DYSAUTONOMIA FANCONI ANAEMIA C FUMARASE DEFICIENCY GALACTOSEMIA GLYCOGEN STORAGE DISEASE 1A GLYCOGEN STORAGE DISEASE TYPE VII JOUBERT Jnetics is now offering testingSYNDROME 2 MAPLE SYRUP URINE DISEASE TYPE 1B MUCOLIPIDOSIS IV NEMALINE MYOPATHY 2 NIEMANN PICK DISEASE POLYCYSTIC KIDNEY DISEASE, AUTOSOMAL RECESSIVE PRIMARY CILIARY for genetic disorders.

DYSKINESIA SMITH-LEMLI-OPITZ SYNDROME TRYOSINEMIA TYPE 1 USHER SYNDROME TYPE IF USHER SYNDROME TYPE IIIA WALKER-WARBURG SYNDROME ZELLWEGER SYNDROME SPECTRUM (PEX2-RELATED) GLYCOGEN about STORAGE For more information theDISEASE TYPE II/POMPE DISEASE SPINAL MUSCULAR ATROPHY TAY SACHS DISEASE USHER SYNDROME TYPE 2 FRAGILE X SYNDROME ACUTE INFANTILE LIVER FAILURE ASPARAGINE SYNTHETASE enhancedFANCONI screening programme DEFICIENCY COSTEFF OPTIC ATROPHY SYNDROME CYSTINOSIS ANEMIA, COMPLEMENTATION GROUP A GLYCOGEN STORAGE DISEASE visit jnetics.org/screening TYPE III INFANTILE CEREBRAL CEREBELLAR ATROPHY MEGALENCEPHALIC LEUKOENCEPHALOPATHY WITH SUBCORTICAL CYSTS METACHROMATIC LEUKODYSTROPHY MITOCHONDRIAL COMPLEX I DEFICIENCY OMENN SYNDROME PROGRESSIVE CEREBELLO-CEREBRAL ATROPHY 1 PROGRESSIVE Registered Charity No. 1134935 CEREBELLO-CEREBREAL ATROPHY 2 WOLMAN DISEASE/CHOLESTERYL ESTER STORAGE DISEASE ZELLWEGER SYNDROME SPECTRUM (PEX6-

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Jnetics launches new expanded testing panel

ABCC8-RELATED HYPERINSULINISM BARDET-BIEDL SYNDROME BLOOM SYNDROME CANAVAN DISEASE CARNITINE PALMITOYLTRANSFERASE II DEFICIENCY CONGENITAL AMEGAKARYOCYTIC THROMBOCYTOPENIA CONGENITAL DISORDER OF GLYCOSYLATION IA CYSTIC FIBROSIS DIHYDROLIPAMIDE DEHYDROGENASE DEFICIENCY FAMILIAL DYSAUTONOMIA FANCONI ANAEMIA C FUMARASE DEFICIENCY GALACTOSEMIA GLYCOGEN STORAGE DISEASE 1A GLYCOGEN STORAGE DISEASE TYPE VII JOUBERT SYNDROME 2 MAPLE SYRUP URINE DISEASE TYPE 1B MUCOLIPIDOSIS IV NEMALINE MYOPATHY 2 NIEMANN PICK DISEASE POLYCYSTIC KIDNEY DISEASE, AUTOSOMAL RECESSIVE PRIMARY CILIARY DYSKINESIA SMITH-LEMLI-OPITZ SYNDROME TRYOSINEMIA TYPE 1 USHER SYNDROME TYPE IF USHER SYNDROME TYPE IIIA WALKER-WARBURG SYNDROME ZELLWEGER SYNDROME SPECTRUM (PEX2-RELATED) GLYCOGEN STORAGE DISEASE TYPE II/POMPE DISEASE SPINAL MUSCULAR ATROPHY TAY SACHS DISEASE USHER SYNDROME TYPE 2 FRAGILE X SYNDROME ACUTE INFANTILE LIVER FAILURE ASPARAGINE SYNTHETASE DEFICIENCY COSTEFF OPTIC ATROPHY SYNDROME CYSTINOSIS FANCONI ANEMIA, COMPLEMENTATION GROUP A GLYCOGEN STORAGE DISEASE TYPE III INFANTILE CEREBRAL CEREBELLAR ATROPHY MEGALENCEPHALIC LEUKOENCEPHALOPATHY WITH SUBCORTICAL CYSTS METACHROMATIC LEUKODYSTROPHY MITOCHONDRIAL COMPLEX I DEFICIENCY OMENN SYNDROME PROGRESSIVE CEREBELLOCEREBRAL ATROPHY 1 PROGRESSIVE CEREBELLO-CEREBREAL ATROPHY 2 WOLMAN DISEASE/CHOLESTERYL ESTER STORAGE DISEASE ZELLWEGER SYNDROME SPECTRUM (PEX6-RELATED)

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From early October, Jnetics, the only UK charity dedicated to the management and prevention of genetic disorders prevalent in the mainstream Jewish community, increased its testing panel to 47 conditions.

A genetic disorder is a condition that is caused by an abnormality in an individual’s DNA. Lots of different disorders are now known to be caused by this, and more are being discovered all the time. Jewish genetic disorders (JGDs) are genetic disorders which are more common in people who have Jewish ancestry than in the general population. This does not mean that only Jewish people are affected, but it does mean that people who are Jewish, or are of Jewish descent, have an increased risk of having one of these conditions. It is estimated that 1 in 5 individuals of Jewish origin is a carrier for one or more severe recessive Jewish genetic disorders.

Previously the Jnetics’ test only screened for carriers of 9 Jewish genetic conditions affecting the Ashkenazi population. These conditions included Tay-Sachs Disease, Cystic Fibrosis, Familial Dysautonomia, Canavan Disease, Glycogen Storage Disease, Fanconi Anaemia Type C, Niemann-Pick Diease type A, Bloom Syndrom and Mucolipidosis IV. The new test covers 47 JGDs including 28 conditions common in the Ashkenazi population, 15 common in the Sephardi and Mizrahi communities and 5 conditions common in all populations (To learn more about the conditions: https://www.jnetics.org/wp-content/ uploads/2021/08/Disorder-Table-for-Website_with-cf-populations-and-short-description.pdf) “The additional 38 conditions are similar in nature to the 9 disorders on our old ‘test’ – severely debilitating, incurable, life threatening

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and life shortening. Guila Vaz Mouyal – Research Development and Outreach Manager explained “Many of these conditions are fatal in childhood. Since they are all inherited recessively, they are entirely preventable via carrier screening. The more recently added conditions have been selected under the expertise of our science and medical advisory board, as well as our clinical and laboratory partners” “The opportunity to expand our test came about in March 2020, when we changed laboratory partners. Our new partner is able to provide a test covering an increased number of disorders, at no extra cost. The new lab partnership has therefore enabled us to do something we have wanted to for some years; to include disorders relevant to the Sephardi and Mizrahi population too – making our test more inclusive of the whole UK Jewish community” Guila concluded.

Nicole Gordon CEO explained, “This is a hugely exciting development in the history of Jnetics. The panel has been increased to include further conditions prevalent in the Ashkenazi community, and for the first time we will include conditions prevalent in the Sephardi and Mizrahi communities. We are now encouraging any young Jewish adults with at least one Jewish grandparent to come forward and be tested”. All these disorders are recessive conditions, meaning there is only a 1 in 4 chance of having an affected child if both parents carry the faulty gene. Carriers of the faulty gene are NOT affected.

Testing identifies carriers - those at risk of having a child in the future who is affected by one of these severe disorders. Therefore, screening for Jewish genetic disorders is relevant for anyone aged over 16 who has

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ABCC8-RELATED HYPERINSULINISM BARDET-BIEDL SYNDROME BLOOM SYNDROME CANAVAN DISEASE CARNITINE PALMITOYLTRANSFERASE II DEFICIENCY CONGENITAL AMEGAKARYOCYTIC THROMBOCYTOPENIA CONGENITAL DISORDER OF GLYCOSYLATION IA CYSTIC FIBROSIS DIHYDROLIPAMIDE DEHYDROGENASE DEFICIENCY FAMILIAL DYSAUTONOMIA FANCONI ANAEMIA C FUMARASE DEFICIENCY GALACTOSEMIA GLYCOGEN STORAGE DISEASE 1A GLYCOGEN STORAGE DISEASE TYPE VII JOUBERT SYNDROME 2 MAPLE SYRUP URINE DISEASE TYPE 1B MUCOLIPIDOSIS IV NEMALINE MYOPATHY 2 NIEMANN PICK DISEASE POLYCYSTIC KIDNEY DISEASE, AUTOSOMAL RECESSIVE PRIMARY CILIARY DYSKINESIA SMITH-LEMLI-OPITZ SYNDROME TRYOSINEMIA TYPE 1 USHER SYNDROME TYPE IF USHER SYNDROME Jnetics TYPE is now IIIA WALKER-WARBURG SYNDROME ZELLWEGER SYNDROME offering testing for 47 geneticDISEASE disorders.

SPECTRUM (PEX2-RELATED) GLYCOGEN STORAGE more information TYPE II/POMPE DISEASE SPINAL MUSCULARFor ATROPHY TAY the enhanced SACHS DISEASE USHER SYNDROME TYPE 2about FRAGILE X screening programme visit SYNDROME ACUTE INFANTILE LIVER FAILURE ASPARAGINE jnetics.org/screening SYNTHETASE DEFICIENCY COSTEFF OPTIC ATROPHY SYNDROME CYSTINOSIS FANCONI ANEMIA, COMPLEMENTATION GROUP A GLYCOGEN STORAGE DISEASE TYPE III INFANTILE CEREBRAL CEREBELLAR ATROPHY MEGALENCEPHALIC LEUKOENCEPHALOPATHY WITH SUBCORTICAL CYSTS METACHROMATIC LEUKODYSTROPHY MITOCHONDRIAL COMPLEX I DEFICIENCY OMENN SYNDROME PROGRESSIVE CEREBELLOCEREBRAL ATROPHY 1 PROGRESSIVE CEREBELLO-CEREBREAL ATROPHY 2 WOLMAN DISEASE/CHOLESTERYL ESTER STORAGE DISEASE ZELLWEGER SYNDROME SPECTRUM (PEX6-RELATED) at least one Jewish grandparent, whether they are Ashkenazi, Sephardi or Mizrahi. It is particularly recommended for people who are planning to start or expand their existing family. Couples who have already completed their family can also be tested to enable them to inform their own children if there is an increased genetic risk.

Carriers are at risk of having an affected child if their partner is a carrier for the same disorder too. For so-called ‘carrier couples’, being aware of their status is the first crucial step in accessing the reproductive options available for them to manage their risk of passing on the disorder to their future children. This is precisely what testing achieves and why it is so important.

The test itself is a simple spit test, which since the onset of Covid-19, is carried out virtually via 5 simple steps. First step, book test online, second a screening pack is sent to the person’s home, then an appointment is booked with the genetic counsellor in which the spit test is carried out, the test is then sent to the Jnetics office and 6-8 weeks later the person receives the results. Jnetics works in conjunction with the NHS, ensuring that if a couple are both found to be carriers of the same genetic conditions, they can be streamlined into the NHS system.

Jnetics adopts a three-fold strategy to ensure they can educate and test as many young adults with one Jewish grandparent as possible. Jnetics educates and screens year 12 students across 9 mainstream Jewish secondary schools “after 18 months of not being able to screen in schools due to Covid we are so excited to restart the schools’ programme this autumn term” Nicole Gordon CEO explained.” It is hugely important that we educate and screen as many school students, and their parents as possible in order to shift the mindset of the Jewish Community, with regards to screening for recessive Jewish Genetic Disorders” Secondly, since the onset of Covid, Jnetics introduced a virtual university screening

programme, ‘Jnetics on Campus’. This enabled them to screen larger numbers of Jewish students at universities across the UK than ever before. “This coming November we are aiming to screen over 300 students across circa 60 Universities in the UK” Greg Blank Jnetics Programme’s manager explained.

The University Screening programme is the single biggest screening event we run during the year.

Finally, Jnetics screen young Jewish couples through the Jnetics clinic. The clinic runs every second and third Thursday of the month. Early booking is advised. To book: www.jnetics.org/screening/ “The universities programme is free to all UK Jewish students, whilst the schools programme and the Jnetics Clinic are heavily subsidised. We must work exceptionally hard to raise the funds each year to ensure we can continue to deliver our screening programme across all channels” Nicole Gordon, CEO explained.” The cost of every individual we screen is £300. Raising these funds during Covid times has been exceptionally challenging. We are extremely grateful to the wider community for their ongoing support of Jnetics. We receive no government support, so community support ensures that we can continue to deliver our mission “ Jnetics enjoys a wide range of fundraising and outreach activities during the year to ensure they can raise these vital funds. From the annual Jneticycle challenge event to Babka bakes and virtual gin tasting there is something for everybody! For further information on how you can support jnetics visit: https:// www.jnetics.org/donate/ “Currently, so many health issues are beyond our control. Screening for Jewish Genetic Disorders and managing the risk of having a child with one of the severe life threatening and or life shortening genetic disorders that we screen for is not “- Nicole Gordon, CEO concluded.

For further information on Jnetics visit www. jnetics.org or email Guila on guila@jnetics.org

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A tribute to Sir David Amess from Michael Nelkin, President of Southend & Westcliff Hebrew Congregation

Alta Fixsler o”h and Sir David Amess… two tragic losses in one week OPINION PIECE

BY COUNCILLOR, RABBI ARNOLD SAUNDERS

Left to right: Rabbi Geoffrey Hyman, Sir David Amess, Michael Nelkin

“As a Community, we are so saddened by the very tragic and sudden loss of Sir David Amess who was a great and loyal friend to the Southend & Westcliff Hebrew Congregation and the wider Jewish Community. It is our intention to hold a memorial service in honour of his memory as soon as we receive a suitable date from his family and civic dignitaries.

Sir David had time for everyone. He was a passionate supporter of our Community functions and events whether it be Holocaust Memorial Day, Chanukah parties, Jewish Community Centre and many of our local charities which helped raise thousands of pounds. Our thoughts and prayers are with his dear wife and family at this most awful time.”

21 OCTOBER 2021

I was shocked and saddened to learn of the murder of Sir David Amess MP last Friday.

I had indeed only seen him 10 days previously at The Conservative Party Conference in Manchester. I was just behind him as we walked into the auditorium for the Prime Minister’s keynote speech that closed the Conference on the Wednesday. He was his usual cheerful and chirpy self talking to colleagues all the way to his seat.

I always enjoyed listening to his speeches, comments and questions in Parliament. It is because of MPs like him that I am so glad the Thatcher Government first allowed the broadcasting of Parliament ( audio only and not live- if my memory serves me correctly!).

He frequently referenced his constituency or his constituents in his speeches. His speeches were poignant, humorous and invariably well thought out.

He was a great friend of the Jewish Community, both in his constituency and beyond. He was also a good friend of Israel.

Interestingly, his “patch” included the relatively new Charedi Kehilla that has sprung up in Westcliffe.

Sadly, he wasn’t the only Tory MP to pass away recently. In very different circumstances, James Brokenshire died a few weeks ago. He was a former Secretary of State for Northern Ireland as well as serving as Communities, Housing and Local Government Secretary. It was whilst serving in the latter role that he was a Guest of Honour at the Chief Rabbi’s annual pre Yamim Noraim Conference for Rabbonim a few years ago.

Not only did his speech show what a true friend he was to the Jewish Community but when I engaged him in conversation later about a controversial issue, he was most sympathetic and helpful.

My thoughts and prayers are with their families and friends and indeed I extend my condolences to them.

One of the saddest events of this week was the passing of my ward constituent, little Alta Fixsler. The story is well documented so I shan’t go over it in detail. Indeed this newspaper - and others - were in the vanguard

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of the campaign to “save” her from the the devastating ruling of the Court. The Jewish Weekly is proud that it started the petition that reached over 50 thousand signatures.

Alas, to no avail! Efforts were made to ask the Government to intervene. Even the Israeli Government and the Embassy of Israel made attempts in this respect. However, the Government were in a very difficult position.

I believe that had they intervened, the hospital or Court would immediately have sought a Judicial Review, which in all likelihood would have ruled that the Government do not have the power to overrule the Court.

Indeed the independence and supremacy of the courts is a cornerstone of the British Constitution. Anyone who doubts what I am saying need only refer to the ruling of the Supreme Court in 2019 declaring the Prorogation of Parliament illegal ( as well as countless other less well known decisions such as those preventing the deportation of illegal immigrants or criminals!)

Wearing my other yarmulke as a rabbi as opposed to a politician, I would just like to point out that in general terms, the subject of “ end of life care” is complex and a Rav should always be consulted about any decisions that the family are asked to make.

However, there is absolutely no heter (license in Jewish law) to actively switch off a life support machine! I believe we need to enshrine in law the rights of parents and families to be taken into account- particularly in a case where treatment has been offered in another country!

I wish her dear parents and family a Chaim Aruchim.

I am looking forward to participating in the events - discussed elsewhere in this editionto commemorate the 1st yahrzeit of the late Rabbi Sachs z”l. I will be the guest speaker at an online shiur at my son Rabbi Zeev’s Shul in Delray Beach, Florida. It will be accessible online live- but be warned- it commences Tuesday morning at 12 30 am GMT! Councillor Rabbi Arnold Saunders is a former rabbi of the Higher Crumpsall and Higher Broughton Synagogue in Manchester. He is now a “freelance rabbi”, Chaplain to Newlands Care Home and sits as a Conservative Councillor on Salford City Council representing the Kersal and Broughton Park Ward.

WHAT’S INSIDE THIS WEEK 04 News 15 Opinion 16 Games 18 Community 26 Feature

28 Cookery 30 Judaism 36 Kids 38 Youth

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Crowdfunder

31 OCTOBER - 1 NOVEMBER 2021 in memory of Lord Rabbi Jonathan Sacks z’l.

An avid supporter of British Emunah who with his family, set up music therapy programmes in our centres.

Not all injuries can be seen.

Psychological damage may be invisible but it’s very real.

Each year, across Israel, thousands of children and families suffer from devastating socio-economic problems and many are at-risk and vulnerable. Though most of us never see this first-hand, Emunah absolutely sees the need every day, responding and acting to improve lives wherever and whenever it can.

By supporting our crowdfunding campaign on Sunday 31st October and 1st November, you can ensure that every child and family that need help will be seen and supported.

Donate at emunah.org.uk/crowdfunder or call 020 8203 6066

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21 OCTOBER 2021

BY DAVID SAFFER Israel marked the 26th anniversary of the assassination of former Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin with a series of commemoration ceremonies this week.

Rabin was murdered after a peace rally in on November 5 1995 by right-wing extremist Yigal Amir.

An annual state memorial service took place at President Isaac Herzog’s residence on Monday. Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, Defence Minister Benny Gantz, Supreme Court Judge Anat Baron, dignitaries and family members attended.

Former Prime Ministers Ehud Barak and Ehud Olmert, former president Reuven Rivlin, Diaspora Affairs Minister Nachman Shai, Culture Minister Hili Tropper, Public Security Minister Omer Barlev, Transportation Minister Merav Michaeli and Deputy Knesset Speaker Eitan Ginzburg were present.

“This day is meant to ring the bells for all of us, year after year for a lifetime,” said Herzog. “The significance of political assassination in the sovereign State of Israel is meant to warn us all of the terrible extremism that can be reached when substantive and legitimate disputes move side by side and turn into hatred, which is accompanied by incessant incitement.”

Four generations of the Rabin family were headed by Rachel Yaakov, the 96-year-old sister of Rabin.

Two of his great-grandchildren joined Herzog in lighting a memorial candle. Rabin’s grandson Yonatan Ben Artzi spoke on behalf of the family.

The anniversary, he said left no Israeli untouched, but it was a daily loss for the Rabin family.

Rabin is the only prime minister of Israel to be assassinated. Herzog noted that next year Israel will mark the 100th anniversary of Rabin’s birth.

The official state ceremony for the former statesman took place at Mount Herzl National Cemetery. The ceremony honours Yitzhak and Leah Rabin.

Herzog, Bennett and Rabin’s daughter, Dalia, gave addresses.

Opposition leader Benjamin Netanyahu did not attend the Mount Herzl ceremony.

“According to the protocol, the opposition leader will speak at the Knesset meeting in memory of Rabin,” said his office.

The leader of the opposition does not have to attend. But media speculation noted tensions between Netanyahu and Rabin family aside from confrontations between the two parties at past ceremonies.

A special session took place at the Knesset with Bennett, Foreign Minister Yair Lapid, Netanyahu, Gantz and Justice Minister Gideon Sa’ar among speakers.

Supreme Court Chief Esther Hayut and the Rabin family attended the session which saw political rhetoric and snipes at political opponents by MKs. Knesset Speaker Mickey Levy opened the session with a minute’s silence.

Levy recalled the three shots fired at Kings of Israel Plaza (where Rabin was assassinated) as they “still resonate within the walls of this house and Israeli society 26 years later”.

Levy added that the assassination was a “traumatic event” that had left a “permanent wound in the heart of Israeli

Yitzhak Rabin z”l

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

Israel remembers Rabin in series of ceremonies democracy” which had still not healed.

“Something in the innocence of political life in Israel broke that night and was gone forever because since that night on, we know this could happen,” he said.

Bennett did not want Rabin’s memory to belittle Israel’s political right and religious citizens.

“We must not silence entire sections of our society, we must not vilify an entire community because one individual committed a crime,” he said. “Neither the right assassinated Rabin nor the religious.”

Bennett added that Israelis must learn to bridge differences without violence.

Lapid lambasted far-right MKs in attendance, labelling them Amir’s “ideological heirs”. He explained, “Had we not performed the miracle of the ‘change government’ they would be ministers in the government.”

A tense atmosphere saw Zionist Party leader Bezalel Smotrich and Shas Chairman Arye Deri heckle Lapid prior to being ejected from the session.

Lapid went on to attack the opposition as being uninterested in democracy or national unity.

“Rabin’s assassination was the assassination of Israeli democracy,” he noted. “In recent years, there has been an attempt to assassinate it through other means.

We prevented it at the last minute. Out of commitment, out of patriotism, out of an understanding that what happened cannot happen again. And I want to tell the anti-democratic forces among us. We will be here for a long time.”

Netanyahu criticised Lapid for his comments.

“In a democratic regime it is the right and duty of the opposition to sharply criticise the government, but look what happens here,” he said. “There is one side, it does not matter if it is in the opposition or coalition, that everything it says and does, no matter how extreme, is regarded as symbols of our statehood, democracy and freedom of expression. On the other hand, there is another side that also expresses legitimate

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positions that represent the majority of the Israeli public but is regarded as dangerous and inciteful.”

Netanyahu condemned people who had used Rabin’s assassination to attack the Israeli political right since his death.

“Over the years, I have heard abusive and false claims hurled at the camp I represent and me personally at these events,” he explained. “But I gritted my teeth, I restrained myself. I have fulfilled my duty to be there as Prime Minister in accordance with the state protocol. Of course, when I came, they asked why I came, and now that I did not come, they ask why I did not come. There are opposition leaders here who have boycotted other days of remembrance and are not talked about.”

Netanyahu added that his party had treated Rabin with respect.

Before the Knesset event, Levy met Rabin’s family members at his chambers.

An initiative at the Knesset has seen around 70,000 pictures by Knesset photographer Yitzhak Harari archived. Harari worked in the parliament for four decades.

Among his photos is rare footage of Yitzhak Rabin’s funeral.

“This project is another piece in the national memory puzzle and it is extremely important to preserve it,” said Levy. “It is not possible to remain indifferent to these photos, even after 26 years, you can still feel the intensity of emotions that shook an entire country.”

The series of memorial events started with a military ceremony by the Council of Zionist Israeli Pre-Army Preparation Programs titled Debate as Brothers on Sunday.

Participants included Bennett, Rabbi Yaakov Ariel, Professor Yuli Tamir and poet Eliaz Cohen.

Rabin’s murder was one of the most “formative and difficult events” as a nation said Bennett.

“As a society, we learned how dangerous incitement and hatred can be. But we also learned another lesson, the danger in slandering entire populaces, and how damaging stereotypes can be by pushing away the other.”

Bennett added. “I remember the hardships aimed at the religious Zionist community. This is precisely why I returned the kippa to my head. It was my personal response, and it brought with it an important insight. To do everything in my power in order to bring people closer, remove barriers and encourage unity. We are one nation. These are not slogans, they are our prerogative.”

Gantz at the “Remember in Song” ceremony in Gan Shmuel said that as a national leader Rabin saw security challenges and the importance of reaching out a “strong and confident hand” to the country’s Arab citizens.

“We have a mission to connect the Arab community, make it a part of us, and provide all its needs,” said Gantz.

Other events to remember Rabin included conferences, school lectures, Rabin Centre tours and peace dialogues in Rabin Square.

Memorial events continue until November 4, the Gregorian calendar anniversary of Rabin’s death.

Rabin served in the War of Independence, was Chief of Staff in the Six Day War, Israel’s Ambassador to Washington, Prime Minister, Defence Minister and a Nobel Peace Prize winner.

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21 OCTOBER 2021

Murdered MP was a “real mensch”

BY ADAM MOSES Jewish leaders have paid tribute to Sir David Amess MP following his shocking murder last week.

The Conservative politician was an MP since 1983. He was meeting constituents in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, last Friday when he was stabbed multiple times.

A 25-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of the Southend West MP’s murder. Police are treating his death as a terrorist incident. His death follows that of Labour MP for Batley and Spen, Jo Cox, murdered in 2016 on route to a constituency surgery.

Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis said the incident was an attack on the whole country.

Marie van der Zyl, Board of Deputies president, said the organisation was “devastated”.

“Such violence is an intolerable affront to our democracy and must be met with the full force of the law,” she said. “We will never forget Sir David’s long and deep friendship to our community.”

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA Sir David Amess The All-Party Parliamentary Group Against Antisemitism hailed Amess respected MP and great friend of Israel, as “a long-standing and active member” serving as a parliamentary officer of CFI in of the group. CFI said he was a popular, the 1990s.

El Al in acquisition talks El Al is in talks with rival carrier Arkia.

No binding agreement has been signed but in exchange it will issue its own shares to Arkia shareholders.

El Al changed ownership and management last year following a government bailout and

now operates a reduced fleet of 25 aircraft.

Arkia has a fleet of seven aircraft, which it uses to operate domestic and European routes.

In 2018, El Al tried to buy Israir, but the country’s competition regulator would not approve the merger.

Seven nations take part in Negev exercises

BY SIMCHA ABIR Israel Air Force’s international Blue Flag training exercise began last Sunday.

Air forces from seven other nations participated. The most advanced aerial exercise held in Israel to date is taking place in the Negev desert. The event, launched in 2013, is held every two years to strengthen cooperation between nations.

Air forces of Germany, Italy, Britain, France, India, Greece and the US took part in the drill.

The IAF’s Sufa F-16I squadrons, led by the 115th “Flying Dragon” aggressor squadron are the “red” enemy force. A Yahalom Patriot battery will join the enemy simulation force.

Drills focus on fourth and fifth-generation aircraft, including the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, in operational scenarios.

For the first time, international teams will conduct an honorary flyover in Israel’s skies.

Maj. Gen. Amikam Norkin, commander of the IAF, leadsthe flyover.

“We are living in a very complicated region, the threats to the State of Israel from Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and Iran are only increasing,” Norkin reportedly said. “Holding an international exercise in this current reality, while continuing our public and covert operational activities on all fronts, is of utmost strategic importance and has an extensive impact over the Israeli Air Force, the IDF and State of Israel.”

German Air Force Commander Lt.-Gen. Ingo Gerhartz will fly alongside in the “Eagle Star” Eurofighter. The plane has been painted with Israeli and German flags.

Amess met Israel’s Ambassador to the UK Mark Regev on numerous occasions.

CFI Honorary President Lord Polak commented, “He loved visiting Israel and specifically Jerusalem. But I will never forget how he showed great leadership and tenacity in campaigning for the statue to be erected to Raoul Wallenberg in Marble Arch, a lasting legacy to David’s humanity.”

Holocaust Educational Trust’s Karen Pollock recalled Amess as a “long-time” supporter whilst Rabbi Geoffrey Hyman of Southend Synagogue described him as a “real mensch” who had a “very close relationship” with the Jewish community.

Amess, Rabbi Hyman added, was “supportive and sympathetic” to our members and causes.

The Jewish Leadership Council was shocked by the news.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said his death would leave a vacuum that can never be filled.

“We will cherish his memory, we will celebrate his legacy and we will never allow those who commit acts of evil to triumph,” he said. Johnson added that Amess used his decades of experience to offer friendship and support to members of all parties.

Labour leader Keir Starmer noted that Amess was “a dedicated Parliamentarian and his loss is felt profoundly across this house. “We are united in our grief at this

terrible time,” he added.

Amess admired the Jewish community and backed Holocaust education in his career. And he offered this view at a House of Commons debate to mark Holocaust Memorial Day last January.

“There is Jewish blood in each and every one of us,” the 69-year-old said. “I would certainly have been proud to have been born a Jew, I stand shoulder to shoulder with our local Jewish community.”

He added, “I simply do not understand and have never understood antisemitism.

The most important lesson from the Holocaust is that although we cannot police the world, it is simply not acceptable to stand by and do and say nothing when genocide happens.”

Amess backed the Raoul Wallenberg statue in 1997 to honour his work saving 100,000 Jews in Hungary. The memorial, Amess said, was one of his proudest moments. The Queen, Duke of Edinburgh and President of Israel unveiled the statue.

Amess attended an annual tree-planting event in Southend to commemorate the lives of those who died in the Holocaust and other genocides.

He was also honoured to lay a wreath and plant a tree at Yad Vashem and attended a celebration of Israel’s 70th Independence Day at a Southend synagogue in 2018.

Amess is survived by wife Julia and five children.

IFFSE condemns antisemitism and Islamophobia since Covid-19 outbreak

BY SIMCHA ABIR The Corona pandemic has led to a wave of antisemitism and Islamophobia online, according to a research study by the Institute for Freedom of Faith and Security in Europe.

Social media companies, including Facebook and Instagram, must do more to combat the spike according to the study presented in Brussels this week.

The initiative, led by the Conference of European Rabbis, states that content is rampant on social media platforms.

The report identifies conspiracy narratives that Jews benefited financially from the Corona pandemic.

Online hatred has also shown itself offline, according to the IFFSE study, particularly at rallies against Covid-19 lockdowns or vaccination campaigns.

Jewish and Muslim communities have come increasingly under threat as a result.

Chief Rabbi Goldschmidt, CER President has warned that the path from word to deed is getting shorter and the danger of becoming a victim of a physical or fatal attack through hate messages has increased.

“Operators of social networks and messenger services still do too little to

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sufficiently delete ‘fake news’ and hate messages and still offer too large a platform for conspiracy theorists, Islam haters and anti-Semites,” he said. “The transport of hate and crude conspiracy theories must no longer be a profitable business model.”

During the presentation of the report, Daniel Hoeltgen, the Council of Europe, said that the commitment of platform operators in this field been half-hearted.

Illka Salmi, EU Counter-Terrorism Co-ordinator, noted that regulation is crucial.

“The European Commission’s Digital Service Act is a big step forward in curbing this problem,” he said.

In terms of countermeasures, the report lists recommendations for social networks, governments and civil society.

Antisemitic and Islamophobic content on Facebook should be flagged as Covid-19 ‘fake news’.

Platforms should also co-operate more closely.

CER note activists exploit mainstream services by publishing ‘just acceptable’ content to attract users to more radical websites.

There has also been calls to punish severely antisemitic and Islamophobic hate speech online whilst education must combat misinformation and racist conspiracies.

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Powell was a “true friend” and “mensch” to Israel

BY DAVID SAFFER Foreign Minister Yair Lapid joined world leaders in paying tribute to former U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell.

General Powell, 84, died from Covid-19 complications despite being fully vaccinated, his family said.

The first African American to serve as national security advisor, military Chief of Staff and Secretary of State, Powell helped broker the much publicised “road map” to a two-state peace deal, which is still being debated today.

Powell backed the 2003 invasion of Iraq, a decision he later regretted, and oversaw the Persian Gulf war after Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein invaded Kuwait in 1991.

Lapid expressed condolences to the family on behalf of the State of Israel.

“Throughout his distinguished military and diplo- Sweden’s Foreign Minister Ann Linde matic career, General Powell was a true friend and committed partner of experience with the owner of Siskser’s and Israel,” he said. “May his memory be for a Jewish neighbours. blessing.”

“In his life, he came to admire the Jewish Powell worked for Jewish-owned baby fur- people and even learned a great deal of Yidniture Siskser’s store in the heart of the Bronx dish,” commented Lauder.

Jewish community when he studied at the The WJC honoured Powell with its highest City College of New York. The teen student honour, the Theodor Herzl award in 2017. learnt Yiddish in the business’ heyday when In his acceptance speech, Powell rememhe also worked as a ‘Shabbes goy’ turning on bered his days in the Bronx fondly and talked about G.I.s who liberated the death camps. electricity for Orthodox families.

When he met Prime Minister Yitzhak “He had a strong sense of realism and adShamir before the 1991 Gulf War, he said to a mitted that “antisemitism has never gone stunned Israeli leader “Men kent reden Yid- away,” added Lauder, who watched Powell’s career grow with “admiration, because of his dish!” (we can speak in Yiddish!).

The American-Israel Public Affairs Com- intelligence, integrity and courage”. He added, mittee was also a recipient of Powell’s Yiddish “Powell was a true mensch”. talent.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson described Powell was a “true friend” to Israel as noted Powell as an “internationally respected

by Israeli leaders. And he famously apolo- statesman”. gised to Jewish leaders when a volunteering “He leaves a lasting legacy and I’m sure initiative was held on Pesach under US Pres- his life will continue to be an inspiration to many,” noted Johnson. ident Bill Clinton.

Although he acknowledged Israel had a Former Prime Minister Tony Blair, who led right to respond to terrorism, he did clash the UK into the Iraq war, said Powell was a with former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon “towering figure” in American military and during Israel’s actions during the Second political leadership who “had so much to Intifada. And he shocked a section of Israeli give”.

“He was wonderful to work with, he insociety when he spoke of a Palestinian state in peace talks, partularly when the Oslo spired loyalty and respect and was one of Process did not clearly detail a Palestinian those leaders who always treated those under statehood. them with kindness and concern,” noted Blair.

World Jewish Congress President, Ronald Another former Prime Minister John Major, S. Lauder, described Powell as one of the US’ who led Britain into the first Gulf War, said finest military leaders, a great statesman and Powell was “one of the finest men I ever met” and “one of the finest Americans never to be friend of the Jewish people.

Powell, Lauder noted, never lost faith president”.

“Throughout his long and exceptionin America, and recalled as a high school student, how he enjoyed a very positive al career, Colin served with honour and

distinction,” noted Major.

US President Joe Biden called Powell a “patriot of unmatched honour and dignity”. Government flags are at half-staff.

“Over our many years working together, even in disagreement, Colin was always someone who gave you his best and treated you with respect,” Biden said.

“Colin embodied the highest ideals of both warrior and diplomat.”

Biden added that Powell’s “front-seat view of history” from advising presidents and shaping the country’s policies was underpinned by his democratic values.

“Time and again, he put country before self, before party, before all else, in uniform and out, and it earned him the universal respect of the American people,” noted Biden.

Vice President Kamala Harris praised Mr. Powell as PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK an “independent thinker” who inspired leaders.

Former President Bush paid tribute to a “great public servant” who was such a favourite of presidents he earned the Presidential Medal of Freedom twice.

Former President Barack Obama said Powell “understood what was best in this country.”

Condoleezza Rice, Powell’s successor as Secretary of State and first black woman in post role, called him “a truly great man”.

“Much of his legacy will live on in the countless number of young lives he touched,” she said.

Current Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Powell’s life was “a victory of the American Dream” because he never stopped believing in America.

“We believe in America in no small part” as it produced Powell, he noted.

“We have lost a remarkable and loving husband, father, grandfather and a great American,” the family said in a statement, thanking staff at the Walter Reed Medical Center for caring treatment.

Powell was diagnosed with a blood cancer that may have made him prone to Covid-19 symptoms, according to US media, and Parkinson’s disease.

Powell hailed from the Bronx, New York.

He was President Ronald Reagan’s national security adviser (1987-9), Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman (1989-93) under President George H.W. Bush, who commanded the first Gulf War; and Secretary of State under President George W. Bush (2001-5).

The son of Jamaican immigrants, Powell was a Vietnam hero then rose through the military ranks.

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21 OCTOBER 2021

CAA react to “Jesus killer” incident in Golders Green

PHOTO: GOOGLE

BY SIMCHA ABIR Campaign Against Antisemitism regret that no action was taken by a traffic warden when a man shouted at a Jewish driver parking his car in Golders Green.

The victim, who wears a kippah, was parking his car near Sainsbury’s. He unknowingly parked with his wheels slightly crossing into the disabled parking bay and began crossing the road. As he crossed, he heard a man reportedly shout “Look where he’s parked” and “Book him” to a nearby traffic warden.

The victim turned to walk back towards his car, realising his error, and offered to move it.

The man, however, continued shouting at him. The victim questioned what it had to do with him when the man reportedly shouted “Jesus killer” at him then continued ranting and swearing, even after the victim threatened to call the police.

The victim duly moved his car to another spot over the road and continued shopping.

Although not intimidated, the victim reported the incident around 11.30am on 17th October, to Jewish volunteer neighbourhood watch patrol Shomrim North West London.

A CAA spokesperson said, “Traffic disputes are unpleasant at the best of times, but there is no place for racist insults like ‘Jesus killer’. For all the appropriate emphasis on contemporary manifestations of antisemitism, age-old tropes like Jewish deicide also still retain currency. It is regrettable that the traffic warden took no action during the incident.”

The assailant was described as white, in his twenties or early thirties and about 6ft 1ins. He reportedly looked homeless and was later seen begging.

Anyone with information should email investigations@antisemitism.org

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21 OCTOBER 2021

Israel and Sweden hope to “strengthen relations”

BY DAVID SAFFER Israel and Sweden’s Foreign Ministers Yair Lapid and Ann Linde hope to “strengthen relations” between the countries after meeting in Jerusalem on Monday.

The ministers were holding the first direct talks between the countries since 2014.

Sweden’s Social Democratic-led government recognised Palestinian statehood seven years ago, the first major European country to do so since the Cold War. Israel and Sweden are at odds over the Palestinian conflict however Lapid and Linde held talks before the visiting dignitary had a meeting with President Isaac Herzog.

“Sweden is a friend of Israel,” Linde reportedly said. “We both see a real opportunity to deepen our dialogue further and develop longstanding cooperation when it comes to innovation, culture, and trade, as well as fighting antisemitism. I also learned Foreign Minister Lapid is a champion of women’s rights, and as a feminist foreign minister in a feminist government with a feminist foreign policy, I see here more opportunity for cooperation.”

“In our conversations, we agreed friends don’t have to agree on everything,” Lapid reportedly noted. “I appreciated what you told me, that behind the criticism lies a deep support for Israel’s security and the right of Jews to establish a state in our historic homeland.”

Lapid said he and Linde shared a “common desire” to advance economic and social potential aside from growing connections in technology and trade. “I believe that because of the page we are turning here today, there will be a whole new book of friendship and cooperation,” he noted.

Linde welcomed Israel’s role in the Abraham Accords in normalising agreements with Arab states.

“Sweden supports efforts at dialogue and understanding in the region,” she said. “Normalisation between Israel and Arab countries is truly positive for peace and security.”

Lapid recalled that Swedish diplomat Raoul Wallenberg saved thousands of Jews from the Nazis in Hungary, including his father, former justice minister Tommy Lapid.

Herzog hosted Linde at the President’s Residence and thanked her for continuing the fight against antisemitism. He also stressed the “indisputable fact” of Israel’s unique status as the State of the Jewish people.

Linde is the first Swedish foreign minister in a decade to visit Israel and called for a

“new beginning”. community to join forces in the fight Linde placed a wreath in memory of against this destructive and age-old the six million Jews killed by Nazi Gerphenomenon.”

Herzog spoke about the IHRA many at Yad Vashem. working definition of antisemitism “On behalf of Sweden, I promise that and called for international coopwe say, never again, and mean it,” she said. “We will continue to take action to eration to fight antisemitism. “Ancombat antisemitism in all its forms, to tisemitism is an infusion of hate make sure that we never forget.” into pockets of ignorance, a force of Sweden, meantime, hosted world destruction which wears down any virtue in its path,” he said. leaders at the Malmo gathering last week.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said there was intolerance Some 50 heads of state, foreign government ministers, European Union from the far Right and far Left.

Australian Prime Minister Scott officials and World Jewish Congress representatives attended.

Morrison vowed to stamp out antisemitism and his government would King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia of Sweden, UN Secretary General embrace the IHRA’s working definiAntonio Guterres, European Council tion taking the figure to over 40 naPresident Charles Michel, European tions around the globe.

Australia would adopt the definiJewish Congress President Moshe tion “as a people, and as a nation,” Cantor, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, French President Emmanuel he stated.

Macron, Canadian Prime Minister Jus“Antisemitism has no place in Australia, it has no place anywhere in the tin Trudeau, Diaspora Affairs Minister Nachman Shai, Yad Vashem Chairman world,” Morrison stressed. “We must Dani Dayan, Herzog and Holocaust work together, resolutely and as a survivors were amongst participants. global community to reject any word YouTube pledged over $5 million or any act that supports antisemitism towards individuals, towards comto fight online antisemitism whilst Facebook’s Sheryl Sandberg said her Sweden’s Foreign Minister Ann Linde PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK munities or religious facilities.” company was devoted to meticulously Zionist Federation of Australia reviewing content despite past issues.

“All schoolchildren must learn about the President Jeremy Leibler added, “The govThe forum did not end with a joint dec- Holocaust and understand how it came ernment has led the way, but those fighting laration. Swedish Prime Minister Stefan about and where hatred ultimately leads,” antisemitism in Australia should urge uniLofven called on leaders to discuss “con- Lauder said. “There is still so much to be versities, institutions and businesses across crete measures” to curb antisemitic inci- done. I am not naive, I realise the hatred of the country to adopt it as part of their andents and behaviour.

Jews has been with us for 2,000 years and ti-discrimination policies.”

In related news, Swedish media reports European Commission President Ursula will never completely go away. But we can von der Leyen introduced the newly adopt- do everything in our power to keep this vi- have illustrated that Jews are continuing to ed EU Strategy on Combating Antisemitism rus from spreading.” leave Malmo due to ongoing antisemitism. and Fostering Jewish Life (2021-2030) plan.

Lofven commented, “Every Shabbat can- Jewish students in a survey published by Leyen also proposed a Young European dle lit, every song in Yiddish or Ladino and the City of Malmo acknowledged being exAmbassadors for Holocaust Remembrance every Swedish Jew who wears a kippah or a posed antisemitic incidents at school. program.

Star of David with pride is a stance against “You are taking a risk when you walk Lofven has led Sweden since 2014 and de- hate.” around with a Star of David,” Frederik Sifended Israel’s right in armed conflicts with Shai said that Israel stood behind the eradzki, the spokesman for the Jewish Comthe Palestinians aside from regional areas. Malmo Jewish community. munity of Malmo organisation, reportedly Lofven yearns a legacy in defending Jews “It is the right of every Jewish individual said before the forum. during his tenure. He visited Auschwitz in to live full and proud Jewish lives wherevMalmo was a safe haven for Danish Jews 2017 and two years later on International er they choose,” he said. “Additionally, you in 1943 and in 1945, when it welcomed BerHolocaust Remembrance Day declared should have the opportunity to proudly gen-Belsen concentration camp evacuees.

Sweden would create a state museum ded- and actively have relationships with Israel Prior to the visit, Linde welcomed having icated to the Holocaust. a “normal relationship” at foreign minister without being questioned.”

In 2020, Sweden allocated over $1 million Dayan commented, “Against the back- level with Israel. to the initiative and announced a further drop of the alarming rise in antisemitism “This in itself is a new chapter in our $3.5 million to the National Historical Mu- worldwide, the Malmo forum provides an foreign policy dialogue,” she told Swedish important international platform to raise news agency TT. seums Agency.

WJC President Ronald Lauder, among global awareness of the need for Holocaust Lapid backed the importance of a “bilatother dignitaries, spoke at Malmo remembrance as well as an opportunity eral relationship” when the meeting was Synagogue. for government officials and the world announced.

Jews targeted more says govt report

BY BELLA WAXLER Jews are four times likelier than other faith groups to be targets of hate crimes according to an analysis by Campaign Against Antisemitism of new Home Office statistics.

Police forces across the country record hate crimes against Jews as religious hate

crimes.

Records show that in 2020/21, 1,288 hate crimes were committed against Jews.

Jews were the target in 20%, one in five, of the total number of religious hate crimes.

“Once again, Home Office figures show that Jews are far more likely to be victims of hate crimes than any other religious group,”

said a CAA spokesperson. “Contrast this with the pitiful number of prosecutions for antisemitic hate crimes, and it throws into high relief the failure of the Crown Prosecution Service to take proportionate action against racism directed at the Jewish community.”

CAA added, “With England and Wales’

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minuscule Jewish community suffering an average of more than three hate crimes every single day, identifying, prosecuting and punishing perpetrators is absolutely urgent.”

Hate crimes against Jews are believed to be under-reported and do not reflect antisemitic material and abuse on social media.

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21 OCTOBER 2021

CAA calls for action over hate posters

BY DAVID SAFFER Antisemitism in football has reared its ugly head again.

Millwall FC was forced to call out police after the south-east London club removed a poster provoking Tottenham Hotspur last week.

Action Against Discrimination swiftly backed the football club’s action over the racist poster.

AAD condemned a poster with the words “Achtung Juden”, German for “Attention Jews”, by the Millwall Berserkers hooligan group found near Millwall FC’s New Den stadium, which features the cockerel from Tottenham’s logo with its head detached from its body and lying in blood.

A comprehensive investigation in conjunction with the British Transport Police The offensive poster is taking place. Any individual or group club immediately reported to the British identified will be banned from the club for Transport Police,” the club noted in a statement. “Millwall will provide them with full life.

Millwall reiterated its stance of a zero-tol- and comprehensive cooperation with their erance policy against discrimination of any investigation and any individual or group kind. identified will be banned from the club for “This is a disgraceful action which the life.”

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Millwall FC Supporters Club condemned the poster, stating it “abhors any such comment or content”.

Such material has not been produced or distributed by anyone with the club’s knowledge, they added. “Whoever did so does not represent the Millwall fan base,” the club said.

Campaign Against Antisemitism has called on all football clubs to tackle racism in football.

“Racist hooliganism in football is, sadly, very much not a thing of the past,” said a CAA spokesperson. “This poster is a wake up call to Millwall FC to crack down on the Millwall Berserkers, who have a history of violence and an interest in Nazi motifs. Kicking racism out of football is a noble goal, and all clubs have a responsibility to do their part.”

The Berserkers’ Instagram page uploaded logos and posters, two resembling Nazi symbols.

PHOTO: CAA One poster displayed the words, “South London Hooligans” alongside an image of a bird that appears almost identical to a Nazi eagle.

Another logo appeared to use the Othala Rune, a symbol in the Runic alphabet co-opted by the Nazi Party and now a symbol of white supremacy.

AAD Chairman Jonathan Metliss applauded Millwall for removing the poster and a zero-tolerance policy against any kind of discrimination.

AAD also applauded Millwall’s Supporters Club for condemning the poster.

Metliss added, “AAD condemns other logos and posters bearing a striking resemblance to Nazi symbols on the Millwall Berserkers Instagram page. Sadly, this shows that we appear to have reached a new level of anti-Semitic hate, which must be addressed and the perpetrators identified.”

In other news, AAD has welcomed the Premier League initiative ‘No Room For Racism, anywhere’.

This weekend’s Premier League matches will be dedicated to the project.

“Let us hope that this initiative will also include action against antisemitism which remains rife in football and society in general, and which is so often ignored by the relevant football authorities, the clubs and the police,” said Metliss.

AAD also noted with regret an incident which occurred at the NFL game between Miami Dolphins and Jacksonville Jaguars at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday.

Reports surfaced that racially-abusive and intimidatory comments, including the word “Yiddo” were directed towards a North London Rabbi and his son who were at the game.

The matter is being investigated.

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OPINION

OPINION 15

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

Challenges to Shechita OPINION PIECE

BY SHIMON COHEN Brexit means Brexit, except I think we all now know that it doesn’t, apart from when it does. One area where Brexit actually does mean Brexit is in the laws that govern food production and that includes Shechita.

In the lead-up to the Brexit vote, I wrote that there seemed to be only one area of legislation that would directly affect our community when we finally exited the European Union. That was Shechita. Whilst we were still part of the EU, all our agriculture legislation was decided at an EU level. Any UK regulation was introduced via a Statutory Instrument, as for example, the Welfare of Animals at Time of Kill (2015) regulation, which ‘gold plated’ the European legislation for the UK and was introduced by the then Minister with little significant input from the Westminster Parliament or the Devolved Assemblies.

Therefore, as long as we had the support of the Government of the day, the derogation that allows religious communities to slaughter meat in their traditional way for their own food use, which was established in the 1930s, was safe. Brexit, however, has created a free for all and we are really going to have to fight to maintain our right to practice Shechita.

A huge amount of animal welfare legislation is making its way through Parliament for the first time in decades.

Each Bill gives an opportunity for amendment after amendment on Shechita. Since Shechita UK was founded more than 20 years ago, we have mapped every MP and Peer who has expressed an interest in Shechita, whether they are a supporter or not. This has made it possible to accurately predict where opposition comes from and enables us to act to mitigate it. In 2020 it was the Agriculture Bill, where we worked incredibly hard to fend off amendments on exports and pejorative labelling. Lord Palmer was hugely supportive as amendments were seen off in the House of Lords.

Another area that is now open for the Westminster Government to look at is food labelling. This covers all aspects of the label including any information regarding how an animal has been killed.

We are clear, whilst interested consumers are already able to access the information they require - either through hechsherim or other ‘farm assured’ schemes - we do not oppose labelling as long as it is fully completed, fair and not pejorative. The Government has launched a consultation on this subject and Shechita UK will be replying on behalf of the community.

This year, we have also worked with Baroness Deech and Lord Etherton to try and ensure that the Animal Sentience Bill passes without impacting us. Up until 31 January 2020 at 11:00 pm, Article 13 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union recognised animals as sentient beings. This Bill more or less mirrors that Treaty but has led to a huge amount

of scrutiny on Shechita. We are grateful that we have so many supporters in both Houses, but we also have opposition who would like to see more regulation on the non-mechanically stunned sector of the animal slaughter industry.

The main difference between Shechita and industrial methods of slaughter is how the animal is stunned. Mechanical methods, which may include asphyxiation by gas, electrocution by tongs or water or shooting by free projectile or with a captive bolt gun, all cause pain on application. Many people are unaware that these methods were not introduced for animal welfare reasons but were, however, originally conceived by large scale factory abattoirs in order to speed up the process and to stop the animal thrashing around at the point of slaughter so that the production line could be moved on more quickly.

By contrast, the Shechita process has to be accurate and methodical. Any animal or bird which is even slightly harmed prior to slaughter is not considered suitable for kosher consumption. Therefore, special care is taken to ensure that the animals are extremely well treated and calm ahead of slaughter, not only because it is mandated by Jewish law, but also because any other approach would make kosher meat production near to impossible. Our claims are all backed by leading scientists - both Jewish and non-Jewish - from universities including Cornell and Colorado State.

However, the law in this country is that non-mechanically stunned slaughter

must be for the food use of religious communities and FSA data, however flawed it may be, suggests that 25% of the total lamb in this country is slaughtered using non-mechanical stunning methods, of this only 0.5% is slaughtered by the Shechita method. This has led to many Parliamentarians looking for ways to limit the quantity of non-mechanically stunned slaughter taking place each year. The suggestion, as trailed at Party Conference and then reported in last week’s Guardian, is a ‘Slaughter to Order’ system. This takes place in many European countries, including France, and means that there must be an order from a butcher or Shechita Board before a Shechita takes place. Due to the extra labour required to produce kosher meat, our community has always operated this type of system.

However, we are extremely aware that this is likely to lead to a lot of scrutiny on Shechita and many will see it as the start of a slippery slope of further regulation.

We are now expecting further Government moves on this subject in the coming weeks and will liaise with the Shechita boards and butchers to ensure that any new legislation works for our community.

The Government has been at pains to explain that it wants to protect the community and continue to allow Shechita.

We have good solid friends in Parliament, but even so we will not let up our efforts and will continue to work night and day and hold them to this promise. There is a battle ahead, we will need to work hard to protect Shechita.

Shimon Cohen is the Founder and Chairman of The PR Office. He is a media relations and reputation management

What is a refugee?

OPINION PIECE

BY ROBERT FESTENSTEIN Following on from the horrific murder of Sir David Amess MP, it has been revealed that the police have arrested a man of Somali origin. His status as a refugee has not been revealed but the origin of this person does raise the issue of what is a refugee.

As Jews, we are all too familiar with refugee status. For centuries we have been obliged to move away from one area to another when faced with persecution. The pogroms and late nineteenth century, the rise of Nazism in the 1930s and expulsions from the Middle East and North Africa in the 1950s are all events that are familiar to us. Then the aims of the people moving to the UK were clear; they wanted a safe place to live and work.

Additionally and crucially, by and large they wanted to be part of the society that

had provided them refuge. Today that is not guaranteed. There have been many criminal incidents involving individuals with refugee status some of which have been linked with Islamist terrorist groups.

It is not always clear as to the intentions of those individuals claiming asylum.

Imagine a supporter of the Assad regime being isolated from their fellow fighters and hiding from their enemies. That person would be in genuine fear of their life and would certainly qualify as someone who could legitimately claim asylum.

That same person though, may also hate Jews, wish to kill homosexuals, subordinate women and seek to undermine

British society. Is this someone that should be allowed into the UK? The UK Government has not been afraid rightly to ban far right-wing individuals from entering the country, even for a short time, so why is it so hard to impose conditions upon others who seek to enter the UK or even try and establish whether they wish to be part of British society. There are many reasons for this, one of which is whenever this is suggested, the shrill voices from those who claim to be progressive scream racism and discrimination.

It is time there was a proper and detailed analysis of who is claiming asylum and why. As a minority the Jews understand

The UK Government has not been afraid, rightly, to ban far right-wing individuals from entering the country…

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and empathise with those seeking a safe existence. It is hardly unreasonable for UK citizens to be concerned that new entrants to the UK might harbour violent views against them, and once admitted, there are limited means of tracking them or their intentions.

Those institutions which claim to stand up for human rights and individual freedoms need to grasp the idea that just because an individual is a refugee, it doesn’t mean they are going to understand and embrace British values. If the UK is to continue to be a tolerant society, then those new to it must understand that antisemitic, anti-Western or misogynist views are just not acceptable.

Robert Festenstein is a practising solicitor and has been the principal of his Salford based firm for over 20 years. He has fought BDS motions to the Court of Appeal and is President of the Zionist Central Council in Manchester which serves to protect and defend the democratic State of Israel.

16 GAMES

21 OCTOBER 2021

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Most players avoid Moysian fits (4:3), probably because they lack the confidence to manage them. On this occasion, an expert declarer showed how to succeed after West led the three of diamonds to East’s queen and East shifted to the queen of spades. The declarer took this with the ace and counted his tricks; three trumps, five clubs and two spades. Playing the three top trumps would bring the contract home with an overtrick if the suit broke 3-3. However, as a 4-2 break will occur about half the time, declarer decided to protect against such a division. He played the ace of trumps followed by the five of trumps - this protected against further diamond plays by the defence. As a result, he was able to win the spade return, draw trumps and throw two losers from hand on the clubs.

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Aish on Campus Big Weekend Stuednts having great fun

Welcoming students to the Big Weekend

This past weekend saw over 180 campus students come together for the Aish on Campus Big Weekend. The students enjoyed the grounds and facilities of the Woodland Grange Hotel in Leamington Spa whilst being uplifted by the Shabbat atmosphere, delicious food and world-class Jewish education. The classes that focused on core areas of relationships, including the world, G-d and ourselves. Participants spent shabbat

attending formal and informal sessions run

by Aish educators over the weekend and creating new networks and friendships with other students from across the UK. Saturday night featured an entertaining Casino evening with more gourmet catering throughout. Sunday morning saw several workshops run on a range of educational topics and the weekend ended in the early afternoon with students having enjoyed

themselves and gained so much from the experience. Having the opportunity to come together after a difficult twenty months was much anticipated and the experience that followed did not disappoint.

Arranging one of the biggest campus students residential events since the return to campus for students was a huge undertaking and involved weeks of detailed planning to ensure that all covid requirements were followed and the safety and wellbeing of the participants remained the prioty.

“Seeing the enjoyment and inspiration of so many young Jews under one roof, after waiting so long to be able to provide these so very needed experiences was truly memorable and very very special” Rabbi Gideon Goldwater Director of Aish on Campus.

Please direct any further questions to Royi Gutkin, Director of Fundraising at Aish UK. Rgutkin@aish.org.uk<mailto:Rgutkin@aish.org.uk>

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21 OCTOBER 2021

An amazing week of discovery at Darchei Noam with Emily’s Adventures in Wonderland The pupils of Darchei Noam have had a fabulous week with a range of workshops from Emily’s Adventures in Wonderland.

The Year 7 boys had a hands-on experience learning all about birds of prey and birds around the world that can’t fly. They enjoyed making their own thaumatropes with a range of different birds .

The Year 8 boys had a workshop on parachutes and had the opportunity to make a range of different sized parachutes with soldiers attached to them. They learnt all about fair testing, predictions and air resistance.

The Year 9 boys have been learning all about Russia in their history lessons. Emily Ben - Ze’ev brought in her collection of Russian instruments and her huge collection of Matrushka Dolls. The boys had the opportunity of learning all about Yuri Gagarin and loved wearing his cosmonaut outfit. They had a hands - on opportunity with a range of Russian coins, Russian Monopoly and Russian hats. The highlight was when Emily played a range of Russian tunes on her clarinet including some Yiddish Melodies which the pupils thoroughly enjoyed.

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21 OCTOBER 2021

Celebrating youth leaders together at Jewish Care MIKE Awards Last week, Jewish Care celebrated the inspiring work of young leaders at the MIKE Awards 2021. Participants in Jewish Care’s MIKE youth leadership programme, which stands for Motivation, Inspiration, Knowledge and Education, were delighted to be back together again at the awards evening which praised the commitment and dedication to leadership and volunteering of more than 90 young people connected with Jewish Care in Redbridge. The participants also kicked off Jewish Care’s Go Purple week in support of the work the organisation does to support the community, proudly wearing their purple Jewish Care T-shirts.

The MIKE programme empowers young people to become youth leaders, learning leadership skills from their peers and as they move through the stages of the programme, becoming educators themselves. The young leaders develop in the programme through training which has taken place online since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, and by helping to run after school clubs for primary school age children at Clore Tikva School.

The evening on Wednesday 13 October was held at Kantor King Solomon High School this year and was hosted by Jamie Shone, who has been through the MIKE programme as a participant, volunteer and leader. Jamie was awarded the Saul Keene Award for Excellence in 2020 for his incredible commitment to the MIKE programme and his kindness and dedication in supporting to older members of the community through the Covid-19 pandemic by delivering Meals on Wheels, and Jamie

now leads the youth team. now studying at Lincoln UniverJonathan Zenios, Chair of sity and attended the evening, Jewish Care, who attended the said, “I’ve been coming along to Jewish Care’s MIKE programme evening, said, “It’s truly inspiring to be here with the MIKE for five years and I’ve loved youth leaders. You give so every single minute of it. I’d like much to Jewish Care and you to thank my co-workers because do it over and over again. It’s I couldn’t have done it without a great reminder that as much them and over the last year our MIKE online programme has as our community depend on Jewish Care, we are only able to been the highlight of my week.” be here because of the commitJane Parmenter, Grants Officer at ment from our volunteers and the Jack Petchey Foundation, presented the Jack Petchey Achievethe community.

“On behalf of Jewish Care, I ment Awards, supporting young would like to thank everyone people to have the opportunity to Keene awards Jacob Landsman The Saul Keene Award for Excellence in Youth who has helped to support us Nettie develop their potential and to be Leadership 2021 this evening and throughout recognised for the positive things the year to make this a fantastic programme, to honour the legacy of youth leadership they achieve. This year’s recipients were Reincluding Nicky Goldman, CEO of JVN who that he left behind. Saul was a very special becca Lloyd, Scott Silver, Ben Sivan and Maor has shared inspiring words with us as our friend of Redbridge. He was an incredible Aharon. keynote speaker and Kantor King Solomon volunteer, youth leader and dedicated to his After being presented with her Jack School for providing the venue for the MIKE community. Being a youth leader was an in- Petchey Award, Rebecca Lloyd, said, “I’ve tegral part of his life for many years and he had so many opportunities with the MIKE Awards.” programme that have shaped me as the This year, the recipient of the prestigious was truly unique and inspirational.”

Saul Keene Award for Excellence in Youth In nominating Jacob for his award, the leader I am today. After learning leadership Leadership this year was awarded to Jacob youth team said, “Even during this past dif- skills I’m able to talk to people of ages. I’ve Landsman. Nettie Keene presented the ficult year in the pandemic, Jacob always has learned to adapt to different situations, and award in memory of her son, Saul Keene, a smile and has sought to develop his skills it has really developed my confidence so I who sadly passed away in 2008. This year she and make an impact. His positivity makes am able to stand up here and talk to you gave the award together with Gayle Klein, him a fantastic role model, overcoming all today.”

Jewish Care Trustee and also a former par- the challenges we’ve faced along the way triumphantly, since the start of this year’s For more information about Jewish Care’s ticipant of the MIKE programme.

Gayle said, “I grew up at Redbridge club programme. He is a great role model to his new MIKE youth leadership programme for and was a close friend of Saul, so it is a real peers and the community.”

2021-2022. contact jamie.shone@jcare.org or After receiving the award, Jacob, who is 07795 952 076. honour to be involved in giving this award

AJEX lay a wreath at new War Memorial in Finchley New orthodox South London Shabbat minyan

AJEX National Chairman Mike Bluestone laid a wreath

AJEX have played a prominent part in a ceremony held by Barnet War Memorials Association to dedicate a new war memorial in the grounds of Finchley Memorial Hospital.

The memorial in north London commemorates by name the 1,307 men and women from Finchley and Whetstone killed on active service in the two World Wars.

This project has taken over six years to come to fruition.

The consecration ceremony was led by the Bishop of London Sarah Mullally assisted by the Rabbi of Woodside Park Synagogue, Rabbi Pinchas Hackenbroch, representing the Chief Rabbi, among others.

The memorial was unveiled by General

PHOTO: SIMON OCONNOR - © BWMA

Sir Adrian Bradshaw, Governor of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, who was accompanied by scarlet-coated In-pensioners.

In his speech, General Bradshaw referred to the burdens borne by ex-service people, many of whom continue to suffer mentally long after the conflict.

AJEX National Chairman, Mike Bluestone, laid the AJEX wreath to remember and honour the fallen, alongside Martin Russell representing the Lord Lieutenant, The Mayor, Cllr Alison Cornelius on behalf of the people of Barnet, Barry Atkinson for Barnet War Memorials Association, Catherine Loveday for families of those whose names are recorded on the memorial, June

AJEX National Chairman Mike Bluestone, Rabbi of Woodside Park – Rabbi Pinchas Hackenbroch and Ron Shelley MBE

Hulbert, Brian Dee and Peggy Collins representing the Royal British Legion Men’s and Women’s sections respectively, and Bishnu Gurung on behalf of the Gurkha Brigade Association.

Representatives from the Police, Ambulance and Fire Services also attended.

Other representatives for AJEX included Standard bearers Brian Bloom and Fiona Hancock, as well as Vice Presidents Ron Shelley MBE and Jacques Weisser.

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Over 80 people attended the launch of SW3, a new orthodox minyan in south-west London last Shabbat.

The inaugural service, led by Rabbi Yossi Fachler, saw 83 participants singing and praying together before enjoying a Tony Page kiddush-lunch after the service.

SW3 is the brainchild of Aron Freedman, a local resident, who wanted to create a modern orthodox minyan in the area with inspirational davening and an opportunity to come together afterwards for food and to schmooze.

SW3 plans to hold its next service on Shabbat Chanukah, December 4.

“I wanted to create an authentic Shabbat atmosphere in the heart of SW3 and was thrilled to see so many enjoy the service,” said Aron. “The fact people stayed to chat showed me how welcome this initiative was.”

He added, “My goal with SW3 is to enhance and build the Jewish community in this part of London where people have told me they are yearning for Yiddishkeit and missing being part of a Jewish community.

My thanks to everyone who came and to Rabbi Fachler for his energetic davening and hilarious sermon.”

Details: info@sw3.co.uk

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US Chesed’s asylum seeker drop-in centre The United Synagogue’s Chesed department gave out pencil cases filled with pens and pencils at their asylum seeker drop-in centre so children are well-equipped for school.

With donations from US members and the charity Goods For Good, over 100 filled pencil cases were made up. Volunteers checked through donations, sharpening pencils and ensuring all pens worked.

Chesed run two asylum seeker drop-in centres, in Hendon and Woodford, which provide food and essential items such as bedding, toiletries, kitchenware and much needed Tesco vouchers.

Hannah Gerson, from the US’s Chesed department, said, “It was great to be able to help these families ensure that their children were well-equipped for the start of the academic year. One of the mothers who visited our drop-in centre said that her daughter, Biba, begged her to take her to nursery so she could show her friends her new stationery. She also picked out pencil cases for her siblings so she could surprise them. Biba’s mother said it was so nice for her children to receive these as little things go such a long way when you don’t have much.”

US Chesed have an Amazon wish list for toiletry donations to the asylum seeker drop-in centre.

Details: www.theus.org.uk/toiletries

21 OCTOBER 2021

US launches new environmental role

The United Synagogue has introduced a new role to help combat climate change.

Naomi Verber has been appointed Head of Environmental Policy at the charity.

Naomi will write and implement a strategy to guide the US towards the adoption of policies designed to improve the organisation’s ecological impact and boost community engagement.

Working closely with the Office of the Chief Rabbi, US Rabbis, Rebbetzens and lay leaders and the US head office, Naomi will analyse the charity’s current activities, run educational programmes and introduce measures to improve the United Synagogue’s environmental impact.

A management consultant for 15 years specialising in business change and business development, Naomi said she is honoured to be starting the role.

“As a previous Chair of a shul I know the challenges of being more environmentally responsible. Grassroots support is essential but it can only go so far without central policy and backing,” she said. “I am delighted how seriously the US is taking the climate crisis by creating this role.”

Naomi added, “I look forward to engaging with shuls, community leaders, nurseries and Rabbinic and lay leaders to learn from what you’re doing and share practical ideas for action. The Chief Rabbi has said that

Naomi Verber

we must change now to protect our future and the planet and the United Synagogue intends to be part of that change.”

Michael Goldstein, US President noted, “Like Covid-19, climate change is one of the issues of our generation. And just as countries, organisations and individuals had to act in the face of a global pandemic, so too must we act to prevent further global warming.”

He added, “The decisions we take in the coming years will affect our children and grandchildren in profound ways. The US will play its part to improve our environmental

impact, and with this ambitious role we are committed to take steps to inspire and engage our rabbinic and lay leaders and our communities, on this crucial issue.”

Welcoming Naomi to the role, he continued, “She is well placed to help us think through the most effective ways we and our communities can deliver significant and lasting positive change.”

A Vice-Chair and Chair of Golders Green Synagogue, Naomi went on to partner with environmental charity Sadeh, to conceptualise, design and run Europe’s first kosher eco hotel.

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Left to right: Federation President Andrew Cohen, HaRav Shraga Feivel Zimmerman, Rabbi Yanky Abrams and Federation CEO Rabbi Avi Lazarus

Federation representatives attended Rabbi Yanky Abrams’ inauguration at Loughton Synagogue.

Rabbi and Rebbetzin Abrams have set up numerous projects since joining the community, notably delivery of 150 Shabbat meals for members on a Friday. The meals are delivered by members of the community which is taking part in a fundraising walk from Chigwell to Loughton on Sunday.

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The couple have re-energised the cheder with 40 children now attending.

Rabbi Abrams says the community has responded with “kindness, friendship and support”.

Chairman Gary Stern commented, “We are amazed at how the Rabbi and Rebbetzin have transformed the community into a vibrant and engaged centre of Jewish life in Loughton.”

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Tali celebrates by thinking of others

COMMUNITY 23

US Youth Directors to hit record high

Rabbi Michael Laitner addresses youth leaders

The United Synagogue are set to have a record number of 40 Youth Directors working in 22 communities by the end of the year.

Recruitment is anticipated for Brondesbury Park Synagogue, Watford Synagogue and Woodside Park Synagogue in the coming months.

The news comes as Tribe held an event for 30 US Youth Directors in London and Hertfordshire.

Participants heard from Rabbi Michael Laitner of the US Living & Learning team and Tamara Jacobson of Tribe who spoke about the US’s work to support them.

The event was the launch of the Tribe Engage Youth Director Training Programme.

The programme aims to professionalise

Batmitzvah girl Tali Field together with the food collection she organised for charities GIFT and Foodbank aid

When deciding how to celebrate her Batmitzvah, Tali Field, a JFS year 7 student, told us that after a year of volunteering together with her family & friends at GIFT‘s London Hub, she felt inspired & compelled to do something meaningful for the community and to organise a food collection.

She explains “GIFT is an amazing charity and for my Batmitzvah I wanted my friends and family to join with me helping the community by donating necessary food for GIFT & for Foodbank aid to distribute.”

Michelle Barnett Founding Director noted “We were so grateful to have had Tali, her mum Debra, together with their family

Youth Directors. The highlight is Tribe’s annual Engage Conference.

Tribe’s Barry Colman said, “It has been 20 months since we were last able to bring everyone together due to the pandemic. We are fortunate to have such an incredible, energised and talented group of youth directors who have hit the ground running this year as we re-engage with our youth.”

Colman added that in response to a recent membership survey, young people’s engagement is an urgent priority.

“Events like these allows us to strengthen ties with our youth leaders, providing them with support, best-practice, resources and skills to benefit their communities,” he noted.

Sharon scoops book award

& friends volunteering over lockdown; and their food collection on the occasion of her Batmitzvah has been a real help to our foodbank. Supporting over 1000 people across London & Manchester with weekly food support parcels means that we are in constant need of additional food supplies & new sources.

If you, your street, shul or school would like to do a food collection for GIFT please contact us on info@jgift.org or call 0208 457 4429. For meaningful Bnei Mitzva opportunities contact Esther at Esther@ jgift.org

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WORKING IN COOPERATION TO BUILD A STRONGER ISRAEL THROUGH ALIYAH

Every one of us, together

Sharon Ross accepting her award

Sharon Ross has won the ‘Inspirational Learner of the Year’ accolade at the Herts Step2Skill’s Adult Achievement Awards.

The citation, presented to Sharon, a member of Rambam Sephardi in Borehamwood, by Jim McManus, Director of Public Health at Herts County Council, for

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setting up her business, Prashker, in spite of her disability. Prashker ghost writes autobiographies for everyday people.

Sharon has epilepsy and was part of the Building Better Opportunities programme.

Details: www.prashker.co.uk

24 COMMUNITY

Rabbi Sacks’ first yahrzeit to be marked by the ‘Communities in Conversation’ Global Day of Learning Over 100 communities, schools and organisations from 14 countries around the world will be participating in the inaugural ‘Communities in Conversation’ Global Day of Learning to mark the first yahrzeit of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks zt”l which takes place on 25th-26th October 2021 / 20th Cheshvan 5782. The ‘Communities in Conversation’ initiative is the next public engagement to mark the first yahrzeit following the inaugural Sacks Conversation which featured the Rt Hon Tony Blair and took place last week in London and will see hundreds of people come together to remember the impact Rabbi Sacks made on the Jewish world and beyond, and to learn and teach some of his Torah.

Five educational resources have been produced by The Rabbi Sacks Legacy Trust, each containing a video of Rabbi Sacks, multiple sources, and discussion questions to guide participants through a particular focus of Rabbi Sacks’ writings. The five themes are: Community, Family, Israel, Jewish Identity, and Religion and Science. All these resources, which were developed by Dr Daniel Rose, can be downloaded for free at https://RabbiSacks. org/CommunitiesInConversation/.

To date, communities, schools and organisations from the UK, America, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa, Israel, Germany, Spain, France, Canada, Brazil, Mexico are participating in this inaugural ‘Communities in Conversation’ global day of learning. Among the organisations involved are the United Synagogue, Hillel International, the Orthodox Union, Educating for Impact, and the Jewish Federations of North America.

Joanna Benarroch, who worked with Rabbi Sacks for 24 years and now runs The Rabbi Sacks Legacy Trust, is coordinating the ‘Communities in Conversation’ Global Day of Learning. Describing the initiative, Joanna said: “Despite all his remarkable achievements and impact beyond the Jewish world, at his core, Rabbi Sacks always remained a teacher of Torah who loved nothing more than learning with others and helping them make new connections with our ancient texts.

The global response to the inaugural ‘Communities in Conversation’ day of learning project has been phenomenal, with communities, schools and organisations from across the Jewish world running a variety of educational events to teach and learn Rabbi Sacks’ Torah. It is wonderful to see people come together in this way, and immensely comforting to see how Rabbi Sacks’ legacy continues to inspire and inform so many, and truly reflects the global impact he had.”

Rabbi Ben Berger, VP for Jewish Education at Hillel International in the United States said: “Hillel International is proud to participate in the ‘Communities in Conversation’ commemoration for the first yarzheit of Rabbi

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Sacks zt”l. Our professionals, a community of learners, has taken inspiration in the work they do with college students from Rabbi Sacks. His Torah, particularly in this time of turmoil and transition, has been a grounding source of comfort and wisdom.”

Rabbi Yehoshua Smukler, Principal of Moriah College, Australia said: “Rabbi Lord Sacks z”l, his teachings, and even more so his example, as a living embodiment of modern wisdom with age-old Torah knowledge, values and truth, resonates deeply with our Modern Orthodox school mission and reverberates through the hearts and souls of our community. Despite his untimely passing, and as is characteristic of a true leader, his influence continues to this very day, and will do so for generations to come. As part of our appreciation of what Rabbi Sacks gifted to each and every one of us, it is our honour and responsibility to perpetuate his teachings, and share them with our children. We are thus honoured to participate in the inaugural ‘Communities in Conversation’ initiative, together with communities all over the world, to mark the first Yarzheit of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks z”l.”

Rabbi Dr Leonard Matanky, Rabbi of Congregation K.I.N.S. of West Rogers Park, Chicago said: “Congregation K.I.N.S. was honored to have hosted Rabbi Sacks zt’l and Lady Sacks, and those visits remain among the most powerful memories of our communal experience. We are honoured to be joining with communities around the world to participate in the ‘Communities in Conversation’ initiative to mark his first Yarzheit and remember the impact Rabbi Sacks made on the Jewish world and beyond. May his writings and teachings remain an eternal inspiration for all.”

Rabbi Michael Laitner, Director of Living and Learning at the United Synagogue, said: “Although we are still trying to come to terms with the passing of the much-missed Rabbi Sacks, the Communities in Conversation programme is a wonderful opportunity for the United Synagogue Rabbinate and our communities to learn from and continue to be inspired by the teachings of our former Chief Rabbi and to honour his memory.”

Rabbi Shai Finklestein, Senior Rav of Nitzanim shul in Jerusalem, said: “It is an honour to join communities from around the world in a day of a worldwide learning in memory of Rabbi Sacks zt”l. Learning Torah together as individuals and communities was one of Rav Sacks’ passions. He believed that everyone can contribute to our collective Torah study and I hope that our learning will perpetuate his memory and legacy for generations to come.”

For further information, please contact Joanna Benarroch at Joanna@RabbiSacks. org / 07949025171

RTA’s new year begins

Learning underway at the Rabbinic Training Academy

Refreshed after their summer break, Kollel Nachlas Eliezer – the Rabbinic Training Academy (RTA) started the new year with great success.

A new cohort of young Avreichim have joined the current cohort this year, having recently moved from Eretz Yisroel. They include: R’ Chaim Golker, R’ Yoni Weider and R’ Yitzi Blachman.

Now redesigned as a 12-month training programme, the RTA continues to offer a high-quality learning programme that is designed to help young Rabbonim segue between the structure of a Kollel and the independence of learning on one’s own. Under the tutelage of Rabbi Chaim Rapoport, the Rosh Kollel, they have begun to learn the topic of ‘Lo Sosur’ in depth, which looks at the importance of listening to Chazal and to Jewish leadership. This comes after they spent the summer months learning the topic of Kiddush Hashem in depth, with all of its halachic ramifications.

The half day programme, designed and directed by Rabbi Shaul Rosenblatt, also includes guest speakers, seminars, shiurim and individual mentoring that focuses on and develops mental wellbeing and resilience. Some of the recent speakers included Rabbi Tatz of the JLE and Ari Shainfield of Our Kids First.

Throughout the year there are site visits and presentations from different charities within the community that help introduce

the young Rabbonim to a world of many modern challenges. Before Rosh Hashanah, the group visited a crown court in session and met with Judge Zeidman who expounded on the court system and relevant life lessons. This term they are looking forward to meeting an experienced divorce lawyer who will share an overview of the divorce process and the group also plan to join an AA meeting to learn more about the challenges faced by those with alcohol addiction.

The RTA assists their Avreichim to find positions within the community in Rabbonus, Kiruv or Chinuch. Most recently, R’ Blachman, of the new cohort, started his role as assistant rabbi in the United Synagogue shul of Woodside Park. R’ Ben Nassimi, of the second cohort, recently took up the role of Registrar of the Sephardi Beth Din, where he manages the functioning of Beth Din affairs as they deal with Gittin, Gerut and the like.

He reflected on the impact RTA has had on him thus far and with regards to this new role: “The RTA has given me more understanding of the kind of issues facing the community. With its support and network, I am able to approach my work with greater confidence.”

The Rebbeyim and staff at the RTA look forward to building on this positive start to the year and continuing to learn and grow together.

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From the front line…

FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE

BY JACQUELINE CURZON Novosibirsk, 2000 miles east of Moscow, was until recently a pocket of relative democratic freedom in Putin’s Russia. The city of 1.5 million has recently felt not only the cold blast of the oncoming Siberian winter, but also the chill of an unprecedented Kremlin crackdown, as Russia voted in its least free elections since the collapse of the Soviet Union. After the poisoning and jailing of Alexei Navalny, not one week went by without the arrest of another activist or sanctions imposed against independent media. Those few activists who still dared to campaign were sent anonymous, but very meaningful, death threats.

Sergei Boiko (38), an ally of Navalny, who was runner-up in the Mayoral race in Novosibirsk, would have been a natural contender for the Duma [parliament], but was banned as a foreign agent, following Putin’s new law. He immediately realised that he had zero chance of running in any election, not until Putin is either forcibly removed from office, or dead. United Russia - the Kremlin backed party dominating the Duma - should have technically struggled in the three-day election, as it was polling at less than 30%, a barometric indication of his unpopularity. Many felt there was no point in voting at all, as it was all rigged in Putin’s favour, with residents in Novosibirsk admitting they were instructed to falsify both turnout figures and the results. Navalny launched a project called Smart Voting, in which he encouraged supporters to back whichever candidate had the best chance of defeating United Russia; however, Apple and Google removed the smart voting app from their online stores in Russia, caving in to pressure from the Kremlin; Google staff were told they would be arrested if they failed to comply. Grigory Melkonyants, co-chairman of Golos, Russia’s longest established election monitor, said the overwhelming 'vote' for Putin was unprecedented, adding ‘the authorities have begun to infringe on peoples’ freedoms as never before.’

They reported more than 4,000 violations in less than a week, and they too have been branded a ‘foreign agent’ in Novosibirsk, this in a city where opposition candidates once won top seats, and vote-rigging was minimal. Navalny supporters have only been allowed to stand for election for suburban town council elections, and even then, 12 out of the 17 prospective candidates were subsequently barred because of alleged ‘extremism.’ One of the remaining 5 brave candidates still in the game, was Daria Artamonava, a 19-year-old student who spent months knocking on doors and distributing leaflets. She had already come up against the risks of being the opposition: several weeks ago, her parents had a funeral wreath delivered to their home with a ribbon with the names of the parents on it saying, ‘we are mourning Daria with you.’ The disputed

Jacqueline Curzon PHOTO: LARA MINSKY PHOTOGRAPHY

landslide election result showed a sweeping majority for Putin’s party, however there were mounting reports of ballot stuffing and multiple voting.

In recent months the opposition leader Navalny and his allies have become targets of numerous allegations of extremism, causing most of his key allies, including Leonid Volkov and Ivan Zhdanov, to flee the country. Staying would have risked a threat of 5-10 years in prison, and you won’t achieve much whilst incarcerated in Siberia. Only those with a real stomach for dissent, or who are young and strong enough to survive the harsh prison system, are likely to stay put.

Current press shows Russian prisoners being tortured by guards in a conveyor belt manner, and the footage - obtained via a whistleblower and a former prison detainee - has triggered a rare official investigation into state-sponsored wrongdoing. The video shows a patient in a dilapidated prison hospital, ostensibly treating tuberculosis patients, in the city of Saratov; however the man in the picture is spreadeagled on the floor, whilst tied to his bed and screaming in agony. Vladimir Osechkin, of Russian anti-torture NGO Gulago.net said the video was part of a secret archive of more than 1000 files, documenting systemic torture. Dmitry Peskov, Putin's spokesman said, ‘if the authenticity of these materials is confirmed then there is a reason for a serious probe, but first it’s necessary to quickly sort this out and establish its authenticity.’ Well said, even if it’s very hard to believe the top bureaucrats would be unaware of such atrocities. However, following this revelation, the region’s prison chief, the head of the prison infirmary and several other officers were dismissed, according to the FPS, adding those implicated in these crimes will face justice. Osechkin said his NGO had already shared the footage with Russian authorities, the Council of Europe and the UN. He said his source was a Belarusian IT engineer identified only as Sergey, who was incarcerated inside Saratov prison and had also suffered abuse.

Love him or hate him, Putin is clearly intending to stick around, with a further five more years of power now guaranteed.

It must now be a very real and frightening prospect for many Russians, unless they belong to the gilded set who amass their fortune through political acquiescence to United Russia. International media have reported Putin is hiking gas prices, to undermine Britain and the EUs’ economic recovery from the pandemic. Gazprom is facing an investigation into the sharp rise in the cost of natural gas, being accused of market manipulation. Our government played down the severity of the situation, stressing that the UK was more ‘resilient’ now due to imports from Norway. Gazprom is seeking a green light to activate the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, fully constructed, but awaiting final regulatory approval from Germany and the EU. Tom Tugendhat, chairman of the foreign affairs committee said, ‘many of us have warned against Nord Stream 2 because Russia has indicated it will use this as a weapon.’ Gazprom denied allegations of market tampering, with its chief executive warning that ‘Europe faces a winter with underfilled gas storage.’

We are likely to see a consistent rise in our energy bills because of this Machiavellian game playing, already causing a knock-on increase in electricity prices here in the UK, pushing prices up by 1100%. This shows how much leverage Russia can exact by using fuel as a weapon, and how idiotically reliant we have become. It seems clear we need a strategy and a united front with other countries to stop this abuse.

If the above were really true, how and why would the West continue to shake hands with such an inscrutable individual? True, the world seems conveniently wrapped around his little finger, anxious about their energy supplies, and fearing the wrath of Uncle Vlad, should he be enraged with any political threat or warring. Exactly how this will play out is unclear.

As a rebuttal to this argument, there was a letter written by Sir Anthony Brenton, the British Ambassador to Russia (2004-2008), where he says he was shocked to hear Lord Agnew claim that our soaring energy costs are down to a “geopolitical move by Russia.’

Brenton claims this is false. Russia, he says, in fact continues to fulfil its gas supply contracts to the letter, as was acknowledged

by Angela Merkel, and is delivering gas to Europe at close to record levels. What is left over, it then supplies on the spot market to the highest bidder, most likely China. And would we not do the same if we were in this position? The Russians view our current problems within the European market as entirely self-inflicted. He recalls a meeting some years ago, where he was present when Putin responded to a complaint from Gordon Brown about gas prices. Putin explained that we in Europe had deliberately made ourselves over-dependent on

the spot market, which was great when prices were low, but potentially catastrophic when circumstances exist, such as prevail now. Ask yourselves, is Putin just one of the smartest businessmen in the world, or is he a malevolent Darth Vader figure?

Brenton feels any aggression by Lord Agnew will not help Russian cooperation when we perhaps really need it, indeed it may totally backfire. If Global Britain wants to cut through the ice, it needs to keep all avenues open and stop the demonisation of Mother Russia.

In other news, Putin has recently been isolating after disclosing that several dozen of his staff had tested positive for covid. He has mainly appeared on video link since the start of the pandemic apart from when meeting favoured comrades within his inner circle; those individuals were duly required to self-isolate for 14 days before meeting with him. Dmitry Peskov, his spokesperson, denied suggestions that the outbreak at the Kremlin was serious, adding it was unrelated to the reluctance of Russians to get vaccinated, although it was leaked that the both the Kremlin and Mr Putin’s dacha were fitted with industrial tunnels, which sprayed a disinfectant spray on anyone who met him.

Recent figures show that out of a population of 146 million, only 40 million had been fully vaccinated. Russia has recorded more than 7 million coronavirus cases and almost 195,000 deaths – the highest figure in Europe.

This said, the numbers – as in China – are in reality, likely to be considerably worse.

NATO has stripped eight members of the Russian mission to the alliance of their accreditation, calling them “undeclared Russian intelligence officers, “effectively meaning spies. Russia has long had an observer mission to NATO as part of a longstanding agreement, essentially meant to promote cooperation in common security areas. The Russian mission was downsized once before, when seven members were expelled in the week of the 2018 poisoning of Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia, with the nerve agent Novichok. A connected story reports that the coroner for the inquest into the death of Dawn Sturgess, the unintentional victim of the attack, be converted into an inquiry as the material is deemed ‘too sensitive’ to be heard in public. Baroness Heather Hallett, requested that the Secretary of State convert the inquest into a full public inquiry as a matter of urgency.

Regardless of the political climate, the country itself is one of incredible fascination and indescribable beauty, which of course I would still like to journey-blog this winter on the Trans Siberian Express, subject to continuing reasonable health. And, assuming of course, Putin is not following my weekly reports From the Front Line. Watch this space!

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Carrot Cheese Cake Squares This is two cakes swirled into one: carrot cake with marbled layers of cheese cake. Two of my favourite cakes recipe all in one. Easy to serve and divide up as it is made in a flat cake tin and cut into squares.

Preparation Time: 25 minutes Cooking Time: 46 minutes Makes: 16 squares

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

Ingredients Carrot Cake 170g salted butter 60g brown sugar 2 large eggs, at room temperature 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 200g plain flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon mixed spice 150g grated carrot

Cheese Cake 450g cream cheese, at room temperature 60g caster sugar Zest of 1 lemon 75g plain flour 1 large egg, at room temperature 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Vanilla Icing 50g salted butter, melted 150g icing sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Garnish: Finely chopped pistachio nuts and edible rose petals Method - For the Base 1. Preheat the oven to 170C. Line a 22cm square baking tin with parchment paper.

2. To make the carrot cake. In a mixing bowl, beat together the butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until combined. Add the flour, baking powder, bicarbonate soda, salt, mixed spice and cinnamon, whisking until just combined. Stir in the grated carrots.

3. To make the cheesecake. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream

Let’s Celebrate!

BY DENISE PHILIPS Restrictions have lifted so that Auf Rufs, Weddings, Sheva Brochas, Bar and Batmitzvah gatherings, Special Birthdays, Hen and Stag parties are back in the calendar and definitely on the menu!

Perhaps you are hosting for one of these occasions.

Party food that is Covid friendly needs to be displayed as much as possible as individual portions in mini bowls and separate plates. For my son’s recent engagement party, it was a Mexican themed meal and I made mini tortilla baskets of vegetable, black bean burgers with BBQ sauce, tacos with salmon and avocado and roasted cauliflower and butternut squash.

I portioned out guacamole into bamboo boats with tortilla crisps and passed

this around on trays and people helped themselves.

Other mini bowls of food that are trending at present include poke bowls, and buddha bowls. Dishes that work well include meat/ veggie balls, aubergine or salmon teriyaki bowls, falafel and hummus grain bowls, chilli tofu ramen, fajita bowls with rice and harissa chicken meatballs with bulghur wheat.

Desserts that can be cut up like chocolate brownies or made mini sized like lemon tarts, crumbles, mousses, and cakes also make serving a lot easier too. Mini cups and jars for dessert look attractive; they add fun and a creative element to the food. Ice cream sundaes with brittle, chocolate pots, biscotti with zabaglione are great options.

Enjoy your simcha

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cheese, sugar lemon zest, and flour until combined, about 3 minutes.

Add the egg, vanilla and whisk once more until the mixture is smooth.

4. Assemble. Working with the carrot cake mixture, spread about 2/3rds of the batter into the prepared tin in an even layer. Now pour over 2/3rds of the cheesecake mixture, then dollop spoonfuls of the remaining carrot cake mixture into the cheesecake layer. Lastly, pour over the remaining cheesecake mixture.

5. Bake for 45-55 minutes, cover the cake with foil halfway through cooking to prevent the top from browning. Allow the cake to cool in the cake tin, then transfer to the fridge to chill completely, at least 3 hours.

6. To make the icing, whisk the butter, icing sugar, vanilla, and 3 tablespoons water, until smooth. If needed, thin with additional water.

Drizzle the icing over the squares.

Leave to set for about an hour before cutting into squares.

7. The squares can keep chilled in the fridge for up to 5 days.

8. Garnish with finely chopped pistachio nuts and edible rose petals.

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How to get your child to eat more fruits and vegetables

BY DINA SPIELMAN How can you get your child to eat more fruits and vegetables? Um… you can’t But I want my kid to eat five a day… ok just one? They NEED the nutrients to be healthy!?

You can provide it but you can’t force it.

What on earth does this mean?

Have you tried the following ideas before?

- turning the fork into a flying airplane loaded with broccoli?

- encouraging your child to eat 2 more bites before they can have dessert?

- extolling the virtues of carrots... “they help you see in the dark”.

Or even just ‘eat your greens!’

Have these methods worked? Does your child now say, “please may I have some carrots”, I’d like to have two more bites before dessert? Do they even enjoy fruits and vegetables at all?

So, the above ‘traditional’ methods of

encouraging fruit and veg consumption don’t actually do what they were created to do - encourage fruit and veg consumption!

What do they achieve then? A dislike of said fruit and veg? Arguments about how many bites of said fruit and veg needs to be forced down? A preference for dessert foods and probably any food besides fruit and veg?

There’s got to be another way! Guess what, there is! What you need to do is stop worrying about this one meal and this one vegetable that we want them to eat.

But rather, look at the bigger picture. Look toward what you want their views towards fruit and vegetables to be like in the future, so they will WILLINGLY choose these foods and hopefully ENJOY them and thus be able to benefit from the vitamins and minerals they provide.

There was a study performed on children who eat a variety of fruit and vegetables versus children who are pickier. The results showed that both sets of children had the

perfect balance of nutrients in their bodies!

Each person’s body works differently and will gain the nutrients they need from the food they eat.

Remember what it says above, you can’t force children, but you can provide. You can create a positive outlook around fruit and veg, 1. Modelling. put it out at mealtimes, offer it just like you offer any other food. In this way they learn from your behaviour that these foods are what make up a meal. They just learn that, without you saying a word about how to create a ‘healthy’ meal or why we should eat peas!

2. Let them see you enjoying fruit and veg (in a genuine way).

3. Keep it neutral or even fun. Talk about fruit and vegetables in a neutral way e.g. “Do you know how they’re grown?’

What does the tomato taste like? How would you describe the texture of this

apple? (Crunchy, sweet juicy) 4. Include children in the food prep.

Let them chop the fruit, take them strawberry picking, grow your own potatoes, let them dish out the peas onto the serving plate, or pour the seasonings.

5. If they decline to eat something, stay calm let it go.

So, how to get children to eat more first or veg? Don’t force them. (This is general advice. For concerns, seek individual help) Dina Spielman is a qualified nutritionist (BSc Hons) and Intuitive Eating counsellor, helping people heal their relationship with food. She helps parents regarding childhood feeding ranging from weaning to fussy eating or stressful meal times. For more information on how to handle sweets in a non restrictive but balanced way on a day to day basis, or for other nutrition matters, contact dinaspielman1@gmail.com

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ASK THE RABBI

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Looking for answers? Send your question to Rabbi@RabbiSchochet.com YIDDISH OR ENGLISH OR MAYBE YINGLISH

Dear Rabbi I live in New York and my sister sends me your Q & A each week which I always find informative even if I’m not always in agreement. I have had occasion to visit the Williamsburg community and New Square. I was there for business and could not help but notice how everyone speaks Yiddish. Why can’t they speak English like everyone else, even within the Orthodox world? You know, when in Rome… I also wonder if for whatever reason they choose to speak a different language then why not Hebrew?

Doren Dear Doren Whenever you encounter general communal behavioural patterns you should bear in mind that Jewish behaviour is essentially broken down into three parts: There is Jewish law, Jewish custom and what you might call social norms.

An example of Jewish law is keeping Kosher, which involves all the various dietary requirements and restricted foods; no milk and meat, etc. These laws are non-negotiable and will always be adhered to by everyone across the Orthodox world. (NB they are subject to negotiation in cases of medical concern but that is beyond the scope of this particular answer).

An example of Jewish custom is the broad range of things we do as Jewish people. For example dipping the apple in the honey to symbolise a sweet New Year. Having round Challot on the New Year with its own

connotation about the cycle of life. Within customs there are those that are universally accepted, while there are others that vary from community to community. For example, some communities have the custom not to wear Tefilin during the intermediate days of the festivals while others do not. Some have the custom of placing their Chanukah menorah in the window while others place it in their homes by the doorpost etc.

Ashkenazim have a more placid Seder on Pesach eve while some Sephardim have a more animated Seder including walking around with the Seder plate over people’s heads or symbolically beating others with the bitter herbs to re-enact the suffering endured in Egypt.

Then there are the social norms which involve clothing, speech, and other such like. In the communities you attended you will no doubt have seen most with long black coats, black hats and, as you observed, speaking Yiddish. This is a bulwark against assimilation. Our ancient Sages tell us that the Jewish people in Egypt merited their Exodus on account of the fact that they retained their Jewish identity.

In particular, they didn’t change their names, their dress code or their language. Some today may have changed their names from Shmuel Goldstein to Sam Gold, and their dress from the frock of old to t-shirt and jeans. This is not a criticism of them, but to lend understanding as to why many Jewish communities have chosen to preserve the Jewish dress code from the shtetl and also their original dialect. They preserved

Pirkei Avot Akabyah ben Mahalalel said: Mark well three things and you will not come into the power of sin: Know from where you come, and where you are going, and before whom you are destined to give an account and reckoning. From where do you come? From a putrid drop. Where are you going? To a place of dust, of worms and of maggots. Before whom are you destined to give an account and reckoning? Before the King of the kings, the Holy One, blessed be He.’ This Mishnah marks the beginning of chapter three. As well as a lovely Chazanut piece, there are serious lessons to be learned from this.

Very often, people go through life struggling to earn their daily bread and raise a family. It

these things even in parts of the goldene medina of America – in parts of the UK, Israel etc. as an act of Jewish pride. They need not be condemned for it, rather lauded for their choices and convictions.

As per why Yiddish and not Hebrew, to be sure they speak plenty of Hebrew as well. Whenever they pray or study Torah they are doing so in the ancient Biblical Hebrew language. You might argue that Ivrit is not the same as this ancient Hebrew, and while no one tends to converse in the ancient dialect, when it’s a choice between modern-Hebrew and Yiddish, there is really no difference and they opt for what they know fun der heim.

FORGIVING MY ARROGANCE

Dear Rabbi I wrote to you a good while back asking whether you could recognise my marriage to a Jewish partner even though I am not Jewish. You were very dismissive and I have been stewing ever since. You need to know that we have been living a very Jewish life. I go with my husband to synagogue when he goes on the High Holidays and we do Friday night each week at his parents. I support Israel and Jewish people as a whole. I have been meaning to write to you since the Jewish New Year to tell you that I have decided to forgive your arrogance. But I remain disappointed at your attitude.

Pat Dear Pat Oh my! I keep records of all my columns and I eventually found

your question from a little over two years ago! Your support for Jews and Israel is most appreciated. Your accompanying your husband to synagogue – what, two - three times a year? Well, I’m sure he’s grateful. And Friday nights with the family, that’s really nice! Just go easy on the gefilte fish. But you really need to know that there’s more to Judaism than sentimental mumbo-jumbo. It’s about putting deed into creed. When you write

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

For Refuah Shalema for Mordechai Ben Chaya Sara sometimes is very hard for an average person to find any time at all to think about why we are here and where we are going. This Mishnah helps us have some direction in life.

We will all end up in the grave. Every single one of us. Except for a few exceedingly righteous people like Eliyahu Hanavi, we all have the same end. So why don’t we realize that one day we will have to give a reckoning to Hashem?

He will demand a proper din vcheshbon from all of us, and we better be prepared! Were we honest in business? Did we make time to learn Torah, to arrive early for synagogue, to help at home with the family? Were we nice to people or did we go through life like an express train,

bulldozing our way to the top, without a thought for anyone else..?

Perhaps if we realize that one day our bodies will be eaten by maggots and worms, we will think quite differently. Perhaps we will spend more time thinking about why we are here and what Hashem wants from each and every single one of us. How can we contribute to His masterplan?

The great Reb Avigdor Miller z’tl once remarked how many people happily sit around the shabbat table talking words of Torah from the weekly sedra. The Yetzer Harah doesn’t mind this, as it keeps things at a nice basic level.

But he will do almost anything to stop us taking

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to tell me that you’re keeping kosher properly, observing Shabbat appropriately, going to Synagogue regularly, and fully observing whatever else besides I’ll know that you’re truly ready to join the faith and will come seeking your forgiveness. Until then, I’m not asking for it. But you know what’s scariest of all Pat? If you carry a grudge that long – two years? What chance is there for your hubby? Scary really!

Perek 3: Mishna 1 about Olam Habah, the next world.

This is because he realizes that a dvar Torah poses not real threat to him; he allows us to learn these things.

However once we start contemplating the next world, the world of punishment and reward, we might actually change, and this is a huge no go area for the Yetzer Harah.

So try this Shabbat, try to outwit him and mention it!

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Torah from Israel

21 OCTOBER 2021

Vayera: The Altar and the Heart

BY RABBI MOSHE TARAGIN Avraham has spent his entire career identifying the one G-d of this diverse universe. He didn’t just detect a Creator through the beauty of Nature or the structured order of the cosmos. Avraham sensed a moral spirit at the foundation of our world. He innately sensed that Hashem didn’t just randomly create our world but cares about his creatures and their welfare. For two thousand years, Nature seemed cold and impassive and G-d seemed distant, angry and militant.

Avraham revolutionized religion, preaching of a compassionate G-d who lovingly created this world and who mercifully sustained life. Avraham yearned to better understand this ethical spirit and to fashion his own identity in this moral image.

Finally, after two millennia of chaos and confusion, commitment to G-d and human interest were synchronized. The will of Hashem was translated into the human heart. Religious commitment and human prosperity were aligned. A dark world which had pitted frail humans against angry gods was now rebooted. The will of Hashem and the whisper of the human heart were finally in synch.

All this changed on the mountain top of the akeidah. Having proven that he could serve Hashem by understanding His will, Avraham was now asked to prove if he could serve when he could not possibly decipher Hashem’s will. These is no human heart nor human conscience which can justify a father murdering a child. Yet, Hashem commanded this unthinkable deed and Avraham issued his simple, unadorned one-word consent: “hineni”.

Avraham could not possibly fathom this strident command which undermined everything he had learned of Hashem.

Heroically, he surrenders human judgement to the Divine mystery. In doing so Avraham, carved the cornerstone of monotheism- the ability to suspend human logic and surrender human convention to the unknowable word of Hashem.

Ironically and sadly, about six hundred years later the first Jewish monarch, Shaul Hamelech would fail to live up to Avraham’s achievement. Faced with the irrational and seemingly immoral task of committing genocide and murdering the entire Amalek nation, a horrified Shaul can’t imagine that a merciful G-d would demand such atrocity. Distracted by moral self-arbitration, he spares an elderly chieftain thereby failing his own akiedah moment. Because of this flinch Shaul is stripped of Jewish monarchy.

The akeidah story is perennial. It is the

story of human beings submitting their judgement in deference to Divine instruction. Avraham establishes the akeidah as the template of religious success.

Though the actual text of the Torah tells the story of human submission, our Chazal portray a very different story-one which my Rebbe, HaRav Yehuda Amital would annually underline when discussing the akeidah. Several midrashim “color in” distinctly human shades to the akeidah.

Repeatedly, chazal paint the story of a father and a son who, though challenged to act beyond human logic, refuse to empty themselves of human emotions.

One midrash speaks of Yitzchak’s last-minute concerns, while bound to the altar. He worried about his aged father’s welfare: who would tend to his senior father’s increasing needs now that he himself would be “out of the picture”.

Additionally, Yitzchak encouraged his father to gently break the news of his death to his worried mother. Otherwise Sarah would be overcome with grief and possibly even turn suicidal. Though Yitzchak rallied to fulfill the heavenly will, he didn’t muffle the natural love and concern for his aged parents.

A second midrash speaks of Avraham agonizing over the pending sacrifice of his son and fervently praying to Hashem to rescind this unbearable decree. Though Avraham acknowledges that the akeidah will forever alter religious history, he none the less davens for its repeal. As a merciful father he cannot sheepishly accept this decree. Of course, if the will of Hashem remains unchanged, he will accede, but he campaigns for the cancellation of the akeidah. Ultimately his prayers are answered.

Perhaps the most well-known midrash to “humanize” the akeidah depicts the tears rolling down the cheeks of a sobbing Avraham. Some may wonder: how could Avraham weep as he performs the Divine will and reshapes religious history?

Emphatically, the midrash “responds”: how could he NOT cry! Though Hashem summoned him to perform the unspeakable, he does not renounce his fatherly love for his child. Avraham stands atop the mountain as a full-hearted human being submitting to G-d, not as a barren robot who has vacated all human emotion or fatherly love.

By coloring in these human emotions, chazal provide a more complex and nuanced image of the akeidah. The litmus test of religion is our submission to the Divine will. We believe that with sufficient effort and imagination we can reconcile Hashem’s will with human instinct and

The previous generation’s akeidah was the horror of the Holocaust and the prospect of rebuilding Judaism in the shadow of a frightening Divine mystery. with human welfare. Divine commands are beneficial for human experience – both individually and collectively. There is a fundamental moral backbone to the Torah which is synchronous with our basic sense of right and wrong. Hashem endowed humanity with a moral compass and He crafted the Torah based upon that morality. We expect the revealed and direct word of Hashem to accord with the moral conscience he vested within the human heart. The two are meant to coincide.

However, every Jew arrives at an “akeidah moment” standing before the unintelligible will of Hashem. At some point, we are all baffled by the mystifying will of Hashem which appears to be irreconcilable with human interest or human conscience. There is only one correct answer to this trial: submitting human instinct and intuition to the higher wisdom of Divine command.

Chazal’s more nuanced version of the akeidah urges us that while submitting to Hashem’s will, we should not abdicate human emotions. Facing the grand mystery, Avraham does not divest his fatherly love- but performs his duties despite the emotional storm raging within. Hashem desires humans, not robots and certainly

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not cold-blooded killers.

The midrash portraying Avraham’s tears concludes with a phenomenal phrase: [though he was tearing] his heart “joyful” at the prospect of fulfilling Divine will. It may seem odd that he was saddened with tears but thrilled to fulfill Divine command. That is precisely why the human heart is multi-chambered. As we encounter his will, Hashem expects us to process different and sometimes contradictory emotions.

Each generation faces its own akeidah moments. The previous generation’s akeidah was the horror of the Holocaust and the prospect of rebuilding Judaism in the shadow of a frightening Divine mystery. Our generation faces many dilemmas in which the Divine will appears to contradict basic human instincts or current scientific convention. Just as Avraham stood, we are expected to submit to the will of Hashem without abdicating our humanity or our conscience.

The writer is a rabbi at Yeshivat Har Etzion/Gush, a hesder yeshiva. He has smicha and a BA in computer science from Yeshiva University as well as a masters degree in English literature from the City University of New York.

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

What Hashem Wants

BY RABBI SHALOM ROSNER At the end of Parashat Vayeira we read about the major event in Avraham Avinu’s life. According to most Rishonim, the Akeida is the tenth test that Avraham Avinu passes with flying colors. After he’s been promised that his son will become the father of a great nation, he’s asked by Hashem to sacrifice him. Avraham Avinu asks no questions but prepares to fulfill this test with all his heart.

Hashem tells Avraham to “please take your son that you love…” (Bereishit 22:2).

The Ran, Rabbeinu Nissim, gives a unique idea focusing on one word of the command – “na, please.” Rather than Hashem commanding Avraham to take his son and sacrifice him, we see that he’s requesting and revealing what his inner will and desire would be – that Hashem would appreciate Avraham sacrificing his son to Him. With Avraham fulfilling Hashem’s desire, he is recognizing not only what he needs to

Vayera

do but also proving his love for Hashem by doing what he knows Hashem would appreciate. We can reach a much higher level of personal refinement when we go above and beyond what we’re commanded or expected to do, when we’re sensitive to others’ inner desires. This idea of course applies to all our relationships – with family, friends, co-workers and others.

After receiving the Torah at Mount Sinai, Hashem announced the commandment of “You shall do what is right and good in the eyes of Hashem” (Devarim 6:18). The Ramban says that there are so many commandments, both positive and negative, so which commandments does this include?

He points out that it’s impossible to write in the Torah about every single situation that a person finds himself in during his life – with his family, friends, business etc.

Hashem gave us 613 commandments and then told us “You shall do what is right and good in the eyes of Hashem”. Hashem is telling us that He’s given us the framework,

Sidra Summary

the basics and also numerous details and we can use that template to figure out how to act in other situations. That is exactly how Avraham Avinu acted at the Akeida and that’s how every Jew needs to act every day of their life, going beyond fulfilling just the 613 commandments.

In our generation we have the extra merit of having the centrality of Eretz Yisrael in our lives. The first conversations Hashem had with our leaders – Avraham, Yitzchak, Yaakov, Moshe and Yehoshua – were concerning the Land of Israel. It was the first subject He discussed with them. This proves that beyond the commandments of living in Israel and those that apply only in the Land of Israel, Hashem wants us to yearn for the Land and to be there, in the place where we can reach ultimate closeness to Him. The Ishbitzer Rebbe, also known as The Beis Yaakov, writes that in the first blessing of the Grace After Meals we talk to Hashem in the third person – “He provides sustenance for the entire world” – and in

Shortly after Avraham’s brit milah (circumcision), G-d appears to him in Elonei Mamre. Avraham greets three ‘men’ (in fact, angels – see Rashi) and serves them a fine meal. One of them tells Avraham that Sarah will have a baby boy in a year’s time. Sarah overhears and laughs in disbelief.

2ND ALIYA (LEVI) –18:15-33

G-d reveals to Avraham His plan to destroy the wicked city of Sedom. Avraham pleads with G-d to spare the city, in the merit of any righteous people who might live there. However, there are not even ten righteous people living there.

3RD ALIYA (SHLISHI) – 19:1-20

Two of the men (angels) arrive in Sedom

Rabbi Shalom Rosner is a Rebbe at Yeshivat Kerem B’Yavneh and Rabbi of the Nofei HaShemesh community. He is a member of the Mizrachi Speakers Bureau (www.mizrachi.org/speakers).

“Then G-d opened [Hagar’s] eyes and she saw a well of water; she went and filled the skin with water and gave the youth to drink” (Bereishit 21:19)

to rescue Lot, Avraham’s nephew.

Lot welcomes them into his house.

The locals protest against Lot’s hospitality and try to break down the door. Lot offers his daughters in return for the guests’ safety. G-d strikes the townsfolk with blindness. The ‘men’ tell Lot to flee with his family.

1ST ALIYA (KOHEN) – BEREISHIT 18:1-14

the second blessing we talk to Hashem directly – “We offer thanks to You”. Moshe Rabbeinu wrote the first blessing when the manna fell and Yehoshua wrote the second beracha when he crossed the Jordan River into the Land of Israel. Even though Moshe Rabbeinu reached the highest level of any human being, he recognized that he was lacking a certain closeness and directness of connection with Hashem which can only be felt in the Land of Israel and therefore he addressed Hashem in the third person.

May it be Hashem’s will that every Jew around the world recognizes the centrality of serving Hashem in general and in the Land of Israel specifically, especially our generation in which we have merited to witness miracles with millions of Jews returning to the Land of Israel. We should all feel the connection and the magnetic pull, recognizing Hashem’s desire for every Jew to be in the Land of Israel.

Avimelech, establishing Avraham’s rights to the wells he had already dug.

7TH ALIYA (SHEVI’I) – 22:1-24

4TH ALIYA (REVI’I) – 19:21-21:4

G-d rains down sulphur and fire from the heavens, overturning Sedom and its neighbouring cities.

Lot’s wife turns to look back and becomes a pillar of salt. Lot hides in a cave with his two daughters. On consecutive nights, fearing that they are the last humans left, Lot’s daughters get him drunk and each conceives a child from him.

Avraham moves to Gerar in the Negev.

The local ruler Avimelech takes away Sarah, whom Avraham claims is his sister.

G-d appears to Avimelech, warning him not to touch Sarah. Avimelech confronts Avraham, who defends his non-disclosure. Sarah gives birth to Yitzchak (Isaac), who has a brit milah on his eighth day.

Point to Consider: Which of Lot’s two

daughters is considered in a more negative light? (see Rashi to 19:37)

5TH ALIYA (CHAMISHI) – 21:5-21

Sarah sees the negative effect that Avraham’s wayward first son, Yishmael, could have on Yitzchak. She tells Avraham to send away Yishmael and his mother Hagar. They travel in the desert and Yishmael nearly dies of thirst. An angel appears, telling Hagar that a great nation will come from Yishmael. G-d opens Hagar’s eyes and she sees a well of water.

6TH ALIYA (SHISHI) – 21:22-33

Avraham makes a peace pact with

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G-d tells Avraham to bring Yitzchak as an offering. Having previously been told by G-d that Yitzchak would be his heir, and having always encouraged Avraham’s acts of compassion and kindness, this Divine instruction defies logic.

Nevertheless, Avraham obeys, showing his unconditional devotion to G-d, regardless of his logical understanding. As Avraham raises the knife, an angel appears, telling him not to touch Yitzchak, presenting instead a ram to sacrifice. Avraham is praised for his faith. Avraham is told about the birth of Rivkah, Yitzchak’s future wife.

HAFTARAH

The haftarah includes the moving story of the prophet Elisha’s miraculous resuscitation of a young boy who had been born to the Shunamite lady who used to host Elisha in her house. Elisha had originally prophesied the birth of the boy.

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Vayera: Challenges Beyond Our Control

BY GAVRIEL COHN

In this week’s Torah portion, one can almost palpably feel the challenges that Avraham endures, his “ten trials” (Pirkei Avot, 5:3).

The city of Sodom – whose king, men, and wealth Avraham had rescued and restored so nobly (see Bereshit, chapter 14) – were destroyed by divine showers of fire and sulphur. Avraham “arose early in the morning” to see that G-d had “overturned these cities [of Sodom] and the entire plain, with all the inhabitants of the cities and the vegetation of the soil.” The very land that Avraham had been promised to his children was completely obliterated (see Bechor Shor, 18:18). Then, Avraham’s dear nephew, Lot, whom Avraham had travelled with all the way from Ur Kasdim and later saved from captivity in Canaan (and on whose account Sodom itself was set free by Avraham) lay utterly dishonoured and disgraced. Another trial emerged after family tension. Avraham, with a heavy heart yet following G-d’s sanction, “arose early in the morning,” and banished Hagar and his beloved Yishmael from his home, sending them out into the desert. Finally, Avraham was tested by G-d one last time. He was

commanded to take his sole heir, his precious boy Yitzchak, and “bring him up as an offering on one of the mountains.”

Avraham again “arises early in the morning, saddles his donkey… and went to the place which G-d had told him.”

Every trial of Avraham leads to a dismantling of his successes or gains: Sodom’s destruction, Lot’s disgrace, Yishmael’s banishment, and then, it seemed, his chosen seed, Yitzchak, was to be stubbed out and G-d’s masterplan of populating the Land with Avraham’s descendants would never materialise. The trials seem to be Avraham’s undoing, the utter annihilation of his achievements.

Each morning, Avraham “arises early” only to endure even more loss and ruin, to witness what he built destroyed. What is the lesson of these difficult, burdensome challenges of Avraham?

The message of Avraham’s tests is stated explicitly at the end of his last trial, the Akeidah. Just as Avraham is about to

Avraham, our rabbis tell us, decided to pray, instituting the morning service of Shacharit, a meditation full of praise and positivity.

Vayera RABBI DR RAYMOND APPLE

ABRAHAM’S ACCORDS

B’reshit is the book of biography. Beginning with Adam and Eve, it introduces us to the succession of generations with an emphasis on the patriarch Abraham.

Abraham is the dynamic initiator who establishes the Jewish people and their land. His faith and courage lay the foundations for the future.

Where Parashat No’ach is understood by the sages as a contrast between No’ach and Abraham, Parashat Vayyera makes a contrast between Moses and Abraham a historical inevitability – Abraham as the knight of faith, Moses as the builder of the community.

In Abraham we see how the Divine word calls to the individual, in Moses the Word calls to the people. Each man stands on a mountain: Abraham on Moriah, Moses on Sinai Without Abraham there could be no Judaism. Nor could there be a Judaism without Moses.

SAINTS IN THE CITY

G-d is willing to negotiate. If there are sufficient righteous people within the city, He will be forbearing and forgiving (Gen. 18:26). The phrase “within the city” is to

slaughter his son, the last possession and achievement that he still has, the angel of G-d cries out: “Now I know that you are a G-d-fearing man!”

The purpose of these trials is thus to show that despite all the losses that Avraham had suffered, he continued to be a G-d-fearing person. Regardless of the failures and suffering that Avraham endured, his inner self and personality remained untampered and unscathed.

Many of Avraham’s trials struck him as he was “rising early in the morning.” At that moment, when he glared face-to-face at that day’s gruelling trial to come he could have grumbled and complained, or even refused to get up. Yet instead, Avraham, our rabbis tell us, decided to pray, instituting the morning service of Shacharit, a meditation full of praise and positivity. Avraham had no control over his environment or his fate; he had no idea which one of his achievements or projects would succeed or what hardship

be taken literally.

To find righteous people in the synagogue or house of study is taken for granted. To find righteous people on sacred occasions can also be assumed.

Look back a few weeks to Yom Kippur. Even though the day was much more difficult this year, it still brought out the best in almost all of us. To be a righteous person in shule or on a holy day is almost automatic.

But to be righteous “within the city”, that’s another thing. There are temptations all around, invitations to unrighteousness, addictions that lead us away from G-d and His Torah.

We have to try to be righteous wherever we walk, wherever we work, wherever we lie down and wherever we rise up.

THREE GOOD MEN

Abraham was more famous than Lot, but Lot was not without his good points (Gen. 19:1).

When Abraham saw three men who turned out to be angelic beings (Gen. 18), he ran to greet them. Lot acted similarly. What then was the difference between Abraham and Lot? The Chassidic personality Rabbi Abraham Yehoshua Heschel of Apt asked this question, and this was his answer:

or destruction would strike him next, yet he had control over one thing: his inner self, and resolvedly decided to fill it with fear of G-d and faith in Him. As our holy tradition stresses, “All is in the hands of heaven except for the fear of heaven” (Gemara Brachot, 33b; see also Kohelet, 12:13). That is the lesson of Avraham’s trials, that he still remained “a G-d-fearing person” despite what life threw at him. When Avraham had no control over his circumstances, he still remained in control over his heart and mind.

To quote the famous lines of Rudyard Kipling: “If you can dream – and not make dreams your master; If you can think – and not make thoughts your aim; If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster; And treat those two impostors just the same; Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken, And stoop and build ’em up with worn-out tools…; If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue, Or walk with Kings – nor lose the common touch…” then perhaps, we may say, you would have grasped the message of Avraham’s ten trials.

Gavriel Cohn is an informal educator at Immanuel College, Bushey. He has written a number of articles for various publications. If you have any questions or comments or would like the Torah sources for this piece, please get in touch! gavcohn@ gmail.com.

“Lot thought they were angels: Abraham thought they were men.”

Lot had immense respect for leaders, especially if he thought they were part of the Heavenly retinue: Abraham had immense respect for ordinary people and was certain that even though they looked ordinary and unprepossessing they were still capable of rising to angelic heights.

STAGES IN MOURNING

Some views suggest that hearing of Isaac’s near death gave Sarah a shock which proved fatal.

She had not known of G-d’s call to Abraham and only heard of the whole course of events after they were over and after Abraham and Isaac came home.

The impact of her death is described in next week’s sidra, Chayyei Sarah, in Chapter 23 of B’reshit which tells of the death of Sarah and how Abraham mourned for her. He came lis’pod l’Sarah v’liv’kotah – “to eulogise Sarah and to weep for her”.

The narrative follows a peculiar order, first the eulogy and then the weeping.

It cannot possibly be that Abraham did not realise the extent of the tragedy at first and only started weeping once he had put the occasion into words.

The truth may really be quite the opposite. Abraham was genuinely torn to pieces by the death but he knew that Sarah

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belonged to the family, to the community, to history, and not just to him personally.

He felt he had to comfort the others first and to sum her up for them before he could give way to his own individual grief.

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

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JUDAISM 35

Is Greatness Only for Superheroes?

Avraham challenged himself daily, constantly pushing himself to become the very best he could be.

BY SHMUEL REICHMAN The path to greatness seems simple enough. But when we look around, how many people do we see who are on that path to greatness? How many people do you know who are pushing their limits, living at their peak, and achieving the extraordinary? Shockingly few, probably.

This begs the question: Why are there so few people who are living this way, at their highest level? While studying at Harvard, UChicago, and Yeshiva University, I saw many of my colleagues striving for greatness. But even at these great institutions, so many of my colleagues were simply trying to survive and get by. While some were writing books, conducting ground-breaking research, and planning their futures, others had no idea why they were there to begin with. After speaking around the world and coaching countless clients, I found so many people who struggled to even begin the journey towards their greatness. The more I thought about this question, the more fascinated I became by this enigma. From both research and experience, I found five different reasons that come up again and again for why people don’t become great, which we will cover in the next couple articles.

When we understand and think about these obstacles, we can ensure that we are armed and ready to overcome them as we embark on our own journey towards greatness.

NO IDENTITY; NO DESTINATION

Many people have never even begun the journey towards greatness, simply because they don’t know who they are.

Imagine waking up in a hospital bed with amnesia; you haven’t the foggiest clue who you are. You try to recall your most recent memories and how you may have gotten here, but you can’t seem to remember. After a few seconds, you come to realize that you truly have no idea who you are. Just then, a group of men enter the room and deliver some shocking news. They tell you that you are the leader of the country, and that once you’re feeling better, there are some important issues for you to deal with. How would you feel? You’d probably hold your head up high, feeling important and respected.

But what if instead of addressing you as a world leader, these same people inform you that you are the hospital janitor; instead of awaiting your return to the Presidential office, they’re awaiting your return to the bathrooms on the second floor. How would you feel then? What would you think of yourself?

Even without amnesia, many of us allow our identity and sense of self to be dictated by others. We begin life undeveloped, without an inner identity or a clear sense of purpose and direction. Instead of going through the process of discovering who we are and what we can accomplish with our lives, we allow our sense of self and direction in life to be dictated by others. When we are young, we crave the

attention and approval of our parents; as we age, we desire the acceptance and love of our friends, and as we continue to mature, we yearn to be accepted by society.

At this stage in our development, we are trapped by living in accordance with what we think other people think we should be.

(We don’t know what they want us to be, so we’re actually living in accordance with what we think they think we should be.)

We don’t choose our inner identity or our life’s direction, and we never spent time getting to know who we are, what we’re in this world for, and what our true purpose really is. Instead, we become chained to the will and acceptance of those around us, walking on glass and hoping that we are playing the right game.

If we never wake up from this act, we spend our entire lives enslaved to a game where we are playing a role we were never assigned. We feel fake, because we are.

We say what we think we’re supposed to; we eat, dress, think, and talk the way that we think we’re supposed to. We act on the outside, but it’s not a true expression of what’s within; mostly because we don’t know what’s within, because we never sought to find out. We were too scared to try, because what if people don’t like us?

What if they reject who we are? We fear being rejected so much that we never even accept ourselves. We adapt and mold, giving others what we think they want, never even beginning the journey to our true selves, never even opening the door and walking into ourselves, into the wonders of self-awareness and self-exploration.

And often, this shackling of self can last a lifetime. I remember speaking at an event, and an elderly gentleman came over to me with a grim face and tears in his eyes. He told me that he had recently come back from a funeral, where he buried his closest friend. At the funeral, he and his colleagues had described their friend and his legacy. He told me that

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he had spent the past few days thinking about his life and came to the somber realization that he had no idea who he was or what he stood for. He was standing right in front of me, but realized that he stood for nothing.

HOW MANY OF US STRUGGLE WITH THIS? HOW MANY OF US HAVE NEVER CHOSEN OUR OWN IDENTITY?

However, it’s never too late. We always have the ability to take ownership of our life and begin to live independently, as our true selves, on the journey towards greatness and self-actualization.

Every day, we need to choose who we are, what we believe in, and how we are going to live our lives. Each morning, we get to create our identity. We are never stuck in the patterns of our past; each day we begin anew. As Avraham said, “anochi afar v’efer”- I am but dust and ashes (Bereishis 18:27). This is generally understood as a statement of extreme humility.

However, there is a fundamentally deeper explanation of this statement as well. Ashes represent an elemental breakdown, the most basic particles of an object. Dirt is the starting point of growth, the place where seeds are planted and given life. In a deeper sense, Avraham was saying that every day he would “ash” himself, breaking his very “self” down into its elemental, root form, and he would then plant himself anew. In other words, Avraham would recreate himself every single day. Each and every day, he looked deep within himself, examined and broke down every aspect of his “self,” and then recreated himself for the better, taking the next step in his spiritual growth.

Avraham never continued living the same way simply because it was comfortable, or he because he was used to it. Avraham challenged himself daily, constantly pushing himself to become the very best he could be. But the very first step is to choose.

Choose who you are going to be by peering deep within yourself and engaging in the process of self-discovery. As you continue the journey of self-awareness and self-discovery, continue to mold and embrace your ever higher and greater sense ofidentity and purpose. In our next column, we will delve deeper into this topic and explore the other factors that hold people back from striving after their greatness.

Shmuel Reichman is an inspirational speaker, writer, and coach who has lectured internationally at shuls, conferences, and Jewish communities on topics of Jewish Thought and Jewish Medical Ethics. He is the founder and CEO of Self-Mastery Academy (ShmuelReichman.com), the transformative online course that is revolutionizing how we engage in self-development. He is also the founder of “Think. Feel. Grow.”, a platform from which he shares inspirational Torah videos that have reached over one hundred thousand people. You can reach him and find more of his inspirational lectures, videos, and articles on his website: ShmuelReichman.com

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Vayera

Vayera Word Search

Parshat Vayeira contains various exciting stories, all with lessons for us.

We learn of Avraham our forefather, who sat out in the heat of the day, even though he had just had a Brit Mila at a very old age, in order to welcome guests. He brought them in, fed them and then listened as they shared the great news that Sarah his wife was finally going to have a child!

Wow! The guests then continued to Sodom, where they warned Avraham’s nephew Lot that the city was about to be overturned. Lot escapes as the city is destroyed, and his wife turns into a pillar of salt! Sarah gives birth to her miracle baby who they name Yitzchak. When they see that their older son Yishmael is not a good influence on Yitzchak they send Yishmael away together with his mother. Finally Avraham passes one of the greatest of all tests in history - he is willing to offer up his son as a sacrifice to G-d which he almost did, but at the last minute he was told to stop. He had passed! We his children and grandchildren try our best to follow the will of Hashem even when difficult!

Tangram Challenge!

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

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AVRAHAM • FAMINE • HAGAR • LOT • PLAGUE • SALT • SARAH • SEDOM

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“G

irls, please put away your dvar Torah books. I would like to end off with an exercise for you to try out.”

Rivki’s class put away their books excitedly and waited for Miss Landau to tell them what she had planned.

“At the end of this week’s sedrah, Hashem tells Avraham to bring his son Yitzchak as an offering to Hashem.” Miss Landau continued.

“Before the bell goes, I want you to think about what small sacrifice you can make to do what Hashem wants you to do. Maybe there is a mitzva you can do that you find really hard, or maybe you could stop doing something Hashem doesn’t want you to do.”

Just as the bell rang for the end of class, Miss Landau said the best bit.

“On Monday, I will be collecting all your ideas for your small sacrifices to Hashem and I will give a prize to the person with the best idea. Have a good shabbos everyone!”

Rivki ran outside to meet her mother at the gates. On the way home she told Ima all about what the teacher had said.

“That is a great idea” Ima smiled at Rivki.

“Why don’t you share it at Shabbos dinner tonight and we can all have a go.”

Shabbos couldn’t come fast enough for Rivki. She helped lay the table and looked after Yehudis and Shloime, while Ima finished getting ready. As soon as everyone

A Small Sacrifice around the table had taken their first bite of challa, Rivki started telling everyone about her teacher’s idea to do something as a small sacrifice to Hashem.

“What’s a sacrifice?” said Yehudis.

“That’s a great question,” replied Abba.

“In this case, a sacrifice means giving up something of yourself to Hashem. So if there is something that Hashem asks us to do that might be hard for us, we can make

a small sacrifice and do what Hashem wants of us instead of what we want to do.”

“I have an example,” shouted Chaim excitedly. “I could try to slow down when I say my davening. I really want to hurry because I want to rush outside to play, but Hashem would want me to be slower so that could be my sacrifice.”

“Brilliant idea” said Abba.

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KIDS 37

“What about you?” Abba turned to Hadassa.

“That’s a hard one.” Hadassa thought carefully. “I don’t like sharing my books, because I am scared they will get ruined.

Mindy has been asking to borrow my new book for ages. It will be really hard for me, but my small sacrifice will be to lend it to her.”

“Excellent. What about you, Yehudis?” said Abba.

“I don’t like going to bed, I’m going to try to go to bed tonight without complaining.”

“Wow!” said Ima in surprise and everyone laughed and cheered. Yehudis sat back looking very pleased with herself.

“And last but definitely not least, what about you Rivki?” asked Abba.

Rivki looked down, on the one hand she had tons of ideas, on the other hand she didn’t think she was good enough to do any of them.

“Remember when we learnt that Hashem always gives you another chance?” Ima whispered to Rivki. “Don’t let the fear of getting it wrong stop you from trying.”

“I find it really hard to do my chazara every day. I want to try and do it properly with Ima or Abba, without making a fuss.”

Rivki said quietly.

“Well done Rivki!” Ima said loudly. “We are so proud of all of you!.”

Abba and Ima smiled as all the children started laughing and cheering, even baby Shloime!

38 YOUTH

21 OCTOBER 2021

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Vayera

In a nutshell Last week we left Avraham to perform bris milah on himself at 99 years old! Not to mention all the men in his household – oh yeah, and it was seen as mutilation and totally wrecked his street cred as well as scaring people away. But Hashem says, Avraham does. Now we open to find Avraham, three days after milah, in terrible agony – not moaning in bed, but desperate for guests. Hashem literally makes it too hot for people to come to give him a break but Avraham is such a giver that this saddens him to the point he sits outside looking for travellers!

Hashem himself comes to visit Avraham (if G-d can visit the sick, you can too) and then sends Avraham three angels disguised as guests. Avraham is ecstatic and goes all out to serve them even as weakened as he is! Then one angel reveals he is here to tell Avraham that next year Sarah will give him a son Yitzchak. Avraham is beaming and if G-d says, so it will be, but Sarah laughs and Hashem isn’t too pleased about that. Hashem is the Creator and Sustainer of all being, do you think a miracle is too much for him?!

The other two angels are here to destroy Sodom,, the wicked, evil place that Lot lives in? They torture and murder visitors, encourage violence to the point the victim has to pay their attacker and a whole bunch of nastiness you can go check out. Avraham, again the giver and epitome of kindness, gets up to pray, begging and bargaining. Eventually he realises that there is not a single righteous person who deserves to be saved except for Lot. So the angels set off to Sodom, Lot takes them in, his wife is furious and tells all the neighbours, “I need salt for my husbands guests.” An angry mob shows up demanding the guests so they can kill them, the melachim strike them blind but in their crazed fervour they keep on trying! The malachim drag Lot reluctantly away from his money, warning the family not to look back. Mrs Lot does and becomes a pillar of – salt.

After Sodom is destroyed, Avraham moves to find more travellers to teach. He goes to Gerrar, has a very similar story to Pharoah with Sarah play out with Avimelech the king of Gerar. However Avraham stays there and

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

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

eventually makes a peace treaty that causes a lot of grief when his descendants later come to conquer the land.

Sarah has a son – Yitzchak/Isaac and all rejoice – except Yishmael and Hagar. Yishmael is wicked and also attempts to murder Isaac. Sarah wants his influence stopped and Hashem tells Avraham to listen to her and in one of his harderst tests, he has to send them away, back to Egypt on a donkey. However on the way, Yishmael falls ill and Hagar leaves him to die, they both pray and Hashem saves Yishmael, promising Hagar that He has great plans for Yishmael – he will be a great nation.

Meanwhile he grows up a very skilled…highwayman.

Avraham’s greatest and hardest test – offer up your now 37 year old, beloved son Issac! With tears streaming down his face, he lifts the knife as Isaac lies bound upon his own request, peaceful and serene, prepared to die if G-d wishes, and Hashem calls it off at the last second!

We still reap the benefits from this wonderous act of devotion to this day!!

Use this area to write the words you have found.

n d

a u

l

r e

e d

Last week’s words: Here are some words you may have found from last week - you may have found more! age dig dug get git

gut rag reg rig rug

tag tug aged drag dreg

drug gait gate gear gird

grid grit rage urge argue

gated grade grate great guard

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guide raged ridge tiger urged

argued gaiter grated guider guitar

gutted gutter target triage trudge

turgid gaudier gritted triaged gratitude

21 OCTOBER 2021

YOUTH 39

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Q. What can you give and keep at the same time?

A. A cold!

Q. What does a nut say when it sneezes?

A. Cashew!

Q: What did the mummy cow say to the baby cow?

A: “It’s pasture bedtime.”

(Answers at the bottom of page upside down)

1. I turn around once.

What is out will not get in.

I turn around again.

What is in will not get out.

What am I?

2. The more there is the less you see.

What is it?

3) Those that came after T

2) Fog!

1. Bear in mind 2. Bet on the wrong horse 3. Have it both ways

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1. A key!

3. What letters of the alphabet come too late for supper?

Q. Why did the apple run away?

A. Because the banana split!

4. Just around the corner 5. A foot in the door 6. Thin end of the wedge

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