5 of the Eighth Month 5768
Yekutiel Ben Ya'akov (Mike Guzofsky) has received an expulsion order from K'far Tapu'ah where he resides and runs a security canine program and yeshiva on the K'far Tapu'ah Hilltop.
Ben Ya'akov is forbidden from entering anywhere in Judea and Samaria, excluding Maleh Adumim until the end of December. The edict was signed by General Gadi Shamni the Chief of all troops in Judea and Samaria, and who is empowered by the military authority that governs the "territories" to exile Jews and to execute other emergency administrative orders for "state security purposes."
Ben Ya'akov recently submitted his candidacy in the municipal elections of Kfar K'far Tapu'ah. The military order that expels him from K'far Tapu'ah is clearly interfering with the democratic political process and will make it difficult for him to campaign and seek election.
Nerya Ofan of Yitzhar also received a similar expulsion order.
Ben Ya'akov and Ofan's official response will be released shortly.
Stay Tuned...
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
'Tis The Season...Olive-Picking Season...
5 of the Eighth Month 5768
Two nights ago, as reported by Nissan Ratzlav-Katz of Arutz 7, administrative restraining orders were issued for several Jews in Samaria, including Yitzhar resident and Mishmar HaMiqdash (Temple Guard) Neriah Ofan.
They are not allowed in Judea nor Samaria through the end of December, the duration of the "Masiq" (olive harvest). The "authorities" claim this action is to prevent any potential conflicts from occurring between Arabs picking olives and local Jewish residents. Apparently the thought never entered their heads to serve the Arabs, who do not have any valid documentation supporting claims to land and olive groves, with the restraining orders.
This year that includes Hanukkah. These men will not be allowed to spend Hanukkah with their families in their own homes, in their own communities.
One of those served with an administrative restraining order is my friend and neighbor, Yekutiel Ben-Ya'akov.
This time last year, Neriah Ofan (2nd row, 2nd from right), Honenu's Ariel Gruner (1st row, 1st on the right), my friend, Gil'ad Pollack (top, left corner) from Havath Ma'on who was newly married at the time, my neighbor Yehudah Goldberg (2nd row, middle), and at least 16 other Jews, residents of were summarily expelled from their homes in Judea and Samaria with the same lame reasoning.
Notice the physical appearance of these Jews: beards, large kippoth, and most with payoth (side locks). Outward appearance isn't everything, of course. But, taking pride by visibly differentiating ourselves from non-Jews has long been criticized and even discouraged by the secular, Euro-phile left and by the left-wing of the State-worshipping mamlakhtim, who live to harass those of their brethren who carry most of the remaining passion to possess and to work our homeland, recently returened to us. They do so in spite of the self-haters who would destory it.
19-year-old Elad Keller (bottom, right corner) from Havath Ma'on in Judea was also one of the expellees. One of the reasons he defied last year's order was a practical one. He did not have the money to pay rent in Jerusalem, the least inconvenient city where he could reside for the ordered two months expulsion. He requested that the government pay his rent. The government refused his request.
Gen. Ya'ir Naveh signed last year's expulsion orders,...a kippah-wearing general! He was later called before the re-instituted Sanhedrin to answer questions regarding his actions. Gen. Ya'ir Naveh never accepted the invitation to appear, apparently choosing the sanctity of the State over the sanctity of Torah.
This year's expulsion orders were signed by Gen. Gadi Shamni. Perhaps he will not have the same choice to face. Although, we have seen that the presence of a religious article such as a kippah has become not only ever shrinking is in size, but increasingly meaningless amongst the ranks and other prominent officials, as well.
Meanwhile, leftists continue to do whatever they want, without any limits, and without any shame, like harassing the residents of Havath Gilad, purchased from Arab claimants to the land, years ago, as if that matters to anyone.
Two nights ago, as reported by Nissan Ratzlav-Katz of Arutz 7, administrative restraining orders were issued for several Jews in Samaria, including Yitzhar resident and Mishmar HaMiqdash (Temple Guard) Neriah Ofan.They are not allowed in Judea nor Samaria through the end of December, the duration of the "Masiq" (olive harvest). The "authorities" claim this action is to prevent any potential conflicts from occurring between Arabs picking olives and local Jewish residents. Apparently the thought never entered their heads to serve the Arabs, who do not have any valid documentation supporting claims to land and olive groves, with the restraining orders.
This year that includes Hanukkah. These men will not be allowed to spend Hanukkah with their families in their own homes, in their own communities.
One of those served with an administrative restraining order is my friend and neighbor, Yekutiel Ben-Ya'akov.
This time last year, Neriah Ofan (2nd row, 2nd from right), Honenu's Ariel Gruner (1st row, 1st on the right), my friend, Gil'ad Pollack (top, left corner) from Havath Ma'on who was newly married at the time, my neighbor Yehudah Goldberg (2nd row, middle), and at least 16 other Jews, residents of were summarily expelled from their homes in Judea and Samaria with the same lame reasoning.
Notice the physical appearance of these Jews: beards, large kippoth, and most with payoth (side locks). Outward appearance isn't everything, of course. But, taking pride by visibly differentiating ourselves from non-Jews has long been criticized and even discouraged by the secular, Euro-phile left and by the left-wing of the State-worshipping mamlakhtim, who live to harass those of their brethren who carry most of the remaining passion to possess and to work our homeland, recently returened to us. They do so in spite of the self-haters who would destory it.
19-year-old Elad Keller (bottom, right corner) from Havath Ma'on in Judea was also one of the expellees. One of the reasons he defied last year's order was a practical one. He did not have the money to pay rent in Jerusalem, the least inconvenient city where he could reside for the ordered two months expulsion. He requested that the government pay his rent. The government refused his request.
Gen. Ya'ir Naveh signed last year's expulsion orders,...a kippah-wearing general! He was later called before the re-instituted Sanhedrin to answer questions regarding his actions. Gen. Ya'ir Naveh never accepted the invitation to appear, apparently choosing the sanctity of the State over the sanctity of Torah.This year's expulsion orders were signed by Gen. Gadi Shamni. Perhaps he will not have the same choice to face. Although, we have seen that the presence of a religious article such as a kippah has become not only ever shrinking is in size, but increasingly meaningless amongst the ranks and other prominent officials, as well.
Meanwhile, leftists continue to do whatever they want, without any limits, and without any shame, like harassing the residents of Havath Gilad, purchased from Arab claimants to the land, years ago, as if that matters to anyone.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Haveil Havalim #136 Is Up!
2 of the Eighth Month 5768
Haveil Havalim Blog Carnival #136 is up at HH Founder Soccer Dad's.
I'm on deck for #137. Please send me your submissions via the handy-dandy, Blog Carnival submission form, by clicking here.
Haveil Havalim Blog Carnival #136 is up at HH Founder Soccer Dad's.
I'm on deck for #137. Please send me your submissions via the handy-dandy, Blog Carnival submission form, by clicking here.
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Krembos Have Arrived!
27 of the Seventh Month 5768
A week ago, NRG, the Israeli daily Ma'ariv's on-line edition, reported that fall is indeed just around the corner, due to the reappearance of Krembos (Hebrew).
(*Warning: Original link contains cartoon pritzes.)
For those of you who do not know what a "Krembo" is, it's kind of like a Mallomar,...but not. Wikipedia lists a reasonable description in Hebrew. But, when the English link is clicked, the following appears:
Chocolate-covered marshmallow wafer
A Chocolate-covered marshmallow wafer is a confection known under different names in different countries.
The HUTZPAH! Lumping Krembos together with the less than adequate substitutes from other countries!
Anyway, one of Krembos' crucial functions is that they serve as an Israeli ice cream substitute during the colder months of the year. Starting around now, ice cream starts to dwindle, and eventually becomes almost impossible to find until next spring.
Why this phenomenal change-over occurs in Israel, I have no idea. Much of the country just does not get THAT cold to warrant the absence of ice cream. I suppose that there are just not enough winter ice cream-eaters to justify winter ice cream production.
So, pass the Krembos, please.
A week ago, NRG, the Israeli daily Ma'ariv's on-line edition, reported that fall is indeed just around the corner, due to the reappearance of Krembos (Hebrew).(*Warning: Original link contains cartoon pritzes.)
For those of you who do not know what a "Krembo" is, it's kind of like a Mallomar,...but not. Wikipedia lists a reasonable description in Hebrew. But, when the English link is clicked, the following appears:
Chocolate-covered marshmallow wafer
A Chocolate-covered marshmallow wafer is a confection known under different names in different countries.
The HUTZPAH! Lumping Krembos together with the less than adequate substitutes from other countries!
Anyway, one of Krembos' crucial functions is that they serve as an Israeli ice cream substitute during the colder months of the year. Starting around now, ice cream starts to dwindle, and eventually becomes almost impossible to find until next spring.
Why this phenomenal change-over occurs in Israel, I have no idea. Much of the country just does not get THAT cold to warrant the absence of ice cream. I suppose that there are just not enough winter ice cream-eaters to justify winter ice cream production.
So, pass the Krembos, please.
Monday, October 08, 2007
Restaurant Meme
26 of the Seventh Month 5768
OK. So, I wasn't exactly "tagged" for this meme. In fact, I wasn't "tagged" at all.
I stole it.
I know, I know. You're all thinking:
"Ya'aqov, really! If you have time to sit around, surf the Internet, and actually push your way into silly and annoying, little blogger games, then you REALLY need to get a life!"
But, I couldn't help myself. I had to put my 10 Ag. worth into this crucial question of the Top 5 Five Restaurants in my area. It originally read:
Add a direct link to the post below the name of the person who tagged you. Include city/state and country that you're in.
Stolen from
"Jacob DaJew"
Link
K'far Tapu'ah, Shomron, Israel
List out your top 5 favorite places to eat at your location.
I'm going to stick with Jacob's lead on this, and list "...my top five favorite places to get food from, not necessarily restaurants." I don't think I going to stick with just five, either. Oh, and, I'm not going to limit myself to one tiny location which is closer to Jordan than the Mediterranean Sea, either. Although most of my entries come from Jerusalem. Oh, yeah, and I'm going to categorize the entries. Hey, I stole it, right? I can play this however I want.
I am not going to tag anyone either. If you are interested in participating by listing your own favorites, and/or debating mine, make sure to leave a comment and link on this post. And, of course, in the self-promotional spirit of the Blogosphere, please DO link back to this post. (wink, grin) So far, only Batya has taken up the challenge.
1. Pizza
Let's face it. There's just no such thing as "good pizza in Israel." It's all about the crust. [Native-born] Israelis just don't seem to know how make good pizza crust, unless it's by accident. I heard a rumor that one place actually DID make good crust, but since "Israelis" didn't like it, he had to stop making it.
Anyway, the least worst pizza in Israel comes from Big Apple Pizza (Jerusalem Rabbanut - Mehadrin) in the Center of town, Jerusalem, and Pizza Shai in Beis Yisroel (Eidah Haredis).
Sure, people rave about Dr. Pizza (Rav Rubin), Bar Ilan Pizza (Eidah Haredis) and Pepperolli's (Eidah Haredis). I've had them all, and they are all OK. But, my votes for the above stand.
In all fairness, people used to rave about Pizza Larry, near Har Nof, which I've never tried. But, I believe it has moved.
2. Shawarmah
BY FAR, THE best shawarmah I've had in Israel has been from HaShawarmah (Rav Rubin) in the Shmu'el HaNavi neighborhood,...sort of. It's actually up on Golda Meir St., on the left before the Angels bakery. Both the turkey and the beef are good. I'm afraid I forgot if they have mutton, but if they do, then that's good, too. Their secret (not anymore) is that they don't over roast it. They then finish the cooking on the grill, according to order. It comes out very juicy this way.
Also worth mentioning is Hallo Teman (Rav Mahpud) which branches at the entrance to Jerusalem and at Coca-Cola Junction in B'nei Braq. In the spirit of "at your location," I will mention Baba Grill Bar in Ariel (Ariel Rabbinut, all mehadrin ingredients)
3. Yemenite
The best Yemenite restaurant could be found on the ground floor of the Tel-Aviv Central Bus Station. Don't laugh! If you look hard enough, you too, can find a treasure or two in this underrated bastion bargains. Unfortunately, the restaurant called HaTemani disappeared a couple of years ago. I may has found it again on Rothschild St. It has the same name, but I'll have to check if it is the same place.
An old standard for reasonably-priced, good Yemenite food is, of course, HaMervad HaQsamim (The Magic Carpet) on King George St. in Jerusalem.
4. Ashkinazi
OK. So, to be fair, I had better list the best traditional Ashkinazi food available. That would be Moshe Leiberbaum's (Eidah Haredis) on Shtrauss on the way to Kikar Shabbos in Jerusalem. I cannot recall this restaurant's real name. Everyone just calls it by the owner's name. All your favorites can be found here: Roast chicken, stuffed peppers, potato kugel, and [not necessarily] Ashkinazi salads. Try Moshe's chopped liver! This is a great place to go for Shabbos take out, when you're in a pinch, or even if you're not.
5. Bakeries
There are a lot of great bakeries in Israel. For mizrahi style, your best bet is in the HaTiqwah Neighborhood in Tel-Aviv. HaMervad HaQsamim (above) also makes their own saluf bread.
The best health/organic bakery is probably The Natural Choice (Belz) near Shuq Mahaneh Yehudah in Jerusalem.
The best "I can't believe they're not milkhig," gooey, chocolate, chocolate chip cookie in Israel is only one of the treats you will find at Habah (Agudas Yisroel), in Mahaneh Yehudah on Yaffo St. Both their separated, parve and dairy bakeries are worth a taste.
For the best "I can't believe they're not milkhig," fancy-shmancy items, go to the Belgian Bakery on KKL in the Sha'arei Hesed neighborhood of Jerusalem. Sorry to be stereotypical, but the Belgians really DO know their chocolate!
6. Fallafel
Last, but definitely not least, everyone always wants to know where the best Fallafel is in all of Israel. I have actually heard many claim that the best fallafel in Israel can be found in Qiriyath Shmemonah on the Lebanese border. I was only there once, and did not have fallafel, so I cannot say myself. What I have heard is that "green fallafel" is found more often in the north and in Lebanon, than down here in the center of the country, the are with which I am most familiar. "Green Fallafel," obtaining its green color and distinctive flavor from the extra parsley and coriander leaf (cilantro in Spanish and in the SW USA), is my favorite. The best green fallafel I have found is at Arba Ta'amim (Four Flavors) in B'nei Braq (Nahalath Yitzhaq* & B'nei Braq Rabbanut), with additional branches in Tel-Aviv. The other three flavors available are spicy, sesame seed, and regular.
Although I have eaten a great deal of fallafel in my life, I still do not consider my a conosuer. Fallafel King (Jerusalem Rabbanut - Mehadrin) on King George St. in Jerusalem, with its all-you-can-eat salads is not bad. But, I do look forward to YOUR recommendations!
Not mentioned here are the best ice cream in Israel, the best seafood in Israel, etc. Please let me know. The best coffee house in Israel probably deserves its own post. I'm always interested in new places in Israel to try.
Don't forget to leave your opinions in the comments to this post, and a link to your posts if possible.
בתאבון
Bon Appetit!
*****************************
*I must note that many are concerned with the validity of the Nahalath Yitzhaq Kashruth certification. I will simply state here that one may want to investigate establishments on a case by case basis. The certification is legitimate, but the manner in which the certification was procured may not be.
OK. So, I wasn't exactly "tagged" for this meme. In fact, I wasn't "tagged" at all.
I stole it.
I know, I know. You're all thinking:
"Ya'aqov, really! If you have time to sit around, surf the Internet, and actually push your way into silly and annoying, little blogger games, then you REALLY need to get a life!"
But, I couldn't help myself. I had to put my 10 Ag. worth into this crucial question of the Top 5 Five Restaurants in my area. It originally read:
Add a direct link to the post below the name of the person who tagged you. Include city/state and country that you're in.
Stolen from
"Jacob DaJew"
Link
K'far Tapu'ah, Shomron, Israel
List out your top 5 favorite places to eat at your location.
I'm going to stick with Jacob's lead on this, and list "...my top five favorite places to get food from, not necessarily restaurants." I don't think I going to stick with just five, either. Oh, and, I'm not going to limit myself to one tiny location which is closer to Jordan than the Mediterranean Sea, either. Although most of my entries come from Jerusalem. Oh, yeah, and I'm going to categorize the entries. Hey, I stole it, right? I can play this however I want.
I am not going to tag anyone either. If you are interested in participating by listing your own favorites, and/or debating mine, make sure to leave a comment and link on this post. And, of course, in the self-promotional spirit of the Blogosphere, please DO link back to this post. (wink, grin) So far, only Batya has taken up the challenge.
1. Pizza
Let's face it. There's just no such thing as "good pizza in Israel." It's all about the crust. [Native-born] Israelis just don't seem to know how make good pizza crust, unless it's by accident. I heard a rumor that one place actually DID make good crust, but since "Israelis" didn't like it, he had to stop making it.
Anyway, the least worst pizza in Israel comes from Big Apple Pizza (Jerusalem Rabbanut - Mehadrin) in the Center of town, Jerusalem, and Pizza Shai in Beis Yisroel (Eidah Haredis).
Sure, people rave about Dr. Pizza (Rav Rubin), Bar Ilan Pizza (Eidah Haredis) and Pepperolli's (Eidah Haredis). I've had them all, and they are all OK. But, my votes for the above stand.
In all fairness, people used to rave about Pizza Larry, near Har Nof, which I've never tried. But, I believe it has moved.
2. Shawarmah
BY FAR, THE best shawarmah I've had in Israel has been from HaShawarmah (Rav Rubin) in the Shmu'el HaNavi neighborhood,...sort of. It's actually up on Golda Meir St., on the left before the Angels bakery. Both the turkey and the beef are good. I'm afraid I forgot if they have mutton, but if they do, then that's good, too. Their secret (not anymore) is that they don't over roast it. They then finish the cooking on the grill, according to order. It comes out very juicy this way.
Also worth mentioning is Hallo Teman (Rav Mahpud) which branches at the entrance to Jerusalem and at Coca-Cola Junction in B'nei Braq. In the spirit of "at your location," I will mention Baba Grill Bar in Ariel (Ariel Rabbinut, all mehadrin ingredients)
3. Yemenite
The best Yemenite restaurant could be found on the ground floor of the Tel-Aviv Central Bus Station. Don't laugh! If you look hard enough, you too, can find a treasure or two in this underrated bastion bargains. Unfortunately, the restaurant called HaTemani disappeared a couple of years ago. I may has found it again on Rothschild St. It has the same name, but I'll have to check if it is the same place.
An old standard for reasonably-priced, good Yemenite food is, of course, HaMervad HaQsamim (The Magic Carpet) on King George St. in Jerusalem.
4. Ashkinazi
OK. So, to be fair, I had better list the best traditional Ashkinazi food available. That would be Moshe Leiberbaum's (Eidah Haredis) on Shtrauss on the way to Kikar Shabbos in Jerusalem. I cannot recall this restaurant's real name. Everyone just calls it by the owner's name. All your favorites can be found here: Roast chicken, stuffed peppers, potato kugel, and [not necessarily] Ashkinazi salads. Try Moshe's chopped liver! This is a great place to go for Shabbos take out, when you're in a pinch, or even if you're not.
5. Bakeries
There are a lot of great bakeries in Israel. For mizrahi style, your best bet is in the HaTiqwah Neighborhood in Tel-Aviv. HaMervad HaQsamim (above) also makes their own saluf bread.
The best health/organic bakery is probably The Natural Choice (Belz) near Shuq Mahaneh Yehudah in Jerusalem.
The best "I can't believe they're not milkhig," gooey, chocolate, chocolate chip cookie in Israel is only one of the treats you will find at Habah (Agudas Yisroel), in Mahaneh Yehudah on Yaffo St. Both their separated, parve and dairy bakeries are worth a taste.
For the best "I can't believe they're not milkhig," fancy-shmancy items, go to the Belgian Bakery on KKL in the Sha'arei Hesed neighborhood of Jerusalem. Sorry to be stereotypical, but the Belgians really DO know their chocolate!
6. Fallafel
Last, but definitely not least, everyone always wants to know where the best Fallafel is in all of Israel. I have actually heard many claim that the best fallafel in Israel can be found in Qiriyath Shmemonah on the Lebanese border. I was only there once, and did not have fallafel, so I cannot say myself. What I have heard is that "green fallafel" is found more often in the north and in Lebanon, than down here in the center of the country, the are with which I am most familiar. "Green Fallafel," obtaining its green color and distinctive flavor from the extra parsley and coriander leaf (cilantro in Spanish and in the SW USA), is my favorite. The best green fallafel I have found is at Arba Ta'amim (Four Flavors) in B'nei Braq (Nahalath Yitzhaq* & B'nei Braq Rabbanut), with additional branches in Tel-Aviv. The other three flavors available are spicy, sesame seed, and regular.
Although I have eaten a great deal of fallafel in my life, I still do not consider my a conosuer. Fallafel King (Jerusalem Rabbanut - Mehadrin) on King George St. in Jerusalem, with its all-you-can-eat salads is not bad. But, I do look forward to YOUR recommendations!
Not mentioned here are the best ice cream in Israel, the best seafood in Israel, etc. Please let me know. The best coffee house in Israel probably deserves its own post. I'm always interested in new places in Israel to try.
Don't forget to leave your opinions in the comments to this post, and a link to your posts if possible.
בתאבון
Bon Appetit!
*****************************
*I must note that many are concerned with the validity of the Nahalath Yitzhaq Kashruth certification. I will simply state here that one may want to investigate establishments on a case by case basis. The certification is legitimate, but the manner in which the certification was procured may not be.
Haveil Havalim #135 is up!
25 of the Seventh Month 5768
The post-Haggim edition of Haveil Havalim is now up on Soccer Dad's blog.
The post-Haggim edition of Haveil Havalim is now up on Soccer Dad's blog.
Monday, October 01, 2007
A Non-Offensive(?) Ramadan Joke
Hol HaMo'ed Sukkoth 5768
Last year, I was in the Me'ah Sha'arim neighborhood of Jerusalem during much of the Fall haggim. The Seventh Month (Tishrei) coincided with the Muslim month of Ramadan, during which Muslims fast during daylight hours. A cannon fired in the evening indicates the time when it is permissible for them to eat.
That year, I clearly recall hearing a second cannon fired a good 45 minutes to an hour after the first. I asked my friend if he knew what the second cannon was for.
But, then I realized was it for on my own. The second fired much later after sunset were for the Muslims who hold by Rabbenu Tam.
להבדיל
Rabbenu Tam is well-known for many of his rulings on Jewish Law, including his stringent ruling regarding when Shabbath ends.
Last year, I was in the Me'ah Sha'arim neighborhood of Jerusalem during much of the Fall haggim. The Seventh Month (Tishrei) coincided with the Muslim month of Ramadan, during which Muslims fast during daylight hours. A cannon fired in the evening indicates the time when it is permissible for them to eat.
That year, I clearly recall hearing a second cannon fired a good 45 minutes to an hour after the first. I asked my friend if he knew what the second cannon was for.
But, then I realized was it for on my own. The second fired much later after sunset were for the Muslims who hold by Rabbenu Tam.
להבדיל
*********
Rabbenu Tam is well-known for many of his rulings on Jewish Law, including his stringent ruling regarding when Shabbath ends.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Shabbat ba'Aretz
Mossa'ei Yom HaKippurim 5768
The various communities in Yehudah & Shomron (Judea & Samaria) are a lot more diverse than you might think. And, so there are diverse kinds of Shabbath experiences available to you, and all you need to do is pick up the phone.
"Shabbat ba'Aretz" (Shabbat In the Land) is a program connecting 18 - 35 year olds with families in Yehudah & Shomron for Shabbat. Learn about the Jewish People's Biblical connection to the land first hand, and meet the people who have returned to our ancient homeland.
Please call Jackie (02-9974030 or 054-6302174) by Tuesday to guarantee placement. First-come, first-serve. Please call between 9:00 AM and 10:00 PM. For your protection, Egged Buses have protective shields on their windows.
The Egged Bus schedule (English) provides you with easy and up-to-date, travel information from Jerusalem. Some buses are also available to Yehudah & Shomron from Tel-Aviv, Netanyah, K'far Saba, and Be'er Sheva. The Dan Bus Company provides many buses per day from Gush Dan (Greater Tel-Aviv Area) to the Shomron.
"Shabbat ba'Aretz" is also looking for families to host. At this point, families in which both the husband and wife speak English are being sought for hosting.
*****************************
My personal experiences hosting have been,... well,... unique. A lot of yeshivah students have been attracted to my town, K'far Tapu'ah, mainly by word of mouth.
I'd get the "call" from my neighbor, usually on a Friday afternoon, after the only store in town closed:
"Ya'aqov, a few extra guys showed up for Shabbos. Can you spare the room?"
I wish I could say that I acted like a tzaddiq about it. Last year, I was working nights, and tried to maintain my crazy nocturnal schedule even on Shabbath. We tried to limit the living room to two guys, and to very quiet ones at that. Last Shabbath Hanukkah (ner rishon), my roommate's friend, and fellow blogger, Doodle Head, came up with a couple of his friends, so I agreed to an exception.
As usual, all turned out well. The guys appreciated the warm place to sleep and snacks between meals, and conversation. Hint: Always have a spare, unopened bag of gar'inim (sunflower or other seeds) laying around. They can go along way with fruit, cake, and hot drinks.
Since then, I have been able to perform this simple, and particularly enjoyable misswah, simply by throwing a couple mattresses on the ground, and telling my guests a little about my town, starting with its Biblical history (Josh. 17), and the history of the surrounding area, the territory of Efraim to the south, and Mennasheh to the north, including Shkhem and Qever Yosef. Qever Yehoshu'a is just to our West near the City of Ariel.
Now a days, my friends Yekutiel and Ezra host meals for the 10 to 20 yeshivah students and families who come up for Shabbath on their half-year old hill, Elnaqam 4 (pictured above). Most of the guys do not want to miss out on the chance to sleep there, so my living room is bare nowadays. I shlep up past the town fence to the hill, passing olive groves and other fruit trees, the goats' barn, and the cemetery to join the fun. It is before the "Tapu'ah West" hill. Guests are so used to being within an eruv on Shabbath, they have to be reminded that there isn't one past the fence, nor on the hill.
Inside the big tent, equipped with electricity and running water, the atmosphere is very Shabbostik, to say the least with great food, divrei Torah, and lots of singing.
The morning includes davening on the "Tapu'ah West" hill, meals in the tent, and tours and talks about life in the Shomron.
A few weeks ago, guests were treated to helping a newly-wed couple celebrate, at one of their Sheva Brakhoth (wedding celebration) meals.
Men are not the only ones to enjoy Shabbath in Tapu'ah. When there is a request by women, the weekend is reserved for them, and the boys are told to come the following week. So far, a couple or groups of seminar and university students have enjoyed Shabbath here in Tapu'ah.
This is only one town's experience with Shabbat ba'Aretz. There are many experiences out there to be had in the diverse group of towns within Yehudah & Shomron.
So, whether you would like to host or be a guest, whether you live in Israel or are just visiting, just give our friend Jackie a call by Tuesday, between 9:00 AM and 10:00 PM, and see what is available (02-9974030 or 054-6302174).
Just think about what a great way such an experience would be to start off your new year!
*****************************
Those who like to donate money to promote and expand the program
should contact Menachem mengott@netvision.net.il.
*All money will be used for advertising the program.
The various communities in Yehudah & Shomron (Judea & Samaria) are a lot more diverse than you might think. And, so there are diverse kinds of Shabbath experiences available to you, and all you need to do is pick up the phone.
"Shabbat ba'Aretz" (Shabbat In the Land) is a program connecting 18 - 35 year olds with families in Yehudah & Shomron for Shabbat. Learn about the Jewish People's Biblical connection to the land first hand, and meet the people who have returned to our ancient homeland.
Please call Jackie (02-9974030 or 054-6302174) by Tuesday to guarantee placement. First-come, first-serve. Please call between 9:00 AM and 10:00 PM. For your protection, Egged Buses have protective shields on their windows.
The Egged Bus schedule (English) provides you with easy and up-to-date, travel information from Jerusalem. Some buses are also available to Yehudah & Shomron from Tel-Aviv, Netanyah, K'far Saba, and Be'er Sheva. The Dan Bus Company provides many buses per day from Gush Dan (Greater Tel-Aviv Area) to the Shomron.
"Shabbat ba'Aretz" is also looking for families to host. At this point, families in which both the husband and wife speak English are being sought for hosting.
*****************************
My personal experiences hosting have been,... well,... unique. A lot of yeshivah students have been attracted to my town, K'far Tapu'ah, mainly by word of mouth.I'd get the "call" from my neighbor, usually on a Friday afternoon, after the only store in town closed:
"Ya'aqov, a few extra guys showed up for Shabbos. Can you spare the room?"
I wish I could say that I acted like a tzaddiq about it. Last year, I was working nights, and tried to maintain my crazy nocturnal schedule even on Shabbath. We tried to limit the living room to two guys, and to very quiet ones at that. Last Shabbath Hanukkah (ner rishon), my roommate's friend, and fellow blogger, Doodle Head, came up with a couple of his friends, so I agreed to an exception.
As usual, all turned out well. The guys appreciated the warm place to sleep and snacks between meals, and conversation. Hint: Always have a spare, unopened bag of gar'inim (sunflower or other seeds) laying around. They can go along way with fruit, cake, and hot drinks.
Since then, I have been able to perform this simple, and particularly enjoyable misswah, simply by throwing a couple mattresses on the ground, and telling my guests a little about my town, starting with its Biblical history (Josh. 17), and the history of the surrounding area, the territory of Efraim to the south, and Mennasheh to the north, including Shkhem and Qever Yosef. Qever Yehoshu'a is just to our West near the City of Ariel.
Now a days, my friends Yekutiel and Ezra host meals for the 10 to 20 yeshivah students and families who come up for Shabbath on their half-year old hill, Elnaqam 4 (pictured above). Most of the guys do not want to miss out on the chance to sleep there, so my living room is bare nowadays. I shlep up past the town fence to the hill, passing olive groves and other fruit trees, the goats' barn, and the cemetery to join the fun. It is before the "Tapu'ah West" hill. Guests are so used to being within an eruv on Shabbath, they have to be reminded that there isn't one past the fence, nor on the hill.
Inside the big tent, equipped with electricity and running water, the atmosphere is very Shabbostik, to say the least with great food, divrei Torah, and lots of singing.
The morning includes davening on the "Tapu'ah West" hill, meals in the tent, and tours and talks about life in the Shomron.
A few weeks ago, guests were treated to helping a newly-wed couple celebrate, at one of their Sheva Brakhoth (wedding celebration) meals.
Men are not the only ones to enjoy Shabbath in Tapu'ah. When there is a request by women, the weekend is reserved for them, and the boys are told to come the following week. So far, a couple or groups of seminar and university students have enjoyed Shabbath here in Tapu'ah.
This is only one town's experience with Shabbat ba'Aretz. There are many experiences out there to be had in the diverse group of towns within Yehudah & Shomron.
So, whether you would like to host or be a guest, whether you live in Israel or are just visiting, just give our friend Jackie a call by Tuesday, between 9:00 AM and 10:00 PM, and see what is available (02-9974030 or 054-6302174).
Just think about what a great way such an experience would be to start off your new year!
*****************************
Those who like to donate money to promote and expand the program
should contact Menachem mengott@netvision.net.il.
*All money will be used for advertising the program.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
To Refuse Or Not To Refuse
8 of the Seventh Month 5768
I recently received an e-mail from a like-minded journalist in the north of Israel, SHmu'el HaLevy, commenting on the issue of IDF soldiers refusing orders.
Following his letter is my "10 Agaroth" on why soldiers are even placed in a situation where they must decide whether or not to follow orders.
Following this are links to news and additional commentary on the topic of IDF soldiers refusing orders.
Most people consider me to be a "right-wing extremist." I'll have to assume that's due to my respect for Torah and it's central importance to Am Yisrael and humanity in general. I cannot imagine why else I would be categorized in this manner.
However, many of those who have placed me into this box, a box in which I am quite pleased to dwell, are usually surprised, if not shocked, by the rahmanuth (compassion/mercy) with which I regard those IDF soldiers, thrown into a position of having to decide whether or not to refuse orders.
Usually, I am the one frustrated and yelling at those, even some so-called right-wing, religious Jews, who so casually want to give up land, which is not even ours to give up, and to expel Jews from their homes (See Mishneh Torah, Hil. Hovel u'Maziq Ch. 8). Yet the soldiers on the front lines are products of both Israeli public school brainwashing, and the teachings by what one Hakham (truly wise rabbi) calls "Rabbanim Tze'irim" (b'lashon haRaMB"aM). (Just hug them first, then throw them out of their homes.)
How can such soldiers be held responsible for any actions they take in violation of Torah? Eighteen years of programming is just too much for many of them to overcome. One is not exempt from attempting to get through to the Jewish soul locked inside of the soldier, and to encourage him to do the right thing. But for the long-term, we must target the sources of such indoctrination, for change.
*****************************************
The E-Mail:
Insubordination?
My son declared during his draft interview that he will refuse any order directing him to assault in any way Jewish people. His profile was then lowered to 72 and removed from actual soldiering. Right now he is inching back into relevant military assignments. Was he an exception. NOT BY FAR! He was not an isolated case. Thousands are segregated in that and other fashions.
It is completely in line with the present form of unJewish government to attempt to divert the people from the truth. And that is known TO EVERYONE that opted to reside inside the system.
Refusing to follow orders clearly oriented to harm JEWISH national interests and safety is indeed the obligation of every individual soldier.
But that is not good enough.
That soldier or soldiers opting not to follow ill conceived and or illegal orders must be given access to alternative service frameworks by a different system of government parallel to the one causing harm to the Nation. Simply refusing orders obviously geared to serve limited cadres and foreign interests is a great start but those fine people must know that THE PEOPLE support them.
That is another reason why a "government in waiting" including such options is also a top priority.
It is folly to believe that anyone will "change the quagmire from within". The GoI is completely at the service of certain cadres and they will not cede command, not ever.
SHmuel
*****************************************
My 10 Agaroth:
There is no question that this is taking place, and that there is differential treatment toward religious soldiers.
The Mamlakhtim are encouraged, and have future careers available to them in the army, because they are know to be "loyal" to the State.
The Toranim, those whose loyalties to HaShem and His Torah are greater than those toward the "almighty State" are scrutinized, have their Hesder yeshivah chipped away, [Hesder students] are not allowed to serve in certain units (paratroopers and one other). The army knew better than to have the Golani and Nahal Haredi units involved in any way with the Azza expulsion. But that's apparently not good enough. The Army is now "cleansing" certain units of soldiers like these with "disloyal" thinking.
Who is the instrument behind it all? A Mamlakhti head of army personnel. His name need not be mentioned.
Jews in Israel do not want to believe that the division between the TWO national religious camps is becoming more clearly defined everyday, for the sake of unity. Many Jews outside of Israel can't believe it.
The only way to combat this is to began at home by emphasizing to our children that:
חוקי התורה קודמין לחוקי האדם
1) "Torah Law takes precedence over human, or State, law," whenever there is a stirah (apparent contradiction).
2) If possible, send your children to non-MaMa"D (mamlakhti datti) schools, where, whether you like it or not, they are being indoctrinated into an Israeli society of numbed-out, State-loyalists
What does all of this have to do with enlisting into the army?
We must take responsibility for the education of our children. They'll be the ones on the front lines soon, both in and out of the army. The only way to prevent future expulsions is to have an army educated to know the difference between right (Torah) and wrong (non-Torah). We obviously cannot expect the State to do that for us. Look what happened when many of us tried that already. Some of you non-religious, nationalists [whom I happen to appreciate very much and with whom I can identify even more than the religious Mamlakhtim] may be asking, "Why do you have to bring up Torah? What does Torah have to do with it? You're only going to push people away from our cause. Now, he's the scary part: We're not only up against those in the Kenesseth who are adamantly anti-Torah, we're up against "rabbanim" who have money and resources to get out their mamlakhti hashqafic messages out there.
Fortunately, there are Rabbis out there who have the courage to differentiate between hallachah and Israeli law, AND actually back up what they say with hallachic [not hashqafic] sources. Rabbanim like Rav Dov Lior (Qiriyath Arba), Rav Moshe Tzuriel (B'nei Braq), Rav Yisrael Ariel (Makhon HaMiqdash) give us hope. But, we must do our part, which starts at home."
Some of you non-religious, nationalists [whom I happen to appreciate very much and with whom I can identify even more than the religious Mamlakhtim] may be asking, "Why do you have to bring up Torah? What does Torah have to do with it? You're only going to push people away from our cause."
Now, he's the scary part: We're not only up against those in the Kenesseth who are adamantly anti-Torah, we're up against "rabbanim" who have money and resources to get out their mamlakhti hashqafic messages out there.
One rabbi in the Shomron, has gone so far as to call the undying loyalty to the almighty State of some of these mamlakhti "rabbanim," avodah zarah, on level with our sin of worshiping the golden calf (Exodus 32). Other rabbis has suggested that "fascist" would be a more appropriate description. Either way, the prognosis does not appear to be very promising.
In addition to such rabbis who are not afraid to speak out, there are fortunately Rabbis out there who have the courage to differentiate between hallachah and Israeli law, AND actually back up what they say with hallachic [not hashqafic] sources.
Rabbanim like Rav Dov Lior (Qiriyath Arba), Rav Moshe Tzuriel (B'nei Braq), Rav Yisrael Ariel (Temple Institute) give us hope. But, we must do our part, which starts at home.
*****************************************
Additional News & Commentary on IDF Soldiers Refusing Orders:
Israel National TV:
Soldiers from the IDF "Dukifat" Unit Receive Awards
Lousi Rene Beres, Ph.D.:
On IDF Refusals To Follow Orders: The Interlocking Perspectives Of National Law, International Law And Jewish Law (Part One of Three)
Ted Belman:
Insubordination is Appropriate when Government is Illegitimate
I recently received an e-mail from a like-minded journalist in the north of Israel, SHmu'el HaLevy, commenting on the issue of IDF soldiers refusing orders.
Following his letter is my "10 Agaroth" on why soldiers are even placed in a situation where they must decide whether or not to follow orders.
Following this are links to news and additional commentary on the topic of IDF soldiers refusing orders.
Most people consider me to be a "right-wing extremist." I'll have to assume that's due to my respect for Torah and it's central importance to Am Yisrael and humanity in general. I cannot imagine why else I would be categorized in this manner.
However, many of those who have placed me into this box, a box in which I am quite pleased to dwell, are usually surprised, if not shocked, by the rahmanuth (compassion/mercy) with which I regard those IDF soldiers, thrown into a position of having to decide whether or not to refuse orders.
Usually, I am the one frustrated and yelling at those, even some so-called right-wing, religious Jews, who so casually want to give up land, which is not even ours to give up, and to expel Jews from their homes (See Mishneh Torah, Hil. Hovel u'Maziq Ch. 8). Yet the soldiers on the front lines are products of both Israeli public school brainwashing, and the teachings by what one Hakham (truly wise rabbi) calls "Rabbanim Tze'irim" (b'lashon haRaMB"aM). (Just hug them first, then throw them out of their homes.)
How can such soldiers be held responsible for any actions they take in violation of Torah? Eighteen years of programming is just too much for many of them to overcome. One is not exempt from attempting to get through to the Jewish soul locked inside of the soldier, and to encourage him to do the right thing. But for the long-term, we must target the sources of such indoctrination, for change.
*****************************************
The E-Mail:
Insubordination?
My son declared during his draft interview that he will refuse any order directing him to assault in any way Jewish people. His profile was then lowered to 72 and removed from actual soldiering. Right now he is inching back into relevant military assignments. Was he an exception. NOT BY FAR! He was not an isolated case. Thousands are segregated in that and other fashions.
It is completely in line with the present form of unJewish government to attempt to divert the people from the truth. And that is known TO EVERYONE that opted to reside inside the system.
Refusing to follow orders clearly oriented to harm JEWISH national interests and safety is indeed the obligation of every individual soldier.
But that is not good enough.
That soldier or soldiers opting not to follow ill conceived and or illegal orders must be given access to alternative service frameworks by a different system of government parallel to the one causing harm to the Nation. Simply refusing orders obviously geared to serve limited cadres and foreign interests is a great start but those fine people must know that THE PEOPLE support them.
That is another reason why a "government in waiting" including such options is also a top priority.
It is folly to believe that anyone will "change the quagmire from within". The GoI is completely at the service of certain cadres and they will not cede command, not ever.
SHmuel
*****************************************
My 10 Agaroth:
There is no question that this is taking place, and that there is differential treatment toward religious soldiers.
The Mamlakhtim are encouraged, and have future careers available to them in the army, because they are know to be "loyal" to the State.
The Toranim, those whose loyalties to HaShem and His Torah are greater than those toward the "almighty State" are scrutinized, have their Hesder yeshivah chipped away, [Hesder students] are not allowed to serve in certain units (paratroopers and one other). The army knew better than to have the Golani and Nahal Haredi units involved in any way with the Azza expulsion. But that's apparently not good enough. The Army is now "cleansing" certain units of soldiers like these with "disloyal" thinking.
Who is the instrument behind it all? A Mamlakhti head of army personnel. His name need not be mentioned.
Jews in Israel do not want to believe that the division between the TWO national religious camps is becoming more clearly defined everyday, for the sake of unity. Many Jews outside of Israel can't believe it.
The only way to combat this is to began at home by emphasizing to our children that:
חוקי התורה קודמין לחוקי האדם
1) "Torah Law takes precedence over human, or State, law," whenever there is a stirah (apparent contradiction).
2) If possible, send your children to non-MaMa"D (mamlakhti datti) schools, where, whether you like it or not, they are being indoctrinated into an Israeli society of numbed-out, State-loyalists
What does all of this have to do with enlisting into the army?
We must take responsibility for the education of our children. They'll be the ones on the front lines soon, both in and out of the army. The only way to prevent future expulsions is to have an army educated to know the difference between right (Torah) and wrong (non-Torah). We obviously cannot expect the State to do that for us. Look what happened when many of us tried that already. Some of you non-religious, nationalists [whom I happen to appreciate very much and with whom I can identify even more than the religious Mamlakhtim] may be asking, "Why do you have to bring up Torah? What does Torah have to do with it? You're only going to push people away from our cause. Now, he's the scary part: We're not only up against those in the Kenesseth who are adamantly anti-Torah, we're up against "rabbanim" who have money and resources to get out their mamlakhti hashqafic messages out there.
Fortunately, there are Rabbis out there who have the courage to differentiate between hallachah and Israeli law, AND actually back up what they say with hallachic [not hashqafic] sources. Rabbanim like Rav Dov Lior (Qiriyath Arba), Rav Moshe Tzuriel (B'nei Braq), Rav Yisrael Ariel (Makhon HaMiqdash) give us hope. But, we must do our part, which starts at home."
Some of you non-religious, nationalists [whom I happen to appreciate very much and with whom I can identify even more than the religious Mamlakhtim] may be asking, "Why do you have to bring up Torah? What does Torah have to do with it? You're only going to push people away from our cause."
Now, he's the scary part: We're not only up against those in the Kenesseth who are adamantly anti-Torah, we're up against "rabbanim" who have money and resources to get out their mamlakhti hashqafic messages out there.
One rabbi in the Shomron, has gone so far as to call the undying loyalty to the almighty State of some of these mamlakhti "rabbanim," avodah zarah, on level with our sin of worshiping the golden calf (Exodus 32). Other rabbis has suggested that "fascist" would be a more appropriate description. Either way, the prognosis does not appear to be very promising.
In addition to such rabbis who are not afraid to speak out, there are fortunately Rabbis out there who have the courage to differentiate between hallachah and Israeli law, AND actually back up what they say with hallachic [not hashqafic] sources.
Rabbanim like Rav Dov Lior (Qiriyath Arba), Rav Moshe Tzuriel (B'nei Braq), Rav Yisrael Ariel (Temple Institute) give us hope. But, we must do our part, which starts at home.
*****************************************
Additional News & Commentary on IDF Soldiers Refusing Orders:
Israel National TV:
Soldiers from the IDF "Dukifat" Unit Receive Awards
Lousi Rene Beres, Ph.D.:
On IDF Refusals To Follow Orders: The Interlocking Perspectives Of National Law, International Law And Jewish Law (Part One of Three)
Ted Belman:
Insubordination is Appropriate when Government is Illegitimate
Friday, August 31, 2007
Top Ten Words and Phrases of 5767/תשס"ז
Erev Shabbath Qodesh Parshath Wayelekh-Nissanim 5767
The following is the list of Top Ten Words and Phrases of תשס"ז/5767. The presentation of this list is an annual tradition. Do not expect to understand all of these words, unless of course, you currently live with me in the same domicile (a word which did not quite make the list,...maybe next year).
Enjoy.
Shannah Tovah.
10. Tedious This year's [hopefully] self-explanatory word
9. Poser Pseudo intellectuals to simple fakers and liars, posers are annoying.
8. Vermin Let's put it this way. I had to use some mouse traps smuggled in from the US, as the Israeli [legal] ones aren't so effective.
7. Uncouth A nice way of saying "Am Ha'Aretz."
6. Ill-Bred Provincial Another nice way of saying "Am Ha'Aretz." Unfortunately, one phrase just isn't enough for me.
5. Hiatus That annoying thing that TV series do, instead of perpetually pumping out new episodes. No, I don't have a working television.
4. Vulgar It's not what you think. If it was used in the book Vanity Fair by William Makepeace Thacheray, then it's OK to use in a blog post.
3. Insolence A favorite word of Dr. Evil, and quite a useful one at that.
2. Sparking Olives What would it sound like if the "Sparkling Wiggles" girl said "Sparkling Olives" instead? Think about it.
And the top word or phrase of תשס"ז/5767 is...
1. Harry Potter Really now, do you have to ask?
The following is the list of Top Ten Words and Phrases of תשס"ז/5767. The presentation of this list is an annual tradition. Do not expect to understand all of these words, unless of course, you currently live with me in the same domicile (a word which did not quite make the list,...maybe next year).
Enjoy.
Shannah Tovah.
10. Tedious This year's [hopefully] self-explanatory word
9. Poser Pseudo intellectuals to simple fakers and liars, posers are annoying.
8. Vermin Let's put it this way. I had to use some mouse traps smuggled in from the US, as the Israeli [legal] ones aren't so effective.
7. Uncouth A nice way of saying "Am Ha'Aretz."
6. Ill-Bred Provincial Another nice way of saying "Am Ha'Aretz." Unfortunately, one phrase just isn't enough for me.
5. Hiatus That annoying thing that TV series do, instead of perpetually pumping out new episodes. No, I don't have a working television.
4. Vulgar It's not what you think. If it was used in the book Vanity Fair by William Makepeace Thacheray, then it's OK to use in a blog post.
3. Insolence A favorite word of Dr. Evil, and quite a useful one at that.
2. Sparking Olives What would it sound like if the "Sparkling Wiggles" girl said "Sparkling Olives" instead? Think about it.
1. Harry Potter Really now, do you have to ask?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)