2 of the Second Month 5769
Haveil Havalim #214 is up at The Rebbetzin's Husband.
It's the "The Radiant Ziv" edition.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Friday, April 24, 2009
Some Thoughts On Israeli Independence Day 5769
Erev Shabbath Qodesh Parshath Tazri'a-Metzora/Rosh Hodesh HaSheni 5769
A piece by Tzvi Fishman, blogging on Hollywood To The Holyland, prompted me to write the post below. He begins...
Tzvi,
Conquest - yes.
Kingdom, Sanhedrin, and Temple - yes.
But an Eruv Rav-run State?
Sure it was a good idea at the time. Sure the state provides me with a lot to be grateful for.
But an overemphasis on the State, over Torah (not you, but most mamlachtim) has precluded us {and deluded us} from striving for our ultimate goal,...a kingdom, Sanhedrin, and Temple.
Mamlachti hashqafah/ideology emphasizing the holiness of the "State" over the holiness of Am Yisrael obtaining and maintaining sovereignty over Eretz Yisrael, of loving the rasha' (evil person), because his mother happens to be Jewish (See the Ramba"m on Avoth: Kaf Zekhuth for why this is wrong) is not just holding us back. It's killing the dream; it's killing US.
Yes, I will say Hallel on Yom HaAtzma'uth (Israeli Independence Day), but not because of the establishment of the State per se, rather because of the great miracles HaShem performed for us, saving us from annihilation from our enemies, and granting the potential to re-establish our sovereignty over the Land.
Just because we let the Eruv Rav screw things up, doesn't erase those miracles.
On the other hand, anyone who thinks the State "as is" is the ultimate form of Jewish governance in Eretz Yisael, anyone who believes that we are supposed be active participants in the Ge'ulah (Redemption) process, yet only so far. Then all of a sudden "we're not ready" [to do the misswah] to bring the Qorban Pesah, let alone re-establish the monarchy and Sanhedrin, and re-build the Temple, is gravely mistaken and highly inconsistent, if not hypocritical.
See the continuation of this post: Some More Thoughts On Israeli Independence Day 5769.
A piece by Tzvi Fishman, blogging on Hollywood To The Holyland, prompted me to write the post below. He begins...
People occasionally ask, where is it written in the Torah that we have to build a State? Apparently, they are not familiar with the words of the giant Torah authority, the Ramban, who repeatedly stated that we are commanded that the Land of Israel be in our hands, and not in the hands of any other nation....
Tzvi,
Conquest - yes.
Kingdom, Sanhedrin, and Temple - yes.
But an Eruv Rav-run State?
Sure it was a good idea at the time. Sure the state provides me with a lot to be grateful for.
But an overemphasis on the State, over Torah (not you, but most mamlachtim) has precluded us {and deluded us} from striving for our ultimate goal,...a kingdom, Sanhedrin, and Temple.
Mamlachti hashqafah/ideology emphasizing the holiness of the "State" over the holiness of Am Yisrael obtaining and maintaining sovereignty over Eretz Yisrael, of loving the rasha' (evil person), because his mother happens to be Jewish (See the Ramba"m on Avoth: Kaf Zekhuth for why this is wrong) is not just holding us back. It's killing the dream; it's killing US.
Yes, I will say Hallel on Yom HaAtzma'uth (Israeli Independence Day), but not because of the establishment of the State per se, rather because of the great miracles HaShem performed for us, saving us from annihilation from our enemies, and granting the potential to re-establish our sovereignty over the Land.
Just because we let the Eruv Rav screw things up, doesn't erase those miracles.
On the other hand, anyone who thinks the State "as is" is the ultimate form of Jewish governance in Eretz Yisael, anyone who believes that we are supposed be active participants in the Ge'ulah (Redemption) process, yet only so far. Then all of a sudden "we're not ready" [to do the misswah] to bring the Qorban Pesah, let alone re-establish the monarchy and Sanhedrin, and re-build the Temple, is gravely mistaken and highly inconsistent, if not hypocritical.
*********
See the continuation of this post: Some More Thoughts On Israeli Independence Day 5769.
Tapu'ah Dog Catches Arab Invader
Erev Shabbath Qodesh/Rosh Hodesh Iyyar 5769
Voice Of Judea: Israeli Dog Captures Arab Invader
Loco, a well-trained security dog stationed with Kfar Tapuach's canine unit, succeeded in finding and neutralizing an Arab who snuck into an abandoned Jewish encampent, a few hundred yards away from the Tapuach West Synagogue.
Loco has undergone advanced training together with his handler, Tal, for the past four years. Tal is a medic and member of the local emergency response team. The canine unit is presently searching the area alongside the path of the chase to seek weapons or explosives that might have been left behind by the Arab invader.
IDF soldiers were unable to find the hiding Arab suspect until Tal released Loco. The dog quickly discovered the Arab, who was crying and begging for his life, demanding that authorities release the patrol dog and take him to police. He has since been arrested and is undergoing interrogation.
In recent days, the local Tapuach canine unit has opened new branches in the Kiryat Arba/Gush Etzyon "settlement bloc," in Itamar and near Beth El, pairing local security personnel with specially trained patrol dogs. The unit provides professional training for both dogs and new handlers, and recruits volunteers to assist in the patrol of these vulnerable towns.
The task of fully training a patrol dog and its handler can take 3-6 months and cost as much as 10000 dollars.
Anyone interested in joining the program as a volunteer or helping to sponsor a dog can call 0544876709 in Israel or email to JewishLegion@aol.com. Contributions can be sent to Klavim for Israel's Defense - POBox 6592 Jerusalem Israel
Voice Of Judea: Israeli Dog Captures Arab Invader
Loco, a well-trained security dog stationed with Kfar Tapuach's canine unit, succeeded in finding and neutralizing an Arab who snuck into an abandoned Jewish encampent, a few hundred yards away from the Tapuach West Synagogue.Loco has undergone advanced training together with his handler, Tal, for the past four years. Tal is a medic and member of the local emergency response team. The canine unit is presently searching the area alongside the path of the chase to seek weapons or explosives that might have been left behind by the Arab invader.
IDF soldiers were unable to find the hiding Arab suspect until Tal released Loco. The dog quickly discovered the Arab, who was crying and begging for his life, demanding that authorities release the patrol dog and take him to police. He has since been arrested and is undergoing interrogation.
In recent days, the local Tapuach canine unit has opened new branches in the Kiryat Arba/Gush Etzyon "settlement bloc," in Itamar and near Beth El, pairing local security personnel with specially trained patrol dogs. The unit provides professional training for both dogs and new handlers, and recruits volunteers to assist in the patrol of these vulnerable towns.
The task of fully training a patrol dog and its handler can take 3-6 months and cost as much as 10000 dollars.
Anyone interested in joining the program as a volunteer or helping to sponsor a dog can call 0544876709 in Israel or email to JewishLegion@aol.com. Contributions can be sent to Klavim for Israel's Defense - POBox 6592 Jerusalem Israel
Just Say No
Just Say No
Our leaders must clearly tell US that two-state solution not in our best interest.
Yoel Meltzer
29 Nissan 5796/April 23, 2009
With the American leadership intensifying its demand that Israel accept the “two-state solution,” the slogan “just say no” used by former first lady Nancy Reagan as part of the 1980s campaign against adolescent drug abuse keeps popping into my head. Although perhaps overly simplistic, many argue that her words went a long way in raising awareness to the problem. At this time, our present leadership would do well to adopt the same slogan.
Thus, the next time the Americans demand that Israel accept the two-state solution, just say “no.” Don't ignore their demands, don't try to evade answering them and don't present conditions for eventually accepting their demands; rather, just say “no.”
Kindly explain to them that although we understand the difficulties America is currently facing, as well as its need to appease various leaders in our region as a prelude to dealing with its own problems, a two-state solution is not in Israel’s best interest. Surely America, which like any sovereign state worries first and foremost about what is in its best interest, can appreciate another sovereign state doing the same.
Kindly remind the Americans that after removing our soldiers from Lebanon, missiles eventually fell in Haifa. Then, just a few years later, after dismantling thriving Jewish communities in Gaza and removing every last citizen, missiles eventually landed in Beersheva.
Moreover, please explain to them that it is nearly 100% certain that a Palestinian state in Judea and Samaria will eventually bring missiles to Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Equally important, make it clear to them that this is a prediction based upon Middle Eastern reality and not some sort of “scare tactic” or “right-wing analysis.”
National suicide
In addition, please remind them that suicide, in any shape or size, is forbidden in Judaism and therefore national suicide, which will be the result of a two-state solution, is clearly forbidden.
True, such an Israeli position would complicate America's regional plans. However, if firmly stated by our leadership, most Americans would probably respect it. Even more importantly, it would certainly gain the overwhelming support of the Jewish population in this country.
To conclude, the real problem is not America, but rather, our own leadership. For nearly 20 years it has avoided taking any stand against American “peace demands,” no matter how detrimental to the State of Israel these demands might be. Unfortunately, this is not a surprise. To a leadership that for the most part is not a faith-based leadership, taking such a stand is probably terrifying if not impossible. Nonetheless, the time has come. Either our leaders finally overcome themselves and take a stand, thereby averting a national disaster, or they will, heaven forbid, bring destruction upon us all.
Yoel Meltzer has an MA in Middle Eastern Studies and lives in Israel.
Our leaders must clearly tell US that two-state solution not in our best interest.
Yoel Meltzer
29 Nissan 5796/April 23, 2009
With the American leadership intensifying its demand that Israel accept the “two-state solution,” the slogan “just say no” used by former first lady Nancy Reagan as part of the 1980s campaign against adolescent drug abuse keeps popping into my head. Although perhaps overly simplistic, many argue that her words went a long way in raising awareness to the problem. At this time, our present leadership would do well to adopt the same slogan.
Thus, the next time the Americans demand that Israel accept the two-state solution, just say “no.” Don't ignore their demands, don't try to evade answering them and don't present conditions for eventually accepting their demands; rather, just say “no.”
Kindly explain to them that although we understand the difficulties America is currently facing, as well as its need to appease various leaders in our region as a prelude to dealing with its own problems, a two-state solution is not in Israel’s best interest. Surely America, which like any sovereign state worries first and foremost about what is in its best interest, can appreciate another sovereign state doing the same.
Kindly remind the Americans that after removing our soldiers from Lebanon, missiles eventually fell in Haifa. Then, just a few years later, after dismantling thriving Jewish communities in Gaza and removing every last citizen, missiles eventually landed in Beersheva.
Moreover, please explain to them that it is nearly 100% certain that a Palestinian state in Judea and Samaria will eventually bring missiles to Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Equally important, make it clear to them that this is a prediction based upon Middle Eastern reality and not some sort of “scare tactic” or “right-wing analysis.”
National suicide
In addition, please remind them that suicide, in any shape or size, is forbidden in Judaism and therefore national suicide, which will be the result of a two-state solution, is clearly forbidden.
True, such an Israeli position would complicate America's regional plans. However, if firmly stated by our leadership, most Americans would probably respect it. Even more importantly, it would certainly gain the overwhelming support of the Jewish population in this country.
To conclude, the real problem is not America, but rather, our own leadership. For nearly 20 years it has avoided taking any stand against American “peace demands,” no matter how detrimental to the State of Israel these demands might be. Unfortunately, this is not a surprise. To a leadership that for the most part is not a faith-based leadership, taking such a stand is probably terrifying if not impossible. Nonetheless, the time has come. Either our leaders finally overcome themselves and take a stand, thereby averting a national disaster, or they will, heaven forbid, bring destruction upon us all.
Yoel Meltzer has an MA in Middle Eastern Studies and lives in Israel.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Kosher Cooking Carnival #41 Is Up!
29 of the First Month 5769
The 41st Kosher Cooking Carnival is up at A Mother In Israel.
It's the "From Matzah to Lasagna" edition.
The 41st Kosher Cooking Carnival is up at A Mother In Israel.
It's the "From Matzah to Lasagna" edition.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Holocaust Prevention Day
28 of the First Month 5769
Last night and this morning Jews commemorated those who fell during the Holocaust of World War II. Various events and observances took place through the day, some with a basis in Jewish tradition, such as saying Qaddish, lighting candles, closing some businesses, and memorializing the fallen through story telling, and some without any basis in Jewish tradition, such as standing for a siren and laying wreaths.
It is not my intention to enter the debate over which kinds of observances are appropriate, and which kinds are not.
There is also an ongoing debate as to whether a day of such observances in addition to Fast of the Fifth Month (9 b'Av) and the Fast of the Tenth Month (10 b'Teveth) is even necessary.
It is not my intention to enter this debate either.
It is my intention to address the issue of memorials in general.
Memorials are important. They are important for us as a community to remember and to relive the grieving; they are important for us as community who hopes and prays that Holocausts will not reoccur.
Memorials, however, are not enough. They are not sufficient for our community's healing nor its psychological and spiritual growth; they are not sufficient to prevent the next holocaust. Living memorials, survivors recounting their stories and the stories of those who fell are not enough. Giant memorial buildings, costing millions of dollars are not enough, no matter how many times someone walks through them, and experiences their impressive, educational programs, and some of them are impressive.
But how many Holocaust survivors tell us to lives Jewish lives, and to avoid living a life of assimilation?
How many Holocaust museums have audio-visual presentations deemed at preventing intermarriage?
How many members of such museums' boards believe that these issues are relevant in a Holocaust memorial?
How many members of such museums' boards are married to non-Jews?!What if only 75% of the cost to build U. S. Holocaust Museum in Washington, DC, had actually been used to build it, and the other 25% was used for Holocaust prevention programs? What about 10%? What about even 5%?
What if Holocaust Memorial observances were inserted even more prominently into obervances of the Fasts of the Fifth and Tenth Months, and 27 Nissan was turned into "Holocaust Prevention Day," filled with programs geared toward educating Jews of the importance of marrying only Jews and living a Jewish life, and not an assimilated one?
What if there were Jews besides me who actually believed that there was a need for such a day?
What if there were Jews besides me who can see that a Second Holocaust is already in progress, much like Laban HaArami had intended (Intermarriage),* or like the Helenist Jews had intended (Assimilation)?
What if?
*********
*Genesis Ch. 29-31, Passover Hagadah
Last night and this morning Jews commemorated those who fell during the Holocaust of World War II. Various events and observances took place through the day, some with a basis in Jewish tradition, such as saying Qaddish, lighting candles, closing some businesses, and memorializing the fallen through story telling, and some without any basis in Jewish tradition, such as standing for a siren and laying wreaths.
It is not my intention to enter the debate over which kinds of observances are appropriate, and which kinds are not.
There is also an ongoing debate as to whether a day of such observances in addition to Fast of the Fifth Month (9 b'Av) and the Fast of the Tenth Month (10 b'Teveth) is even necessary.
It is not my intention to enter this debate either.
It is my intention to address the issue of memorials in general.
Memorials are important. They are important for us as a community to remember and to relive the grieving; they are important for us as community who hopes and prays that Holocausts will not reoccur.
 |
| U. S. Holocaust Museum, Washington, DC |
Memorials, however, are not enough. They are not sufficient for our community's healing nor its psychological and spiritual growth; they are not sufficient to prevent the next holocaust. Living memorials, survivors recounting their stories and the stories of those who fell are not enough. Giant memorial buildings, costing millions of dollars are not enough, no matter how many times someone walks through them, and experiences their impressive, educational programs, and some of them are impressive.
But how many Holocaust survivors tell us to lives Jewish lives, and to avoid living a life of assimilation?
How many Holocaust museums have audio-visual presentations deemed at preventing intermarriage?
How many members of such museums' boards believe that these issues are relevant in a Holocaust memorial?
How many members of such museums' boards are married to non-Jews?!What if only 75% of the cost to build U. S. Holocaust Museum in Washington, DC, had actually been used to build it, and the other 25% was used for Holocaust prevention programs? What about 10%? What about even 5%?
 |
| U. S. Holocaust Museum, Washington, DC |
What if Holocaust Memorial observances were inserted even more prominently into obervances of the Fasts of the Fifth and Tenth Months, and 27 Nissan was turned into "Holocaust Prevention Day," filled with programs geared toward educating Jews of the importance of marrying only Jews and living a Jewish life, and not an assimilated one?
What if there were Jews besides me who actually believed that there was a need for such a day?
What if there were Jews besides me who can see that a Second Holocaust is already in progress, much like Laban HaArami had intended (Intermarriage),* or like the Helenist Jews had intended (Assimilation)?
What if?
*********
*Genesis Ch. 29-31, Passover Hagadah
Monday, April 20, 2009
Poll Results: "Should I Go To The Depeche Mode Concert?"
26 of the First Month 5769
Well, the results are in, and I still don't know what I'm going to do. I will probably end up not going, but due to laziness more than anything else. It's a pain in the neck to get back home from Tel-Aviv at night. After a bus to Ari'el, I have to depend on tremping to Tapu'ah Juction, then a schlep up the hill to the yishuv. I do not like to try to tremp from Ari'el at too late of an hour, otherwise I'm stuck there for the night. We'll see. Maybe I'll find a place to stay in Tel-Aviv. Who knows.
Irregardless of if I go to the concert or not (and by now, you're probably all saying to yourselves, "Who even cares?"), I found the results of my poll to be rather interesting, albeit they are far from having any scientific reliability.
Sixteen voted for me to go, and 13 not to go. Personal e-mails to me indicated that there were definitely some MO's (modern orthodox Jews) and others who did not see anything wrong with me going, except for those few you felt it was a waste of money.
Those who voted for option number five I am guessing are my like-minded neighbors and fellow bloggers who have only their best interests for my soul at heart.
As to everyone else who voted, I have no clue what kind of person voted for which option.
Well, the results are in, and I still don't know what I'm going to do. I will probably end up not going, but due to laziness more than anything else. It's a pain in the neck to get back home from Tel-Aviv at night. After a bus to Ari'el, I have to depend on tremping to Tapu'ah Juction, then a schlep up the hill to the yishuv. I do not like to try to tremp from Ari'el at too late of an hour, otherwise I'm stuck there for the night. We'll see. Maybe I'll find a place to stay in Tel-Aviv. Who knows.Irregardless of if I go to the concert or not (and by now, you're probably all saying to yourselves, "Who even cares?"), I found the results of my poll to be rather interesting, albeit they are far from having any scientific reliability.
| Answer | # Votes | % |
| 1. Yes, you'll enjoy it. | 13 | 44% |
| 2. Yes, but go incognito. | 3 | 10% |
| 3. Yes, but go incognito and stand outside the concert and listen. | 0 | 0% |
| 4. No, it's a waste of NIS 300. | 5 | 17% |
| 5. No, it's galuthi and mixed, and thus hypocritical for you to go. | 8 | 27% |
Sixteen voted for me to go, and 13 not to go. Personal e-mails to me indicated that there were definitely some MO's (modern orthodox Jews) and others who did not see anything wrong with me going, except for those few you felt it was a waste of money.
Those who voted for option number five I am guessing are my like-minded neighbors and fellow bloggers who have only their best interests for my soul at heart.
As to everyone else who voted, I have no clue what kind of person voted for which option.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Haveil Havalim #213 Is Up!
26 of the First Month 5769
Haveil Havalim #213 is up at The Real Shliach.
It's the "It's Been A Long Time" edition.
Haveil Havalim #213 is up at The Real Shliach.
It's the "It's Been A Long Time" edition.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Jewish Nakba النكبة
23 of the First Month 5769
For those of you planning to observe Holocaust Memorial Day next Tuesday night (5:46), and for those of you who are not, for those of you who are of Ashkinazy decent, and for those of you who are not, I would like to recommend the below video montage, which provides some history and statistics regarding the pogroms and other atrocities incurred by Jews residing in Muslim countries.*
Although the plight of non-Ashkinazy Jews during World War II, such those in North Africa and Greece,** has gained increased publicity and understanding over the years, I still find it necessary to remind my fellow North Americans that the hardships on Jews
Those Jews from New York, Los Angeles, and Montreal are not unfamiliar with Persian, Syrian, Moroccan, and even Yemenite Jewish culture and history. Yet, most others still appear to be rather ignorant of their existence, let alone their histories, which which has paralleled their own.
Jewish Naqba النكبة (Catastrophe)
*********
*For more information on on Jews from Muslim countries, see Shelomo Alfassa's site.
**A significant percentage of Dutch Jews identify as being Sefardi (Spanish decent).
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
The Importance of Sovereignty
5 Hol HaMo'ed Pesah 5769
The Importance of Sovereignty
Yoel Meltzer
Erev Pesah 5796/April 7, 2009
Following publication of my recent article "Sovereignty in Israel" - an article which suggested that Israel's passive compliance to the demands of American leadership questions the whole notion of whether Israel actually has true political sovereignty - I was asked by several people to explain how genuine sovereignty can be attained, as well as why attaining it is deemed so important. Moreover, regarding the latter point, there were several inquiries as to the meaning of the closing sentence of the article: "Finally, if Israel ever truly desires to fulfill its unique role in the world, then it will have no choice but to start thinking about itself differently and to realize why true sovereignty is in fact needed in order to fulfill this role."
In order to address these questions, I write this article. Moreover, since it is my belief that the key to understanding the significance of Israeli sovereignty can only be acquired by first properly understanding what is the unique role of the Jewish State, I would like to focus on this point.
What, then, is the point of a Jewish State? Although many believe that the building of the state of Israel in order to establish Jewish sovereignty is the goal of the Jewish people, the truth is that it is not. Of course it is very important and it has profound significance in and of itself, but this is not the whole story. If it were, then the building of the state of Israel would simply be a nationalist endeavor and nothing more. If so, then Israel would be no different from other nationalist endeavors such as France, Turkey, Argentina, etc.
While it is true that Israel is similar to other nationalist endeavors in that it too needs to build the country on a purely physical level - with firemen and bakeries, clothing stores and electricians - for Israel, however, there is much more. In addition to building a full-fledged country in every meaning of the word, Israel has to do this according to the beautiful ideals and morality of Judaism.
Done correctly, Israel is to create a socially just society. On the one hand, a thriving economy, strong army, educational and scientific achievements, and more, while on the other hand, a caring and equitable attitude towards the weaker segments of society, honest and dedicated public officials, polite discourse amongst the people, etc. True, this may sound like a dream, especially in the current state of affairs, but nonetheless this is the goal.
Still further, as beautiful as such a state would be, this is not the final goal. For what really separates Israel from other nationalist endeavors is that Israel also has an international agenda. Briefly stated, the building of such a socially just society is merely to serve as an example for other nations of the world. Thus, the nationalistic aspect of building the country, settling the land and establishing sovereignty is not an end-goal in and of itself, but rather a platform for bringing this message to the world. Described in the poetic language of the Tanach (Bible), this is what is known as being a "light unto the nations".
That is the real final goal and destiny of the Jewish people.
For a world that has been endlessly ravaged by wars, famines, suffering and lack of justice, constantly searching and hoping for a better way, the state of Israel is to serve as the paradigm of how to build such a socially just society and, eventually, a socially just world. This is the profound meaning of what is referred to as tikkun olam.
Thus, leading by example, the State of Israel is essentially charged with nothing less than rescuing the world from its own seemingly endless madness. This is quite a grand and lofty ideal, but nonetheless, it is the ultimate goal.
That is the real reason why political and economic sovereignty is so important for the State of Israel, for only thus can we fulfill the role that God has chosen for us. It's quite simple. We cannot be a "light unto nations" if we are subservient to another nation - be it politically, economically or in our way of thinking. Either we understand this and internalize it and start transforming ourselves, the country and the world, or we continue to ignore this and thus perpetuate the chaos in Israel and in the rest of the world.
Having answered the question of why sovereignty is important, what remains is the more challenging task of how to implement it. There are no simple or magical answers. Quite simply, the above message needs to be discussed and disseminated every which way possible until it becomes the mindset of individual Jews and the collective Jewish nation. There are no shortcuts. However, the potential and power that such a way of thinking would unleash if it were to seep into the consciousness of more and more Jews is nothing less than mind boggling. That's the power of real, authentic and passionate idealism. In addition to providing a clear sense of purpose, it creates excitement, it's catchy, it affects and motivates others, it causes action and generates revolutions.
Understanding this message, although seemingly so basic, should not be taken for granted. Only by internalizing it can the real importance of Israeli sovereignty be fully understood and appreciated. In addition, it is the tool that is needed to overcome our self-imposed limits and fears, to break out of our 'comfort zone', and to finally acquire true political and economic sovereignty.
Yoel Meltzer has an MA in Middle Eastern Studies and lives in Israel.
The Importance of Sovereignty
Yoel Meltzer
Erev Pesah 5796/April 7, 2009
Following publication of my recent article "Sovereignty in Israel" - an article which suggested that Israel's passive compliance to the demands of American leadership questions the whole notion of whether Israel actually has true political sovereignty - I was asked by several people to explain how genuine sovereignty can be attained, as well as why attaining it is deemed so important. Moreover, regarding the latter point, there were several inquiries as to the meaning of the closing sentence of the article: "Finally, if Israel ever truly desires to fulfill its unique role in the world, then it will have no choice but to start thinking about itself differently and to realize why true sovereignty is in fact needed in order to fulfill this role."
In order to address these questions, I write this article. Moreover, since it is my belief that the key to understanding the significance of Israeli sovereignty can only be acquired by first properly understanding what is the unique role of the Jewish State, I would like to focus on this point.
What, then, is the point of a Jewish State? Although many believe that the building of the state of Israel in order to establish Jewish sovereignty is the goal of the Jewish people, the truth is that it is not. Of course it is very important and it has profound significance in and of itself, but this is not the whole story. If it were, then the building of the state of Israel would simply be a nationalist endeavor and nothing more. If so, then Israel would be no different from other nationalist endeavors such as France, Turkey, Argentina, etc.
While it is true that Israel is similar to other nationalist endeavors in that it too needs to build the country on a purely physical level - with firemen and bakeries, clothing stores and electricians - for Israel, however, there is much more. In addition to building a full-fledged country in every meaning of the word, Israel has to do this according to the beautiful ideals and morality of Judaism.
Done correctly, Israel is to create a socially just society. On the one hand, a thriving economy, strong army, educational and scientific achievements, and more, while on the other hand, a caring and equitable attitude towards the weaker segments of society, honest and dedicated public officials, polite discourse amongst the people, etc. True, this may sound like a dream, especially in the current state of affairs, but nonetheless this is the goal.
Still further, as beautiful as such a state would be, this is not the final goal. For what really separates Israel from other nationalist endeavors is that Israel also has an international agenda. Briefly stated, the building of such a socially just society is merely to serve as an example for other nations of the world. Thus, the nationalistic aspect of building the country, settling the land and establishing sovereignty is not an end-goal in and of itself, but rather a platform for bringing this message to the world. Described in the poetic language of the Tanach (Bible), this is what is known as being a "light unto the nations".
That is the real final goal and destiny of the Jewish people.
For a world that has been endlessly ravaged by wars, famines, suffering and lack of justice, constantly searching and hoping for a better way, the state of Israel is to serve as the paradigm of how to build such a socially just society and, eventually, a socially just world. This is the profound meaning of what is referred to as tikkun olam.
Thus, leading by example, the State of Israel is essentially charged with nothing less than rescuing the world from its own seemingly endless madness. This is quite a grand and lofty ideal, but nonetheless, it is the ultimate goal.
That is the real reason why political and economic sovereignty is so important for the State of Israel, for only thus can we fulfill the role that God has chosen for us. It's quite simple. We cannot be a "light unto nations" if we are subservient to another nation - be it politically, economically or in our way of thinking. Either we understand this and internalize it and start transforming ourselves, the country and the world, or we continue to ignore this and thus perpetuate the chaos in Israel and in the rest of the world.
Having answered the question of why sovereignty is important, what remains is the more challenging task of how to implement it. There are no simple or magical answers. Quite simply, the above message needs to be discussed and disseminated every which way possible until it becomes the mindset of individual Jews and the collective Jewish nation. There are no shortcuts. However, the potential and power that such a way of thinking would unleash if it were to seep into the consciousness of more and more Jews is nothing less than mind boggling. That's the power of real, authentic and passionate idealism. In addition to providing a clear sense of purpose, it creates excitement, it's catchy, it affects and motivates others, it causes action and generates revolutions.
Understanding this message, although seemingly so basic, should not be taken for granted. Only by internalizing it can the real importance of Israeli sovereignty be fully understood and appreciated. In addition, it is the tool that is needed to overcome our self-imposed limits and fears, to break out of our 'comfort zone', and to finally acquire true political and economic sovereignty.
Yoel Meltzer has an MA in Middle Eastern Studies and lives in Israel.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Jealous?
5 Hol HaMo'ed Pesah 5769
Kosher lePesah Doritos,..."Fire Hot" flavor... MMMMMMMMMMMMMMM.......
Jealous? I'm not even talking about the whole qitniyoth issue, believe it or not. I'm talking about the variety of cool, albeit unhealthy, snack options we have in Israel during Pesah (Passover) and throughout the year.
I suppose New York and Los Angeles have their fair share, but at what price?
I was going to rub it in, but I recently met Jew in Alaska, and wonder what he has to eat during Pesah. Nonetheless, Doritos might actually have the power to get at least one of you on the plane to Israel. Thus, I post this photo.
To entice you further, we have all kinds of chocolate, regular potato chips. Many restaurants have kashered their kitchens and have been selling, Chinese food with rice noodles, pizza, ice cream cones, potato and nut based baked goods. In previous years, have also seen shwarmah served in lafoth (large Iraqi pitoth) made from matzah meal.
(Click To Enlarge)
For those of you who are particularly strict, you can buy your own disposable barbecue for less than four dollars. You can remove the grill carefully, tovel it (immerse in a miqweh) if need be and get several uses out of it, by replacing the foil pan and coals, at minimal expense. Then cook your own meat according to your own style and standards (like we did in the photo; inspiration to do so from Jacob Da Jew), without having to kasher your regular barbecue, assuming you hold that's even a possibility. (Actually, this was with new hand-held grills I had bought last year, and a the rest of my old barbecue which had sat unused for at least two years.)
When arriving in Israel, you will also have more access to matzoth like this, purchased by my friend Shimon Yehouda from a Yemenite bakery in Jerusalem.
Next year, we hope to make our own. LeShannah HaBa'ah biYrushalayim!
Jealous?
Get on the plane!
Kosher lePesah Doritos,..."Fire Hot" flavor... MMMMMMMMMMMMMMM.......
Jealous? I'm not even talking about the whole qitniyoth issue, believe it or not. I'm talking about the variety of cool, albeit unhealthy, snack options we have in Israel during Pesah (Passover) and throughout the year.
I suppose New York and Los Angeles have their fair share, but at what price?
I was going to rub it in, but I recently met Jew in Alaska, and wonder what he has to eat during Pesah. Nonetheless, Doritos might actually have the power to get at least one of you on the plane to Israel. Thus, I post this photo.
To entice you further, we have all kinds of chocolate, regular potato chips. Many restaurants have kashered their kitchens and have been selling, Chinese food with rice noodles, pizza, ice cream cones, potato and nut based baked goods. In previous years, have also seen shwarmah served in lafoth (large Iraqi pitoth) made from matzah meal.
(Click To Enlarge)
When arriving in Israel, you will also have more access to matzoth like this, purchased by my friend Shimon Yehouda from a Yemenite bakery in Jerusalem.
(Click To Enlarge)
Next year, we hope to make our own. LeShannah HaBa'ah biYrushalayim!
Jealous?
Get on the plane!
What's Different About This "Mah Nishtanah?"
5 Hol HaMo'ed Pesah 5769
This comes to you a little late, but I just found it myself (Tip Credit: Ben Bresky).
Here's an upbeat version of "Mah Nishtanah?" I would like to recommend. It's from the collaboration of Aharon Razel and Yerachmiel "Rocky" Ziegler. It's the perfect addition for your music collection, and your children's, and it can be downloaded for FREE at Same'ach Music Podcasts.
I am not so "into" Jewish music per se, but I really liked this one!
This comes to you a little late, but I just found it myself (Tip Credit: Ben Bresky).
Here's an upbeat version of "Mah Nishtanah?" I would like to recommend. It's from the collaboration of Aharon Razel and Yerachmiel "Rocky" Ziegler. It's the perfect addition for your music collection, and your children's, and it can be downloaded for FREE at Same'ach Music Podcasts.
I am not so "into" Jewish music per se, but I really liked this one!
Haveil Havalim #212 Is Up!
4 Hol HaMo'ed Pesah 5769
Haveil Havalim #212 is up at Shtetl Fabulous.
It's the How many more days till we can eat bread? edition.
Sure gets my vote for one of the best blog names!
Check it out!
Haveil Havalim #212 is up at Shtetl Fabulous.
It's the How many more days till we can eat bread? edition.
Sure gets my vote for one of the best blog names!
Check it out!
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Cleaning For Pesah
Erev Pesah 5769
I spent a few days helping my friend "Aharon" (not his real name) clean for Pesah (Passover). I'm glad to help him out. But, it's also only fair, as he will be feeding me and giving me a place to sleep for a few days during Pesah.
"Aharon," a former yeshiva mashgi'ah and Hassidishe Jew living in Me'ah She'arim, holds many humros (stringencies) regarding kashrus during Pesah, humros to which I do not hold, but certainly respect while in his home. Far be it from me to disrespect someone's customs in his own home,...let alone look a gift horse in the mouth...
However, I certainly do not mind teasing "Aharon" a bit over his stringent practices. The first thing I noticed when walked into his house last week, other than the disarray many Jewish homes are in at this stage of the game, was this:
Then later on, I noticed this...
The next week, we went shopping. When he was buying tupperware at the store...
Back at home...
In every case, "Aharon's" response was "Oh, please!"
Later on, I asked a semi-serious question...
That answers a lot, doesn't it?
Hag Kasher weSame'ah!
I spent a few days helping my friend "Aharon" (not his real name) clean for Pesah (Passover). I'm glad to help him out. But, it's also only fair, as he will be feeding me and giving me a place to sleep for a few days during Pesah.
"Aharon," a former yeshiva mashgi'ah and Hassidishe Jew living in Me'ah She'arim, holds many humros (stringencies) regarding kashrus during Pesah, humros to which I do not hold, but certainly respect while in his home. Far be it from me to disrespect someone's customs in his own home,...let alone look a gift horse in the mouth...
However, I certainly do not mind teasing "Aharon" a bit over his stringent practices. The first thing I noticed when walked into his house last week, other than the disarray many Jewish homes are in at this stage of the game, was this:
10ag (Me): What's this?
Aharon: What? The toilet paper?
10ag: Yes. You can't use it on Pesah
Aharon: Why not?
10ag: It does have a Pesadik heksher.
Aharon: Oh, please!
Then later on, I noticed this...
10ag: You sure eat a lot of processed foods during Pesah a lot of frummeh wouldn't eat. You even bought mayonnaise? Even your your daughter makes her own mayonnaise.
Aharon: The mayonnaise is from "The Eidah" (BeDa"Tz Eidah Haredis).
10ag: How many on from "The Eidah" would actually eat this on Pesah?
Aharon: (eyes rolling)
The next week, we went shopping. When he was buying tupperware at the store...
10ag: You can't use this.
Aharon: Why not?
10ag: You don't hold by this rav. You don't eat his meat, and he eats qitniyoth during Pesah, of all things. How can you use his tupperware?
Aharon: (eyes rolling)
Back at home...
10ag: What? You use oil?The cleaning extravaganza proceeded from there as you might imagine,...like whether to re-clean a table which accidentally touched a wall which had yet to be cleaned, or whether to throw out the plastic flowers for fear that hametz got stuck inside of them.
Aharon: It's OK. It's walnut oil.
10ag: How do you know hametz didn't get into the bottle during processing? If you were really frum, you would use only shmaltz.
Aharon: (piercing stare)
In every case, "Aharon's" response was "Oh, please!"
Later on, I asked a semi-serious question...
10ag: Don't you remember using peanut oil on in the U. S. many years ago?
Aharon: Sure. I even talked to the Rav HaMakshir ("Hahn" or "Kahn"), who said that peanuts were not kitniyos. They're not a pea; they're a nut. (Apparently, the word "pea" confused some people, or made them nervous.)
10ag: Then why don't you eat them?
Aharon: Because we're not noheg to (not our custom). (Translation: "What would the neighbors say?!)
That answers a lot, doesn't it?
Hag Kasher weSame'ah!
Rav Bar Hayim On Birkath HaHamah
13 of the First Month 5769
Birkath HaHamma
Question:
Rabbi, I have heard different opinions regarding Birkath HaHamma (said once in 28 years), including some who say one should not say this B'rakha. What is your view?
Answer:
This is a very complex issue, and it is quite impossible to explain the matter in this forum. Therefore I shall limit myself to the following:
1. The text before us in the Talmudh Bavli (B'rakhoth 59b) is corrupt. The statement attributed to Abbaye - the supposed source of this B'rakha - was never said by him, and was interpolated into the text at the beginning of the period of the Rishonim. None of the G'onim knew of Abbaye's statement. Some, such as Rav Sa'adya Gaon (p. 90), contradict it. It follows that the notion of saying a B'rakha once in 28 years (and on something one cannot see) was never mandated by the Sages. This entire issue is based on an error in the text.
2. The statement is almost certainly based on a sectarian solar calendar, such as that mentioned in the Book of Jubilees. Thus the entire concept contradicts Hazal who worked with a lunar calendar.
3. Even if Hazal had mandated such a B'rakha once every 28 years, the calculation used today, based on the T'qupha of Sh'muel which assumes a year of 365.25 days, is inaccurate. The real figure is 365.24219 days. Over 2000 years, the discrepancy adds up -today it amounts to over two weeks. If anything, the B'rakha should have been said on the day of the vernal or March equinox (March 20), the astronomical event supposedly referred to by Abbaye. On Nissan 14th this year no astronomical event will take place, and saying the B'rakha then cannot be justified.
4. This B'rakha is mentioned in the Talmudh Y'rushalmi (B'rakhoth 9:2) and in WaYiqra Rabba (23:8). According to these sources (which also know nothing of a 28-year cycle) the B'rakha should be said whenever one sees the sun and is moved by its power and majesty, something which happens occasionally. When one internalizes the fact that this is a manifestation of HASHEM's wisdom and power, one makes the B'rakha. Further one should say it if the sun was not visible for three days (such as consecutive stormy or cloudy days). This is what I recommend doing. According to Rav Sa'adya Gaon one recites the B'rakha annually on the summer or June soltice (June 20-21). This too is possible.
5. Unfortunately we have here another example of the rabbinic establishment burying its head in the sand, unwilling to tackle real issues of science and knowledge. This does the Jewish people a great disservice, and paints the Tora in a very negative light.
6. The Tora world must formulate an intelligent and viable conception of Tora in keeping with objective knowledge and realities. We cannot and must not live in the Dark Ages; this was not HASHEM's intention.
Hagh Same'ah
David Bar-Hayim
Birkath HaHamma Question:
Rabbi, I have heard different opinions regarding Birkath HaHamma (said once in 28 years), including some who say one should not say this B'rakha. What is your view?
Answer:
This is a very complex issue, and it is quite impossible to explain the matter in this forum. Therefore I shall limit myself to the following:
1. The text before us in the Talmudh Bavli (B'rakhoth 59b) is corrupt. The statement attributed to Abbaye - the supposed source of this B'rakha - was never said by him, and was interpolated into the text at the beginning of the period of the Rishonim. None of the G'onim knew of Abbaye's statement. Some, such as Rav Sa'adya Gaon (p. 90), contradict it. It follows that the notion of saying a B'rakha once in 28 years (and on something one cannot see) was never mandated by the Sages. This entire issue is based on an error in the text.
2. The statement is almost certainly based on a sectarian solar calendar, such as that mentioned in the Book of Jubilees. Thus the entire concept contradicts Hazal who worked with a lunar calendar.
3. Even if Hazal had mandated such a B'rakha once every 28 years, the calculation used today, based on the T'qupha of Sh'muel which assumes a year of 365.25 days, is inaccurate. The real figure is 365.24219 days. Over 2000 years, the discrepancy adds up -today it amounts to over two weeks. If anything, the B'rakha should have been said on the day of the vernal or March equinox (March 20), the astronomical event supposedly referred to by Abbaye. On Nissan 14th this year no astronomical event will take place, and saying the B'rakha then cannot be justified.
4. This B'rakha is mentioned in the Talmudh Y'rushalmi (B'rakhoth 9:2) and in WaYiqra Rabba (23:8). According to these sources (which also know nothing of a 28-year cycle) the B'rakha should be said whenever one sees the sun and is moved by its power and majesty, something which happens occasionally. When one internalizes the fact that this is a manifestation of HASHEM's wisdom and power, one makes the B'rakha. Further one should say it if the sun was not visible for three days (such as consecutive stormy or cloudy days). This is what I recommend doing. According to Rav Sa'adya Gaon one recites the B'rakha annually on the summer or June soltice (June 20-21). This too is possible.
5. Unfortunately we have here another example of the rabbinic establishment burying its head in the sand, unwilling to tackle real issues of science and knowledge. This does the Jewish people a great disservice, and paints the Tora in a very negative light.
6. The Tora world must formulate an intelligent and viable conception of Tora in keeping with objective knowledge and realities. We cannot and must not live in the Dark Ages; this was not HASHEM's intention.
Hagh Same'ah
David Bar-Hayim
Monday, April 06, 2009
Haveil Havalim #211 Is Up!
13 of the First Month 5769
Ima hosts Haveil Havalim #211 this week. It's the Preparing for Pesach Edition.
Ima hosts Haveil Havalim #211 this week. It's the Preparing for Pesach Edition.
Friday, April 03, 2009
Fear Of Jewish Revenge Attack?
Erev Shabbath Partshath Tzav/HaGadol 5769
That was the headline of the Hebrew newspaper Ma'ariv's weekend edition.
That's what the lives of "settler" children are worth to the un-Jew-controlled, Israeli press.
That's what the life of 13-year-old Shlomo Nativ HY"D is worth to the Eruv Rav government.
...and, 7-year-old Ya'ir Gamliel is [the words of the un-Jewish press], after all, "just the son of a 'terrorist.'"
Ya'ir's father Ofir Gamliel is serving a 15-year sentence, after having been convicted of participating in a failed attempt to bomb of an Arab girls' school.
The same un-Jews who are quick to cry that "not all Arabs support acts of terrorism," are just as quick to throw a 7-year-old "settler" to the dogs.
The typical double standards of the un-Jewish media are certainly no surprise.
As I have mentioned before, I believe the government has been trying out various ways to scare, intimidate, and expel settlers in Yehudah & Shomron (Judea & Samaria) from their homes.
After all, it will be much cheaper for us to get up and leave on our own, than for the millions, if not billions, the government will need in order to expel 100,000 Jews from our homes in heart of our People's homeland.
We know that the police has been involved in questionable activities, such as in Ma'oz Esther last summer, when they popped out from behind bushes to arrest Jews defending themselves against the threat of an Arab attack.
Arabs are sought out and encouraged by officials to file claims against Jewish building on alleged Arabs lands, when such Arabs might not have even known of the plots in question, such as near Adei Ad, again last summer.
"Stay away" orders, often issued under the pretense of "protecting" Arabs during the fall olive harvest, are also quite common, orders causing tremendous stress and economic strain on families, young and old. Fathers are simply plucked out of the fields and told to find another place to live. If they want their families with them and their businesses to survive, then that's just too bad.
And, of course, un-Jewish activists are given free reign to destroy those very Jewish fields and vineyards, hardly an environmentally-correct thing to do, but the political-correctness of the battle against the "settlers" seems to outweigh that.
My question is this: Is this what's next on the government's list of expulsion experiments, allowing, if not encouraging Arabs to attack key Jewish towns with a number of residents whose loyalty is to The Holy One, Blessed Be He, over the "almighty" state?
Stay tuned....
May the Almighty comfort the Nativ Family and Beth Bath Ayin with all the mourners of Tzion and Jerusalem.
May He grant Ya'ir ben Michal as complete and speedy recovery.
Thanks to Batya at Shilo Musings for help with this post.
חשש פיגוע נקמה יהודי
Fear Of Jewish Revenge Attack
Fear Of Jewish Revenge Attack
That was the headline of the Hebrew newspaper Ma'ariv's weekend edition.
That's what the lives of "settler" children are worth to the un-Jew-controlled, Israeli press.
That's what the life of 13-year-old Shlomo Nativ HY"D is worth to the Eruv Rav government.
...and, 7-year-old Ya'ir Gamliel is [the words of the un-Jewish press], after all, "just the son of a 'terrorist.'"
Ya'ir's father Ofir Gamliel is serving a 15-year sentence, after having been convicted of participating in a failed attempt to bomb of an Arab girls' school.
The same un-Jews who are quick to cry that "not all Arabs support acts of terrorism," are just as quick to throw a 7-year-old "settler" to the dogs.
The typical double standards of the un-Jewish media are certainly no surprise.
As I have mentioned before, I believe the government has been trying out various ways to scare, intimidate, and expel settlers in Yehudah & Shomron (Judea & Samaria) from their homes.
After all, it will be much cheaper for us to get up and leave on our own, than for the millions, if not billions, the government will need in order to expel 100,000 Jews from our homes in heart of our People's homeland.
We know that the police has been involved in questionable activities, such as in Ma'oz Esther last summer, when they popped out from behind bushes to arrest Jews defending themselves against the threat of an Arab attack.
Arabs are sought out and encouraged by officials to file claims against Jewish building on alleged Arabs lands, when such Arabs might not have even known of the plots in question, such as near Adei Ad, again last summer.
"Stay away" orders, often issued under the pretense of "protecting" Arabs during the fall olive harvest, are also quite common, orders causing tremendous stress and economic strain on families, young and old. Fathers are simply plucked out of the fields and told to find another place to live. If they want their families with them and their businesses to survive, then that's just too bad.
And, of course, un-Jewish activists are given free reign to destroy those very Jewish fields and vineyards, hardly an environmentally-correct thing to do, but the political-correctness of the battle against the "settlers" seems to outweigh that.
My question is this: Is this what's next on the government's list of expulsion experiments, allowing, if not encouraging Arabs to attack key Jewish towns with a number of residents whose loyalty is to The Holy One, Blessed Be He, over the "almighty" state?
Stay tuned....
*********
May the Almighty comfort the Nativ Family and Beth Bath Ayin with all the mourners of Tzion and Jerusalem.
May He grant Ya'ir ben Michal as complete and speedy recovery.
Thanks to Batya at Shilo Musings for help with this post.
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