for Wednesday, June 25, 2025

Sports ›

0 Sports Culture

A ‘lefty jitterbug’ and a ‘funky’ forward: Get to know the Jewish players in the 2025 NBA Draft

Louis Keene in Forward

Ben Saraf and Danny Wolf are two Jewish basketball players anticipated to be drafted in the 2025 NBA Draft, marking a rare occasion with two Jewish prospects in the same year.

Communities ›

0 Communities Politics

We must not leave them behind

eJewishPhilanthropy

Recent conflicts highlight the crucial need for inclusive emergency planning for individuals with disabilities in Israel.

0 Communities Ethics

‘Climate anxiety’ isn’t a fad. For Jewish teens like me, it’s our inspiration.

Ami Gelman in JTA

Ami Gelman, a participant in JTA's Teen Journalism Fellowship, reflects on their journey as a Jewish teen climate activist, inspired by personal experiences like Hurricane Harvey.

0 Communities Politics

These New Yorkers were in Israel when the war with Iran began. Here’s how they made it home.

Rachel Ringler in JTA

Jewish individuals from New York experienced the harrowing reality of being in Israel when war with Iran broke out, describing their ordeal and eventual return home.

0 Communities Prayer

The Moment: Issue 1067

Cindy Scarr in Mishpacha

Issue 1067 of "The Moment" features two stories emphasizing miraculous protection and the power of community and faith amidst challenging circumstances.

0 Communities Education

In Appreciation of Camp Counselors

Cindy Scarr in Mishpacha

Camp counselors play a pivotal role in shaping young lives and preparing for their future roles as parents and community leaders.

0 Communities Ethics

My Journey with Dementia

Wally Klatch as told to Nechama Carmel in Jewish Action

Wally Klatch shares his personal journey dealing with early-stage dementia, highlighting the challenges and emotional transformations he experiences.

0 Communities Ethics

When Dad Has Dementia

Rachel Schwartzberg in Jewish Action

Caring for family members with dementia presents unique challenges within the Orthodox Jewish community, as religious and cultural factors add complexity to caregiving responsibilities.

0 Communities Culture

That Girl Who Loves the Jews: Adina Fernandez

Sarah Ogince in Jewish Action

Adina Shoshana Fernandez, originally known as the Non-Jewish Nanny, captivated social media with her heartfelt and positive portrayals of Jewish life.

0 Communities Politics

Twenty Years Later—Remembering the Uprooting of Gush Katif

Carol Green Ungar in Jewish Action

Twenty years after the Israeli government's eviction of nearly 10,000 Israelis from their homes in Gush Katif during the 2005 disengagement, many former residents, like Anita Tucker, continue to grapple with its repercussions.

0 Communities History

Debbie’s Story

Debbie Rosen as told to Toby Klein Greenwald in Jewish Action

Debbie Rosen shares her personal journey from living in Gush Katif before the 2005 Disengagement to her current life in a caravilla in Nitzan, near Ashkelon.

0 Communities Israel

From Gush Katif to the Rebuilt Ganei Tal

Moti and Hana Sender as told to Toby Klein Greenwald in Jewish Action

Moti and Hana Sender, former residents of Gush Katif, have rebuilt their lives and livelihood in the re-established moshav of Ganei Tal after being uprooted during the 2005 expulsion.

0 Communities Leadership

No Labels, No Limits

Rabbi Yisrael Motzen in Jewish Action

Rabbi Yisrael Motzen explores the bias within Jewish communities against individuals who don't fit the traditional family mold, particularly singles and childless people, highlighting historical figures such as Rabbi Meir Shapiro and Sarah Schenirer who succeeded despite similar circumstances.

0 Communities Culture

Yes, There Are Jews in Charlotte: Living Jewishly in the American South

Adina Peck in Jewish Action

Charlotte, North Carolina's Jewish community, which represents a significant segment of Southern Jewry, challenges stereotypes and offers a unique experience of Jewish life in the American South.

0 Communities Jewish Law

Letters – Summer 2025

JA Mag in Jewish Action

The summer 2025 letters section of JA Mag features reflections on various Jewish themes, including heartfelt reminiscences about Joe Lieberman by former Senator Gordon Humphrey, who praises Lieberman’s principles and sense of humor.

0 Communities Ethics

Jewish continuity requires more than engagement — it requires safety

eJewishPhilanthropy

Addressing domestic abuse within the Jewish community is essential for sustaining Jewish continuity and engagement.

0 Communities Politics

At Park Slope Food Coop, a contentious election could lead to Israeli goods boycott

Jackie Hajdenberg in JTA

At the Park Slope Food Coop in Brooklyn, a pivotal election is underway that could influence whether the cooperative grocery store's 17,000 members decide to boycott Israeli goods.

Politics ›

0 Politics Antisemitism

Israel critic Zohran Mamdani shocks Andrew Cuomo in NYC Democratic mayoral primary focused on Jewish issues

Jackie Hajdenberg in JTA

In a surprising turn of events, Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old democratic socialist and critic of Israel, has defeated Andrew Cuomo in the New York City Democratic mayoral primary.

0 Politics Communities

Cuomo concedes to Mamdani, who could become NYC's first Muslim mayor

Jacob Kornbluh in Forward

In a surprising outcome, former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo conceded defeat to Zohran Mamdani, paving the way for Mamdani to potentially become New York City's first Muslim mayor.

0 Politics Israel

A Spectacular Feat

Rabbi Yitzchok Frankfurter in Ami

Rabbi Yitzchok Frankfurter delves into the military career and insights of General John M. "Jack" Keane, a decorated former vice chief of staff of the US Army.

0 Politics Israel

Thank You, Mr. President

Ami Magazine in Ami

The article from Ami Magazine expresses profound gratitude towards former President Donald Trump for his decisive military actions against Iranian nuclear sites.

0 Politics History

Iran’s Flying Monkeys

Tony Badran in Tablet

Tony Badran explores the overestimated power of Iran and its regional proxies in comparison to Israel's recent military successes.

0 Politics Israel

Schumer struggles to live up to ‘shomer’ designation amid pressure from his party

Marc Rod in Jewish Insider

Chuck Schumer, Senate Minority Leader, faces a challenging situation as he navigates his dual role as a self-proclaimed guardian of both the people of Israel and the Democratic Party.

0 Politics Communities

Stop Freaking Out

Liel Leibovitz in Tablet

Liel Leibovitz expresses a tempered response to Zohran Mamdani's electoral win, arguing that despite Mamdani's controversial stances, particularly his antisemitic inclinations, his victory is not catastrophic but rather a call to action for New York's Jewish and centrist communities.

0 Politics Antisemitism

Imagine if Hitler had remained untouched.

Joshua Hoffman in Future of Jewish

The article draws a parallel between Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and Adolf Hitler, arguing that Khamenei poses a modern-day threat similar to the Nazi regime, despite not having succeeded in genocide.

0 Politics Israel

From 1975 | Fein on Percy

Leonard Fein in Moment

Leonard Fein critiques the strong reactions of the American Jewish community to Senator Charles H. Percy's comments in 1975, where he perceived Yasser Arafat as a moderate relative to other PLO leaders.

0 Politics Israel

For Trump and Netanyahu, statecraft is now synonymous with stagecraft

Dan Perry in Forward

The collaboration between U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during the Israel-Iran conflict has highlighted their use of political theatrics to enhance their images as master strategists.

0 Politics Israel

What comes next? In Israel, past success is no guarantee of future results

Ami Eden in Forward

Recent U.S. military interventions against Iran, under President Trump's administration, have sparked discussions about the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran.

0 Politics Israel

Trump is trying to get US tech companies to cut off service for Israel's critics

Mira Fox in Forward

President Donald Trump has used executive orders to direct U.S. tech giants, like Microsoft, to cut services to the International Criminal Court (ICC) after the court issued an arrest warrant for Israeli figures, alleging human rights violations in Gaza.

0 Politics Communities

From 1975 | The New Jewish Right

Harold Schulweis in Moment

Harold Schulweis's 1975 article examines the emergence and growing influence of Jewish conservatism in American politics.

0 Politics Israel

Damage Control

Cindy Scarr in Mishpacha

The article examines the impact of combined Israeli and American military strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities, with a focus on key targets like Natanz, Isfahan, Fordow, and Arak.

0 Politics Leadership

How Trump Must Cook with the Senate

Cindy Scarr in Mishpacha

President Trump's legislative maneuvers with the United States Senate are likened to preparing a meal, highlighting the importance of understanding the Senate's dynamics.

0 Politics Israel

The 12-Day War

Nathan Guttman in Moment

In an unexpected development, President Trump announced a ceasefire ending a brief yet intense 12-day conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, dubbed the '12-Day War.'

0 Politics Antisemitism

Stephen Colbert grills Zohran Mamdani and Brad Lander on Israel, antisemitism

Jackie Hajdenberg in JTA

In a recent appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, New York mayoral candidates Zohran Mamdani and Brad Lander shared their perspectives on Israel and antisemitism.

0 Politics Israel

Is Peace Really at Hand?

Emes Ve-Emunah

As tensions escalate between Israel and Iran, a fragile ceasefire brokered by President Trump is at risk.

0 Politics Antisemitism

Mamdani tells Colbert — and a national audience — why NYC Jews shouldn’t fear him as mayor

Jacob Kornbluh in Forward

Zohran Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist and mayoral candidate in New York City, appeared on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert to address concerns from Jewish voters regarding his stance on Israel and rising antisemitism.

0 Politics Communities

The Iranian Regime

Jewdicious

Iran's theocratic regime, governed by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, maintains a firm grip on the country's political and social institutions, guided by Shia Islamic principles.

0 Politics Antisemitism

The Jewish moments that defined the NYC mayoral race, from Borough Park to the bimah

Jacob Kornbluh in Forward

The New York City mayoral race has highlighted Jewish influence on local politics, as candidates navigate complex dynamics involving antisemitism, support for Israel, and outreach to Orthodox communities.

0 Politics Israel

New Rule: Jews must feed the people who want to murder them.

Tobias Gisle in Future of Jewish

The essay by Tobias Gisle addresses the complex issue of using food as a weapon in the Israel-Gaza conflict, highlighting the moral and strategic dilemmas involved.

0 Politics Israel

The Editor’s View

Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan in Jewish Action

Amid the backdrop of the Watergate scandal and the 1973 oil crisis, Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan reflects on the profound intertwining of political events and Jewish theological insight.

0 Politics Antisemitism

The Pen Is Mightier than the Sword: Fay

Barbara Bensoussan in Jewish Action

Fay, a businesswoman turned Israel advocate, launched Pens for Swords, a vast network of letter-writing campaigns to counter antisemitism and support Israel following the events of October 7.

0 Politics Culture

Getting to the Root of the Story: Meira K.

Merri Ukraincik in Jewish Action

Meira K, renowned for her concise news analysis, transformed her personal updates into a robust Instagram platform amid the Israel conflict after October 7th.

0 Politics Communities

Mamdani’s ascent in NYC mayoral primary alarms Jewish voters

Matthew Kassel in Jewish Insider

The New York City mayoral primary has heightened tensions among Jewish voters due to the rise of Zohran Mamdani, a far-left assemblyman criticized for his anti-Israel stance.

0 Politics Israel

Will Iran’s nuclear program survive the U.S. and Israeli strikes?

Gabby Deutch in Jewish Insider

In the wake of recent U.S. and Israeli military strikes, the future of Iran's nuclear program remains uncertain.

0 Politics Israel

Why Israel, rarely a fan of regime change, now contemplates an Iran without ayatollahs

Ron Kampeas in JTA

Israel, historically cautious about pursuing regime changes in neighboring states, is reevaluating its stance towards Iran in light of recent escalations.

0 Politics History

The real enemy in the Middle East isn’t Israel. It’s Iran.

Joshua Hoffman in Future of Jewish

Joshua Hoffman's article argues that Iran, not Israel, is the primary destabilizing force in the Middle East.

Leadership ›

0 Leadership Ethics

The Accidental Financial Adviser

Ami Magazine in Ami

Mendel Feferkorn's journey to becoming a prominent financial adviser in the Chassidic world was unplanned, guided by what he describes as divine providence.

0 Leadership Torah

Parshas Korach: 5785

Cindy Scarr in Mishpacha

The article reflects on the lives of great Jewish leaders, known as gedolim, who despite their elevated status remain accessible and connected to the people.

Antisemitism ›

0 Antisemitism Politics

Best of Times, Worst of Times

Avi Shafran in Ami

The New York Times recently published a lengthy editorial highlighting the persistently urgent issue of antisemitism and condemning those who downplay it.

0 Antisemitism Communities

Fighting the Good Fight: Kassy Akiva

Sandy Eller in Jewish Action

Kassy Akiva, an investigative reporter for The Daily Wire, has actively fought against antisemitism for years despite not being born Jewish.

0 Antisemitism Education

One Teen’s Fight against Antisemitism: Sofie Glassman

Yehudis Litvak in Jewish Action

Sofie Glassman, a high school senior from Long Island, New York, has become a prominent voice in the fight against antisemitism and in advocacy for Israel.

History ›

0 History Politics

From 1975 | Pride and Paradox: An Exchange of Letters

Robert Alter and Shlomo Avineri Avineri in Moment

Professors Shlomo Avineri and Robert Alter engage in a revealing exchange of letters from 1974, republished as part of the 50th anniversary coverage of *Moment* magazine.

0 History Israel

From 1975 | Can Israel Win Another War?

Drew Middleton in Moment

Drew Middleton's 1975 analysis of Israel's military capabilities following the Yom Kippur War reflects on the evolving threats and technological advances that could influence future conflicts in the Middle East.

0 History Culture

From 1975 | Beginnings

Leonard Fein in Moment

Leonard Fein's inaugural editorial for Moment magazine reflects on its foundational goals as it seeks to elevate Jewish discourse and aspirations.

0 History Leadership

Au Revoir, Rav Yisrael

Cindy Scarr in Mishpacha

Rav Yisrael Salanter, founder of the Mussar movement, spent his final years in Paris to address the spiritual decline of the Jewish immigrant community.

0 History Jewish Law

Hakham Tsevi Ashkenazi and the Battlegrounds of the Early Modern Rabbinate

Reviewed by Rabbi Reuven Chaim Klein in Jewish Action

Rabbi Yosie Levine's book on Rabbi Tzvi Ashkenazi, a significant figure in early modern Jewish history, explores the rabbi's intellectual journey and the challenges he faced during his tenure as chief rabbi of Amsterdam.

0 History Culture

Keeper of the Tefillin

Dr. Ethan Schuman in Jewish Action

Dr. Ethan Schuman recounts the rediscovery and restoration of his great-grandfather's century-old tefillin, entrusted to him by a long-lost relative.

Literature ›

0 Literature Culture

From 1975 | Jews and the Science Fiction Problem

Arthur Waskow in Moment

Arthur Waskow reviews two Jewish science fiction books for the 50th anniversary of *Moment*: Barry N. Malzberg's novel "The Destruction of the Temple" and the anthology "Wandering Stars" edited by Jack Dann.

0 Literature Jewish Law

From 1975 | A Classical Rebirth

David Stern in Moment

In this reflective piece of fiction, originally published in 1975, David Stern explores the internal conflict of Leo Kastnerr, a Columbia University professor of Greek, as he navigates his love for classical Greece and his Jewish identity.

0 Literature Philosophy

New from OU Press – Summer 2025

JA Mag in Jewish Action

"The Eternal Conversation," a new volume from OU Press, NCSY, and Maggid Books, compiles the late Rabbi Jonathan Sacks's poignant essays previously published as pamphlets.

Culture ›

0 Culture Communities

From 1975 | The Last Word on the Jewish Catalog

Bill Novak in Moment

The Jewish Catalog, first published in 1973, became a remarkable grassroots publishing success within the Jewish community, selling over 100,000 copies without major media coverage.

0 Culture Education

Advocacy on a Higher Level: Tziri Preis

Barbara Bensoussan in Jewish Action

Tziri Preis, a former kindergarten teacher turned podcaster, has created a unique platform for Jewish children to engage with their faith and community through her Inkredible Kids podcast and Tehillim Army initiative.

Gender/Identity ›

0 Gender/Identity Jewish Law

From 1975 | A Song for Women in Five Questions

Susan Dworkin in Moment

Susan Dworkin's 1975 piece reflects on the complexities of merging Orthodox Judaism with feminist ideals, involving a deep personal conflict and broader community discussions.

Music ›

0 Music Culture

Endnote: Issue 1067

Cindy Scarr in Mishpacha

The collaboration between Pinky Weber and Dovy Meisels marks an intriguing fusion of traditional chassidic music with contemporary emotional tones in their new album "Krechtz."

Israel ›

0 Israel Ethics

Resetting the Tone

Cindy Scarr in Mishpacha

In "Resetting the Tone," Cindy Scarr explores the emotional and spiritual challenges civilians face during Israel's conflict with Iran, particularly regarding how to adjust their actions and mindset when there are no specific guidelines for civilian behavior in wartime.

Jewish Law ›

0 Jewish Law Politics

‘Hadassah Magazine’ Takes Home 13 Rockower Awards

Arielle Kaplan in Hadassah

Hadassah Magazine secured 13 Simon Rockower Awards for its exceptional journalism focusing on Israel post-October 7 and the rise in global antisemitism.

0 Jewish Law History

Tobie Kaplan: The Woman Who Helped Shape Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan’s Enduring Legacy

Tova Cohen in Jewish Action

Tobie Kaplan, raised with minimal Jewish tradition, emerged as a crucial figure in nurturing her husband Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan's influential career.

0 Jewish Law Ethics

Dementia in Halachah

Rabbi Dr. Jason Weiner in Jewish Action

As society anticipates a sharp increase in dementia cases, the article by Rabbi Dr. Jason Weiner explores the halachic dimensions of caring for individuals with dementia.

0 Jewish Law Education

What’s the Truth about . . . Saying G-d’s Name in the Course of Torah Study?

Rabbi Dr. Ari Z. Zivotofsky in Jewish Action

Rabbi Dr. Ari Z. Zivotofsky examines the misconception regarding the usage of God's Name during Torah study.

0 Jewish Law Science

The Great Z’manim Debate: The History, the Science, and the Lomdus

Reviewed by Rabbi Yaakov Hoffman Hoffman in Jewish Action

Rabbi Ahron Notis explores the complex topic of zemanim, providing a comprehensive analysis that interweaves halachic perspectives and scientific considerations.

0 Jewish Law Philosophy

Letter and Spirit: Evasion, Avoidance and Workarounds in the Halakhic System

Reviewed by Rabbi Moshe Kurtz in Jewish Action

Rabbi Daniel Z. Feldman's book, reviewed by Rabbi Moshe Kurtz, delves into the complex theme of haaramot (circumventions) within the halakhic system, offering a nuanced perspective on workarounds in Jewish law.

Ethics ›

0 Ethics Politics

The next interfaith crisis is already here. Are we ready?

eJewishPhilanthropy

Recent antisemitic attacks and geopolitical tensions underscore the need for Jewish-Christian interfaith dialogue to move beyond symbolic gestures to address contemporary realities.

Philosophy ›

0 Philosophy Jewish Law

Writing the Final Chapter: A Torah View on Facing Mortality

Rabbi Daniel Rose in Jewish Action

Facing the reality of mortality, particularly with a diagnosis like dementia, presents unique spiritual and emotional challenges.

Food ›

0 Food Culture

Juicy Fruits: Enjoying the Sweets of Summer

Naomi Ross in Jewish Action

Naomi Ross delves into the delights and nutritional benefits of summer fruits, emphasizing their short season and health advantages like antioxidants and vitamins.

Education ›

0 Education Culture

Reviews in Brief – Summer 2025

Rabbi Gil Student in Jewish Action

Rabbi Gil Student reviews several significant publications offering insights into Jewish law, culture, and community.

JL;DR

for Wednesday, June 25, 2025

Sports ›

Communities ›

Politics ›

Leadership ›

Antisemitism ›

History ›

Literature ›

Culture ›

Gender/Identity ›

Music ›

Israel ›

Jewish Law ›

Ethics ›

Philosophy ›

Food ›

Education ›

Editors' Note

Top Topics in Jewish Media

June 25's Short Reads

Recent podcast episodes

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Sports ›

Communities ›

Politics ›

Leadership ›

Antisemitism ›

History ›

Literature ›

Culture ›

Gender/Identity ›

Music ›

Israel ›

Jewish Law ›

Ethics ›

Philosophy ›

Food ›

Education ›

Editors' Note

Top Topics in Jewish Media

June 25's Short Reads

Recent podcast episodes

for Wednesday, June 25, 2025