for Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Leadership ›

0 Leadership History

Why Jewish people should care about the appointment of the pope

The appointment of a Pope holds significant implications for Jewish communities, reflecting centuries of intertwined histories, from persecution to reconciliation.

0 Leadership Culture

Publisher’s Note

Sapir

Sapir tackles the ambitious notion of a "Jewish moonshot" in its latest issue, inspired by President Kennedy’s bold vision for space exploration.

0 Leadership Jewish Law

Aryeh Simon // Adar Currency Services/Adar Global • Change 86

Nesanel Gantz in Ami

Aryeh Simon, originally from Los Angeles, transitioned from a life of Torah study to becoming a businessman, addressing the costly and delayed process of wiring money to Israel.

0 Leadership Communities

We don’t know much about Leo XIV and the Jews. But he could be just the pope for us.

Ethan Schwartz in JTA

The election of Pope Leo XIV, a Chicago-born graduate of Villanova University, presents a unique opportunity for Jewish-Catholic relations.

0 Leadership Philosophy

Reclaiming Shepherd Leadership — For Our Leaders, For Ourselves

Yiscah Smith in Lehrhaus

Yiscah Smith explores the concept of "shepherd leadership" in Jewish tradition, using Moses as a model.

0 Leadership Communities

The renewed promise of pluralistic community

eJewishPhilanthropy

In the aftermath of escalating tensions since October 2023 and further polarized by the 2024 U.S. election, the Jewish community is at a pivotal moment.

Food ›

0 Food Culture

From Mouth to Mind: Food and Jewish Engagement

Sapir

Michael Solomonov, an Israeli chef known for popularizing Israeli cuisine in the United States, discusses the role of food in Jewish culture and identity.

0 Food Culture

Cheese the Day: Food ideas for Shavuot that are too gouda to miss

Rachelly Eisenberger in Jewish Action

As Shavuot approaches, Rachelly Eisenberger delves into the world of kosher cheese with Brent Delman, known as "The Cheese Guy."

Politics ›

0 Politics History

Anti-Zionist Committees of the American Public

Sapir

During the tense era of the early 1980s in the Soviet Union, anti-Zionist sentiments were at their peak, with Jewish identity heavily scrutinized and expressions of Jewish culture and pride suppressed.

0 Politics Israel

Publisher's Note

Sapir

In the wake of the unsettling events of October 7, the publisher reflects on the newfound clarity regarding international and domestic stances on Israel.

0 Politics Communities

Politics

Sapir

American Jewry's historic allegiance to the Democratic Party, based on a shared commitment to progressive causes, is facing a challenge as internal tensions arise over issues like Israel and Jewish-specific concerns.

0 Politics Ethics

Actually, Feelings Don’t Care About Your Facts

Sapir

Israel activism often struggles by relying too much on facts and not enough on emotional connection, as shown in recent research exploring attitudes toward Jews and Israel among various American demographics.

0 Politics Communities

‘This Regime Is Naked’

Sapir

In a detailed interview for Sapir's Activism issue, Bret Stephens speaks with Iranian-American activist Mehdi Yahyanejad about his efforts to promote free expression against Iran's hardline regime.

0 Politics Israel

Why Has Palestinian Activism Been So Successful?

Sapir

The article examines how Palestinian activism has successfully mirrored historical social movements, such as the U.S. civil rights movement, to gain traction both academically and socially in Western contexts.

0 Politics History

If Not Now, When?

Sapir

In 1978, as Israel engaged in contentious peace negotiations with Egypt, 40 high school seniors urged Prime Minister Menachem Begin to expedite talks and withdraw from territories captured in the Six-Day War.

0 Politics History

Jews and Activism

Sapir

Jewish involvement in political activism has been significant throughout history, demonstrating a notable pattern of Jewish leadership in various revolutionary movements, despite Jews being a minority.

0 Politics Antisemitism

Half of American Jewish voters believe Trump is antisemitic, poll finds

Grace Gilson in JTA

A recent survey by GBAO Strategies reveals deep concerns among American Jewish voters about President Donald Trump's conduct and policies, with 52% considering him antisemitic.

0 Politics Communities

Terrifying Times at Newark Airport

Yossi Krausz in Ami

Newark International Airport has experienced multiple radar and communication outages over the past two weeks, causing significant delays and flight cancellations.

0 Politics Antisemitism

Mindless Maliciousness // We pray and they pray

Avi Shafran in Ami

In the wake of the Hamas-Israel conflict, Dr. Josh Winer—a US-based surgeon and former IDF soldier—returned to Israel to provide medical aid, only to face hostility upon returning to his job at Emory University.

0 Politics Israel

Trump’s Gulf tour underscores Israel’s diplomatic disadvantage

Gabby Deutch in Jewish Insider

President Trump's visit to Gulf states, excluding Israel, has highlighted concerns among pro-Israel advocates about the U.S. potentially sidelining Israel in favor of financial interests with Saudi Arabia and other Gulf nations.

0 Politics Communities

As rivals talk antisemitism, this NYC mayoral candidate pitches a bread and butter appeal to Orthodox voters

Jacob Kornbluh in Forward

Zellnor Myrie, a New York City mayoral candidate, seeks to gain support from Orthodox Jewish voters by prioritizing community-centric issues like affordable housing, education, and public safety over more traditional focal points like antisemitism and Israel.

0 Politics Israel

The staggering hypocrisy behind Trump's deal to free the last living American hostage

Rob Eshman in Forward

The article critiques President Donald Trump's administration for its contradictory actions related to Israel and Palestinians.

0 Politics Communities

The Beat

Sharona in Mishpacha

The proposed Stand with Israel Act, backed by Republican senators, aims to cut American funding to UN agencies that exhibit bias against Israel, particularly criticizing UNRWA for allegedly supporting terrorism.

0 Politics Jewish Law

What if Deri Makes Good on His Threat?

Emes Ve-Emunah

The article examines the escalating tensions between Charedi parties in Israel and the government over military service exemptions.

0 Politics Language

Though sworn enemies, Hamas and Donald Trump seem to share a common language

Aviya Kushner in Forward

Aviya Kushner explores the parallels in rhetoric used by Donald Trump and the late Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar regarding sacrifice for perceived greater gains.

0 Politics Israel

Trump’s Qatari jet gift sparks rare Jewish MAGA backlash

Jacob Kornbluh in Forward

Former President Donald Trump's decision to accept a $400 million aircraft gift from Qatar has sparked an unexpected backlash from notable Jewish supporters within the MAGA movement, including Mark Levin, Ben Shapiro, and Laura Loomer.

0 Politics Communities

Unintended Targets

Sharona in Mishpacha

The ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and China, accentuated by President Trump's on-off tariff policies, have significantly affected Jewish e-commerce entrepreneurs, a community with strong ties to wholesale distribution.

0 Politics Israel

The Art of the Peace Deal. Spies at Stanford. Plus. . .

The Free Press in The Free Press

In a recent flurry of diplomatic activity, Donald Trump is focusing on global peace-making efforts, successfully brokering various international agreements.

0 Politics Communities

House and Home

Sharona in Mishpacha

The article details the anticipated release of Edan Alexander, an Israeli-American IDF soldier abducted by Hamas, highlighting the relentless efforts of U.S. Representative Josh Gottheimer in advocating for his release.

0 Politics Culture

Nickel and Diming

Sharona in Mishpacha

In 2025, Republicans struggle to implement promised tax cuts despite holding major governmental positions, facing practical challenges like a thin majority in the House and running out of time with midterm elections looming.

0 Politics Israel

Trump Keeps Israel on Edge

Sharona in Mishpacha

Sharona's article in Mishpacha Magazine highlights the growing tensions between the US and Israel due to President Trump's recent diplomatic maneuvers in the Middle East.

0 Politics History

The Destruction of Khalet a-Daba’ - The largest demolition in the history of Masafer Yatta in the southern West Bank portends an escalation of Israel’s ethnic cleansing campaign in the region.

Emily Glick in Jewish Currents

The demolition of Khalet a-Daba in Masafer Yatta on May 5th marked a significant escalation in Israeli actions within the West Bank.

0 Politics History

Triumphalism and Desperation, or, “To What May October 7 be Compared?”: Is October 7 the End of an Era that Began in June 1967

Shaul Magid in Jewschool

Shaul Magid explores the significance of October 7 in comparison to the Six-Day War of June 1967, questioning whether it marks the end of an era that began then.

0 Politics Antisemitism

Leo Terrell: DOJ plans to use litigation to ‘eliminate antisemitism’

Emily Jacobs in Jewish Insider

Leo Terrell, senior counsel to the Department of Justice, discusses the Trump administration’s strategy for combating antisemitism, highlighting the intention to use litigation against those deemed antisemitic.

0 Politics Israel

This is the moment for Israel to remember what it means to be sovereign.

Joshua Hoffman in Future of Jewish

In the wake of the release of Edan Alexander, an Israeli-American soldier held by Hamas, concerns have surfaced about the Israeli government's loyalty to its citizens in captivity.

Science ›

0 Science Politics

The Roots of Public Mistrust: Science, Policy & Academic Integrity

Sapir

In the context of increasing public mistrust in scientific integrity and institutions, the author reflects on dilemmas faced when scientific findings intersect with political issues, such as climate change and public health.

Israel ›

0 Israel Politics

Dear Paul, I’m a Zionist

Sapir

In a letter addressing Paul O'Brien, the executive director of Amnesty International USA, the author defends Zionism in light of O'Brien's recent comments against the idea of Israel as a Jewish state.

Education ›

0 Education Culture

Publisher's Note

Sapir

Jacob Neusner famously argued that civilization depends on the transmission of memory and learning across generations.

0 Education Antisemitism

Goodbye, Columbia

Sapir

Amidst waning public confidence in American higher education, the article proposes a strategic approach for enhancing the Jewish experience and improving university standards.

0 Education Culture

The Encampment Mindset

Sapir

The article analyzes the psychological drivers behind student activism using examples like the Columbia University protests.

0 Education Politics

A University’s Responsibility

Sapir

The piece explores the evolving role of activism within university campuses, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balance between free expression and respectful discourse.

0 Education Ethics

Performance Pressure

Sharona in Mishpacha

Sharona addresses a reader struggling with anxiety and fears of failure at a new job, offering advice on managing performance pressure.

0 Education Torah

Water On a Rock

Sharona in Mishpacha

Rabbi Akiva's story of perseverance, inspired by observing water eroding stone, is a potent teaching tool for instilling a growth mindset in children.

0 Education Torah

Dream Team

Sharona in Mishpacha

In a yeshiva setting, Akiva and Moishy have been learning Torah together for years, forming a strong and effective partnership through their complementary learning styles.

0 Education Jewish Law

How can I, as a parent, best advocate for my son’s therapy?

Sharona in Mishpacha

Balancing collaboration with advocacy is crucial when supporting a child in therapy amidst educators who may have traditional perspectives.

Culture ›

0 Culture Leadership

Publisher's Note

Sapir

The publisher reflects on the impact of recent events in Israel and the necessity of resilience within the Jewish community while facing ongoing technological challenges.

0 Culture Jewish Law

Publisher's Note

Sapir

The article reflects on the American Jewish community's hesitance to openly discuss faith, often due to historical sensitivities and the desire for inclusivity.

0 Culture Communities

My Palestinian best friend made me a proud Zionist.

Liza Libes in Future of Jewish

Liza Libes recounts her transformation from a secular Jew indifferent to her heritage to a fervent Zionist influenced by her friendships and life experiences.

0 Culture Communities

It’s Friday night. These NYC restaurants are all booked — for Shabbat dinner.

Anna Rahmanan in JTA

In New York City, a new trend of hosting Shabbat dinners at restaurants is gaining popularity among the Jewish community post-October 7, amidst a growing desire for communal connection amidst rising tensions.

0 Culture Education

Houseplants for Beginners

Sharona in Mishpacha

Sharona's article in Mishpacha Magazine offers a beginner's guide to keeping houseplants, emphasizing that maintaining plants is a skill, not an innate talent.

0 Culture Communities

After hooking Israelis, former hostage Keith Siegel is bringing his famous pancakes to NYC this week

Jackie Hajdenberg in JTA

Keith Siegel, a former hostage who was held captive in Gaza for 484 days, is bringing his now-famous pancake recipe to New York City for a special pop-up event.

Literature ›

0 Literature Holocaust

Jewish Masterpiece: A Guide for the Bedevilled

Sapir

Ben Hecht, a prominent Jewish American writer and Hollywood screenwriter, authored "A Guide for the Bedevilled" in 1943, capturing the tumult of the era with an analysis of antisemitism that resonates today.

0 Literature Culture

Searching for Levy Hideo

Bob Davis in Moment

The article explores the unique life journey of Ian Levy, also known as Levy Hideo, an American Jew who became a celebrated Japanese novelist.

Antisemitism ›

0 Antisemitism Education

Lawfare

Sapir

The article explores the evolving impact of legal action in combating antisemitism on American college campuses.

0 Antisemitism Communities

Alumni

Sapir

In October 2023, amid rising antisemitism on university campuses, Jewish students at Brown University faced harassment from peers and faculty, as highlighted by disturbing student testimonies.

0 Antisemitism Politics

Allies

Sapir

The international conference on antisemitism held in Jerusalem raised controversy due to the inclusion of several far-right European politicians, which led to significant Jewish figures withdrawing in protest.

0 Antisemitism Culture

Even antisemitism has positive effects.

Joshua Namm in Future of Jewish

Joshua Namm explores the paradoxical notion that antisemitism, despite its inherent negativity, can have positive effects on Jewish identity and communal cohesion.

Communities ›

0 Communities Politics

Museums and their Discontents

Sapir

Since October 2023, American museums have witnessed demonstrations similar to those on university campuses, with protesters calling for boycotts against Israel and alleging cultural complicity in Palestinian oppression.

0 Communities Leadership

Rolling with the Punches

Rabbi Yitzchok Frankfurter in Ami

Rabbi Eli Portal, having overcome a life-altering ATV accident at a young age, now dedicates his life to mentoring others in the Jewish community facing adversity.

0 Communities Culture

Inbox

Sharona in Mishpacha

A collection of responses to Mishpacha Magazine articles addresses diverse issues affecting the Jewish community.

0 Communities Culture

On Fracture and Repair

Leah Koenig in Jewish Table

Leah Koenig reflects on the fracture and attempted repair within Jewish and progressive communities, both in real life and online, over contentious issues, particularly the Israel-Palestine conflict.

0 Communities Ethics

Belonging cannot wait

eJewishPhilanthropy

In the face of existential threats and rising antisemitism, the Jewish community is urged to foster a culture of belonging and inclusivity without forgoing the fight against antisemitism.

0 Communities Politics

Streetwise in Syria

Sharona in Mishpacha

Sharona embarks on a journey to Syria, joining a delegation of Jews of Syrian descent to visit the grave of Rav Chaim Vital despite recent grave vandalism.

0 Communities Culture

Inbox: Issue 1061

Sharona in Mishpacha

The collection of letters in this issue of the magazine reflects a myriad of concerns and perspectives within the Jewish community.

0 Communities Education

After Oct. 7, a hub of Jewish-Arab shared society faces its toughest test

Tamara Zieve in Jewish Insider

Givat Haviva, Israel's largest organization dedicated to fostering Jewish-Arab shared society, faced an unprecedented challenge following the October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas.

History ›

0 History Politics

Refusenik Lessons for Today

Sapir

The term "refusenik" refers to Soviet Jews whose emigration requests were denied, highlighting a tenacious fight against Soviet oppression.

0 History Holocaust

The woman who saved stolen Jewish art — and the writer who is finally telling her story

Laurie Gwen Shapiro in Forward

Michelle Young's narrative non-fiction book, "The Art Spy," delves into the life of Rose Valland, an unsung WWII resistance hero who risked everything to save Jewish-owned art from Nazi looters.

0 History Communities

Never Bend

Sharona in Mishpacha

Zalman Yudkin's life story exemplifies resilience and dedication to Jewish faith even under oppressive regimes.

Television/Film ›

0 Television/Film Politics

Can the Media Keep Kosher?

Sapir

Amidst growing concerns about political bias in the media, the article examines the historical evolution of journalism's relationship with objectivity and activism.

0 Television/Film Science

Natalie Portman to Play Jewish Scientist Rosalind Franklin in an Upcoming Movie

Lior Zaltzman in Kveller

Natalie Portman is set to portray the Jewish scientist Rosalind Franklin in a new film directed by Tom Hooper, based on the stage play 'Photograph 51' by Anna Ziegler.

Ethics ›

0 Ethics Politics

How Should Activists Relate to Risk? - An investigation through Jewish text, in the wake of escalating violence in the West Bank against Palestinians and their allies

Aryeh Bernstein in Jewish Currents

Jewish social activist Aryeh Bernstein interviews Maya Rosen, a Jerusalem-based organizer who works with Palestinian communities in the West Bank, focusing on the concept of risk assessment in activism.

0 Ethics Jewish Law

"Mitzvot" — The Choice To Do Good Could Not Be More Universal

Jewdicious

Michael Golden explores the universal nature of mitzvot, reflecting on a personal experience helping a young person in distress.

Sports ›

0 Sports Politics

‘Regrettable’ pro-Israel tweets land Florida hockey exec in penalty box

Louis Keene in Forward

Doug Cifu, minority owner and vice chairman of the Florida Panthers, has been suspended indefinitely by the NHL after engaging in a heated Twitter exchange with a pro-Palestinian fan where he used inflammatory language comparing criticism of Israel to antisemitism.

Torah ›

0 Torah Jewish Law

Parshas Emor, 5785

Sharona in Mishpacha

In her article on Parshas Emor, Sharona explores the deeper meaning behind counting the Omer, as instructed in Vayikra 23:15.

0 Torah Antisemitism

THE MOMENT

Sharona in Mishpacha

Rav Chaim Kanievsky's learning experience about a grasshopper's anatomy, leading to a real-life encounter with the insect, serves as a backdrop for a mirroring moment in Cincinnati, where a Daf Yomi class encounters three goats during a study about goat sacrifices.

Music ›

0 Music Ethics

Offstage Pedestal

Sharona in Mishpacha

In "Offstage Pedestal," Sharona explores the nuanced roles Jewish musicians like Naftali Kempeh, Bentzi Stein, and Beri Weber play in shaping the lives of their fans.

0 Music Politics

Israel’s Eurovision contestant, Yuval Raphael, says she’s focused on the music, not the protests

Philissa Cramer in JTA

Yuval Raphael, Israel's Eurovision contestant, is focusing on her musical performance despite facing protests and hostility.

0 Music Culture

Still Playing Our Song

Sharona in Mishpacha

Chaim Banet, a prolific composer and choirmaster, has been a defining influence in Jewish music over the past five decades, particularly through his children's choirs in Haifa.

Holidays ›

0 Holidays Culture

Beyond the Bonfire: 5 Meaningful Ways to Connect with Lag BaOmer This Year

Sari Kopitnikoff in Jewish Action

Lag BaOmer, traditionally associated with bonfires, can be celebrated meaningfully in diverse ways that go beyond simply lighting a fire.

JL;DR

for Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Leadership ›

Food ›

Politics ›

Science ›

Israel ›

Education ›

Culture ›

Literature ›

Antisemitism ›

Communities ›

History ›

Television/Film ›

Ethics ›

Sports ›

Torah ›

Music ›

Holidays ›

Editors' Note

Top Topics in Jewish Media

May 14's Short Reads

Recent podcast episodes

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Leadership ›

Food ›

Politics ›

Science ›

Israel ›

Education ›

Culture ›

Literature ›

Antisemitism ›

Communities ›

History ›

Television/Film ›

Ethics ›

Sports ›

Torah ›

Music ›

Holidays ›

Editors' Note

Top Topics in Jewish Media

May 14's Short Reads

Recent podcast episodes

for Wednesday, May 14, 2025