for Friday, April 4, 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 Antisemitism

The ADL reversed its support for Trump’s student deportations. You should too

Rob Eshman in Forward

The Anti-Defamation League (ADL), under the leadership of Jonathan Greenblatt, reversed its earlier endorsement of Trump-era measures detaining and deporting pro-Palestinian activists.

0 Politics Israel

Senate rejects Bernie Sanders’ proposal to block some weapons sales to Israel

Grace Gilson in Forward

The U.S. Senate decisively rejected a proposal by Senator Bernie Sanders to block an $8.8 billion sale of bombs and other weapons to Israel, with the vote tallying 82-15, entirely along partisan lines.

0 Politics Israel

Trump's new tariffs on Israel are a BDS dream come true

Dany Bahar in Forward

President Donald Trump's imposition of hefty tariffs on Israeli goods marks a significant economic challenge for Israel, ironically aligning with the aims of the BDS movement.

0 Politics Culture

From the River to the Screen, How 'Palestine' Became a Viral Fantasy

Sam Hilt in Future of Jewish

The article explores the vast divergence between the physical reality of Palestine and its widespread virtual representation, which has been shaped significantly by modern media.

0 Politics Leadership

Jerusalem Post editor Zvika Klein, arrested in ‘Qatar-gate,’ says he’s being unfairly prosecuted for his reporting

Ben Sales in Forward

Zvika Klein, editor-in-chief of the Jerusalem Post, finds himself at the heart of a legal controversy dubbed 'Qatar-gate,' alleging that he and others had illicit ties with Qatar to promote its interests.

0 Politics Education

As Zionist Jews, we must condemn Trump's campaign to deport students

Amanda Berman in Forward

Amanda Berman argues that as Zionist Jews, it is crucial to condemn the Trump administration's campaign to deport students like Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia graduate and Palestinian activist detained by ICE.

0 Politics Education

Trump is cracking down on universities — just like Hitler targeted academics who didn't bow to his will

Terrence Petty in Forward

This opinion piece by Terrence Petty draws a parallel between Trump's alleged authoritarian tendencies and Hitler's historical suppression of academic freedom.

0 Politics Communities

Cast Your Ballot for the World Zionist Congress

Tova Dorfman in Hadassah

As Jews gather for Passover, the themes of liberation and resilience are mirrored in the upcoming World Zionist Congress (WZC) elections, where American Jews have the chance to significantly influence the future of Zionism and Israel.

0 Politics Leadership

‘Qatargate’ and the web of huge scandals rocking Israel, explained

Ben Sales in Forward

The article delves into the political turmoil in Israel surrounding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, particularly the scandal termed "Qatar-gate."

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 Antisemitism

Virginia LG candidate raising Jewish community concerns over her record on Israel and antisemitism

Matthew Kassel in Jewish Insider

Ghazala Hashmi, a Virginia state senator running for lieutenant governor, is facing criticism from Jewish and pro-Israel groups due to her past anti-Israel activism and handling of antisemitism issues.

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."

Culture ›

0 Culture Philosophy

What if Your C-Section Inspired Your Child’s Need to Escape?

InternsFall21 in Lilith

The piece explores the impact of maternal thoughts and experiences on children, raising questions about nature versus nurture.

0 Culture Gender/Identity

Transgender rabbi Abby Stein’s coming-out story takes the spotlight in a new play

Elizabeth Karpen in JTA

Abby Chava Stein, the first openly transgender female rabbi from a Hasidic background, is the subject of "Becoming Eve," a new play adapted from her memoir.

0 Culture Communities

Loehmann’s Might Be Coming Back. Will it Capture the Jewish Spirit of the Original?

Daci Platt in Kveller

Loehmanns, the iconic off-price department store fondly regarded by many in the Jewish community, may be making a comeback as an online store.

0 Culture Holidays

When I Wired a Win On Finding the Afikoman

Jewdicious

The narrative reflects a childhood memory of strategically finding the afikoman at a Passover Seder, intertwining a humorous yet insightful critique of Jewish stereotypes about money.

0 Culture Education

Dara Horn’s gonzo, time-traveling children’s Passover book wants people to love living Jews

Andrew Silow-Carroll in JTA

Dara Horn's latest work, "One Little Goat: A Passover Catastrophe," is a middle-grade graphic novel that creatively combines history and Jewish tradition, aiming to build appreciation for the lived experiences of Jews.

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.

Ethics ›

0 Ethics Communities

The Generation Gap

Natan Slifkin in Rationalist Judaism

Natan Slifkin reflects on the legacy of his father, Professor Michael Slifkin, who balanced a successful scientific career with a commitment to Orthodox Jewish practice and civic responsibility.

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.

Television/Film ›

0 Television/Film Leadership

New HBO Max series ‘Reformed’ depicts a French woman rabbi inspired by Delphine Horvilleur

Shira Li Bartov in JTA

HBO Max's new series "Reformed," inspired by Delphine Horvilleur, France's third female rabbi, weaves comedy and drama to explore the life of a young woman rabbi.

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.

Antisemitism ›

0 Antisemitism Gender/Identity

Display honoring Jewish women graduates of naval academy removed ahead of Hegseth visit

Grace Gilson in JTA

The U.S. Naval Academy temporarily removed a display honoring Jewish female graduates from its Jewish chapel ahead of a visit by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

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 Education

We must fight for Jewish students — and our values

eJewishPhilanthropy

Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League, argues that Jewish students on college campuses are facing an alarming rise in antisemitic attacks and that protecting their civil rights is a crucial challenge.

Education ›

0 Education Culture

Jewish Theological Seminary, Conservative Judaism’s flagship, launches an MFA for writers

Andrew Silow-Carroll in JTA

The Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS), known for training Conservative rabbis and scholars, is expanding its academic offerings by launching a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing.

0 Education Culture

Reinventing Hebrew school? Think about your audience first

eJewishPhilanthropy

In a bid to address plummeting Hebrew school enrollment and adapt to the diverse needs of self-identified unaffiliated Jewish families, a research initiative commissioned by the Jim Joseph Foundation's Emergent Strategy Team reveals that traditional models of Jewish education may not resonate with modern families.

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.

Language ›

0 Language Politics

In a time of tariffs and uncertainty, this is the Jewish word we need to soothe our minds and souls

Aviya Kushner in Forward

As the United States announces significant tariffs, leading to economic uncertainty, Aviya Kushner reflects on the linguistic and cultural implications of such policies.

Jewish Law ›

0 Jewish Law Communities

What Exactly Are They Proud Of?

Emes Ve-Emunah

Rabbi Aryeh Lebowitz discusses the dichotomy faced by Yeshiva University (YU) in acknowledging an LGBTQ+ student club, Hareni, under the constraints of Orthodox 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.

Leadership ›

0 Leadership Politics

Why I turned down an invitation to speak at Temple Emanu-El’s 180th anniversary Shabbat service

Rabbi Andrue Kahn in JTA

Rabbi Andrue Kahn reflects on his decision to decline an invitation to speak at Congregation Emanu-El's 180th anniversary Shabbat service, driven by his discomfort with Zionist elements traditionally included in Reform worship and the presence of Israeli President Isaac Herzog.

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.

Philosophy ›

0 Philosophy Holidays

I Wanted Absolute Faith in God. I Got Something Else Instead.

Sruli Fruchter in 18forty

Struggling through the nuances of faith and unbelief, Sruli Fruchter reflects on his journey from childhood through adulthood, highlighting the challenges of maintaining Jewish belief amidst modernity.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

JL;DR

for Friday, April 4, 2025

Politics ›

Culture ›

Ethics ›

Television/Film ›

Antisemitism ›

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April 4's Short Reads

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Politics ›

Culture ›

Ethics ›

Television/Film ›

Antisemitism ›

Education ›

Language ›

Jewish Law ›

Leadership ›

Philosophy ›

Communities ›

History ›

Art ›

Israel ›

Literature ›

Torah ›

Music ›

Editors' Note

Top Topics in Jewish Media

April 4's Short Reads

Recent podcast episodes

for Friday, April 4, 2025