for Thursday, April 3, 2025

Welcome, visitor! Here's a digest of what's been published in Jewish media over the last day. JL;DR members have access to summaries of everything plus our full archive. Donate & start reading »

Politics ›

0 Politics Ethics

Jews and the Dilemmas of Social Justice

Sapir

The concept of social justice is fundamentally rooted in Jewish tradition, emphasizing communal welfare and human dignity.

0 Politics Ethics

The Necessity of Jewish Power

Sapir

The article explores the complex relationship between Jews and power, highlighting the Jewish communal ambivalence toward power's possession and use.

0 Politics Israel

Israel Wins the War of Ideas

Sapir

The article explores Israel's challenge in shaping its international perception, noting that traditional defensive arguments are often counterproductive.

0 Politics Israel

Israel Is a World Power

Sapir

As Israel marks its 75th anniversary, it has emerged as a significant global power, moving beyond its historical symbolic clout to wield real geopolitical influence.

0 Politics Antisemitism

‘We Are Alone’: Reflections on the Jewish-American Response to October 7

Sapir

The reflection delves into the profound disillusionment felt by Jewish American progressives in response to the tragic events of October 7, 2023.

0 Politics Israel

Israel and the Islamic Republic of Iran

Sapir

Bret Stephens and Reuel Marc Gerecht discuss Iran's involvement in supporting Hamas and its implications for Israel's security operations following a significant escalation of violence.

0 Politics History

America (at Her Best)

Sapir

The article discusses the historically philosemitic foundations of the United States, highlighting notable Jewish contributions to American society and politics.

0 Politics Israel

Pro-Israel Progressives

Sapir

In a compelling interview with Bret Stephens, Representative Ritchie Torres of New York's 15th district articulates his unique position as a pro-Israel progressive within the Democratic Party.

0 Politics Israel

Zionism Will Survive the Legacy Media

Sapir

In the wake of the 2021 Gaza conflict, a group of over 500 journalists criticized major Western media outlets for their perceived pro-Israel bias, calling for a shift towards a narrative that embraces Palestinian perspectives using terms like "apartheid" and "ethnic supremacy."

0 Politics Culture

An Iron Dome for Social Media

Sapir

The article explores the struggle against anti-Israel narratives on social media, particularly during conflicts like the May 2021 clash between Israel and Hamas.

0 Politics Antisemitism

The BBC

Sapir

This personal account highlights a historical instance of perceived anti-Zionism at the BBC, reflecting broader critiques of the organization’s reporting on Israel and the Middle East.

0 Politics History

Letter to an Anti-Zionist Idealist

Sapir

Written as a personal letter, this piece contrasts the life experiences of an Iranian Jew who fled to Israel with those of an American anti-Zionist, highlighting divergent perspectives on Israeli-Palestinian conflicts.

0 Politics Culture

Arab Modernizers

Sapir

The relationship between Israel and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), particularly since the signing of the Abraham Accords, illustrates a unique and burgeoning friendship founded on shared values and mutual interests.

0 Politics Israel

The Human-Rights Establishment

Sapir

In this reflective piece on human rights organizations, a former editor of the Human Rights Watch World Report delves into the disproportionate focus and perceived bias these groups hold against Israel, especially in their annual reviews of global human rights abuses.

0 Politics Antisemitism

Islamism

Sapir

In a reflective account, the author examines the roots and appeal of Islamism, particularly its antisemitic and extremist elements, through personal experience growing up in Somalia and later observations in Western societies.

0 Politics Education

Boycotts: The Case for Raising Our Voices

Sapir

The Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement has largely failed to economically impact Israel, as foreign investments in the country have significantly increased over the past 19 years.

0 Politics Education

Boycotts: The Legal Remedy

Sapir

The article discusses the complex issue of academic boycotts against Israeli institutions and their significant implications on international collaborations and Israel’s global scientific standing.

0 Politics History

Democracy’s Pessimism Paradox

Sapir

The article explores the pervasive sense of pessimism within modern democracies, fueled by social decay, economic challenges, and dissatisfaction with democratic systems.

0 Politics Communities

Polarization and the Hidden Israeli Center

Sapir

Amidst growing political polarization in Israel, survey data shows a significant number of Israelis feel politically homeless, desiring a unity government that transcends traditional Right-Left divides.

0 Politics Communities

The Black-Jewish Convergence

Sapir

Amid growing tensions in the relationship between the Black and Jewish communities, particularly in the context of recent geopolitics and DEI debates, this article advocates for a strategic partnership known as 'convergence.'

0 Politics Philosophy

Are Zionists and Anti-Zionists Arguing for the Sake of Heaven?

Sapir

The piece delves into the persistent debate between Zionists and anti-Zionists, questioning whether these disagreements fall under the category of arguments 'for the sake of Heaven,' a concept in Judaism that honors debate as long as it is constructive.

0 Politics Education

Hillel CEO says he shares ‘concerns’ over campus deportations, calls for due process

Grace Gilson in JTA

Hillel International's CEO, Adam Lehman, has voiced concerns regarding the Trump administration's measures to deport pro-Palestinian students and freeze federal funding to universities over campus antisemitism.

0 Politics Antisemitism

Who would protect New York Jews better? Cuomo and Lander trade attacks on the campaign trail

Jacob Kornbluh in Forward

In the heated race for New York City's mayoral seat, candidates Brad Lander and Andrew Cuomo clash over their commitments to the Jewish community, focusing on strategies to combat rising antisemitism and support for Israel.

0 Politics Language

Brad Lander just cursed Andrew Cuomo in Yiddish

Grace Gilson in JTA

In a heated political exchange in New York City, City Comptroller Brad Lander retorted to Andrew Cuomo's suggestion that he was contributing to antisemitism by cursing him in Yiddish.

0 Politics Israel

‘Qatar-gate’ and the complicated web of major scandals rocking Israel, explained

Ben Sales in JTA

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is at the center of a series of scandals, with the most explosive being "Qatar-gate."

0 Politics Israel

In Qatargate fiasco, Netanyahu’s 'witch hunt' narrative takes cues from Trump

Dan Perry in Forward

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is embroiled in a scandal dubbed "Qatargate," involving allegations that two of his aides accepted Qatari funds to influence Israeli media and policy in favor of Qatar.

0 Politics Antisemitism

Marine Le Pen may be headed to prison — antisemitism and xenophobia still roam freely

Robert Zaretsky in Forward

Marine Le Pen, leader of France's far-right National Rally, recently faced a significant legal setback with a guilty verdict for embezzling European Union funds.

0 Politics Israel

Israel announces new offensive to seize ‘broad territories’ of Gaza Strip

Grace Gilson in JTA

Israel has launched a new military offensive to seize extensive areas of the Gaza Strip, amid heightened international criticism following the offensive and reports of a mass grave containing aid workers' bodies.

0 Politics Jewish Law

Cory Booker's rabbi has notes on Booker's 25-hour speech

Benyamin Cohen in Forward

Sen. Cory Booker's marathon Senate speech, over 24 hours long, served as a poignant protest against a potential second Trump presidency, with frequent references to Jewish teachings and moral philosophy.

0 Politics Holocaust

Citing post-Holocaust doctrine, Germany seeks to deport 4 pro-Palestinian protesters, including one American

Shira Li Bartov in Forward

Germany is preparing to deport four pro-Palestinian foreign residents of Berlin, citing their participation in protests with chants deemed antisemitic and alleged indirect support for Hamas.

0 Politics Science

New Dangers Posed by Outer Space

Ami Magazine in Ami

Ami Magazine's article delves into the implications of former President Donald Trump's introduction of a U.S. Space Force, initially mocked by the media as unnecessary but re-evaluated in light of emerging threats from Russian satellite activities.

0 Politics Leadership

Trump’s Economic Policies and Market Volatility

Ami Magazine in Ami

Phillip Michals, Executive Chairman/CEO of A.G.P./Alliance Global Partners, discusses the economic impact of Trump's policies, particularly focusing on market volatility and the role of tariffs.

0 Politics Culture

Silenced Voices // When trimming fat, one needs a steak knife, not a chainsaw

Ami Magazine in Ami

The article discusses President Trump's executive order to dismantle the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), which manages independent news services like Voice of America (VOA) and Radio Free Europe.

0 Politics Antisemitism

In embracing deported pro-Palestinian activists, Democrats struggle to acknowledge antisemitism

Gabby Deutch in Jewish Insider

Jewish Democrats face a complex challenge as they navigate the Trump administration's controversial deportations of foreign students like Mahmoud Khalil, who are linked to pro-Palestinian activism.

0 Politics Antisemitism

New Missouri group aims to emerge as political powerhouse against antisemitism in state

Marc Rod in Jewish Insider

In Missouri, a new political organization, the Missouri Alliance Network, has formed to combat antisemitism and support Jewish community priorities in state and local politics.

0 Politics Culture

Cory Booker proclaims, ‘Hineni’ — I am here — 19 hours into anti-Trump Senate speech

Philissa Cramer in Forward

Senator Cory Booker delivered a 19-hour speech on the Senate floor, invoking the Hebrew word "Hineni" to signal his active presence and opposition to the Trump administration.

0 Politics Communities

‘Stop super speeders’ bill gains new momentum after Brooklyn car crash kills Jewish mom and two children

Jackie Hajdenberg in JTA

Following the tragic fatal car crash in Brooklyn that claimed the lives of Natasha Saada and her two young daughters, a New York State bill targeting 'super speeders' has gained renewed urgency.

Communities ›

0 Communities Culture

Is There a Future for American Jews?

Sapir

The future of American Jews is at a crossroads, marked by both demographic growth and challenges to cultural continuity.

0 Communities Israel

Israel Is Doing Fine; We’re the Ones Who Need Help

Sapir

Recent shifts highlight how Israel, now economically robust and with strong regional peace ties, doesn't require the same level of Diaspora financial support as it once did.

0 Communities Education

New Priorities for American Jews

Sapir

Recent controversies surrounding antisemitic sentiments on American college campuses have prompted a reevaluation of Jewish support for these institutions.

0 Communities Politics

Reimagining Philanthropy for the Start-Up Nation

Sapir

As Israel's economic strength has grown, the role of Jewish philanthropy is being re-evaluated, especially following the events of October 7, which highlighted Israel's ongoing security needs and the interconnected nature of Israeli and global Jewish well-being.

0 Communities Politics

The Media are Broken. Here’s What Could Be Next

Sapir

In an essay exploring the challenges facing the media landscape, the author examines the decline of trust and credibility in the current media environment, specifically criticizing its hostility towards Israel and the Jewish community.

0 Communities Leadership

Faith vs. Faithfulness in American Jewish Institutions

Sapir

Amid a general decline in faith in American institutions, including those within the Jewish community, Jews are turning towards decentralized, home-based religious practices over traditional institutions like synagogues and Federations.

0 Communities History

Postcard from Morocco

Sapir

Beth El synagogue in Casablanca, once a vibrant center of Jewish life in Morocco, highlights the decline of this historic Jewish community amid changing circumstances and recent developments, such as the Abraham Accords.

0 Communities Politics

Postcard from Lod

Sapir

Lod, home to a magnificent 1,700-year-old Roman mosaic, reflects Israel's complex tapestry of ethnic and religious dynamics.

0 Communities Gender/Identity

Postcard from Melbourne

Sapir

Malka Leifer's conviction for sexual assault marks a pivotal moment for Melbourne's Jewish community, showcasing its resilience and unity in handling a scandal of international ramifications.

0 Communities Leadership

How Resilient Are Jewish Institutions?

Sapir

In the wake of significant events on October 7, 2023, Jewish institutions in Israel and the United States were tested in terms of their resilience and adaptability.

0 Communities Prayer

Show Up to Synagogue

Sapir

The article explores the themes of Jewish identity, community, and spiritual longing through the lens of Moses's story from the Torah.

0 Communities History

That Pain You’re Feeling Is Peoplehood

Sapir

Reflecting on the tragic events of October 7, 2023, the article explores the concept of Jewish peoplehood and shared suffering through teachings of Rabbi Joseph Soloveitchik and historical Torah episodes.

0 Communities History

Jewish Geography

Sapir

The dynamics of Jewish migration and changing geopolitical climates have significantly transformed Jewish demography worldwide.

0 Communities Politics

Our Coalitions Must Hold Through Crisis

Sapir

Following the traumatic events of October 7, Jewish Americans faced a dual crisis: violence affecting their Israeli connections and a perceived lack of support from longstanding allies.

0 Communities Culture

Why I Am Not a Jew of Color

Sapir

The author reflects on their discomfort with the label "Jew of color," despite fitting its conventional definition as an immigrant of Middle Eastern descent with brown skin.

0 Communities Gender/Identity

Rabbis revolt over LGBTQ+ club, exposing fight over queer acceptance at Yeshiva University

Louis Keene in Forward

Yeshiva University's recent approval of an LGBTQ+ club following a landmark settlement has exposed deep divides within the Orthodox Jewish community regarding queer acceptance.

0 Communities Jewish Law

Female religious leaders are guiding cancer care for Jewish women

Zev Stub in JTA

Female religious leaders are playing an integral role in supporting Jewish women undergoing cancer treatment, as highlighted by the efforts of the organization Sharsheret.

0 Communities Torah

Oasis in the Desert

Ami Magazine in Ami

Rav Yisrael Abergel, head of Hameir Laarets, continues his father's legacy of Torah scholarship and outreach in Netivot, situated near the Gazan border.

Culture ›

0 Culture Leadership

Editor’s Note

Sapir

Sapir marks its second year with a focus on Zionism and continues to engage in bold dialogues within the Jewish community.

0 Culture Politics

Jews and Cancel Culture

Sapir

The essays in the Sapir journal issue argue that Jews should be particularly concerned about the impact of cancel culture on liberal democracy and Jewish values.

0 Culture History

From My Dinner with Andre to That Dinner with Kanye

Sapir

The article reflects on the cultural shift in America from the intellectually rich and discourse-driven environment exemplified by the film "My Dinner with Andre" to a more superficial and divisive culture symbolized by incidents like Kanye West's controversial statements about Jews.

0 Culture Politics

Improbable Influencers

Sapir

Susan Alexandra, a New York-based brand known for Judaica-inspired fashion, has been vocal in its activism on social issues such as racial injustice and abortion rights.

0 Culture Israel

Faith & Fertility in Israel

Sapir

Israel stands as a global outlier in fertility rates among wealthy nations, maintaining a rate of around three children per woman, in stark contrast to declining birth rates worldwide.

0 Culture Education

A Hindu-Jewish Partnership

Sapir

In the light of recent antisemitic events, the article explores the potential alliance between Jewish and Hindu communities in America as both groups face challenges from contemporary diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.

0 Culture History

Religious Christians

Sapir

The article explores the enduring bond between American Christians, particularly Protestants and Evangelicals, and their affinity for Israel, rooted in shared biblical values.

0 Culture History

The Courage to Be Uncool

Sapir

Reflecting on the experience of being an outsider, the author explores the deep-rooted cultural and historical resilience within Jewish identity.

0 Culture Jewish Law

The Power of the Mob in an Unforgiving Age

Sapir

Living in the age of cancel culture, the article explores the dangerous implications of societal pressure to conform, akin to our contemporary form of Orwellian "doublethink."

0 Culture Education

The Diversity-Industrial Complex

Sapir

The article examines the evolution of diversity as a social and organizational goal from its origins in early American religious freedom to its contemporary focus on racial and identity-based metrics.

0 Culture Education

Let the Games Begin: Pesach Edition

Sari Kopitnikoff in Jewish Action

Sari Kopitnikoff explores the exciting possibility of gamifying Pesach with a variety of engaging and age-appropriate games to make the holiday more fun and memorable.

0 Culture Holidays

The Tri-State’s Best Kept Secrets

Miriam Blumenkrantz in Jewish Action

Miriam Blumenkrantz offers a comprehensive four-day itinerary for families in the New York tri-state area, highlighting a variety of engaging activities to enjoy during Chol HaMoed or on weekends.

0 Culture Literature

Noah Meets Miriam

Rabbi Wendy Zierler in Hadassah

Rabbi Wendy Zierler reflects on Miriam, the sister of Moses, as a symbol of resilience amidst recent global and personal challenges such as the Covid pandemic and rising antisemitism.

0 Culture Antisemitism

Dating While Jewish, Since October 7th

Joshua Namm in Future of Jewish

Jewish community professional Joshua Namm shares a personal essay reflecting on the challenges of dating as a Jewish individual in the context of rising antisemitism, particularly following the events of October 7th.

History ›

0 History Politics

Zionism Remains a Freedom Struggle

Sapir

The article explores the unique position of Israel as a postcolonial state that has thrived amidst challenges since its founding.

0 History Culture

Jewish Masterpiece: Judaea Capta et Israel Liberata

Sapir

The article juxtaposes historical and contemporary images of Jewish suffering, particularly focusing on the Roman commemorative coin Judaea Capta and a modern photograph depicting the body of Shani Louk in Gaza.

0 History Politics

I help tell Jewish women’s stories. Trump’s attacks on diversity are an assault on everyone’s history.

Judith Rosenbaum in JTA

Judith Rosenbaum, CEO of the Jewish Women's Archive, critiques the Trump administration's efforts to limit diverse historical narratives, particularly those involving women and marginalized groups.

Education ›

0 Education Culture

The Merit of Meritocracy

Sapir

The article explores the concept of meritocracy, emphasizing the historical association of Jewish figures with intellectual and professional merit, evidenced by the 1970 Supreme Court nomination debate surrounding G. Harrold Carswell.

0 Education Philosophy

The Search for God in the Jewish Classroom

Sapir

The article critically examines the recent decision in Louisiana to mandate the display of the Ten Commandments in public classrooms, questioning its effectiveness in truly influencing student behavior or spiritual development.

0 Education Politics

The Constitutional Case for Jewish Charter Schools

Sapir

The article explores the potential of Jewish charter schools (JCSs) as a solution to multiple challenges facing the American Jewish community, such as the day school tuition crisis and increasing Jewish discomfort in public schools due to DEI programs and anti-Israel sentiment.

0 Education Politics

Editor’s Note

Sapir

The critique examines the decline of liberal values within American universities, identified by their shift from fostering open-mindedness and intellectual inquiry to promoting ideological conformity.

0 Education Philosophy

(Wilhelm von) Humboldt’s Gift

Sapir

Wilhelm von Humboldt, a Prussian philosopher of education, envisioned the modern university as a bastion of free thought and critical reasoning, insulated from market influences and political pressures.

0 Education Politics

Encouraging Debate, Not Settling It

Sapir

Chancellor Daniel Diermeier of Vanderbilt University elaborates on his vision of nurturing a campus atmosphere steeped in free speech and reasonable debate, amid a growing loss of confidence in higher education.

0 Education Culture

Consumer Culture Has No Place at College

Sapir

This article critiques the consumerism permeating modern universities, drawing on Jewish educational models to propose a richer, covenantal approach.

0 Education Antisemitism

Turning Critical Theory on Its Head

Sapir

Amidst contemporary campus protests, this analysis challenges humanities and social science faculties for neglecting to apply critical theory effectively, particularly concerning Jewish oppression and Zionism.

0 Education Antisemitism

Campuses Need Viewpoint Diversity. How Can They Foster It?

Sapir

Caroline Mehl, co-founder of the Constructive Dialogue Institute, discusses the challenges of fostering viewpoint diversity on college campuses in the context of free speech and antisemitism concerns exacerbated by the Middle East conflict's impact on U.S. campuses.

0 Education Politics

Boycotts: The Threat to Academic Freedom

Sapir

The American Association of University Professors (AAUP) recently shifted its stance, legitimizing academic boycotts as a form of political expression, a move that has sparked significant debate within academic circles.

0 Education Culture

Religious Diversity Can Reform Our Campuses

Sapir

As higher education grapples with financial strain, a shrinking pool of college-age students, and campus censorship, traditional forms of diversity have sometimes fostered division rather than unity.

0 Education Culture

Arguments for the Sake of Collegiate Heaven

Sapir

The article examines the deterioration of open, respectful discourse in universities, highlighting the Jewish tradition of argument 'for the sake of heaven' as a model for fostering productive debate.

0 Education Antisemitism

Columbia Needs Countercultural Leadership

Sapir

At Columbia University, the management of campus protests and demonstrations related to Palestinian and Jewish issues highlights a deep-seated governance crisis.

0 Education Culture

The Office Is Political

Sapir

In response to the current political, social, and civic crisis in America, the article argues that workplaces can be valuable sites for fostering civic skills and virtues.

0 Education Philosophy

The Sympathetic Method

Sapir

The article explores the transformative "sympathetic method" as reflected in the story of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, who, after emerging from years of hiding, learns to softens his judgment towards humans by embracing curiosity and empathy.

0 Education Philosophy

Viewpoint Diversity — Up to a Point

Sapir

After years of advocating for intellectual diversity and dialogue, the author finds themselves re-evaluating their stance in light of political shifts and events such as October 7.

0 Education Israel

Teaching Israel and Jewish History Post-October 7: A Values Proposition

Ethan Zadoff in Lehrhaus

Ethan Zadoff underscores the challenges faced by Modern Orthodox Jewish educators in teaching Israeli and Jewish history post-October 7.

0 Education Israel

Vibes are not enough: Israel education needs research

eJewishPhilanthropy

The article argues for a shift in North American Jewish education from focusing on the "vibes" of Israel education toward research-based strategies.

Antisemitism ›

0 Antisemitism History

Three Falsehoods About Antisemitism—and One Truth

Sapir

Antisemitism is often misunderstood as a mere unfathomable bigotry, but it is deeply rooted in a complex tangle of religious, political, and ideological forces.

0 Antisemitism Politics

The Road to a Second Kristallnacht

Sapir

Reflecting on the 85th anniversary of Kristallnacht, the author warns of rising antisemitism and anti-Zionism, likening the current climate to the moral degradation that preceded the Holocaust.

0 Antisemitism Politics

Mainstream Media: Not Antisemitic but Blind to Jewish Concerns

Sapir

The mainstream American media is critiqued for a perceived bias against Jewish concerns, not due to overt antisemitism but rather ignorance and insensitivity.

0 Antisemitism Politics

Complicit: Big Tech and Antisemitism

Sapir

The article delves into the troubling relationship between Big Tech platforms and the perpetuation of antisemitism.

0 Antisemitism Education

The Rise and Fall of Jews on Campus

Sapir

The article delves into the stark rise of antisemitism on American university campuses, highlighting a disturbing shift from historical discrimination to current challenges.

0 Antisemitism Politics

‘Beyond the Welfare of the Jews’

Sapir

Deborah Lipstadt, the U.S. Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism, discusses the persistent presence and transformation of antisemitism in America and globally, touching on incidents illustrating bias against various Jewish communities.

0 Antisemitism Politics

In the Face of Antisemitism, Neutrality Is a Sin

Sapir

The article explores the persistent nature of antisemitism and highlights the moral obligation to reject neutrality in the face of such hatred, especially in light of recent attacks on Jews in Israel.

0 Antisemitism History

French Jews

Sapir

The rise in antisemitic sentiments under the guise of anti-Zionism following recent events in Israel echoes historic challenges faced by Jewish communities, reminiscent of the backlash against French Jews after the Six-Day War in 1967.

0 Antisemitism History

For America’s Jews, Past Is Prologue

Sapir

This piece explores the current concern among American Jews about a rise in antisemitism, as reflected in recent inflammatory events and statements.

0 Antisemitism Communities

You Can Graduate Any Time You Like, but You Can Never Leave

Sapir

The article explores how Jewish college students are dealing with rising antisemitism on campuses, especially after October 7, and challenges the idea of avoiding certain universities.

0 Antisemitism History

Why HBCUs Are Key to Fighting Antisemitism

Sapir

The article delves into the complex history of antisemitism on historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) campuses, highlighting the influence of figures like Louis Farrakhan and the Nation of Islam.

0 Antisemitism Politics

A Chicagoan wanted to protest Elon Musk — and put a swastika sticker on a Jewish man’s Tesla

Grace Gilson in Forward

In Chicago, Jewish resident Peter Katz discovered swastika stickers on his Tesla, left by a protester aiming at Elon Musk, not knowing Katz's family background.

0 Antisemitism Jewish Law

NY attorney general orders car wash to stop ripping off Jews with antisemitic ‘Passover special’

Grace Gilson in Forward

A car wash in Spring Valley, New York, targeted Orthodox Jews with inflated charges for a Passover car cleaning service, sparking an investigation by New York Attorney General Letitia James.

0 Antisemitism Holocaust

The West keeps lying about antisemitism.

Liah Greenfeld in Future of Jewish

Liah Greenfeld critiques the Western narrative surrounding antisemitism and the Holocaust, particularly through the lens of moral relativism, and argues that such perspectives distort the gravity and specific historical context of these events.

Philosophy ›

0 Philosophy History

Lincoln’s Lost Lecture: Can Democracy Survive Technology?

Sapir

Abraham Lincoln's lesser-known Lecture on Discoveries and Inventions underscores both his philosophical and technological contemplations, revealing concerns about the impacts of technology on democracy.

0 Philosophy Culture

Why Is a Jewish Atheist Different from All Other Atheists?

Sapir

"Why Is a Jewish Atheist Different from All Other Atheists?" explores the unique position of Jewish atheists who actively identify with their Jewish heritage despite a lack of belief in God.

0 Philosophy Leadership

The Power of Ethical Philanthropy

Sapir

Elisa and Rob Bildner discuss their approach to ethical and collaborative philanthropy within the Jewish community, emphasizing the balanced use of influence rather than power.

0 Philosophy Communities

Invest in Philanthropy

Sapir

The piece advocates for a transformative approach to Jewish philanthropy, proposing the concept of universal Jewish giving.

0 Philosophy Jewish Law

Haredi Faith: Theology and the Draft Controversy

Sapir

The article explores the theological debate within Israeli Haredi society concerning faith and human endeavor, particularly in relation to secular responsibilities like military service.

0 Philosophy Jewish Law

The False Binary of Theism vs. Atheism

Sapir

The article explores the limitations of framing theological beliefs within a simple binary of theism versus atheism.

0 Philosophy Torah

My Liberal Faith

Sapir

At the core of the author's experience is the transformative influence of a university seminar on the Book of Genesis, which fostered an enduring engagement with Jewish teachings and deeper philosophical inquiry.

0 Philosophy Culture

Publisher's Note

Sapir

The article emphasizes Judaism's historical embrace of diverse perspectives, as demonstrated by the Talmud and the ethos of Hillel's students, and contrasts this with today's tendency towards intellectual isolation and polarization.

Ethics ›

0 Ethics Communities

Philanthropy Is Not Enough

Sapir

The article distinguishes between philanthropy and tzedakah, advocating for a Jewish communal focus on tzedakah over philanthropy.

0 Ethics History

Black Radicalism

Sapir

Black-Jewish relations, historically rooted in shared struggles against marginalization, have faced tensions, highlighted by recent events such as the Black Lives Matter Chicago chapter's controversial support for Palestine.

0 Ethics Jewish Law

Shivim Panim

Sapir

Addressing ethical dilemmas in Jewish philanthropy, this article delves into the nuances of accepting tainted money.

0 Ethics Communities

An Alternative to Antiracism

Sapir

The article critiques the modern antiracism movement, arguing that its focus on power dynamics and self-victimization is counterproductive and may lead to negative mental health outcomes.

Art ›

0 Art Culture

How Funders Shape Jewish Culture

Sapir

Philanthropy plays a crucial role in shaping Jewish arts and culture, as funders like Mem Bernstein and Shayna Rose Triebwasser demonstrate through their respective organizations.

0 Art Jewish Law

Emunah & the Artist

Sapir

Exploring the interplay between faith and art, the author delves into the nuances of Hebrew 'emunah' compared to the English 'faith,' highlighting the intrinsic artistic element in Jewish belief.

Television/Film ›

0 Television/Film Culture

Why Israeli TV Is So Good

Sapir

Israeli TV has become internationally acclaimed for its nuanced portrayal of religious characters, a shift marked by the success of shows like "Srugim" and "Shtisel."

0 Television/Film Culture

Jewish Masterpiece: Blazing Saddles

Sapir

Mel Brooks's 1974 film "Blazing Saddles" is a satirical take on the American Western genre, challenging its established narratives with humor and absurdity.

0 Television/Film Culture

The Jewish TV to Watch in April 2025

Lior Zaltzman in Kveller

April 2025 promises a varied lineup of Jewish TV offerings, both in returning favorites and new debuts.

0 Television/Film Culture

Val Kilmer was the voice of my generation’s Moses (and God)

PJ Grisar in Forward

Val Kilmer, who passed away at 65, left a lasting impression on a generation as the voice of Moses and God in "The Prince of Egypt."

Israel ›

0 Israel Politics

Israel Is a Hispanic Opportunity

Sapir

The article highlights the strategic importance of the Hispanic community in shaping the U.S.-Israel relationship.

0 Israel History

Israel Is Antiracist, Anti-Colonialist, Anti-Fascist (and Was from the Start)

Sapir

This piece argues against the prevalent narrative in academia that frames Israel's founding as an American neo-colonial endeavor.

0 Israel History

5 Facts About Israel Everyone Needs to Know

Joshua Hoffman in Future of Jewish

Joshua Hoffman's piece delves into five pivotal aspects of Israel essential for understanding its complex identity.

Literature ›

0 Literature Culture

Philip Roth: Portnoy’s Complaint

Sapir

Philip Roth's novel "Portnoy's Complaint" exemplifies the cultural crossroads of the late 1960s, blending Jewish stand-up comedy with literature and psychoanalysis.

0 Literature Philosophy

His Barbed Behind: Mr. Sammler’s Planet and Its Critics

Sapir

Saul Bellow's 1970 novel, "Mr. Sammler's Planet," is examined by Bellow's son, a publisher rather than a critic, who brings personal insights into the context and controversies surrounding the book.

Torah ›

0 Torah Jewish Law

Jewish Masterpiece: The Talmud

Sapir

The article delves into the Talmud's rich complexity and enduring significance, describing it as a profound self-help book that encompasses the entirety of human experience through its discussions and disputes.

0 Torah Education

Tefillah as TORAH: Tools of Resilience and Hope

eJewishPhilanthropy

In a world fraught with challenges, utilizing tefillah (Jewish prayer) as a tool for building spiritual resilience is gaining attention.

0 Torah History

Hearing the Shepherd from Tekoa

Ethan Schwartz in Lehrhaus

Ethan Schwartz reviews Rabbi Yitzchak Etshalom's book, "Amos: The Genius of Prophetic Rhetoric," which is part of the Maggid Studies in Tanakh series and explores the prophet Amos.

Music ›

0 Music History

Jewish Masterpiece: ‘Hatikvah’

Sapir

During an open-air service in April 1945, survivors at Bergen-Belsen sang "Hatikvah," captured by a BBC reporter, illustrating hope amidst despair.

Leadership ›

0 Leadership History

Learning from Menachem Begin

Sapir

Menachem Begin, Israel's sixth prime minister, is remembered for his multifaceted legacy, including peace with Egypt, expanding settlements, and surviving political controversies.

0 Leadership Israel

Zionism as a Method of Diversity

Sapir

Israeli President Isaac Herzog reflects on the complex identity of the Israeli nation, highlighting stories that contradict typical Israeli stereotypes.

0 Leadership History

From Miriam’s Well to Hadassah Wellness

Carol Ann Schwartz in Hadassah

In the context of modern challenges, including Israel's longest war and rising antisemitism, Hadassah stands as a testament to resilience and innovation.

Jewish Law ›

0 Jewish Law History

Jewish Identity vs. Identity Politics

Sapir

Jonas Phillips, a German-Jewish immigrant in 18th-century America, highlighted the tension between maintaining a Jewish identity and assimilating into American civic life.

Holidays ›

0 Holidays Culture

Choosing Wine for Your Seder

Zev Steinberg in Jewish Action

Navigating the wide selection of kosher wines for the Passover Seder can be daunting, but Zev Steinberg offers guidance on making the choice meaningful.

Food ›

0 Food Culture

A Damn Fine (Vegan) Potato Kugel

Leah Koenig in Jewish Table

Leah Koenig discusses her latest vegan recipe adaptation of the classic potato kugel, removing eggs, a traditional ingredient, to cater to vegans and those affected by the recent surge in egg prices.

JL;DR

for Thursday, April 3, 2025

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Editors' Note

Top Topics in Jewish Media

April 3's Short Reads

Recent podcast episodes

navigate_before navigate_next for Thursday, April 3, 2025

Politics ›

Communities ›

Culture ›

History ›

Education ›

Antisemitism ›

Philosophy ›

Ethics ›

Art ›

Television/Film ›

Israel ›

Literature ›

Torah ›

Music ›

Leadership ›

Jewish Law ›

Holidays ›

Food ›

Editors' Note

Top Topics in Jewish Media

April 3's Short Reads

Recent podcast episodes

for Thursday, April 3, 2025