IDF ready to strike as ceasefire holds
BY DAVID SAFFER
A long awaited ceasefire is holding on the Israel-Lebanon border but tensions remain high.
Israel’s security cabinet backed the agreement brokered with United States involvement 10-1. National Security Minister Ben Gvir voted against.
World leaders are determined the agreement after 13 months hostilities will hold but Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu, under terms of the agreement, warned
tries to arm itself, we will attack. If it tries to rebuild terrorist infrastructure near the border, we will attack. If it launches a rocket, if it digs a tunnel, if it brings in a truck carrying rockets, we will attack.”
Within hours of the 4am ceasefire yesterday IDF forces fired warning shots at Hezbollah terrorists approaching Kfar Kila, a restricted area overlooking
from Lebanon, in Kiryat Bialik PHOTO: AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES
Continued from page 1
Under the deal that includes a 60day transition period, Israeli forces will withdraw from southern Lebanon. The Lebanese Army will deploy 5,000 troops including at 33 Israeli border posts. Hezbollah must vacate southern Lebanon and dismantle its military infrastructure. Netanyahu in a video address to the nation overviewed Israel’s stance.
“Hezbollah decided to attack us from Lebanon on October 8, a year later, it is not the same Hezbollah,” he said. “We have pushed them decades back. We eliminated Nasrallah, the axis of the axis. We have taken out the organisation’s top leadership, we have destroyed most of their rockets and missiles, we have killed thousands of terrorists and demolished their underground terror infrastructure abutting our border, infrastructure they had been building for years… Three months ago, this all sounded like science fiction. But it isn’t. We did these things.”
Netanyahu explained that he backed the deal to focus on the Iranian threat, to give forces a breather, replenish stocks and to isolate Hamas.
He added: “From day two of the war, Hamas was counting on Hezbollah to fight by its side. With Hezbollah out of the picture, Hamas is left on its own. We will increase our pressure on Hamas and that will help us in our sacred mission of releasing our hostages.”
Netanyahu concluded:
“A good deal is a deal that is enforced, and we will enforce it.”
President Isaac Herzog added: “The Security Cabinet’s decision to approve the truce is correct and important, but it must be clear the State of Israel will defend its citizens any time, any place, any way. Our enemies must understand, what was will be no more. We fought fiercely as a united nation with selfless determination to ensure the safety of Israel’s citizens. As one people, we remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting the north and the south and securing the safety of the entire nation.”
US President Joe Biden said the ceasefire was designed to “create the conditions
to restore lasting calm and allow residents in both countries to return safely to their homes on both sides of the Blue Line” in a joint statement with French President Emmanuel Macron.
Board of Deputies president Phil Rosenberg hopes the ceasefire leads to a wider cessation of hostilities so border communities can return safely to their homes and livelihoods.
Gary Mond, National Jewish Assembly chairman, said peace with Lebanon can only be possible if Hezbollah is “wiped out”. “It is to be hoped the Lebanese government, with assistance from external powers, can bring this about,” he added.
Aliyah: Building Dreams & Saving Tax
People sit in traffic as they return to their villages after a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah went into effect PHOTO: AP/MOHAMMED ZAATARI
Lebanese soldiers ride in a convoy in Mansouri, as they head to southern Lebanon.
PHOTO: AP/HUSSEIN MALLA
Heavens open at Rabbi’s funeral
BY DAVID SAFFER
Thousands of mourners attended the funeral of Chabad Shaliach Rabbi Zvi Kogan in Kfar Chabad, Israel on Monday evening.
Chief Rabbis and Chabad’s leadership were joined by politicians to honour Kogan, 28, abducted and murdered in an antisemitic terror attack in United Arab Emirates last Thursday.
“Our heart is bleeding, we are broken in a way that we cannot explain,” said Kfar
Chabad Mayor Rabbi Shimon Rabinovitz, who began the eulogies as the heavens opened with torrential rain.
“Rabbi Kogan with his whole heart was focused doing the shlichus of the Rebbe. He had everyone coming over to his house with his smile. He brought closer to G-d so many people… Hashem is choosing the best, but our job is to go ahead, to continue his shlichus, to continue what the Rebbe expects us to do.”
Rabbi Shneur Ashkenazi of Chabad Rishon Leziyon summed up everyone’s
heartache: “Tell us this is a bad dream. You never hurt a fly. You only helped, aided and brought joy. You fell like a soldier at his post. When they wanted to hurt the Jewish people, they knew whom to attack. They attacked our soul, which you exemplified with your generosity.”
Kogan’s UAE Chabad colleagues gave moving addresses.
The driving force behind Judaism in the UAE, Rabbi Levi Duchman told mourners: “In the face of such evil, words feel hollow. His ability to connect with people from all walks of life was unmatched and now even after his death, his legacy is alive. Tens of thousands of mitzvahs are being performed in his memory. Already three babies have been named in his honour… His life was stolen, but his mission cannot not be silenced. This is who we are, this is what it means to be a Jew.”
Duchman added: “Every Jew is on the front line. Every one of us have a role and a responsibility. We are not just a nation, we are ambassadors of love, life and truth. Our mission is not to hide, not to cower, not to duck from shame or fear. We stand tall, we hold the Torah to show the world we are alive. It’s time for us to reconnect with our true mission, to stop apologising for Israel’s existence.”
Israel Launches Digital Travel Authorization System ETA-IL – Starting January 1, 2025
A significant innovation for travelers: the Electronic Travel Authorization system (ETA-IL) represents a major step forward in enhancing the travel experience. This modernized system provides a convenient and efficient way to obtain entry permits, ensuring a smooth journey to Israel. Similar programs have been adopted in recent years in Europe, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand to streamline entry processes and strengthen security measures.
The ETA-IL system allows travelers from visa-exempt countries to obtain prior authorization to enter Israel. Instead of paper-based applications, travelers can now submit their requests online.
The system underwent a pilot phase this past summer for travelers from the United States and Germany. It will officially launch on January 1, 2025. To apply for an ETA-IL, travelers must complete an online form (ETA-IL (piba.gov.il)) with basic personal information, passport details, and their planned travel itinerary, and pay a nominal fee of 25 NIS (approximately $7).
Once submitted, the application undergoes a quick and thorough review
by Israeli authorities, typically resulting in rapid approval via email. It is essential, however, to submit the application at least 72 hours before travel to allow sufficient processing time.
Upon approval, the ETA-IL is linked to the traveler’s passport and remains valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. Authorization holders can enter Israel multiple times, up to 90 days per year. This digital authorization enables seamless entry into Israel through designated checkpoints, featuring contactless machines that allow travelers to bypass immigration officers, similar to the Global Entry program.
The launch of the ETA-IL system not only simplifies the entry process but also enhances security by providing passenger information in advance of their arrival. This proactive approach enables Israeli authorities to efficiently screen and monitor incoming visitors, ensuring the safety and security of both residents and travelers alike.
Israel looks forward to welcoming you once again with warm Israeli hospitality as tourism continues to recover, offering you an unforgettable experience in Israel.
Duchman promised that Kogan’s widow, Rivky, would be cared for with dignity and respect, before announcing a new UAE Chabad center would be built in Kogan’s memory and named ‘Beit Zvi’.
Chief Rabbi of Israel David Yosef observed: “The entire world is shaken by your murder. You were killed just because you are Jewish. You have merited to sanctify G-d’s name in the eyes of the world and in the eyes of the Jewish people.”
Kogan’s father, Rabbi Alexander Kogan, an immigrant from USSR, recalled : “You never needed to tell him what to do. You would hint to him, and he would run. He did everything. His pleasure was to do for others. He loved everyone. He and Rivky would send us pictures of the giant Shabbat meals they hosted. That was their mission. It was in their souls and their joy.”
Following Kogan’s burial on the Mount of Olives, thousands of delegates were set to attend the International Conference of Chabad-Lubavitch Emissaries yesterday in New York.
The annual event will have added meaning.
A fund for Zvi’s widow, Rebbetzen Rivky Kogan, has been set up. It stands at over $786,000.
To donate: https://raisethon.com/zvi
The funeral of Rabbi Zvi Kogan
UAE seeks death penalty for Kogan killers
BY DAVID SAFFER
Uzbek nationals Makhmudjon Abdurahim, 28, Azizi Kamlovich, 33, and Olimpi Tohirovich, 28, have been arrested for the murder of Rabbi Zvi Kogan, a pillar of the United Arab Emirates Jewish community, last week.
It has been reported the Emirati government will seek the death penalty.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed outrage at Kogan’s murder on Sunday.
“The murder of an Israeli citizen and Chabad emissary is an abhorrent antisemitic terrorist attack,” raged Netanyahu. “The State of Israel will use all means to deal with these murderers. None of them will get away.”
Netanyahu welcomed cooperation from the UAE in investigating the murder.
President Isaac Herzog added: “This vile antisemitic attack is a reminder of the inhumanity of the enemies of the Jewish people. It will not deter us from continuing to grow flourishing communities in the UAE or anywhere, especially with the help of Chabad emissaries all over the world.”
Israel’s National Security Council has raised the threat level for Israelis and Jews in the UAE.
Anyone in the UAE should avoid ‘non-essential travel’ and remain in secured locations. If they can’t then avoid businesses, places of entertainment and gatherings with Israeli and the Jewish population. They should stay alert in public places, conceal Israeli identification, cooperate with security forces, report hostile activities, avoid posting travel details and photos. Social media should be private.
Emirati Ambassador to the US, Yousef Al Otaiba condemned the murder.
“It was an attack on our homeland, on our values and on our vision,” he said. “In the UAE, we welcome everyone. We embrace peaceful coexistence. We reject extremism and fanaticism of every kind. We honour Zvi Kogan’s memory by
recommitting ourselves to these values. Now, we are more determined than ever to protecting and sustaining the Emirates as a shining and enduring example of diversity, acceptance and peace.”
Kogan, who served in the IDF’s Givati Brigade, was assistant to UAE Chief Rabbi, Rabbi Levi Duchman. A key figure in the Jewish and Israeli community, he managed a kosher supermarket, Rimon, in Abu Dhabi.
Kogan was in Israel last Tuesday to meet the new Israeli Ambassador to the UAE, Yossi Shelley, at Netanyahu’s Office before returning to Dubai. His family was in contact on Wednesday before Rebbetzen Rivky Kogan alerted Chabad’s security officer when he failed to attend meetings the following day.
Kogan reportedly travelled by car to Al Ain, near Dubai, but failed to arrive for a meeting. His car was abandoned near Al Ain and phone switched off. It is believed the Uzbek terrorists tracked, abducted and murdered Kogan then fled to Turkey.
Israeli security officials were angry Emirati Police only responded to the terror incident on Thursday reported in Dubai and Abu Dhabi after Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar intervened.
According to reports, after Shabbat police arrived at the home of Kogan’s parents in Jerusalem to inform them of the murder.
Kogan was married to the niece of Rabbi Gabi Holtzberg, a Chabad shliach murdered by terrorists in Mumbai in November 2008.
For Rabbi Nachman Holzberg, 16 years after his son Gabi and wife Rivka were murdered, Kogan’s killing was unbearable.
“We feel as if the whole tragedy is happening all over again,” he reportedly told Israeli media. “It’s simply incomprehensible.”
Paying tribute he said: “Everything that was said about Gabi, is true of Zvi. He was dedicated to his work, constantly trying to help more people, everyone who
entered the Chabad house would leave with a smile on their lips. Jew or non-Jew, winter or summer, Shabbat or weekday, he knew how to give the maximum to everyone.”
Holzberg added: “He was one of the greats of the generation in love for Israel and the unity of Israel. All the sheikhs in Dubai loved him dearly, and the people of the country also loved him very much. He was always running for everyone, as far as he was concerned he had no privacy, he did not care for himself. When he would come to events in New York, he would return immediately because he felt that the place needed him… When they
cherishes peace, respect and coexistence.
“Rabbi Kogan dedicated his life to fostering understanding and connection between people of different faiths and cultures,” he noted. In a reference to the UAE, he added: “No act of evil will deter us from uniting against the forces of darkness that seek to divide us.”
Jonathan Metliss, Action Against Discrimination, said the cold-blooded murder of Rabbi Kogan was a heinous act of antisemitic terror.
He noted: “It is clear Jews worldwide are subject to a new wave of antisemitism. The current level of antisemitic behaviour is a global concern and all
came to kill Zvi they didn’t think about whether he was from the right or the left, secular or religious. This is the point that needs to be conveyed from Zvi’s story and Gabi’s story, everyone should take care of everyone.”
In the UK, Chabad Lubavitch UK called on Jews to do mitzvahs by putting on tefillin, giving tzedakah and strengthen their commitment to Jewish unity.
Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis said the murder was an “heinous act of terror” and devastating to everyone who
Kushner donates $1m to Chabad
BY ADAM MOSES
President-elect Donald Trump’s, son-in-law Jared Kushner, has donated
$1 million to Chabad UAE following the murder of Rabbi Zvi Kogan last week.
Kushner, credited in brokering the 2020 Abraham Accords with a number of Arab nations including the UAE, and his wife, Ivanka Trump, expressed their grief in statement on X.
“Rabbi Kogan was senselessly murdered to stop the historic bridges he was building
between Jews and Muslims in the UAE,” they wrote, “The success of his work, in partnership with the bold and positive vision of the Emirati government, has been a shining light in the world and a strong counter to the history of division.”
Kushner is a former senior White House adviser and is set to take on a significant role with US Middle East policy, despite no official post.
Kushner’s relationships with Israeli and Gulf leaders, including Netanyahu and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, are viewed as essential according to reports.
Kushner welcomed UAE’s leadership in religious coexistence.
governments must take this seriously, including in the UK, which has one of the worst records of antisemitic behaviour from University campuses and the arts to pro-Palestinian marches. Anti-Israel rhetoric from non-Jews and Jews alike breeds antisemitic behaviour.
The Board of Deputies said the murder was a truly despicable act. The National Jewish Assembly welcomed suspects being apprehended and hope justice will be served.
Noting the UAE’s efforts to rekindle peace between Jews and Muslims in the Middle East before World War II, he observed: “The UAE is leading us back to that time.”
Funds will support Chabad UAE in in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
“In the UAE, people of all faiths and backgrounds thrive together in an environment of mutual understanding and respect,” Kushner stated. “Ivanka and I will redouble our efforts to work with the Jewish community and the country’s leadership to build a resilient, vibrant Jewish community. We welcome others to join us in this effort.”
Kushner added: “The constant scapegoating of Israel and the Jewish people benefits no one, other than inept leaders who use hatred to deflect from their own shortcomings. It’s time for the world to channel its collective energy to uplift our shared goals and ambitions.”
Jared’s brother, Joshua Kushner, has also donated $1 million to Chabad UAE.
The three suspects who were arrested in the UAE for killing Rabbi Kogan PHOTO: WAM
Every December we distribute over 10,000 games and toys to children in more than 120
wards and hospices. Go to our Toy Drive wishlist and make the difference today.
ICC ‘war crimes’ ruling condemned
BY ADAM MOSES
Israel’s allies have condemned ‘war crime’ warrants by the International Criminal Court in the Hague against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant last week.
Netanyahu labelled the announcement by ICC Chief Prosecutor, Karim Khan, who faces allegations of misconduct, “antisemitic” and blasted the ICC for falsely accusing him and Gallant of deliberately targeting civilians.
“We do everything in our power to avoid civilian casualties,” he said. “We issue millions of text messages, phone calls, leaflets to the citizens of Gaza to get them out of harm’s way while the Hamas terrorists do everything in their power to keep them in harm’s way including shooting them and using them as human shields.”
As for accusations of a starvation policy and genocide, Netanyahu said Israel had supplied Gaza with 700,000 tons of food and supplies were routinely looted by Hamas terrorists.
“No war is more just than the war that Israel has been waging in Gaza after Hamas attacked us unprovoked, launching the worst massacre against the Jewish people since the Holocaust,” Netanyahu added. “These judges did nothing against the real war crimes committed against the millions who have been murdered or uprooted by the dictatorships in Iran, Syria and Yemen.”
A warrant was also issued to Hamas leader Mohammed Deif, reportedly killed in an IDF airstrike. Hamas have not confirmed his death.
Regarding Deif, Netanyahu noted: “They issued an arrest warrant against the corpse of the Hamas arch-terrorist… what an absurdity.” He added: “No biased anti-Israel decision in The Hague will prevent the State of Israel from defending its citizens.”
President Isaac Herzog observed: “This is a dark day for justice, a dark day for humanity. The ICC has turned universal justice into a universal laughing stock. It makes a mockery of the sacrifice of all those who fight for justice from the Allied victory over the Nazis till today.”
under international humanitarian law, and going to great lengths to provide for the humanitarian needs of the civilian population,” Herzog continued.
“The (ICC) decision has chosen the side of terror and evil over democracy and freedom, and turned the very system of justice into a human shield for Hamas’ crimes against humanity. This cynical exploitation of the international legal institutions reminds us once again of the need for true moral clarity in the face of an Iranian empire of evil.”
US President Joe Biden labelled the decision “outrageous”, noting: “Whatever the ICC might imply, there is no equivalence, none, between Israel and Hamas. We will always stand with Israel against threats to its security.”
President-elect Donald Trump’s team will exact a “strong response” in January.
longer fit for purpose.
National Security Advisor nominee, Mike Walz, noted: “The ICC has no credibility, these allegations have been refuted by the US government. Israel has lawfully defended its people and borders from genocidal terrorists. You can expect a strong response to the antisemitic bias of the ICC and UN come January.”
US House Speaker Mike Johnson added, “The ICC’s decision to target America’s ally, Israel, is antisemitic, reprehensible and completely ridiculous. It has absolutely no jurisdiction over Israel or the US… The US Senate should vote immediately on the bipartisan Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act… We cannot afford to show weakness.”
Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said the decision was “shameful and absurd”.
“It is beyond shocking that the leaders of a democratic state defending its own citizens can be made into international fugitives,” he said. “The UN’s own agencies noted that Hamas have been looting dozens of aid trucks for their own population, yet leaders of the Jewish state are hauled before the ICC for purported breaches of international law and crimes against humanity.”
The EJC called on European governments and European Union to demand the ICC overturn its ruling.
This is the first time the ICC has issued warrants against leaders of a democratic country.
Netanyahu and Gallant could be arrested in 124 nations that are ICC signatories of the Rome Statute. The US is not a signatory but the Netherlands, Canada, Switzerland, Italy, Ireland and Jordan announced it would comply with the decision.
He added that the ICC had ignored the plight of the 101 Israeli hostages, Hamas’ cynical use of its own people as human shields and Israel’s right to defend its people.
“Israel is a vibrant democracy, acting
Netanyahu responded: “Hungary, like our friends in the US, has shown moral clarity and steadfastness on the side of justice and the truth.”
European Jewish Congress president Dr. Ariel Muzicant said the ICC was no
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar cancelled Dutch Foreign Minister Kasper Waldekamp’s visit to Israel in response.
A Downing Street spokesperson said the Government respected the ICC but refused to rule out Netanyahu being arrested in Britain. Domestically, Jewish organisations were outraged.
Jonathan Metliss, Action Against Discrimination, said: “These warrants have been issued on the basis of false and incorrect material, they are bigoted, discriminatory and antisemitic.
Hopefully, this decision sounds the death knell of the ICC. Israel operates in accordance with international law.”
Regarding the UK stance, Metliss noted: “Starmer should be ashamed of his approach towards Israel. He is devoid of principle. This should be seriously taken on board by the UK Jewish community, many who mistakenly flocked to support Starmer.”
The Board of Deputies observed: “The court has minimalised how Hamas fights, deliberately from within civilian infrastructure and cruelly using Palestinian civilians as human shields. The ICC decision is counter-productive.”
NJA Chairman Gary Mond said: “The ICC’s actions represent a profound betrayal of justice and a dangerous legitimisation of terrorism. These warrants are not about human rights, they are a politically motivated attack against a democratic nation defending itself against genocidal terrorists.”
StandWithUs UK said: “The ICC’s focus on Israel reveals a troubling pattern of disproportionate scrutiny. By supporting the ICC uncritically, the UK Government risks undermining Israel’s right to self-defence. This approach weakens efforts to combat terrorism and rewards those who flout international law.”
Prime Minister Netanyahu called ICC’s arrest warrant ‘antisemitic’
Peter Szijjarto, Hungary’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade
PHOTO: AFP
Director of Education Yehuda Fink of StandWithUs
Chai supports more men diagnosed with cancer, than ever before
Chai Cancer Care has reported its highest-ever levels of support for men diagnosed with cancer, with new figures showing a 15% increase in clients affected by prostate and testicular cancer compared to the previous year.
Between November 2023 and October 2024, Chai supported 827 men, up from 724 the previous year. Prostate cancer clients increased by 13%, from 681 to 766, while support for testicular cancer rose significantly by 42%, from 43 men to 61 over the same period.
The figures - released to mark ‘Movember’ , a month dedicated to raising awareness of men’s health - highlight the growing demand for Chai’s services and underline the importance of raising awareness and tackling health challenges faced by men.
As the UK Jewish community’s leading cancer support service, Chai also supports men diagnosed with breast cancer and other cancers – arranging therapy, support groups and a series of complementary therapies to relieve symptoms. There are also male-only support groups and evening sessions to support people who wish to attend after working hours.
Furthermore, Chai provides help for men who have tested positive for the BRCA gene mutation.
Marc Rister, 29, was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2023. Rister, who was cleared by doctors after having chemotherapy, says: “Whilst I was being treated, I went to Chai with my mum. She was going there for counselling, and at first, I was sceptical but once I was there I was surprised at how much they do. I had counselling and reflexology. At first, I didn’t really want to see a counsellor, but now I am grateful for it. It made me feel a lot calmer and a chance to say what I was feeling and thinking without worrying about upsetting my family or my girlfriend.”
He adds: “The special thing about Chai, was there was no pressure or time limit on the sessions. They also just seemed to ‘get it’ and understand what I was going through. They have helped so many people in the community, all experiencing different types of cancer, in a different way.
Normally it is hard for me to talk about what I have been through, but they made me feel so comfortable. For me, the most
Stamford Hill teen attacked
BY HARRY SIMONS
Jewish organisations have called for strong policing after a shocking
antisemitic attack in Stamford Hill where a 14-year-old Jewish girl suffered serious head and facial injuries on Monday night.
The Metropolitan Police’s Hackney division and Shomrim have launched an investigation. They are appealing for witnesses to identify the perpetrator of the incident.
Hatzolah responded to the hate attack and took the teenager to the Royal
important thing is to raise awareness. If cancer can happen to me – someone healthy, who exercises and doesn’t drink or take drugs – it can happen to anyone. For anyone reading this, especially young men, I feel it’s really important that we normalise checking ourselves regularly, talking about lumps we find, and most importantly, going to a doctor and getting it seen to. Getting treatment when I did, saved me months of additional intensive chemotherapy, and maybe even saved my life.”
Jonathan Goldman, 62, was diagnosed with cancer in his tongue 16 years ago. He receives ongoing scar massage therapy for tissue damage. A father-ofthree, he says: “The cancer was one thing, but the treatment also impacted the rest of my body. I think of it as a sledgehammer hitting a nut.”
He adds: “My wife suggested I go to Chai Cancer Care I was hesitant at first but after giving it some thought I made the decision to give them a try. As soon as I walked through the door I
was overwhelmed by their reassurance and professionalism especial in the kind caring way they look after everyone.
“Chai CEO Lisa Steele says: “These figures show the growing need for tailored cancer support services for men. Chai is committed to providing a safe and understanding environment where men can access counselling, support groups and therapies that address both the physical and emotional challenges
London Hospital for treatment.
Community leaders have called on authorities to combat a surge in antisemitism and residents to remain vigilant. They should report suspicious activity.
The disturbing incident took place as a group of young Jewish girls were walking to a rehearsal when a man reportedly threw glass bottles at them from a balcony at Woodberry Down Estate.
A Campaign Against Antisemitism spokesperson said: “This incident did not take place in a vacuum. Over the past year, we have repeatedly warned of the dangerous consequences of Jew-hate going unchecked in our nation’s capital. This is the reality in Britain right now.
Jewish children cannot even walk home without fear of being identified and targeted in violent attacks. We hope that police can locate the suspect as quickly as possible.”
Jonathan Metliss, Action Against Discrimination, commented: “Sadly, this
is yet another appalling antisemitic attack on an innocent Jewish victim which is becoming all too common. And this happened at the same time as Chabad Rabbi Zvi Kogan was brutally murdered in the United Arab Emirates.
“The Metropolitan Police must act positively and decisively to apprehend the perpetrators. The Jewish Community must remain vigilant and guard against unprovoked attacks of this nature.”
AAD has called on the Home Secretary, Metropolitan Police chiefs, the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, the local Member of Parliament and officials in position of authority to condemn the attack.
“They must say unequivocally this type of antisemitic behaviour is unacceptable,” noted Metliss. “It will not be tolerated, all offenders must be brought to justice.”
Information: Contact Shomrim or the Police referring to CAD 9166 25/11/24.
Chai CEO, Lisa Steele
35,000 attend Mitzvah Day
BY ADAM MOSES
Britain’s biggest interfaith day of social action saw 35,000 people of all faiths and backgrounds attend Mitzvah Day.
The ‘Stronger Together’ themed event took place across the UK.
Prime Minister
Keir Starmer, Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey and London
Mayor Sadiq Khan joined tens of thousands of people of all religions for 2,500 plus projects encompassing care home visits, cooking for those in need, litter picks, card-writing and park cleanups. There was also food bank and winter clothing collections.
supported by the Mayor’s Fund for London. He was joined in the flagship event by Deputy Mayor Debbie Weekes-Bernard and volunteers.
Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis said: “Mitzvah Day is one of the greatest initiatives of the British Jewish community.
People are showing kindness and doing amazing things.”
Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney added: “There is so much that unites
people of faith. This day of social action recognises the centrality of community, of strong relationships, of compassion, and of reaching out a helping hand.”
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Mitzvah Day founder and chair Laura Marks said: “After a truly challenging year faith communities came together to give back. It was heartening to see senior leaders across the religious and political spectrum put on green T-shirts, roll up their sleeves and join in acts of citizenship, community-building and helping those who need us most.”
Starmer wrote a personalised ‘thank you’ card for staff of Spring Grove Care Home, which was hand-delivered by the home’s local Labour MP Tulip Siddiq, Economic Secretary to the Treasury, during a Mitzvah Day musical event for residents and families.
Starmer said: “No matter the challenges we face, and no matter what our differences may be, we are always stronger together. I am incredibly inspired by the volunteers taking part.”
Davey took part in an intergenerational ballet dance at Nightingale House Care Home with Marks, Apples and Honey Nightingale nursery youngsters and residents.
Davey noted: “It was a delight to see the generosity of spirit reflected in so many acts of kindness across the country. The theme is a timely reminder that we all have much more in common than divides us.”
Khan packed ‘Create and Make” boxes with fresh vegetables for people
Bob Blackman MP, Chair of the 1922 Committee, joined projects run by Stanmore and Canons Park United Synagogue. He said: “Mitzvah Day is brilliant because it brings the whole community together to do things they may not usually be doing.”
Other key projects included Bevis Marks and Lauderdale Road S&P communities collaborating on a packathon for the homeless, Wohl Ilford Jewish Primary School pupils collected for Camp Simcha and Sikh welfare charity Nishkam SWAT before a visit to Jewish Care.
Northwood and Ruislip United Synagogue held a day of activities. Borehamwood and Elstree Synagogue had a blood donor session run by Joely Bear. Brighton & Hove Jewish community youth clubs made soup for BNJC’s Shoresh Nursery. Project impACT held cookathons at the Jewish Vegan Society and JW3. Bowdon Shul volunteered at St Ann’s Hospice, Bushey Synagogue helped Goods for Good and the Red Trust foodbank while US Chesed Hub, in Bushey, wrapped Chanukah gifts. The
ONLINE BEGINNERS COURSE
MONDAY 20TH JANUARY
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Board of Deputies incorporated Mitzvah Day into its plenary at Manchester Maccabi. Hampstead Synagogue collected cereal, tinned food and non-perishable items for food banks.
Redbridge Jewish Community Centre delivered get well soon cards by Jewish Care members to Whipps Cross Hospital. South Hampstead Synagogue collected outside supermarkets, the 6th Edgware Brownies picked litter at Stonegrove Park, Jewish
Care Brenner Stepney Community Centre hosted a tea, Woodside Park Synagogue made cakes and biscuits for the North London Hospice and collected goods for Chipping Barnet Food Bank. Jewish Care’s Betty and Asher Loftus Centre in Friern Barnet welcomed 120 young volunteers from The Cross Community Zone GIFT Manchester collected outside K Outlet. GIFT teamed up with King David Primary School for a food drive. Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation collected items for people in need.
Mitzvah Day CEO Stuart Diamond reflected a special day, noting: “Mitzvah Day is a joyful experience that inspires people to give back to their communities. It’s a reminder that even small acts of kindness can have a big impact.”
Project IMPACT taking part in Mitzvah Day
Mitzvah Day at the BoD
Aish UK - lighting up 23 university campuses nationwide
RABBI GIDEON GOLDWATER
The headlines aren’t great, but the reality for Jewish students on campuses up and down the country is sadly worse. It’s often the smaller, non-newsworthy incidents which make it difficult for so many students. One London University student shared how he has grown accustomed to being laughed at by course mates, and having photos taken of him because he’s carrying his bag around campus with a yellow ribbon attached for the hostages.
Welcoming over 3000 students
This year alone, Aish on Campus has welcomed over 3,000 individual students, across 23 different campuses including Leeds, Manchester, Cambridge, Nottingham and Birmingham. Students come for enriching events, to
Some of the challenges are particularly difficult. Take for example, the young man in Leeds who recently received a formal invite to the University administration, having been reported by one of his professors for having a laptop sticker denigrating Hamas. To add insult to injury the invite was to a disciplinary hearing on Shabbat.
There to support and inspire
The Aish team assisted in guiding a suitable response that respected the position of the administration, whilst reflecting on the insensitivity towards basic Jewish rights, let alone the ridiculous accusation levelled against his concerning “sticker” that insulted a proscribed terror organisation. Only last week the educators at Aish Birmingham shared a worrying video taken from their front garden. The video showed a “march” of pro-Palestinian activists, chanting in support of the “resistance” and decrying the “genocide” being committed
one of the Aish team said he has to ensure he is not recognised as the “on campus Jew” and avoid attracting attention to himself.
New Gold Track Programme
So what hope is there? What light can be offered? The answer rolls off the lips of the Aish on Campus team on a daily basis.
The answer to darkness is to shine a light.
One of the core teachings that is being given across campuses as part of the newly launched, “Gold Track” programme being run by Aish, is that which cuts beyond the “excuses” given for age-old antisemitism and reveals the true reason for the most intense and widespread hatred the world has ever seen.
The real reason for such hatred is because darkness fears light, and every Jew, no-matter how far away they are from the Jewish centres of the UK, and no matter which campus they
and eventually presented his case so well that the University took the responsible decision to investigate the Professor in question instead of the student they reported. Success.
It is stories and wins like this that continue to give the Aish team and more importantly, Jewish students the strength to continue striving to learn more, grow more as Jews, and be ambassadors of light in the deepest dark of the winter. As Chanukah approaches, the Aish on Campus team know that this is the time for light to triumph. Am Yisrael Chai.
Rabbi Gideon Goldwater, Managing Director, Aish UK
Aish event hosted on campus
Norwood raise £90k
Bike riders raised £90k for Norwood for children and their families and people with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Flying into Hanoi, the group rode south into the heart of the delta, before battling with some long days in the saddle, undulating roads and some humid conditions. Taking a brief reprieve at Cuc Phuong, Vietnam’s largest national park, where they visited the Endangered Primate Rescue Centre, they then followed the historic Ho Chi Minh trails cycling on small tarmac roads with dramatic mountain scenery among the green rice paddies and lime karst mountains and a section along the along the Buoi River before finally resting at Mai Chau. In total the cultural cycling adventure comprised 5 days cycling and 1 day trekking over a 326KM distance overall.
Among the intrepid challengers were James Sanson, who took on his 30th challenge event for Norwood, and his second alongside his 26 year-old nephew Alexander Sanson Gomez. James said of his decision to take on the challenge: “I
must be a glutten for punishment!! … it’s true, BUT, I’m doing it for a reason. All charities have had a really tough 5 years. Government funding has been squeezed, costs have shot-up, and donor fatigue is a growing trend. So private fundraising is ever more important.”
Alex added: ““ I have a personal vested interest in supporting young people on the spectrum going through hard times, and firmly believe that every human being should have the opportunity to live a fulfilling life. I am privileged to have my second opportunity to participate in a Norwood Challenge.”
The pair have so far raised more than £2,700 towards their fundraising target.
warm this winter?
Kisharon Langdon Forest School
Students at Kisharon Langdon College and Tuffkid Nursery have joined pupils from Wohl Campus, Kisharon Noé School, A Loftus Learning Centre, for Forest School sessions, thanks to a generous Trustee donation.
The four-acre Radlett site features a zip wire, fire pit and accessibility aids.
Regular learning sessions in the open air are widely acknowledged to improve confidence, resilience, physical wellbeing a chance to learn about the natural world.
At Noé School since the pandemic children with severe disabilities have enjoyed activities in the purpose-built eco hub in the playground.
The first session for Tuffkid Nursery children was a huge success.
Headteacher, Janice Marriott said: “Children were amazed to see a natural environment full of exploration
around every corner. The children were mesmerised and can’t wait to go back.” Noé School Forest School leader, Alfredo Sanguino, said, “The experience is especially helpful for participants who struggle with light and sound. They enjoy the calm and listen to birds, rustling of leaves and the wind. It is wonderful to see everyone overflowing with enthusiasm.”
Are you an alumnus of LSJS or Jews’ College?
Are you an alumnus of Jews’ College or the London School of Jewish Studies (LSJS)? If so, LSJS would love to hear from you in preparation for its 170th anniversary in 2025.
Alumni are being asked to get in touch and share memories from their time studying at Jews’ College and LSJS. There will be a special event next year where the alumni will have the chance to reconnect with each other and celebrate the school’s remarkable history and achievements.
To mark the 170th Anniversary, LSJS were delighted to recently receive a letter from HM King Charles offering his heartfelt congratulations.
Jews’ College was founded in 1885, as a rabbinical seminary in London and re-named LSJS in 1999. The new name, inspired by Rabbi Sacks, then President, saw a new emphasis on providing a broad range of adult education programming to a wide sector of the community, as well as continuing to train and develop educators.
LSJS is the community’s only Ofsted-accredited provider of teacher training working with over 50 Jewish schools throughout the UK. They also run degrees in Jewish education at BA and MA level and a range of continuous development opportunities for Jewish Studies teachers.
As well as training and developing educators for the UK and internationally, LSJS has long been committed to women’s learning. The Susi Bradfield Educational Leadership Programme ran for over 20 years and has been followed by a series of innovative programmes including Iyun, a year-long advanced halacha learning programme.
“LSJS is at the forefront of modern-day Jewish teaching, providing our students with access to expert educators from all over the world,” said Rabbi Dr Raphael Zarum, Dean and the Rabbi Sacks Chair of Modern Jewish Thought. “We are passionate about teaching traditional Jewish texts and innovative educational programming and hope to reach many more students in the years to come.”
“I am exceptionally honoured and proud to lead an organisation which has such a special place in this country’s Jewish educational history,” said Joanne Greenaway, LSJS Chief Executive. “We are very excited to be celebrating our 170th anniversary and reconnect with as many alumni as possible.”
Notable alumni include Rabbi Dweck, Senior Rabbi of the S&P Community and LSJS Deputy President, Rabbi Dr Daniel Rose, Director of Education at Koren Publishers and at the Rabbi Sacks Legacy, Rachel Fink, Chief Executive Officer of the S&P Community, Rabbi Danny Baigel, co-head of JS at JFS and Rabbi Raphael Joseph, Director of Schools and London Campuses at Aish. Other illustrious alumni include previous Chief Rabbis of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth; Lord Jakobovits and Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks.
If you, or someone you know, studied at Jews’ College or LSJS please do be in touch to receive more details on the special event in 2025 and to send in your memories or photos. Please email admin@lsjs.ac.uk. or call 020 8203 6427.
Chanochi enjoying Forest school
Much needed respite for Israeli war widows thanks to GIFT UK and OneFamily
GIFT, in collaboration with One Family, welcomed over twelve widows from Israel for a week of relaxation and pampering. These recently bereaved women, all young mothers, tragically lost their husbands in the past year and have been receiving support and guidance from the OneFamily charity.
The trip has been funded through the sale of ‘Bring Them Home’ hostage necklaces, sold by GIFT and OneFamily.
On Monday 25th November, 150 members of the community attended an
event hosted by GIFT in Jewish Futures, The Hub, where they heard from some of these courageous women. The evening began with a reception, allowing attendees to meet and connect with the speakers. This was followed by heartfelt stories shared by some of the widows: Adi, Gal, Daphne, and Lior.
Each woman told of her unique experience. Gal was 32 weeks pregnant when her husband died; Adi recounted how her husband chose to travel to Kibbutz Alumim on 7th October with his brother, both of whom were tragically killed while defending the community; Daphne read an emotional letter she had written to her daughter, explaining why her father would not be coming home; Lior’s moving speech
emphasised: “We don’t want your sympathy – we want you to understand how lucky we were to be married to these amazing people and the sacrifices we have made for our country.” This sentiment resonated deeply with everyone present, who were inspired by the resilience and strength of the group.
The evening concluded with Yuval Havkin performing the Mi Sheberach prayer for soldiers, followed by Acheinu, a call for the release of all hostages.
In his opening, Rabbi Sandor Milun, MD of GIFT said – we feel the pain of our brothers and sisters in Israel and that’s why a trip like this can happen, because we are One Family.
The Trip is running from Sunday 24th – Thursday 28th, with the help of over 60 volunteers to ensure that the women have an unforgettable week filled with shopping, touring, culture and meeting people.
GIFT staff and volunteers with OneFamily’s Nava Formanski, with the red scarf
The widows with OneFamily’s Nava Formanski, third from the left, back rowred scarf
Over 1/3 of Chai clients are under 50
Chai does not charge for services and does not receive any statutory funding
Chai has provided 22,098 appointments over the year
56,318 hours of expert support and care
11 centres across the UK and Home Support Service
This year Chai has provided support to 1,039 new clients
Currently supporting 4,400 clients from age 3-99
Camp Simcha’s Mitzvah Day round up
Generous
Camp Simcha supporters at Stanmore and Canons Park Synagogue; Mill Hill East Synagogue, Highgate Synagogue, Hampstead Garden
Suburb Synagogue, New North London Synagogue, Wohl Ilford
Jewish Primary School and HMH football club organised Mitzvah Day Toy Drive collections for the charity – donating new toys and gifts for children spending the festive season in hospital. Children at Mill Hill East Synagogue also
crafted beautiful cards for families that Camp Simcha supports – as did Jewish Care residents, who packed arts & crafts gifts for the Toy Drive too. And giving one of the most valuable gifts of all – 25 people came to donate blood at the
Camp Simcha annual Mitzvah Day Blood Drive in conjunction with the Joely Bear Appeal in Edgware.
Rov or Rov & Rebbetzen for Kehillas Toras Chaim
Our warm and vibrant kehilla, situated in Hendon, north-west London, is seeking a dedicated Rov and an engaging Rebbetzen to lead, inspire and connect with members of all ages. This is a wonderful opportunity to make a lasting impact in a dynamic and growing kehilla.
Responsibilities of the Rov:
• Deliver meaningful, engaging drashos and shiurim tailored to various levels of knowledge
• Provide halachic advice and pastoral guidance to individuals and families
• Officiate at life- cycle events, ensuring all members feel valued and supported
• Be an active presence at community events and initiatives, fostering achdu s and growth
Key Qualities of the Rebbetzen:
• Warm, approachable and passionate about connecting with women and families
• A natural leader who can engage women’s groups and promote learning and community cohesion
• A partner in hosting, programming and creating a welcoming atmosphere for all members
Together, the Rov and Rebbetzen should:
• Be role models in Torah values and Jewish living
• Foster a sense of belonging and inclusivity in our kehilla
• Build strong relationships with our members
What We Offer:
• A supportive and active board and kehilla
• Competitive salary and benefits package
• A warm and welcoming community excited to grow under your leadership
If you are passionate about Torah, community building and leading with warmth and authenticity, we would love to hear from you!
For an informal confidential conversation about the role/s, application information and full job and person specifications please email recruitment@toraschaim.org.uk.
The closing date for applications is Friday 13th December 2024.
WHAT3WORDS///Well, well, well
WELLS OF PERSISTENCE
BY RABBI NAFTALI SCHIFF
The strife in Gaza continues. It seems never ending. People are exhausted and worn down.
This week’s Torah portion recounts the enduring story of Yitzchak and his trials with the Philistines, who inhabited the area now known as the Gaza Strip. This narrative not only reflects historical
conflict but also teaches us valuable lessons about persistence, resilience, and the importance of standing firm in one’s convictions.
Yitzchak like many of our ancestors, faced significant challenges during his lifetime. After settling in Gerar, he sought to provide for his family and livestock by digging wells to access water. This basic necessity was crucial not only for his survival but also for the prosperity of those around him. His intention was clear: he aimed to benefit not just his own people but also the local inhabitants. In a spirit of cooperation, he was willing to share the water that he had worked so hard to uncover.
However, the Philistines, feeling threatened by Yitzchak’s
growing wealth and influence, chose to act against him. They stopped up the wells he had dug, a direct attempt to undermine his efforts and assert dominance. Yet, Yitzchak did not respond with anger or violence. Instead, he exhibited a remarkable quality: persistence. When faced with adversity, he chose to dig new wells rather than retaliate. This act of grit and resolve speaks volumes about his character and the values he upheld.
The narrative illustrates that this struggle was not a single encounter but a repeated challenge. Each time the Philistines blocked his wells, Yitzchak dug them anew, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to his purpose. This cycle of obstruction and perseverance teaches us an essential lesson: the power of persistence in the face of opposition.
In today’s world, it is easy to feel disheartened when faced with obstacles. Many people abandon their goals at the first sign of difficulty, often feeling overwhelmed by challenges that seem insurmountable. Yitzchak’s experience encourages us to reflect on our own struggles. It reminds us that setbacks are a natural part of life and that persistence coupled with resilience is key to overcoming them.
The example of Yitzchak is particularly relevant in our modern context, where the
pressures of life can make it tempting to give up. Whether it’s in our personal endeavors, professional aspirations, or communal efforts, we can draw inspiration from our forefather’s unwavering spirit. He teaches us that when we pursue what is right and beneficial for the greater good, we must remain steadfast, no matter the hurdles we encounter.
Perhaps the act of digging wells and providing water can be seen as a metaphor for nurturing our own communities. Just as Yitzchak sought to provide water for both his family and the Philistines, we too can strive to contribute positively to our surroundings and not to give up when inevitable challenges obstruct our path. Our actions can even create a ripple effect, fostering cooperation rather than conflict.
The story of Isaac and the Philistines is not merely a historical account; it is a timeless lesson in persistence, strength, and community. Let us carry forward the message of resilience of our ancestors. May we be inspired to face our obstacles with courage and determination, ensuring that we do not give up on our goals or the greater good, even in the face of adversity.
Rabbi Naftali Schiff is the Founder and CEO of Jewish Futures
Camp Simcha CEO Daniel Gillis at the charity’s annual Mitzvah Day Blood Drive with the Joely Bear Appeal
Camp Simcha Mitzvah Day HMH Toy drive collection
Card making and Toy Drive collections for Camp Simcha by Mill Hill East synagogue community
Borehamwood Kollel – Building Jewish Identity Through Immersive Jewish Learning Experiences
Just off the Shenley Road is the Borehamwood Kollel, a relatively young local community institution with a team of young couples who have moved to Borehamwood to learn, teach and contribute to the local Jewish community.
The Jewish Weekly spoke with Rabbi Chaim Burman, Director of Community Engagement at the Kollel to hear about the Kollel’s aims, achievements and challenges.
“We are a group of local families who believe that the most meaningful and lasting way to cultivate Jewish identity is through mediating positive experiences with traditional Jewish texts.
“The Jewish tradition has an enormous amount of timeless wisdom and guidance to offer. Sadly, in an era when so many have become estranged from their heritage these sources of inspiration have become inaccessible to many not only due to translation challenges but also because people lack the conceptual “bridges” and background to unlock the true relevance of these texts. Today, as Jewish community faces what feels like unprecedented challenges from both within (assimilation) and without
(antisemitism), our traditional texts offer well-grounded approaches to dealing with these phenomena in ever-insightful ways.
“One of the great challenges for Jewish educators, however, is to unlock the messages from these texts and demonstrate to our participants how to draw timeless wisdom from eternal texts.”
“Over the last year we have provided 17 weekly programmes and learning partnerships to over 170 men, women and children to offer learning opportunities on a variety of levels and are particularly gratified to be able to offer local Jewish
schools with a variety of weekly Kodesh enhancement programmes.
“We are here to serve the community and welcome anyone interested in
exploring transformative, authentic and immersive Jewish learning experiences to reach out and give it a try!”
The Borehamwood Kollel during a recent community learning initiative
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RABBI ZVI KOGAN A”H
Dear Rabbi,
I am mortified by the killing of the Chabad Rabbi in the UAE. I have had much interaction with Chabad during my travels. The work is amazing. But eleven years after the tragic events of Mumbai don’t you think Chabad ought to consider relocating from places that are simply unsafe?
Casandra
Dear Casandra
In our Torah portion we read how our matriarch Rebecca was pregnant and became perplexed. She wasn’t aware at first that she was carrying twins, and, as commentaries observe, when she walked past a place of pagan worship the baby would kick (it was in fact Esau reacting). When walking past a holy place, the baby would kick (it was Jacob reacting). Ultimately she was told about the twins and two nations growing within.
The question for consideration is this: Why was Rebecca walking past a place of pagan worship? What was she doing out in the middle of a spiritual wilderness? Indeed what was Rabbi Kogan doing in the UAE when he could have been seeking comfort and spiritual stability in Crown Heights or Israel?
The answer is that Rebecca was following in the footsteps of her forebear Sarah, whom we are told, made it her life mission to reach out to lost souls wandering in spiritual wastelands (Charan) and bring them into monotheism. Rebecca was near places of pagan worship looking to achieve them same.
Rabbi Zvi Kogan might have been able to live in his own enclave, behind whatever ghetto walls, but like every Chabad Shliach everywhere (more than 5000 gathering for the annual conference this weekend), he was committed to not live for himself, but for the sake of others. And quite devastatingly, he paid the ultimate price. I cannot make sense of it and we cry and we mourn. But by no means does that then deter the rest of the shluchim family from carrying on the vital work wherever they may be found.
Indeed just as Jacob, Rebecca’s son, made it his life mission to spend decades in the very place where his grandmother Sarah began her mission, so too every Chabad shliach will double efforts to perpetuate yet more light in the world and thus dispel with the darkness once and for all. May Rabbi Zvi Kogan’s memory be for a blessing.
REALITY CHECK
Dear Rabbi,
The response to Chantelle in your column last week was frankly outrageous. The woman was reaching out for advice about potential spousal abuse and your response was victim blaming. How ironic that this was in the very week that Jewish
Women’s Aid was being marked in shuls across the country.
Becky
Dear Becky
I’m glad you added in the word “potential.” Of course if there was actual concern of abuse I would have referred her for professional help. If you’re a long time reader of my column you would know that. That said, I can see how the letter might have been misread and should point out that the letter was edited as it was long and there’s a word limit. The relevant line that might have clarified was, “it’s not that he’s offensive. I just find him so annoying. Is the problem with him or with me?” The rest of my answer you already have.
ANTISEMITISM AND ZIONISM
Dear Rabbi,
While not objecting to your answer to Adnan’s question distinguishing between Antisemitism and anti-Zionism, I was surprised you did not cite the Amidah. Blessings 10, 11, 14, and 18 call for: the ingathering of the exiles, the reinstitution of the judges, the restoration of the monarchy, and the rebuilding of the Temple. If that is not a Zionist programme, what is? In today’s political atmosphere and assumptions about the equality of rights of people and rights of nations, anybody who took against the independence of Ireland or Algeria with the sort of pike and venom of the anti-Zionists would be taken as offensive - and personally so: as anti-Irish people, or anti-Algerian people. So in these egalitarian times if you would not treat Ireland or Algeria, nor India and Pakistan, with anti-people rude behaviour so it is Anti-Semitic to treat Jews to anti-Israel alias anti-Zionist behaviour at the personal or other levels of conduct.
For corroboration try the argument in a different but not unfamiliar setting. The first sixty years of the nineteenth century were very “hot” on achieving German and Italian unities as states as well as peoples. Metternich and other conservatives dismissed the notion with, “Italy is a geographical expression.” In our lives despite the disgraceful behaviour of World War II, nobody would oppose the unity as people or state or rights to a united government of either Germany or Italy. Opposing the right of Jews to Israel is wrong and bad manners. Before anybody says “Palestine” the Arabs are right on the right of Palestine but have made a sow’s ear of a silk purse.
Frank
Dear Frank
Thank you very much for reaching out and sharing those meaningful thoughts. For clarity purposes, your specific reference to the blessings of the Amidah have nothing to do with Zionism, and everything to do with Judaism. The Jewish claim to the land of Israel is recorded in the very first verse on the Torah, in the
commentary there (Rashi). These blessings are asking for the restoration of what once was, as we had been exiled from our land - and effectively remain so, even as we’re living there –what with all the ongoing turmoil. All we want is a restoration to the days of peace and tranquillity like in days of old. It’s our Jewish right and indeed our G-d given right.
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Praying for our dear son, Noam
BY RABBI MOSHE TARAGIN
It has been a harrowing week for my family and me. Our beloved son, Noam, sustained serious injuries while serving in Lebanon, courageously defending our people and our land. As I write these words, he remains intubated and sedated but stable. We, along with countless others, continue to pray fervently for his complete recovery. We hold steadfast faith that Hashem will guard our precious son, whose unwavering dedication and self-sacrifice embody the spirit of his generation of giants.
It has been an emotionally overwhelming week, filled with fear, tears, and profound uncertainty. At times I could hardly stand and often feeling the weight of it all, I struggled to catch my breath.
We are suffering deeply for our son— the anguish of his pain, the weight of his medical struggles, and the daunting path that lies ahead. This week has been soaked in tears, a cascade of sorrow and heartache that seems unrelenting. Yet, amidst this sea of sadness, we optimistically cling to the hope and faith that the same strength that carried him will guide us through this turbulent storm. I am deeply grateful to everyone who has held our son in their hearts and prayers. Each message, every beracha—no matter how small—lifts us and infuses us with the strength we so urgently need.
This painful week has been a stark reminder of the intricate emotional challenges that life places before us, testing our resilience and faith. It has been exceedingly difficult to balance joy and sadness. Life often challenges us to carry a mixture of conflicting emotions, holding joy and sorrow side by side in a delicate and painful tension.
The midrash portrays Avraham’s emotional state during the Akeida as a profound paradox. He shed tears of sorrow at the prospect of sacrificing his son, yet his heart brimmed with joy at the opportunity to fulfill the divine will and shape the destiny of Jewish history. Avraham was called upon to embody two opposing emotions simultaneously. Perhaps for this reason, Hashem designed the heart as a multi-chambered organ, capable of holding feelings that seem to contradict one another, reflecting the complex emotional balance that life often demands of us.
Similarly, the Gemara in Bava Batra teaches that upon the passing of a close relative, one recites the beracha of Dayan Ha’emet, humbly accepting the divine decree. Yet, upon receiving the inheritance from the deceased, the very same individual is instructed to recite the beracha of Hatov Ve’hameitiv, expressing gratitude to Hashem. This delicate
juxtaposition reflects the profound challenge faced by Avraham at Har HaMoriah—the ability to hold contrasting emotions in tension, balancing grief and gratitude, while maintaining unwavering faith in moments of profound complexity. I have wrestled deeply with the delicate balance between joy and sorrow. Despite the severity of his injury, my heart overflows with gratitude that Noam’s life was spared and that he has a positive prognosis. He endured the devastating impact of a direct drone attack, yet Hashem, in His infinite kindness, shielded my precious son. I thank Hashem for this miraculous gift of life and continue to fervently pray that He will watch over my dear Noam, granting him strength and guiding him toward a complete and lasting recovery. Yet, my heart remains heavy, burdened with pain. My son’s condition is still precarious, and b’ezrat Hashem when he recovers, the path forward will be long and arduous. I am overwhelmed with grief for the suffering he must endure—a young man so deeply devoted to serving his people, now weighed down by pain and the uncertainty of what lies ahead.
SECONDARY EMOTIONS
Beyond the struggle of toggling between sadness and grief, this week I found myself grappling with the complexity of each emotion, as each of the conflicting emotions carried deep and charged secondary responses. My gratitude that my son’s life was spared felt tinged with guilt when I thought of the soldier who was killed in the same attack, and certainly when I considered the immense pain and suffering that so many have endured over the past year. Am I allowed to feel even this small trace of joy and gratitude? It also felt wrong to feel even minimal gratification while my son still suffers, and while we continue to live in a state of constant and uncertain stress.
Yet, not feeling gratitude toward Hashem felt like a denial of the protection He granted my son. How can I not thank Hashem deeply for protecting my beautiful Noam from this deadly attack? It is one thing to reconcile two opposing emotions; it is much harder when each emotion is layered with secondary feelings of guilt and concern about being insensitive or imbalanced. I hope that I will find a way to remain grateful for the miracle, while not overlooking our suffering nor the immense suffering of others.
GREATER SYMPATHY
This trauma opened my heart in a new and visceral way to the immense suffering our people have endured. As much
as we try to empathize with others’ pain, as much as we shed tears for their suffering, it is difficult to understand the depth of their anguish until we ourselves experience something that begins to approximate it. My agony made me more deeply realize what others have gone through.
It was so important to us to learn every step of my son’s journey to the hospital. When you care so deeply for someone, you don’t want them to endure even the smallest amount of pain. It was so difficult imaging him injured and suffering on the battlefield without me there to help him. It brought me great reassurance to hear from the soldiers who saved his life, how quickly they responded, and how they acted with such precision to keep him alive. Similarly, speaking with the doctors and hospital staff who admitted him, knowing that my child was under the care of people who were doing everything they could to alleviate his suffering, was a source of comfort. Though I cannot speak with him, I take solace in knowing he has been cared for every step of the way with love and concern.
transported them swiftly to the helicopters that flew him to the hospital. Within a little more than an hour, he was in the operating room. This rapid response undoubtedly saved his life. It gave me great strength to know that my son is a hero and that everyone around him acted with professionalism and dedication.
But my mind cannot escape the unimaginable suffering of the families of the hostages. To not know anything about your child’s fate, and to live with the knowledge that they are in the hands of brutal terrorists who have no respect for human life and are consumed by hate, must be an unbearable burden—one that requires immense strength just to wake up each day. I apologize to them if I have not felt this grief as deeply as I should have. I will try harder.
Likewise, it brought me immense comfort to hear that my son’s unit operated exactly as they should have. Having been attacked by a drone they feared a terrorist infiltration, and my son immediately ran from his tent to guard the perimeter. After being attacked by mortars and taking shelter, he rushed to a lookout post, following protocol, at which point the second drone fell directly on the guard post. His friends quickly rushed to provide medical care for him and for the other wounded, while the hammer trucks
I have been haunted all week, thinking about situations where soldiers are injured or killed in accidents, friendly fire, or, chas v’shalom, other malfunctions. It is agonizingly painful to suffer a loss without the storyline to hold onto, without the clarity of a defined sequence that can offer some sense of peace or understanding.
The war persists, and our sacred struggle to safeguard our land and protect our people remains unwavering. While the headlines have shifted to politics, diplomacy, and elections, it is crucial to remember—especially for those far away, where the echoes of war may seem distant—that the pain and hardship endure. Please keep our people’s pain and suffering front and center as you continue your daily routines.
Please continue praying for my dear son Noam Avraham ben Atara Shlomit (Rambam Hospital, Chaifa, Nov 24)
The writer is a rabbi at the hesder pre-military Yeshivat Har Etzion/Gush, with YU ordination and a master’s in English literature from CUNY. His most recent book, Reclaiming Redemption: Deciphering the Maze of Jewish History (Mosaica Press), is available in bookstores or at www.reclaimingredemption.com
ERETZ YISRAEL
Tranquil Triumphs Weekly Dvar Torah FROM
BY MRS. YAEL LEIBOWITZ
There is something to be said for revolutionaries. For founders. For the people that have the foresight, and the daring to chart a course untrodden. Revolutionaries put their ideals to the test by living the principles they believe can transform the world around them, and history will always be enamored by such people. Avraham was a revolutionary. G-d told him to leave his father’s home, and his native land, and to forge a new path, the results of which would only be realized long after his death. Avraham followed the call, and for that reason, Avraham remains one of the most influential and inspiring characters in Jewish tradition, and in western culture at large.
But there is another type of leadership, modeled in this week’s parasha, that gets decidedly less fanfare, but on which revolutionaries depend. In chapter 26 of Bereishit, we are given insight into the
TOLDOT
1st Aliya (Kohen) – BERESHIT 25:19-26:5
Yitzchak (Isaac), aged 60, prays for his wife Rivka (Rebecca) to have a child. Rivka conceives twins and is told prophetically that the two children will father two separate nations. Esav is born first, red and hairy. Yaakov (Jacob) then emerges, holding on to Esav’s (Esau) heel. As they grow up, Esav becomes a hunter, whereas Yaakov dwells in tents of Torah study (Rashi). Yitzchak loves Esav, whereas Rivka prefers Yaakov. One day Yaakov prepares a red lentil stew. Esav returns exhausted from the fields, demanding that Yaakov give him some of the stew. Yaakov agrees, but in return for Esav selling the first-born rights to him. Esav agrees, taking an oath in return for the food. Famine hits the Land of Cana’an (later Israel). G-d tells Yitzchak not to go down to Egypt
often-overlooked strength of Yitzchak’s persona, and the critical role he played in the formation of the people of Israel. At the outset of the chapter we are told that there was a famine in Canaan, like there was “in the days of Avraham” (Gen. 26:1). Naturally, like his father, Yitzchak was inclined to go to the Land of Egypt, where crop yields were contingent on the overflow of the Nile. But G-d appeared to Yitzchak and instructed him to stay in the land. Yitzchak, unlike Avraham, is not granted freedom of movement. Where Avraham’s life was marked by change and progress, Yitzchak’s was marked by stable consistency. But stability is not stasis, and consistency is not stagnation. And in fact, the narrative that follows the injunction to “stay put” gives us insight into just what “staying put” looks like, and what it accomplishes.
“Isaac sowed in that land and reaped a hundredfold that same year. The L-rd blessed him, and the man grew richer
and richer until he was very wealthy: he acquired flocks and herds, and a large household, so that the Philistines envied him. And the Philistines stopped up all the wells which his father’s servants had dug in the days of his father Avraham, filling them with earth.” (Gen. 26:12–15)
And so, the parasha tells us, Yitzchak went from one well to the next, undoing the damage that had been done, and reaching back down to the depths his father’s servants had struck during Avraham’s lifetime. Yitzchak met the bullying and intimidation tactics of the Philistine people with equanimity, resilience, and a doggedness borne of his commitment to his father’s dreams. Ultimately, after witnessing Yitzchak’s extraordinary accomplishments, the Philistines propose a peace treaty stating: “We now see plainly that the L-rd has been with you” (Gen. 26:28).
Yitzchak wasn’t confrontational, or
aggressive, and he didn’t attract attention with grandiose speeches or mission statements. Yitzchak earned the respect of the people around him through his quiet successes, and then made sure to channel that respect towards the G-d whose call his father had answered. Every movement needs its founders. But movements, just as badly, need those willing to sublimate their egos for the sake of continuity and posterity. They need those willing to re-dig the wells that have been plugged up by the movement’s challengers. Yitzchak, often impugned for his passivity and meekness, proves in this week’s parasha to be the very link, without which, no chain of tradition could exist.
Mrs. Yael Leibowitz teaches at the Matan Women’s Institute for Torah Learning and the Pardes Institute. She is a member of the Mizrachi Speakers Bureau (www. mizrachi.org/speakers).
for food and assures him that he will be a forefather of a great nation.
Point to Consider: Why did G-d insist on Yitzchak not leaving the Land? (see Rashi to 26:2)
2nd Aliya (Levi) – 26:6-12
Yitzchak lives amongst the Plishtim (Philistines) in Gerar. Afraid to reveal that Rivka is his wife, lest harm befall them from jealous men, Yitzchak tells the locals that she is his sister. However, the ruler Avimelech discovers that they are actually married. He accuses Yitzchak of deceiving him, but warns the people not to harm Yitzchak and Rivka. Yitzchak sows the land and becomes very prosperous.
3rd Aliya (Shlishi) – 26:13-12
The Plishtim, jealous of Yitzchak’s prosperity, stop up his wells. Yitzchak carries on digging wells; the arguments eventually end.
4th Aliya (Revi’i) – 26:23-29
Yitzchak moves to Beersheva. G-d appears to him in the night, telling him that He will bless him. Yitzchak builds an altar. Avimelech brings an entourage from Gerar, offering Yitzchak a new peace treaty.
5th Aliya (Chamishi) – 26:30-27:27
Yitzchak agrees to the peace proposal. Esav marries two Hittite women. This pains his parents, as both women worship idols (Rashi). The ageing Yitzchak, almost blind, asks Esav to go and hunt some game for him to eat, after which he will bless Esav. Rivka overhears and instructs the reluctant Yaakov to go to Yitzchak disguised as Esav, with two cooked goats, so as to receive the blessings instead of Esav.
6th Aliya (Shishi) – 27:28-28:4
Rivka’s plan is successful; Yaakov receives the blessings. Esav returns from the field, realises what has happened and lets out a loud and bitter cry. Yitzchak also gives Esav a blessing, but it includes his future subservience to Yaakov. Esav plans to kill Yaakov. Rivka realises this, and tells Yaakov to escape to her brother Lavan in Charan. Yitzchak instructs Yaakov to marry one of Lavan’s daughters. Before Yitzchak sends Yaakov away, he blesses him with the blessing first bestowed upon Avraham, including, specifically, the blessing of
the Land of Israel. From this we can see that Yitzchak had always intended that the real legacy was to go to Yaakov, not Esav.
7th Aliya (Shevi’i) – 28:5-9
Yaakov sets off to Charan. Esav marries a third wife, Machalat, the daughter of his uncle Yishmael.
HAFTARAH (MACHAR CHODESH)
The haftarah is the special reading for Shabbat Erev Rosh Chodesh, from the Book of Shmuel (Samuel). It relates how Yehonatan (Jonathan) risked his life to protect his friend David (later to be King David) from the wrath of Yehonatan’s father, King Shaul (Saul). Their initial discussion of how to ensure David’s safety took place on Erev Rosh Chodesh, the day before Shaul’s special feast.
Relationships
BY RABBI SHAUL YONATAN TAWIL
Alexandros III Philippou Makedonon commonly known in the West as Alexander the Great King of Macedon (336–323 B.C.E.), was the most successful military commander of ancient history, conquering most of the known world before his death.
Our Sages relate the story of how Alexander The Great was about to conquer the land of Israel. Incited by enemies of the Sages, Alexander intended to destroy the Temple in Jerusalem. In the past, wherever he had trodden he made sure to put a massive statue of himself in the holiest place of the land. His intention was clear; all should know about and respect him.
As he arrived closer to Yerushalayim, the sages sent out a delegation headed by Shimon Hatsadik to meet him.
How were they going to defend against such a mighty warrior, and how were they going to ensure that no idols be left in the Holiest Place – the Bet Hamikdash. They approached the mighty warrior and their answer was astounding.
Let’s take a closer look at our Parsha first.
VeEleh Toldot Yitschak Ben Avraham, Avraham Holid et Yitschak -
These are the generations of Yitschak the son of Avraham, Avraham bore Yitschak.
Rashi asks why there seems to be a superfluous repetition here. If Yitschak is the son of Avraham, of course Avraham was his father?
Rashi explains that the Letsaney Hador (jokers/slanderers of the generations) saw how Sarah wasn’t able to have children for many years.
Suddenly she was taken by Avimelech and then shortly after at the age of 90 she had a child.
Word got around that the real reason she was able to have a child was perhaps because it was to do with Avimelech?
Of course this had nothing to do with Avimelech and Hashem clarified the matter through a miracle that Yitschak would look exactly like Avraham.
Thus the Torah stresses it was Avraham and not
Avimelechs son.
There is an even deeper level of understanding.
In the olden days if someone wished to refer to someone else, they wouldn’t ask him for his surname – that never existed.
How would they refer to him?
They would say – whose son are you?
We can see this from when Eliezer met Rivka he asked her - Bat Mi At – whose daughter are you?
A person was known as the son or daughter of so and so. For example when people would hear that a persons name was Shimon Ben Yakov then people would know who he really was.
Avraham was an exception.
He was known as Avraham HaIvri.
Why? Because he came from the other side of the river – he came from Mesopotamia. Furthermore he believed in One G-d whereas the rest of the world worshiped idols. He was an Ivri –on the other side of the world to others.
He wasn’t known as Avraham Ben Terach – Avraham the son of Terach because he was not proud of his father. His father was the top priest of Avoda Zarah. Thus his status was Ivri. Later on in life, this status of Ivri, took a change. Avraham stopped being known only as Avraham HaIvri and took on a new status.
When Yitschak was born – Avraham would now be known as “Avraham the father of Yitschak”. That is to say, Yitschak was such a Tsadik that Avraham was proud of being called his father – Avraham Holid Et Yitschak.
The Talmud (Yuma 69a) ascribes righteousness to Alexander the Great.
Incited by enemies of the Sages, Alexander intended to destroy the Temple in Jerusalem. On the way, he was approached by R’ Shimon HaTzadik who headed a delegation of Rabbis. When Alexander saw him, he got off his horse and bowed on the ground at his feet. The enemies of the Sages questioned why “The Great” should prostrate before the lowly. He replied that at the head of all his conquests he was led by the image of a righteous man, and this image was the countenance of non other than R’ Shimon. The rabbis asked Alexander, “Is it conceivable that your enemies should mislead you into destroying the House in which prayers for your success and for that of your kingdom are offered?” At which point Alexander recalled his soldiers and turned over the enemies of the Sages to the Jews.
Yet there was still the predicament of the statue of Alexander being placed in the Holy Temple.
When the sages were faced with the biggest problem in their times, they approached Alexander and made him an offer.
Putting the statue is a great honour, they told Alexander, but we have something even better than a statue.
We can offer you that every Jewish child that is born this year will be called Alexander after you! And so it was he accepted and whereas nowadays the statues of the greatest warrior are far and few, his name lives on (even in our community) forever.
Our Children are our future. Let us invest and take pride in them and may they be an ever-lasting merit to us - their parents and ancestors forever.
Rabbi Tawil is the Founder and Director of ‘Torah Action Life’ (TAL)
Family Fun Toldot -
Isaac and Rebecca are married for twenty long years without having children. Finally Rebecca gets pregnant with twins. As the kids grow inside her belly they constantly kick around, so Rebecca goes to visit a great rabbi by the name of Shem to ask him for advice. Shem tells her that there are two children in her womb who will be the fathers of two nations, and the younger one will eventually rule the older one — that’s why they were fighting even before they were born. Esau is born first. He is hairy and red-headed. Then follows Jacob,
who is holding Esau’s heel as he is born. Esau and Jacob are quite different: Esau is sly and loves to hunt, while Jacob is peaceful and spends most of his time studying Torah. On the day that Abraham is buried, Esau goes hunting while Jacob stays home and cooks a pot of lentils for his father to eat (a person who is mourning a loved one eats round foods when he or she comes back from the funeral). Esau comes home and is very hungry, so hungry that he sits next to Jacob and says: “Give me to eat!” He wants Jacob to pour the food down his throat.
Parasha Stats
Dingbats
Jacob says yes, on condition that Esau sell him his birthright, his right to be the firstborn. (Why did Jacob want Esau’s birthright?
Jacob knew that in the future the firstborn would be priviledged to serve in the Holy Temple, but Esau didn’t behave like a person who will serve in G-d’s temple should — he hunted and killed, and didn’t have respect for life — so Jacob asked him to sell his birthright, which he did.)
Isaac ages and becomes blind. He wants to bless his children before he dies. Esau goes to hunt for a couple of animals to
prepare food for his father. In the meantime Rebecca dresses Jacob as Esau. She covers his arms and neck with hairy goatskin so that he should resemble Esau and sends him into Isaac’s room to get the blessings which were destined to the firstborn son. When Esau returns and discovers that Jacob got the first blessings, he becomes very angry and wants to kill his brother. So Jacob runs away to Charan, his mother’s birth-place, where he will also look for a wife whom we will meet in next week’s parshah.
Number of Verses - 106
Number of Lines - 173
Number of Words - 1,432
Number of Letters - 5,426
Jewish Riddle
Last week’s answer: Which Tractate of the Talmud fits the following description: The Aramaic translation of the name of this Tractate is the name of a different Tractate?
The answer is:
Tractate Kelayim - which teaches forbidden mixtures of plants. The verse says: “Don’t plant kelayim in your field...” (Leviticus 19:19). Targum Onkelos translates the word ‘kelayim’ into Aramaic as ‘eruvin’ (mixtures). Eruvin is the name of a different Tractate that teaches the laws of carrying items on Shabbat from one halachic domain to another. An Eruv ‘mixes’ two domains into one, thereby permitting ‘carrying’ inside the Eruv.
This week’s Question:
There is a day in the Jewish Calendar when some years we say Hallel and other years we say Tachanun. Which day is it?
Tangram Challenge!
Using all the shapes, can you make the shape on the right?
Word Wheel
The goal of a word wheel puzzle is to create as many words possible with the letters in the word wheel. Each word must contain at least three letters. You can only use each letter once and every word must have the letter in the centre of the wheel.
Last edition’s words
Here are some words you may have found from last week – you may have found more!
L D H U O A T D O
Use the area below to write the words you have found.
Jokes
Q: Why was Cinderella so bad at football?
A: She kept on running away from the ball!
Q: What did the horse say after it tripped?
A: Help! I’ve fallen and I can’t giddyup!
Q: What do you call a well-balanced horse?
A: Stable!
Q: How do you make an egg-roll?
A: You push it!
Riddles
1. What is it that no one wants, but no one wants to lose?
2. The more there is, the less you see. What am I?
3. How do eight eights add up to one thousand?
4. I’m full of holes but strong as steel. What am I?
EXPERT ADVICE
Dear Ben,
How far in advance should i plan my shipment? an you explain the regulations on insurance renewal prices? Many thanks, Andrew
Hi Andrew,
Making Aliyah is a monumental step filled with excitement and anticipation, but it also comes with its fair share of logistical challenges. One of the most significant aspects of this process is planning your shipment to Israel. While it might seem as simple as booking a container, there are several critical steps that require careful planning and time. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand the timeline and preparations needed to ensure a smooth move.
1. Start Planning Early
The journey to making Aliyah is complex, and planning your shipment should start as early as possible. Ideally, you should begin planning at least three to four months before your intended move. This timeframe allows you to address all the necessary details without feeling rushed. Early planning also gives you the flexibility to handle unexpected challenges that may arise.
2. Research and Choose a Reliable Moving Company
Selecting a reputable moving company is crucial. Not all moving companies are created equal, and the right one will make a significant difference in your relocation experience. Look for companies with experience in international moves, particularly those familiar with shipping to Israel. Request quotes, check reviews, and ask for references to ensure you choose a company that meets your needs.
3. Assess Your Belongings
Take inventory of what you plan to ship. This step helps you decide what to keep, donate, sell, or leave behind. It’s essential to understand the weight and volume of your belongings, as this will affect the size of the container you need. Additionally, consider the customs regulations in Israel, which may restrict or prohibit certain items.
There is so much more to comment on, i’ll carry this on next week, Ben
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BUTCHERS
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FINANCIAL SERVICES (FCA) COMPLIANCE
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WEALTH MANAGMENT
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Over 25 years of successful experience in financial services including 11 years of investment banking experience.
Offering expert independent financial advice to individuals, businesses, charities and trusts. Individual services:- Wealth Management, Investment, Retirement, Estate/IHT, protection planning, Tax Mitigation and Cash Management Solutions
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TELECOMMUNICATIONS
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MANAGED I.T. SERVICES PROVIDER (MSP)
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