for Friday, August 2, 2024

Holocaust ›

0 Holocaust Education

USC athletes get crash course on antisemitism in trip to Poland

Gabby Deutch in Jewish Insider

University of Southern California athletes were given a crash course on antisemitism during a trip to Poland as part of the USC Student Leadership Summit organized by the Shoah Foundation.

Politics ›

0 Politics Gender/Identity

The Sabaya

Yaniv Voller in Tablet

The text discusses the term "sabaya" used by both Islamic State militants against Yazidi women and Hamas militants against Israeli female soldiers, highlighting the connection between sexual violence and conflict.

0 Politics Jewish Law

As Evan Gershkovich returns home, another Jewish prisoner's captivity reaches 500 days

Louis Keene in Forward

The article discusses the emotional struggle of Emma Tsurkov, sister of Elizabeth Tsurkov, a Jewish academic abducted by an Iraqi paramilitary group 500 days ago in Baghdad.

0 Politics Holocaust

Harris veepstakes watch: Tim Walz’s record on Israel, Holocaust education and antisemitism

Philissa Cramer in JTA

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has emerged as a potential vice-presidential pick for Kamala Harris due to his criticism of Republicans, while another contender, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, faces scrutiny over his stance on Israel.

0 Politics Israel

Israel just killed two of its longtime ememies, but will it matter?

Ron Kampeas in Forward

Israel recently conducted targeted assassinations of high-ranking Hamas and Hezbollah officials, part of a longstanding strategy signaling that any attack on Israel will have repercussions.

0 Politics Communities

‘Antisemitism is on the ballot’ in St. Louis. What does that mean?

Arno Rosenfeld in Forward

A new nonprofit group called St. Louis Votes is aiming to increase Jewish voter turnout in Missouri's 1st Congressional District by suggesting that antisemitism is at stake in the upcoming election, potentially targeting Rep. Cori Bush for her criticism of Israel.

0 Politics

Israel is good at assassinating its enemies. Does it make a difference?

Ron Kampeas in JTA

Israel has a history of successfully targeting and assassinating high-level enemies, including Hamas officials, as a means of holding them accountable for attacks and dismantling the terrorist organizations.

0 Politics Antisemitism

Trump falsely claims Chuck Schumer is a ‘proud member of Hamas’

Rebecca Massel in Forward

Former President Trump falsely accused Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a prominent Jewish figure, of being a proud member of Hamas during a campaign rally in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

0 Politics History

Who is Vladimir Kara-Murza, the Russian Jewish dissident released with Evan Gershkovich?

Benyamin Cohen in Forward

Vladimir Kara-Murza is a Russian Jewish dissident known for his activism against the Kremlin and criticism of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

0 Politics Communities

Massive prisoner swap with Russia, including Evan Gershkovich, could be underway

Jackie Hajdenberg in JTA

A potential large-scale prisoner swap between Russia and the United States may include up to 30 individuals, possibly including Jewish American journalist Evan Gershkovich and Jewish dissident Vladimir Kara-Murza.

0 Politics Communities

Jewish journalist Evan Gershkovich reportedly being freed as part of mass prisoner swap with Russia

Jackie Hajdenberg in JTA

Jewish journalist Evan Gershkovich, along with other political prisoners, is reportedly part of a mass prisoner swap between Russia and Western countries, possibly including the United States.

0 Politics Leadership

The Trust Trap

Sapir

The text explores the erosion of trust in American institutions, particularly government, due to a crisis of elite legitimacy.

0 Politics History

The Ottoman American Empire

Tony Badran in Tablet

The text discusses the U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's assertion that Israel has lost sovereignty in its northern region due to Hezbollah attacks, indicating a shift in U.S. policy towards the Middle East.

Food ›

0 Food History

The Simple Pleasures of Bananas and Cream

Jamie Betesh Carter in Tablet

The text reminisces about the author's close relationship with their grandmother, Grandma Molly, who taught them to cook and made every dish feel special.

0 Food Jewish Law

More meat-free meals for the Nine Days and beyond

Jewish Chronicle

For those observing the Nine Days and beyond, meat-free meal ideas are abundant.

Sports ›

0 Sports Israel

Israeli judoka Inbar Lanir just medaled in Paris — and is going viral at home for her Oct. 7 selflessness

Ben Sales in JTA

Israeli judoka Inbar Lanir recently won a silver medal in Paris, marking one of Israel's best results in judo since 1992.

0 Sports Culture

My Jewish Son Didn’t Make It to the Olympics — And I Couldn’t Be Prouder

Richard Sosis in Kveller

The author shares the story of her son, Eliel, who did not make it to the Olympics in table tennis despite being an elite athlete.

Israel ›

0 Israel Communities

Why do so many anti-IDF protesters wear yarmulkes?

Rob Eshman in Forward

A concerning trend has been observed in Israel where protesters, many wearing yarmulkes, support anti-liberal causes, particularly amid the growing influence of the deeply religious population in the country.

0 Israel Politics

Israel's assassination of Ismail Haniyeh was a blow to Hamas — and who else?

Philissa Cramer in Forward

The assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, a top leader of Hamas, by Israel in Iran has complex implications.

0 Israel Antisemitism

For America’s Jews, Past Is Prologue

Sapir

The text reflects on the history of antisemitism in America and its impact on the Jewish community, highlighting recent incidents of hatred and prejudice.

0 Israel Gender/Identity

Faith & Fertility in Israel

Sapir

In Israel, fertility rates have remained high compared to many other countries, with religious groups like the Haredi Jews having exceptionally high birth rates.

0 Israel Politics

After the assassinations: Does Iran retaliate? Can Hamas fight on? And what about the hostages?

Ron Kampeas in JTA

After a series of targeted strikes in the Middle East, including the assassination of Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh and Hezbollah's top military commander, tensions rise as Iran and Hamas contemplate retaliation.

0 Israel Politics

Israel just made it clear that it is ready for all-out war.

Joshua Hoffman in Future of Jewish

Israel has recently demonstrated its readiness for a potential all-out war by carrying out high-profile assassinations, targeting key figures in Hezbollah and Hamas.

History ›

0 History Antisemitism

A Brief History of Jew-Haters

Masha Kleiner in Future of Jewish

The text provides a historical overview of the evolution of antisemitism from Biblical times to the 19th century, highlighting key examples of prejudice and violence against Jews.

0 History

The National Theatre doesn’t mind offending us

Jewish Chronicle

The author expresses concerns about The Lehman Trilogy play being staged at the National Theatre, highlighting its portrayal of Jewish stereotypes about money and insensitivity to Jewish history, particularly being performed on the anniversary of a significant tragedy.

0 History Politics

In new book, historian describes the lessons learned — and ignored — from Hitler’s rise

Andrew Silow-Carroll in Forward

In his book "Takeover: Hitler's Final Rise to Power," historian Timothy Ryback examines how Adolf Hitler ascended to power in a functioning democracy despite facing opposition.

0 History Israel

The First Tisha B’Av Since October 7

Sapir

The text delves into the evolution of Tisha B'Av observance from a day of mourning for the destruction of the Temple to a day reflecting Israel's transition from a Covenant of Fate to a Covenant of Destiny.

0 History Music

Jewish Masterpiece: ‘Hatikvah’

Sapir

The article discusses the significance of the Jewish anthem, "Hatikvah," especially in the context of the survivors of Bergen-Belsen singing it upon liberation, highlighting the emotional power and historical resonance of the hymn.

Literature ›

0 Literature Communities

Wait, The Author of “Sweet Valley High” Was Jewish?

Daci Platt in Kveller

Francine Pascal, the creator of the Sweet Valley High series, recently passed away at 92, prompting reflection on her characters and legacy.

Communities ›

0 Communities Gender/Identity

“[She] Told Me She’d Written a Book about Our Family, “Kissing Girls on Shabbat”… I Only Wish We had Reconnected Sooner”

Guest Blogger in Lilith

The text discusses an email exchange between cousins Chloe and Sara, with Sara revealing she has written a book, "Kissing Girls on Shabbat," detailing her journey from growing up in a strict Hasidic family in Brooklyn to leaving Orthodox Judaism and embracing her identity as a gay woman.

0 Communities Ethics

It’s not just J.D. Vance’s ‘childless cat ladies’: Jewish communities also undervalue people without children

JTA

Jewish communities' emphasis on procreation and the value placed on parenthood are akin to sentiments expressed by J.D. Vance regarding the importance of having children for leadership roles and community investment.

0 Communities Leadership

Going Home by Tom Lamont review: ‘The significance of duty’

Jewish Chronicle

In Tom Lamont's novel "Going Home," the theme of duty and obligation is central as the protagonist, To Erskine, is drawn back to his family home to care for his ailing father and a young child after the death of a childhood friend.

0 Communities Jewish Law

Carry on Shabbat: The normalisation of the eruv

Jewish Chronicle

The article discusses the growing normalization and acceptance of eruvim within British Jewry, particularly focusing on the experience in north-west London and Stamford Hill.

0 Communities Jewish Law

Faith vs. Faithfulness in American Jewish Institutions

Sapir

The text discusses the decline in faith and engagement with American Jewish institutions, such as synagogues and Federations, paralleling the broader trend of decreasing confidence in big institutions.

0 Communities Politics

Publisher's Note

Sapir

The text discusses the lack of emphasis on faith in American Jewish life, attributing it to the multifaceted nature of Jewish identity and a reluctance to delve into theological discussions that may lead to controversy.

0 Communities

Meet the mah jongg mavens who play in Bryant Park every Thursday

Lisa Keys in JTA

A group of mah jongg enthusiasts, led by Linda Fisher, gathers weekly at Bryant Park in New York City to play the tile-based game with roots in China but popularized by American Jews.

Miscellaneous

This Children’s Book About Jewish and Palestinian Boys Playing Soccer Is Incredibly Timely

Lior Zaltzman in Kveller

The article discusses a children's book called "Daniel and Ismail" that portrays the friendship between a Jewish boy and a Palestinian boy through their shared love for soccer, set against the backdrop of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Antisemitism ›

0 Antisemitism Politics

Why Josh Shapiro would help Kamala Harris win over the most voters

Alex Zeldin in Forward

Josh Shapiro, the governor of Pennsylvania, exemplifies his Jewish identity by openly acknowledging it and confronting antisemitism, notably after an attack at a synagogue in Pennsylvania.

0 Antisemitism Politics

All together now, from Oxford to Ibiza, globalise the Intifada!

Jewish Chronicle

Oxford Action for Palestine (OA4P) has shifted some activities to Ibiza for the summer, focusing on political education and coalition-building.

Ethics ›

0 Ethics Politics

(How) Should We Vote? - An investigation through Jewish text on the ethics of choosing the “lesser of two evils.”

Raphael Magarik in Jewish Currents

The discussion revolves around the ethical dilemma of choosing between political candidates seen as destroyers.

Culture ›

0 Culture Education

My journalist idol was better in print

Jewish Chronicle

The article reflects on the writer's admiration for British journalist Bernard Levin, particularly his prowess in print journalism despite a lackluster personal encounter.

Education ›

0 Education Communities

Investing in transformational Jewish day school experiences

eJewishPhilanthropy

The Mayberg Foundation emphasizes the importance of investing in Jewish day school education, stressing that financial support is crucial not only for the affordability of schools but also for enhancing the quality of the educational experience.

0 Education Philosophy

My Liberal Faith

Sapir

The writer reflects on their journey into a liberal faith shaped by a seminar on the Book of Genesis, which led them to embrace Judaism's insights on justice, family, and societal origins.

0 Education Politics

The Constitutional Case for Jewish Charter Schools

Sapir

The article discusses the constitutional argument for implementing Jewish charter schools (JCSs) in America to address challenges facing the Jewish community, like expensive tuition, public school environments, and geographic limitations.

0 Education Jewish Law

The Search for God in the Jewish Classroom

Sapir

The discussion highlights the complexities of teaching faith in Jewish education, especially in the context of displaying the Ten Commandments in public classrooms in Louisiana.

Philosophy ›

0 Philosophy History

A Book Bound at Both Ends: The Enigmatic Life and Death of Dovid Din

Shaul Magid in Jewschool

Dovid Din, an enigmatic figure in postwar American kabbalism, died mysteriously in 1987 after teaching Lurianic Kabbalah and Hasidism to a small group of disciples.

0 Philosophy Prayer

The God Who Dwells in Doubt

Sapir

The author shares a deeply personal journey of faith and doubt, reflecting on moments of awe and skepticism towards God.

0 Philosophy Gender/Identity

Why Is a Jewish Atheist Different from All Other Atheists?

Sapir

The article explores the unique identity of Jewish atheists by posing four questions that distinguish them from other atheists.

Television/Film ›

0 Television/Film Philosophy

Terrence Malick From Hell

Tzvi in Tablet

Harmony Korine's latest film "Aggro Dr1ft" is highlighted for its mesmerizing and experimental color scheme, drawing parallels to various cinematic influences like Stan Brakhage and Richard Linklater.

Jewish Law ›

0 Jewish Law Philosophy

Haredi Faith: Theology and the Draft Controversy

Sapir

The text explores the theological perspective within Israeli Haredi society, focusing on the belief that human efforts have no direct impact on outcomes, which are solely determined by God.

0 Jewish Law Art

Emunah & the Artist

Sapir

This text explores the intertwined relationship between faith, art, and Jewish tradition through the author's personal journey and literary work.

0 Jewish Law Philosophy

The False Binary of Theism vs. Atheism

Sapir

The text discusses the limitations of the traditional binary classification of theist vs. atheist when it comes to beliefs about God, particularly within Judaism.

0 Jewish Law Communities

Show Up to Synagogue

Sapir

The discussion explores the importance of synagogue attendance for young American Jews facing rising antisemitism and social challenges.

JL;DR

for Friday, August 2, 2024

Holocaust ›

Politics ›

Food ›

Sports ›

Israel ›

History ›

Literature ›

Communities ›

Miscellaneous

Antisemitism ›

Ethics ›

Culture ›

Education ›

Philosophy ›

Television/Film ›

Jewish Law ›

Editors' Note

Top Topics in Jewish Media

August 2's Short Reads

Recent podcast episodes

navigate_before navigate_next for Friday, August 2, 2024

Holocaust ›

Politics ›

Food ›

Sports ›

Israel ›

History ›

Literature ›

Communities ›

Miscellaneous

Antisemitism ›

Ethics ›

Culture ›

Education ›

Philosophy ›

Television/Film ›

Jewish Law ›

Editors' Note

Top Topics in Jewish Media

August 2's Short Reads

Recent podcast episodes

for Friday, August 2, 2024