for Wednesday, December 18, 2024

Antisemitism ›

There are grounds for optimism in Slovakia – but we cannot turn a blind eye to surviving antisemitism

The article reflects on a visit to Slovakia, highlighting both the preservation of Jewish heritage by non-Jewish Slovaks and the underlying antisemitism that still lingers.

0 Antisemitism Politics

How Australia went from ‘goldene medina’ to ‘vitriol and vilification’ of Jews

Lahav Harkov in Jewish Insider

In recent months, Australia has witnessed a troubling rise in antisemitic incidents, leading to significant concerns within the Jewish community.

0 Antisemitism Communities

Q&A | Peter Wertheim on Antisemitism in Australia

Jacob Forman in Moment

Peter Wertheim, co-CEO of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, discusses the recent rise in antisemitism in Australia following heightened tensions related to events in Gaza.

Torah ›

0 Torah Philosophy

Sea of Love

Dovid Bashevkin in Tablet

Dovid Bashevkin reflects on his personal struggles while studying Tractate Bava Batra and explores the deeper themes within its pages, which at first seem mundane with discussions about property and inheritance laws.

0 Torah Education

New from OU Press – Winter 2024

JA Mag in Jewish Action

Rabbanit Atira Ote's new Hebrew book, "Ote LaParasha," invites families to explore the weekly Torah portions and haftarot with fresh and engaging content.

Politics ›

0 Politics Antisemitism

The Palestine marches need to stop.

Daniel Clarke-Serret in Future of Jewish

The essay by Daniel Clarke-Serret argues against pro-Palestinian marches, particularly those in Western capitals like Montreal, which he perceives as aggressive and disruptive.

0 Politics Communities

It's a hopeless time. Here's one genuinely good Israeli solution

Rob Eshman in Forward

Rula Daood and Alon-Lee Green, leaders of the Israeli peace group Standing Together, are delivering a hopeful message of unity amidst the bleak Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

0 Politics History

Things Speed Up

Cindy Scarr in Mishpacha

Cindy Scarr's article explores the rapid geopolitical shifts following the fall of the Assad regime in Syria and its impact on the Middle East, particularly in regard to Israel and Iran.

0 Politics Israel

Question Marks over Syria

Cindy Scarr in Mishpacha

The downfall of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria has led to the rise of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and its leader, Abu Mohammad al-Julani.

0 Politics Leadership

Opinion | Bibi on Trial or on Stage?

Eetta Prince-Gibson in Moment

Amid a protracted legal battle marked by allegations of bribery, fraud and breach of trust, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has taken the witness stand in his own defense.

0 Politics Communities

The Jewish leader taking on Christian nationalism

Asaf Elia-Shalev in JTA

Rachel Laser, the Jewish president of Americans United for Separation of Church and State, is passionately leading the fight against Christian nationalism, a movement she perceives as a significant threat to religious pluralism in the United States.

0 Politics Israel

Netanyahu visits IDF soldiers in Syria as rebel leaders call for Israelis to exit

Ron Kampeas in JTA

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's recent visit to IDF troops in Syria marks a significant moment in Israel's ongoing military strategy following the fall of the Assad regime.

0 Politics Holidays

‘We can never lose hope’: Biden’s message to Jewish community at his final White House Hanukkah party

Jacob Kornbluh in Forward

At his final White House Hanukkah reception, President Joe Biden urged the Jewish community to maintain hope amidst current challenges and reaffirmed his steadfast support for Israel.

0 Politics Israel

Whatever we do, the media will not stop propaganda on Gaza

Jewish Chronicle

A recent report titled "Questionable Counting" reveals how the Hamas-run Ministry of Health in Gaza has inflated casualty figures, misleading international media into portraying Israeli military actions as indiscriminately targeting civilians.

0 Politics Israel

This is the last chance for the Zionist Left.

Samuel J. Hyde in Future of Jewish

Amid escalating political and social challenges, the Zionist Left in Israel faces a pivotal moment.

0 Politics Science

Beyond Green

Michael Lind in Tablet

Michael Lind critiques progressive energy policies, arguing that their ambitious goals of transitioning completely to renewable energy, while banning fossil fuels and nuclear power, are disconnected from reality.

0 Politics Communities

The Jewish Trends That Mattered Most in 2024

Joshua Hoffman in Future of Jewish

In 2024, the Jewish world was characterized by significant geopolitical shifts, rising antisemitism, and a renewed sense of solidarity between Israel and the Jewish Diaspora.

0 Politics Ethics

Settler extremism threatens to undo Israel — and Jews worldwide must take responsibility

Coby Schoffman in Forward

Coby Schoffman's article addresses the urgent need for the global Jewish community to confront Israeli settler extremism, which threatens Israel's democratic reputation and impacts Jews worldwide.

Television/Film ›

0 Television/Film Culture

Hallmark’s ‘Hanukkah on the Rocks’ Gives Us That Jewish Holiday Magic

Lior Zaltzman in Kveller

Hallmark's 2024 Hanukkah offering, "Hanukkah on the Rocks," is a charming film that reimagines typical Hallmark romance with a Jewish twist.

Culture ›

0 Culture Holidays

Chanukah on a Budget

Steve Lipman in Jewish Action

Gift-giving during Chanukah has grown in popularity, prompting financial challenges for many Jewish families aiming to provide gifts over each of the eight nights.

0 Culture History

They were a kosher bakery success story — 80 years later, people are still trying to make a buck off their babka

Andrew Silverstein in Forward

The rise and transformation of Schick's Bakery from a small Borough Park institution to a multinational brand is chronicled through the history of its beloved babka.

0 Culture History

They were a kosher bakery success story — 80 years later, people are still trying to make a buck off their babka

Andrew Silverstein in Forward

Allen Schick reflects on the transformation of his family's bakery, Schick's, a once-beloved fixture in Brooklyn's Orthodox community, known for its homemade babkas and other kosher goods.

0 Culture Food

Why Pastramakah should become the next great Jewish tradition

Charles Bock in Forward

Charles Bock introduces 'Pastramakah,' a whimsical tradition combining cultural Jewish humor and hearty pastrami feasting.

0 Culture Jewish Law

As a Jew, I Dreaded Doing Christmas With My Husband’s Family Until I Made This Change

Dana Shavin in Kveller

Dana Shavin reflects on her personal journey of navigating holiday traditions with her Christian in-laws.

0 Culture Education

What Jews Really Want

Liel Leibovitz in Jewish Action

Liel Leibovitz explores the post-October 7 resurgence of interest in Judaism, suggesting a shift from the current outreach models to ones that emphasize challenging, substantial engagement with the faith.

0 Culture Leadership

Cultivating Jewish Pride

Rabbi Judah Mischel in Jewish Action

Rabbi Judah Mischel explores the resurgence of Jewish identity and pride in the face of contemporary global challenges, particularly rising antisemitism and the lingering effects of historical trauma such as the Holocaust.

0 Culture Education

Rabbi Dovid Bashevkin on Jewish Identity Post-October 7

JA Mag in Jewish Action

Rabbi Dovid Bashevkin reflects on Jewish identity, particularly in light of contemporary challenges such as secularism and assimilation.

0 Culture History

Yiddish recipes, memories and photos wanted for online cookbook

Forverts Staff in Forward

Barbara Kirshenblatt-Gimblett is inviting enthusiasts of Eastern European Jewish cuisine to contribute memories, recipes, and photos to her online cookbook as part of the Yiddish New York festival.

Art ›

0 Art History

Salvador Dali’s little-known series about the founding of Israel comes to a Holocaust museum on Long Island

Jackie Hajdenberg in JTA

Salvador Dali's "Aliyah, the Rebirth of Israel" series is now exhibited at the Holocaust Memorial Tolerance Center in Glen Cove, Long Island.

0 Art History

Sonia Delaunay: A Force of Nature

Guest Contributor in Lilith

Sonia Delaunay, born Sarah Stern in 1885, emerged as a pioneering figure in the abstract modern art movement, despite societal barriers faced by women and Jews in early 20th century Europe.

0 Art Communities

Coming Out of the Woodwork

Jeff Korbman in Jewish Action

Jeff Korbman recounts his journey from a hobby woodworker to a craftsman with a meaningful purpose, merging his Jewish identity with woodworking.

History ›

0 History Art

This ancient archeological marvel celebrates the defeat of King David — does it prove he existed?

Olivia Haynie in Forward

The Tel Dan Stele, an archaeological treasure from 900 BCE, is currently on display at the Jewish Museum in New York.

0 History Culture

The Shochet (Vol. 1): A Memoir of Jewish Life in Ukraine and Crimea

Reviewed by Faigy Grunfeld in Jewish Action

"The Shochet (Vol. 1)", a memoir by Pinkhes-Dov Goldenshteyn, translated and annotated by Michoel Rotenfeld, offers a vivid portrayal of Jewish shtetl life in 19th century Ukraine and Crimea.

Holocaust ›

0 Holocaust Art

Paintings of unbearable life in the Lodz Ghetto

Jennifer A. Stern in Forward

The exhibit "Capturing the Ghetto: Artistic Portrayals of Everyday Life in the Lodz Ghetto" at the Emanuel Ringelblum Jewish Historical Institute in Warsaw, showcases art from prisoners in the Lodz ghetto during World War II.

0 Holocaust History

Defenders of the Jewish People: Remembering Israel’s Fallen Soldiers

Sarah Hershenson in Jewish Action

The article pays tribute to Israeli soldiers, particularly focusing on the stories of Sergeant First Class Amichai Yisrael Yehoshua Oster and Master Sergeant Tzvika Lavi, who lost their lives defending Israel in the Gaza conflict.

Jewish Law ›

0 Jewish Law Philosophy

Who Knows Eight?

Cindy Scarr in Mishpacha

Cindy Scarr reflects on the significance of numbers in our lives, particularly through the lens of a personal story shared by Mindel Kassorla.

0 Jewish Law Torah

Parshas Vayeishev: Speech Therapy

Cindy Scarr in Mishpacha

Cindy Scarr explores the vital role of communication in resolving conflict through the lens of Parshas Vayeishev.

0 Jewish Law Communities

Ten-Year Goal to Save Am Yisrael: One million new Jewish families on the path to keeping Shabbat

Rabbi Dr. Warren Goldstein in Jewish Action

Rabbi Dr. Warren Goldstein proposes a bold ten-year plan to inspire one million Jewish families to embrace Shabbat observance as a means to combat assimilation, particularly in the diaspora.

0 Jewish Law Culture

Ten-Year Goal to Save Am Yisrael: One million new Jewish families on the path to keeping Shabbat

Rabbi Dr. Warren Goldstein in Jewish Action

Rabbi Dr. Warren Goldstein proposes a bold plan to strengthen global Jewish identity by focusing efforts on promoting Shabbat observance.

0 Jewish Law Communities

Responding to the Call

Rabbi Efraim Mintz in Jewish Action

Rabbi Efraim Mintz calls upon the Orthodox community to seize the current moment, where many American Jews are reconnecting with their heritage, by embracing personalized outreach.

0 Jewish Law Communities

Welcoming October 8th Jews Home: A Symposium, Part 2

JA Mag in Jewish Action

The symposium explores different perspectives on Jewish outreach, emphasizing the importance of fostering Jewish identity and pride, even if it doesn't immediately lead to full observance of mitzvot.

0 Jewish Law Communities

Outreach Obligations and Responsibilities: What Does Halachah Say?

JA Mag in Jewish Action

In a conversation moderated by Rabbi Phil Karesh, Rabbi Shmuel Fuerst and Rabbi Micah Greenland discuss the halachic obligation for engagement in Jewish outreach.

0 Jewish Law Torah

What’s the Truth about . . . Relocating a Sefer Torah?

Rabbi Ari Z. Zivotofsky in Jewish Action

Relocating a sefer Torah is a nuanced issue in Jewish law, typically discouraged due to the high respect and honor due to the Torah.

0 Jewish Law Politics

Reviews in Brief – Winter 2024

Rabbi Gil Student in Jewish Action

Rabbi Gil Student reviews three seminal books touching on different aspects of Jewish thought and practice.

Communities ›

0 Communities Education

Inbox: Issue 1041

Cindy Scarr in Mishpacha

Readers of Mishpacha Magazine's Inbox in Issue 1041 provide diverse perspectives on educational and communal challenges in the Orthodox Jewish community.

0 Communities Israel

The Ultimate Sacrifice: The Faith and Courage of IDF Widows

Carol Green Ungar in Jewish Action

Chava Zenilman, Hadas Loewenstern, Dana Cohen, and Galit Vizel represent the resilience and faith of IDF widows who have lost husbands in recent conflicts in Gaza.

0 Communities Jewish Law

What Jews Really Want

Liel Leibovitz in Jewish Action

In the aftermath of recent tragic events, many American Jews are reconnecting with their heritage, prompting a discussion on how the Orthodox community can welcome these individuals.

0 Communities Jewish Law

Leave No Neshamah Behind

Rebbetzin Gevura Davis as told to Merri Ukraincik in Jewish Action

Rebbetzin Gevura Davis discusses the transformative shift seen amongst American Jews since October 7, as they begin reconnecting with their heritage, and outlines how the Orthodox community can embrace them through effective kiruv (outreach) efforts.

0 Communities Education

Leave No Neshamah Behind

Rebbetzin Gevura Davis as told to Merri Ukraincik in Jewish Action

Rebbetzin Gevura Davis shares insights from her work in kiruv, emphasizing the importance of welcoming all Jews into the community, particularly in light of recent events that have spurred increased interest in Jewish roots.

0 Communities Leadership

Cultivating Jewish Pride

Rabbi Judah Mischel in Jewish Action

Rabbi Judah Mischel stresses the significance of embracing Jewish identity and pride in the wake of recent global upheavals.

0 Communities Education

Welcoming October 8th Jews Home: A Symposium, Part 3

JA Mag in Jewish Action

In a thought-provoking symposium, Rivkah Slonim and Rabbi Efraim Mintz discuss new strategies for strengthening Jewish identity among American Orthodox Jews, especially post-October 7 challenges.

0 Communities Torah

Start-Up Shul: How to build a welcoming kehillah

Avital Chizhik-Goldschmidt and Rabbi Binyamin Goldschmidt in Jewish Action

The article explores the growth and experience of the Altneu Synagogue, a new community on Manhattan's Upper East Side, particularly in response to the events of October 7.

0 Communities Jewish Law

Reaching Across the Gap

Toby Klein Greenwald in Jewish Action

Kesher Yehudi is a social movement in Israel dedicated to uniting religious and secular Jews through the pairing of study partners, known as chavrutot.

0 Communities Culture

The American Israeli Post-October 7

Sandy Eller in Jewish Action

In the aftermath of the October 7 terror attacks, American Israelis experienced a profound upheaval, prompting a significant shift in their engagement with Jewish communities in the United States.

0 Communities Education

It All Starts with a Mom

Ahuva Reich in Jewish Action

TJJ for Moms and Dads, an initiative created by NCSY, allows parents of teens who have participated in The Anne Samson Jerusalem Journey to experience Israel themselves, fostering a deeper connection to Judaism.

0 Communities Jewish Law

Just Ahavas Yisrael

JA Mag in Jewish Action

Project Inspire is a volunteer-driven initiative that facilitates joyful and experiential Jewish events for individuals from diverse backgrounds, without expecting them to change their level of observance.

0 Communities History

A Time of Repentance

JA Mag in Jewish Action

In the wake of the Six-Day War, Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe witnessed and encouraged a religious awakening among secular Israelis, inspired by the miraculous events of the conflict.

0 Communities Leadership

Rethinking Outreach Post-October 7: Speaking with Rabbi Yitzchak Breitowitz

Rabbi Dovid Bashevkin in Jewish Action

Rabbi Dovid Bashevkin interviews Rabbi Yitzchak Breitowitz about the post-October 7 Jewish identity awakening in the American and Israeli Jewish communities, drawing parallels and contrasts with the religious resurgence following the Six-Day War.

0 Communities Ethics

Look a Little Harder

Rabbi Ezra Sarna in Jewish Action

Rabbi Ezra Sarna reflects on the quiet dedication of unsung heroes who contribute humbly and significantly to Jewish communities.

0 Communities Ethics

Letters – Winter 2024

JA Mag in Jewish Action

This collection of letters in JA Mag addresses various facets of Jewish life and challenges.

0 Communities Ethics

October 8th Dropouts: Reclaiming the Jews of Shame

Rabbi Moshe Hauer in Jewish Action

Rabbi Moshe Hauer discusses the phenomenon of Jewish disassociation in a post-October 7 world where two types of threats against Jews are prevalent: physical, from pro-Hamas entities, and spiritual, from those who criticize Israel under the guise of morality.

Education ›

0 Education Leadership

A Pioneering Spirit

Cindy Scarr in Mishpacha

Rabbi Meyer Fendel, the founding dean of the Hebrew Academy of Nassau County (HANC), passed away at age 98, leaving behind a profound legacy in Jewish education.

0 Education Culture

Family First Inbox: Issue 923

Cindy Scarr in Mishpacha

The discussion in this publication centers on orchestral themes within Jewish education and community life, particularly in seminaries and therapy for young girls, as well as advancements in hearing loss technology and integration.

0 Education Culture

What I Learned from Teaching Black Literature

Michael Krasny in Moment

In 1970, amidst the volatile socio-political climate following student-led strikes for ethnic studies, Michael Krasny, a young white Jewish professor, was tasked with teaching Black literature at San Francisco State University.

0 Education Politics

New Schools Bill poses threat to traditional education, Charedi rabbi warns

Jewish Chronicle

The Charedi community in the UK is preparing to oppose the proposed Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill, due to be introduced into Parliament.

0 Education Culture

How a Gap Year in Israel Can Change a Life

Kylie Ora Lobell in Jewish Action

Olami Launch provides a transformative gap year experience in Israel for Jewish teens from secular backgrounds, contributing to their personal growth and strengthening their Jewish identity.

0 Education Communities

Getting More Jewish Kids into Jewish Schools

Rachel Schwartzberg in Jewish Action

The Consortium of Jewish Day Schools (CoJDS) has launched a new initiative called "Coming Home" to promote Jewish education by increasing enrollment in Jewish day schools.

Science ›

0 Science Leadership

Software Savvy: Part 20 (2 of 2)

Cindy Scarr in Mishpacha

In this continuation of "Software Savvy," business leaders Chaim and Baruch discuss the challenges they face in managing requests for office services and technical support.

Music ›

0 Music Culture

Endnote — Issue: 1041

Cindy Scarr in Mishpacha

Cindy Scarr's article in Mishpacha Magazine Issue 1041 reflects on musical nostalgia and tradition within the Jewish community, focusing on two major projects.

0 Music Television/Film

For Bob Dylan's biographer, 'A Complete Unknown' is a dream come true — even if it's mostly fiction

Jim Sullivan in Forward

The article delves into Elijah Wald's journey as an author whose book "Dylan Goes Electric!" inspired the new film "A Complete Unknown."

0 Music Culture

This ‘Wicked’ version of ‘Adon Olam’ performed by two NYC cantors is proving to be popular

Lisa Keys in JTA

Cantor Azi Schwartz of Park Avenue Synagogue in Manhattan has captivated audiences with a creative rendition of Adon Olam set to the tune of "Popular" from the musical *Wicked*.

Israel ›

0 Israel Jewish Law

Wives of Soldiers for the Sanctity of the Camp

Emes Ve-Emunah

The article examines the paradoxical stance of the 'Wives of Soldiers for the Sanctity of the Camp,' who support Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef's assertion that even non-yeshiva attending charedim should avoid IDF service, despite their own husbands serving.

Sports ›

0 Sports Communities

Teenager who aims high – and climbs higher

Andrew Sherwood in Jewish Chronicle

Becca, a 13-year-old climbing prodigy from south Glasgow, has been climbing since she was three and is already a decorated athlete.

0 Sports Communities

Meet Yaniv Bazini, the Israeli college soccer star who could lead UVM to a national title

Jacob Gurvis in Forward

Yaniv Bazini, an Israeli college soccer star at the University of Vermont (UVM), has become a pivotal player, scoring 14 goals this season and leading his team to its first NCAA championship appearance.

0 Sports Israel

Meet Yaniv Bazini, the Israeli forward who propelled U of Vermont to its first soccer championship

Jacob Gurvis in JTA

Yaniv Bazini, an Israeli forward, played a pivotal role in leading the University of Vermont's Division I soccer team to its first national championship.

Food ›

0 Food Holidays

Our 21 best Chanukah doughnut recipes ever

Jewish Chronicle

With Chanukah approaching, a delightful array of 21 doughnut recipes is featured, offering options for various dietary preferences and flavor palates.

0 Food Holidays

It’s My Party and I’ll Fry if I Want to

Naomi Ross in Jewish Action

In this seasonal article, Naomi Ross explores the deeper significance of Chanukah through culinary celebrations.

Ethics ›

0 Ethics Sports

Words Tell Our Stories; Actions Define Our Lives

Jewdicious

Reflecting on his journey from a passive student during the 1960s at Brandeis University to becoming an active participant in life, Dr. Michael S. Lewis contrasts his early life with lessons learned from figures like Bruno Bettelheim and baseball player Harold Baines.

0 Ethics Communities

Balancing modern means and Jewish values in fundraising

eJewishPhilanthropy

Exploring the intersection of Jewish values and modern fundraising methods, Jewish philanthropy must integrate innovative techniques with the rich ethical framework of Judaism to remain effective and authentic.

Leadership ›

0 Leadership Jewish Law

Responding to the Call

Rabbi Efraim Mintz in Jewish Action

Rabbi Efraim Mintz discusses the evolution of Orthodox Jewry's response to challenges posed by modernity, specifically highlighting the kiruv (outreach) movement initiated in the 20th century.

0 Leadership Communities

Canada’s Rabbi: The Life and Legacy of Rabbi Reuven Bulka

Reviewed by Rabbi N. Daniel Korobkin in Jewish Action

Rabbi Reuven Bulka, remembered as 'Canada's Rabbi,' exemplified the impact a dedicated community leader can have.

0 Leadership Culture

Putting Hope to Work

Rabbi Dr. Josh Joseph in Jewish Action

The article reflects on the challenging times for Israel, faced with prolonged war, and emphasizes hope as a sustaining force.

Philosophy ›

0 Philosophy Jewish Law

The Guide to the Perplexed: A New Translation

Reviewed by Rabbi Shnayor Burton in Jewish Action

The new translation and commentary of Maimonides' "The Guide to the Perplexed" by Lenn E. Goodman and Phillip I. Lieberman, published by Stanford University Press, aim to make this profound work more accessible to a contemporary audience by prioritizing readability over literal translation.

0 Philosophy Education

Revisiting the Attainability of Greatness

Moishe Bane in Jewish Action

Moishe Bane explores the concept of greatness within Torah Judaism, questioning whether the Orthodox community sufficiently encourages the pursuit of personal greatness among its members.

JL;DR

for Wednesday, December 18, 2024

Antisemitism ›

Torah ›

Politics ›

Television/Film ›

Culture ›

Art ›

History ›

Holocaust ›

Jewish Law ›

Communities ›

Education ›

Science ›

Music ›

Israel ›

Sports ›

Food ›

Ethics ›

Leadership ›

Philosophy ›

Editors' Note

Top Topics in Jewish Media

December 18's Short Reads

Recent podcast episodes

navigate_before navigate_next for Wednesday, December 18, 2024

Antisemitism ›

Torah ›

Politics ›

Television/Film ›

Culture ›

Art ›

History ›

Holocaust ›

Jewish Law ›

Communities ›

Education ›

Science ›

Music ›

Israel ›

Sports ›

Food ›

Ethics ›

Leadership ›

Philosophy ›

Editors' Note

Top Topics in Jewish Media

December 18's Short Reads

Recent podcast episodes

for Wednesday, December 18, 2024