Podcasts about diaspora jews

The name Hannah Senesh is a household legend for many Israelis, and also for Diaspora Jews of a certain generation–especially those who attended Jewish school. Over the years, there have been books and films and documentaries about her, and even a recent re-enactment of Senesh's famous 1944 military commando mission when she and dozens of Jewish volunteers parachuted back into Nazi occupied Europe to try to rescue tens of thousands of imperilled Jews and also save downed Allied pilots. But Canadian journalist and author Douglas Century, of Calgary, felt there was more to discover about the brave Hungarian teenager who escaped growing antisemitism in her native Budapest at the start of the Second World War, to pursue her Zionist ideals as an illegal immigrant to British Mandate Palestine in 1939. Senesh was eventually captured by Hungarian collaborators, tortured, and despite an offer of clemency if she confessed, was executed by firing squad eighty-one years ago this week, on Nov. 7, 1944. She was only 23. Her poems and diaries were recovered after her death, and published, like Anne Frank's. One poem, known as “Eli Eli”, is regularly sung at Holocaust remembrance ceremonies. Douglas Century joins host Ellin Bessner on today's episode of The CJN's North Star podcast to explain why his new book about Hannah Senesh aims to challenge the historical record that the wartime mission was a failure. Related links Learn more about Douglas Century's new book about Hannah Senesh at the Canadian book launch on Nov. 19 at Toronto's Holy Blossom Temple.  Order the book “Crash of the Heavens: The Remarkable Story of Hannah Senesh”. Read The CJN's Treasure Trove from 2024 paying tribute on the 80th anniversary of Hannah Senesh's execution. Credits Host and writer: Ellin Bessner (@ebessner) Production team: Zachary Kauffman (senior producer), Andrea Varsany (producer), Michael Fraiman (executive producer) Music: Bret Higgins Support our show Subscribe to The CJN newsletter Donate to The CJN (+ get a charitable tax receipt) Subscribe to North Star (Not sure how? Click here)

Since October 7th, diaspora Jews have become more Israeli, and even Israelis have become more like diaspora Jews.

Two millennia of powerlessness still shapes the Jewish mind. But Diaspora Jews have power, and it's time to use it.

The Gaza war may be finally coming to an end, but it has made a long-term impact on Israel and the way the world views the Jewish state – including Diaspora Jews – especially those who spent the war on turbulent university campuses. Judy Maltz, Haaretz's Jewish World Editor, surveyed the effect of the two-year conflict on a group of young Jews from around the world, seeking to understand how their evolving views on Israel, antisemitism and Jewish identity changed since October 7. She found that a “vast majority of them” were “very, very troubled and distressed” after the October 7 attacks and were initially fully supportive of the Israeli incursion into Gaza. But two years into the war, “I did not find even one who could say wholeheartedly that they supported its continuation.” For some of the students, their changing sentiments propelled them into activism supporting protests to end the war. Others were motivated to step up their involvement in fighting campus antisemitism, which many experienced for the first time in their lives. Sometimes, students in the same country had completely contradictory experiences, Maltz reported. In Australia, she found one student who said they had encountered no hostility whatsoever, even as she was out demonstrating for the hostages with an Israeli flag. Yet another “had such a horrific experience that he's moving to Israel at the end of the year. He says Australia is no longer his home.” Read more: 'I Was Defending Something I No Longer Believed In': How Two Years of the Gaza War Changed Jewish Students Around the WorldSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with Yossi Klein Halevi. This week, we speak with Hartman Institute senior fellow, author and thinker Yossi Klein Halevi from his Jerusalem home overlooking the back of the Mount Herzl National Military Cemetery. With that backdrop, we delve into a recently published Klein Halevi essay, "Our season of reckoning: Israel’s moral crossroads in Gaza," which he said was the hardest piece he's ever written -- and the one that has received the most response. We learn why Klein Halevi felt it important to chart this moment of ethical dimension, as it is unlike any other the IDF and the nation has faced. While Klein Halevi may not have the answers to the multitude of questions facing the world's most moral army, he believes the struggle and questioning are imperative for both Israelis and Diaspora Jews. And so this week, we ask Yossi Klein Halevi, what matters now? What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Yossi Klein Halevi (courtesy) / People take part in a protest demanding the immediate release of all hostages held by Hamas and calling for the end of the war in the Gaza Strip, in Jerusalem, September 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Leo Correa)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On a special edition of the Haaretz Podcast – as Israel faces the Jewish High Holidays mired in war and political division, host Allison Kaplan Sommer speaks to Prof. Adam Ferziger about soul-searching and atonement with a focus on the Orthodox Jewish community in Israel and the Diaspora. Ferziger, who is also an ordained rabbi, believes the process of observing Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur “is all about humility.” “Rosh Hashanah comes before Yom Kippur, because in order to be able to go before God and do some sort of atonement, I have to first acknowledge my place in the world,” he said. Following October 7 and over the past two years of war, “so many of the players involved, unfortunately, feel that they know all the right answers, and there is a real lack of humility on many sides.” Faith and belief in God, he said, should not “be a cause for saying ‘I am more powerful and better, and I know the truth more than you do.’” In his new book, "Agents of Change: American Jews and the Transformation of Israeli Judaism," the Bar-Ilan University professor chronicles the rise of what he calls “moderate Orthodox Judaism” in Israel, the pioneering immigrant Diaspora Jews behind a more liberal and tolerant religious outlook – even as, politically, their presence in Israel strengthened the right and the settler movement. “Many are right-wing by most standards when it comes to politics, but that does not necessarily go along with their attitude towards Jews who differ from them, or on sexual identity, or the role of women in leadership – and many other subjects.” While it can be “very hard to pull those things apart,” Ferziger sees this dichotomy as an opportunity for “conversation between people in Israel who are moderate in a lot of areas and the broader community in America,” even when there are deep political disagreements. Read more: Israel's Religious Left Finds New Purpose Amid Gaza War What Future Is There for a Young, Leftist, Secular Family in the Israel of 2026? Opinion | What I Wish Rabbis Would Say About Israel, Gaza and the Palestinians in Their High Holy Day SermonsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with Yossi Klein Halevi. This week, we speak with Hartman Institute senior fellow, author and thinker Yossi Klein Halevi from his Jerusalem home overlooking the back of the Mount Herzl National Military Cemetery. With that backdrop, we delve into a recently published Klein Halevi essay, "Our season of reckoning: Israel’s moral crossroads in Gaza," which he said was the hardest piece he's ever written -- and the one that has received the most response. We learn why Klein Halevi felt it important to chart this moment of ethical dimension, as it is unlike any other the IDF and the nation has faced. While Klein Halevi may not have the answers to the multitude of questions facing the world's most moral army, he believes the struggle and questioning are imperative for both Israelis and Diaspora Jews. And so this week, we ask Yossi Klein Halevi, what matters now? What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Yossi Klein Halevi (courtesy) / People take part in a protest demanding the immediate release of all hostages held by Hamas and calling for the end of the war in the Gaza Strip, in Jerusalem, September 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Leo Correa)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Diaspora Jews have spent nearly two full years seeing posters of Israeli hostages ripped down in public, hearing chants of “Go back to Poland” in the streets, and seeing Zionists banned from progressive organizations and events. After all that, Diaspora Jews could be suffering from a condition called “traumatic invalidation”. The diagnosis is contained in a research paper published this year by two Jewish Harvard University–affiliated psychologists who specialize in trauma. The symptoms include anxiety, depression, shame and, in extreme cases, post-traumatic stress disorder. The authors found that Jewish patients reported their pain and trauma after Oct. 7 has been not only widely ignored, but in many cases denied—or even weaponized against them. Since their study was published by The Journal of Human Behaviour in the Social Environment in May 2025, it has struck a chord among the Canadian Jewish community. That's why a coalition of Canadian synagogues, Jewish medical professionals and trauma organizations have brought one of the authors to this country this week for a series of public talks. On today's episode of The CJN's North Star podcast, host Ellin Bessner sits down with Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern, a Boston-based clinical psychologist and Harvard lecturer, who is wrapping up her speaking tour in Toronto. She explains why she decided to investigate this subject and offers some tools to help people heal. Related links Read Dr. Bar-Halpern and her colleague's scholarly article, about Oct. 7 and traumatic invalidation, in The Journal of Human Behaviour in the Social Environment (22 pages). Learn more about Dr. Bar-Halperin, through her website. Attend the workshop Friday Sept. 5 in Toronto designed for mental health professionals to train them how to better support Jewish patients suffering from traumatic invalidation because of antisemitism. Credits Host and writer: Ellin Bessner (@ebessner) Production team: Zachary Kauffman (senior producer), Andrea Varsany (producer), Michael Fraiman (executive producer) Music: Bret Higgins Support our show Subscribe to The CJN newsletter Donate to The CJN (+ get a charitable tax receipt) Subscribe to North Star (Not sure how? Click here)

Nadav's Op-ed in Hebrew: ynet.co.il/yedioth/article/yokra14492636Subscribe to Inside Call me Back: inside.arkmedia.orgGift a subscription of Inside Call me Back: inside.arkmedia.org/giftsSubscribe to Amit Segal's newsletter ‘It's Noon in Israel': arkmedia.org/amitsegal/Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastCheck out Ark Media's other podcasts: For Heaven's Sake: lnk.to/rfGlrA‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/rbGlvMFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorTo order Dan Senor & Saul Singer's book, The Genius of Israel: tinyurl.com/bdeyjsdnToday's Episode: On Thursday, Ark Media Contributor Nadav Eyal published an op-ed on Ynet titled “An Existential Crossroads: between exile and state,” in which he argued that both Diaspora Jews and Jews in Israel are at a crossroads. On today's episode, we discuss Nadav's provocative piece with Nadav himself and Ark Media's other contributor, Amit Segal, who, as usual, comes at the issues from a different perspective. CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorADAAM JAMES LEVIN-AREDDY - Executive ProducerMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Operations DirectorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer

Have you heard of the World Zionist Congress before? Until relatively recently, a lot of people hadn't—including two hosts of The CJN's Not in Heaven podcast. Yet, perhaps owing to the impact of Oct. 7 and the wide-reaching effects of the Israeli government's actions on the Jewish Diaspora, Jews around the world have found themselves not only suddenly attentive to the existence of the World Zionist Congress, but actively vying for a voice at the table. (For more on what's at stake, listen to a recent episode of our sister podcast, North Star.) And so get-out-the-vote campaigns are in full swing for Zionists to fight over who gets to control a billion-dollar fund. In the U.S., WZC elections set a new turnout record, nearly doubling participation since the last election in 2020. Meanwhile, Canada is holding its first election for the WZC in decades. This week on Not in Heaven, our rabbinic hosts cast a skeptical eye towards the whole enterprise—while one reveals they are actually a delegate on one of the electoral slates, and explains what that entails. Elsewhere in this episode, co-host Matthew Leibl reports from his home province of Manitoba, where wildfires coninue to ravage the province, and we discuss Swedish activist Greta Thunberg's flotilla stunt, as she was swiftly deported after trying to float into Gaza to deliver aid. Credits Hosts: Avi Finegold, Yedida Eisenstat, Matthew Leibl Production team: Zachary Judah Kauffman (editor), Michael Fraiman (executive producer) Music: Socalled Support The CJN Subscribe to The CJN newsletter Donate to The CJN (+ get a charitable tax receipt) Subscribe to Not in Heaven (Not sure how? Click here)

"Unfortunately, the malign forces — unmatched in human history — threaten to consume Jews once more. However, this time, we are winning. The question is, do we have the will to achieve victory?"

Embracing Exile: The Case for Jewish Diaspora (Oxford University Press, 2025) analyzes biblical and rabbinic texts, philosophical treatises, studies of Kabbalah, Hasidism, and a multiplicity of modern expressions for a comprehensive history of Jewish responses to and justifications of their diasporas. It shows that Diaspora Jews through the ages insisted that God joined them in their exiles, that "Zion" was found in Babylon and Eastern Europe, and that, as citizens of the world, Jews could only live throughout the world. The result is a convincing assertion that lament has not been the most common Jewish response to diaspora and that Zionism is not the natural outcome of either Jewish ideology or history. David Kraemer is Joseph J. and Dora Abbell Librarian at the Jewish Theological Seminary, where he has also served as Professor of Talmud and Rabbinics for many years. As Librarian, he is at the helm of the most extensive collection of Judaica-rare and contemporary-in the Western hemisphere. He is the author of several books on Rabbinic Judaism and its texts, the social and religious history of Jews in antiquity, and Jewish rituals and their development. Caleb Zakarin is editor at the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/jewish-studies

Embracing Exile: The Case for Jewish Diaspora (Oxford University Press, 2025) analyzes biblical and rabbinic texts, philosophical treatises, studies of Kabbalah, Hasidism, and a multiplicity of modern expressions for a comprehensive history of Jewish responses to and justifications of their diasporas. It shows that Diaspora Jews through the ages insisted that God joined them in their exiles, that "Zion" was found in Babylon and Eastern Europe, and that, as citizens of the world, Jews could only live throughout the world. The result is a convincing assertion that lament has not been the most common Jewish response to diaspora and that Zionism is not the natural outcome of either Jewish ideology or history. David Kraemer is Joseph J. and Dora Abbell Librarian at the Jewish Theological Seminary, where he has also served as Professor of Talmud and Rabbinics for many years. As Librarian, he is at the helm of the most extensive collection of Judaica-rare and contemporary-in the Western hemisphere. He is the author of several books on Rabbinic Judaism and its texts, the social and religious history of Jews in antiquity, and Jewish rituals and their development. Caleb Zakarin is editor at the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/intellectual-history

Israeli Jews ask for forgiveness. Diaspora Jews ask for permission. In our post-October 7th world increasingly hostile to Jewish identity, both are necessary.

Embracing Exile: The Case for Jewish Diaspora (Oxford University Press, 2025) analyzes biblical and rabbinic texts, philosophical treatises, studies of Kabbalah, Hasidism, and a multiplicity of modern expressions for a comprehensive history of Jewish responses to and justifications of their diasporas. It shows that Diaspora Jews through the ages insisted that God joined them in their exiles, that "Zion" was found in Babylon and Eastern Europe, and that, as citizens of the world, Jews could only live throughout the world. The result is a convincing assertion that lament has not been the most common Jewish response to diaspora and that Zionism is not the natural outcome of either Jewish ideology or history. David Kraemer is Joseph J. and Dora Abbell Librarian at the Jewish Theological Seminary, where he has also served as Professor of Talmud and Rabbinics for many years. As Librarian, he is at the helm of the most extensive collection of Judaica-rare and contemporary-in the Western hemisphere. He is the author of several books on Rabbinic Judaism and its texts, the social and religious history of Jews in antiquity, and Jewish rituals and their development. Caleb Zakarin is editor at the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Embracing Exile: The Case for Jewish Diaspora (Oxford University Press, 2025) analyzes biblical and rabbinic texts, philosophical treatises, studies of Kabbalah, Hasidism, and a multiplicity of modern expressions for a comprehensive history of Jewish responses to and justifications of their diasporas. It shows that Diaspora Jews through the ages insisted that God joined them in their exiles, that "Zion" was found in Babylon and Eastern Europe, and that, as citizens of the world, Jews could only live throughout the world. The result is a convincing assertion that lament has not been the most common Jewish response to diaspora and that Zionism is not the natural outcome of either Jewish ideology or history. David Kraemer is Joseph J. and Dora Abbell Librarian at the Jewish Theological Seminary, where he has also served as Professor of Talmud and Rabbinics for many years. As Librarian, he is at the helm of the most extensive collection of Judaica-rare and contemporary-in the Western hemisphere. He is the author of several books on Rabbinic Judaism and its texts, the social and religious history of Jews in antiquity, and Jewish rituals and their development. Caleb Zakarin is editor at the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/middle-eastern-studies

Embracing Exile: The Case for Jewish Diaspora (Oxford University Press, 2025) analyzes biblical and rabbinic texts, philosophical treatises, studies of Kabbalah, Hasidism, and a multiplicity of modern expressions for a comprehensive history of Jewish responses to and justifications of their diasporas. It shows that Diaspora Jews through the ages insisted that God joined them in their exiles, that "Zion" was found in Babylon and Eastern Europe, and that, as citizens of the world, Jews could only live throughout the world. The result is a convincing assertion that lament has not been the most common Jewish response to diaspora and that Zionism is not the natural outcome of either Jewish ideology or history. David Kraemer is Joseph J. and Dora Abbell Librarian at the Jewish Theological Seminary, where he has also served as Professor of Talmud and Rabbinics for many years. As Librarian, he is at the helm of the most extensive collection of Judaica-rare and contemporary-in the Western hemisphere. He is the author of several books on Rabbinic Judaism and its texts, the social and religious history of Jews in antiquity, and Jewish rituals and their development. Caleb Zakarin is editor at the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/israel-studies

Embracing Exile: The Case for Jewish Diaspora (Oxford University Press, 2025) analyzes biblical and rabbinic texts, philosophical treatises, studies of Kabbalah, Hasidism, and a multiplicity of modern expressions for a comprehensive history of Jewish responses to and justifications of their diasporas. It shows that Diaspora Jews through the ages insisted that God joined them in their exiles, that "Zion" was found in Babylon and Eastern Europe, and that, as citizens of the world, Jews could only live throughout the world. The result is a convincing assertion that lament has not been the most common Jewish response to diaspora and that Zionism is not the natural outcome of either Jewish ideology or history. David Kraemer is Joseph J. and Dora Abbell Librarian at the Jewish Theological Seminary, where he has also served as Professor of Talmud and Rabbinics for many years. As Librarian, he is at the helm of the most extensive collection of Judaica-rare and contemporary-in the Western hemisphere. He is the author of several books on Rabbinic Judaism and its texts, the social and religious history of Jews in antiquity, and Jewish rituals and their development. Caleb Zakarin is editor at the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/religion

Embracing Exile: The Case for Jewish Diaspora (Oxford University Press, 2025) analyzes biblical and rabbinic texts, philosophical treatises, studies of Kabbalah, Hasidism, and a multiplicity of modern expressions for a comprehensive history of Jewish responses to and justifications of their diasporas. It shows that Diaspora Jews through the ages insisted that God joined them in their exiles, that "Zion" was found in Babylon and Eastern Europe, and that, as citizens of the world, Jews could only live throughout the world. The result is a convincing assertion that lament has not been the most common Jewish response to diaspora and that Zionism is not the natural outcome of either Jewish ideology or history. David Kraemer is Joseph J. and Dora Abbell Librarian at the Jewish Theological Seminary, where he has also served as Professor of Talmud and Rabbinics for many years. As Librarian, he is at the helm of the most extensive collection of Judaica-rare and contemporary-in the Western hemisphere. He is the author of several books on Rabbinic Judaism and its texts, the social and religious history of Jews in antiquity, and Jewish rituals and their development. Caleb Zakarin is editor at the New Books Network.

Ever wondered how Diaspora Jews help decide the fate of a $1 billion fund in Israel? Join Noam Weissman and special guest Tova Dorfman, President of the World Zionist Organization, for a fast-paced guide to the World Zionist Congress elections—who's on the ballot, what's at stake, and why every Jewish voter needs to make their voice heard by May 4th. Link to Vote: https://azm.castiron.votem.net/election/037548cb-4cbb-4a94-aa9a-8aef017d4ddf

This week was the opening of the 2025 World Zionist Congress Elections.  On the show, I welcome Rabbi Josh Weinberg to talk about the meaning of this momentous opportunity to support Israel.  Rabbi Weinberg is the URJ Vice President for Israel and Reform Zionism and the Executive Director of ARZA.  Please listen to have your voice heard and direct more than $1 Billion of funding for Israel. The World Zionist Organization (WZO) and the World Zionist Congress (WZC) are central nongovernmental institutions in Israel.  While not a part of the Israeli government, “The Parliament of the Jewish People” represents a variety of Israeli political parties, their platforms and visions for Israeli society.     The WZO was founded by Theodor Herzl in Basel, Switzerland in 1897 at the first World Zionist Congress. Even though they predate the State of Israel, the country's founders knew that to succeed it had to be a project of the entire global Jewish People. They baked the WZO and WZC into the Democratic process of Israel as the one way for Diaspora Jews to have a say in the important Issues facing the Jewish People and Jewish State.  Often called “The Parliament of the Jewish People,” the WZC convenes every five years to bring together representatives from Jewish communities around the world to decide on key issues affecting the Jewish people in Israel and globally.  The Congress elects the leadership of the WZO, sets policies, and influences the allocation of significant funding of about $1 billion annually.  VOTE HERE:  www.azm.org LEARN ABOUT THE REFORM MOVEMENT SLATE HERE: https://www.vote4reform.org/ Check out this video to learn more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KGWRp7_vZH8&t=10s If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe and follow Temple Israel on social media to stay up to date on Waking Up To Life.    Edited by: Alex Wolf Original Music Composed by: Dan Hacker   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/templeisraelmi  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/templeisraelmi/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLn9spWvsCBvcQ-o5XLeFLHKcLoj2nBAfM  Web: https://www.temple-israel.org/wakinguptolifepod  You can get this podcast anywhere you get your media.  Join over 10,000 listeners who have been inspired by the show. And if you have someone with a story to tell, please contact me at josh@temple-israel.org

How did Israel education in the Jewish Diaspora fail as abysmally as it did? Can it still be corrected? In a special double episode, Yehuda HaKohen is joined by Joe Schwartz to discuss the state of Israel education for Diaspora Jews and his work in the field through the Makom organization. In the course of their rich conversation, the two also reminisce about life in late 20th Century New York City and discuss Jewish identity, the pros and cons of liberal ideology, how to relate to Diaspora-based Jewish religious denominations, and the tribal socio-political tensions currently dividing Israeli society.

Peter through this sermon or preaching, will explain to the audience (many Diaspora Jews who had come for the special celebration, some to stay permanently in Jerusalem, some temporary) what is happening. God is doing this for a purpose. He will explain that this is a new beginning for Israel. From now on, the Holy […]

On Jan. 21, the Prosserman JCC in Toronto will host the Canadian premiere of Israel Swings for Gold, the documentary sequel to the sleeper hit Heading Home: The Tale of Team Israel, which followed the team's assembly and Cinderella run at the 2017 World Baseball Classic. Reunited for the Tokyo Olympics, the Israeli baseball team—a hodgepodge of Jewish American rookies, former MLB players and native-born Israelis—wound up disappointing Jewish fans worldwide with an early loss to the Dominican Republic. But the story of the team's coming together, educating Israelis about a sport that Diaspora Jews have excelled at for decades, makes the thrust of this new documentary worthwhile. To chat about the film and the important of bringing it to Canada, The CJN's sports podcasters invited on Alex Voihanski, chairperson of Unity Through Sport, which is sponsoring the premiere, and communications consultant Alan Hudes. Credits Hosts: James Hirsh and Gabe Pulver Producer: Michael Fraiman Music: Coby Lipovitch (intro), chēēZ π (main theme, "Organ Grinder Swing") Support The CJN Follow the podcast on Twitter @menschwarmers Subscribe to The CJN newsletter Donate to The CJN (+ get a charitable tax receipt) Subscribe to Menschwarmers (Not sure how? Click here)

The turbulent events of 2024 in Israel had a significant impact around the world. The ongoing war in Gaza and other fronts had a particularly deep and emotional effect on the lives of Diaspora Jews, who coped with angry protests against Israel on campuses and in city centers, and with soaring rates of antisemitic violence. The new and disturbing environment ignited “a feeling of vulnerability and exile that came back to us,” said Paris Rabbi Delphine Horvilleur, one of the important voices from the Diaspora who joined the Haaretz Podcast over the course of the year. Excerpts from the conversation between podcast host Allison Kaplan Sommer and Horvilleur, along with insights from interviews with other leading thinkers from the Jewish world like writers Franklin Foer, Ayelet Waldman, and Masha Gessen and award-winning playwright and screenwriter Tony Kushner are featured on this special year-end edition of the podcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DISCLAIMER: This podcast does not reflect any affiliation with either party and the opinions expressed in this episode do not reflect the opinions of either speaker's affiliation with any organization.  It's time to vote. For some, they rush to the polls excited to cast their ballot. For others, it's a day of dread. Jews this year are a particularly divided demographic. Who is ultimately better? The progressive values that come with Kamala Harris's campaign or the right-wing values that red lines in support of Zionism with Donald Trump? Z.E. Silver is a well-known TikToker and educator on various social media platforms. His work has often attracted both the left and the right in the Jewish community as he has defended Zionism, exposed truths, and debated other content creators online. Chaz Volk has the privilege of learning from him as he gets ready to cast his vote. 00:00 Shalom Chaverim 04:12 Community strengthens Jewish identity and personal growth. 09:11 Vote based on personal values and priorities. 13:00 Witnessing conflict shifted perceptions about idealism. 16:47 Realized Russia was adversary; foreign policy divided. 19:21 Parties converging: Both extremes mirror each other. 23:56 Diaspora Jews thrive with strong democratic leadership. 25:03 America offers unparalleled religious and individual freedom. 30:59 She loses due to declining Jewish support. 34:56 October 7th: Globally defining moment; Israel-Gaza conflict transformed. 36:06 Stalemate until unexpected war; dominoes falling. 39:59 Increased minority support for Trump after October 7th. 45:13 System prevents demagogues and mob rule nationally. 47:11 Thankful for analysis; crucial election's impact. About Z.E. Silver: Zach has worked for the Jewish people his entire life from being a camp counselor and youth group leader to serving as a volunteer and now a Jewish professional for over six years across three different organizations. His education in international affairs and political science along with his experience working in professional politics combined with time spent in the for-profit realm has uniquely shaped his worldview. Over the last year, he has been creating content hoping to educate others on the intricacies of Judaism, Jewish culture, Israel, Zionism, U.S. Politics, and International Relations. He amassed 27,000 followers on TikTok and over 350 subscribers on his Substack, Gam v'Gam.  Connect with Z.E. Silver: TikTok @silver_z.e GamVGam.substack.com Connect with Bad Jew: BadJew.co https://linktr.ee/badjew BadJewPod@gmail.com Ig @BadJewPod TikTok @BadJewPod

Send us a textThis Kol Nidrei sermon reflects on the transformative journey from the days of Golda Meir's tireless efforts to establish the State of Israel to a more personal encounter with Israel's realities. Rabbi Bernath shares a profound story of unity and resilience—both his own, as a young man in Israel during the Second Intifada, and the collective Jewish response to the recent tragedies of October 7th. The sermon underscores the powerful, unbreakable bond between diaspora Jews and their Israeli brethren. Rabbi Bernath calls upon the Jewish community to seize this moment, to step forward as leaders, and to nurture a shared future rooted in hope, responsibility, and a renewed commitment to Jewish identity. As the torchbearers of today, we must bridge our history with a future of unity, resilience, and optimism.Key Takeaways:The Legacy of Leadership and Courage Golda Meir's story inspires us to see ourselves as essential actors in the unfolding story of the Jewish people. Her example calls us to step up, embodying her courage and dedication to the survival and flourishing of the Jewish nation.Personal Connection to Israel Rabbi Bernath's firsthand experience in Israel highlights the importance of diaspora Jews feeling a personal, intimate bond with Israel—not as distant observers, but as family united by shared experiences, struggles, and purpose.Rising to the Challenge of a New Era The tragedies of recent events have fostered a new sense of connection between diaspora Jews and Israelis. Now, more than ever, we are called to action—not only through financial support but through an emotional and spiritual commitment to unity.A Call to Action for the Jewish Community Each member of the community has a role to play. We must not remain passive spectators but become active participants in shaping the future of the Jewish people. The sermon urges us to step forward, embrace our Jewish identity, and contribute to a thriving and unified global Jewish community.Embracing Optimism and Hope for the Future Despite the darkness we face, our response should be one of hope and joy. Rabbi Bernath calls us to imagine a future filled with resilience, where Jewish unity is our strength, and our communities are places of warmth, vibrancy, and growth.#YomKippur #KolNidrei #Israel #IDasporaJews #Jewish #JewishIdentity #JewishHistory #Jewishfuture Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

As the ongoing genocide in Gaza now spreads to war with Hezbollah in Lebanon and the mass bombing of Lebanese citizens, this podcast is the first of a series of regular Friday features that examines current events to give them meaningful historical context. In this episode we explore the history of Israel's sense of national identity from 1948 onwards. As Yishuv and Diaspora Jews (the later having survived genocide in Europe) encountered one another in the late 1940s and early 1950s deep seated anxieties and prejudices towards the new arrivals often surfaced, along with fears about what their presence meant for the future of Israel and its identity.This podcast draws from The Fear and the Freedom by Keith Lowe, which you can buy hereHelp the podcast to continue bringing you history each weekIf you enjoy the Explaining History podcast and its many years of content and would like to help the show continue, please consider supporting it in the following ways:If you want to go ad-free, you can take out a membership hereOrYou can support the podcast via Patreon hereOr you can just say some nice things about it here Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/explaininghistory. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the days leading up to the 2024 Paris Olympics, numerous Israeli athletes have received anonymous death threats, proclaiming a repeat of the 1972 Munich massacre. A far-left French lawmaker denounced the Israeli delegation as being "not welcome in Paris." Rather than bowing out, Israel has been assured of 24-hour security by the French interior minister. It's a tremendous amount of extra pressure on the country's top athletes, who are already under stress to compete internationally and make their country proud. At the last Summer Olympics in Tokyo, the Holy Land's delegation came out with a record-breaking 90 athletes—and won two golds and two bronzes, their best showing ever. Can they improve this year in Paris? To guide us through the top Olympic sports to watch, the Menschwarmers are joined by Ido Rakovsky, the sports editor at Haaretz covering the 2024 Summer Games. And before that, the hosts walk through some notable Diaspora Jews worth keeping eyes on as the games kick off on July 26. Credits Menschwarmers is hosted by James Hirsh and Gabe Pulver, and produced and edited by Michael Fraiman. Our intro music is by Coby Lipovitch, and our outro music is "Organ Grinder Swing" by chēēZ π. This show is a member of The CJN Podcast Network. Follow the Menschwarmers on Twitter @menschwarmers or TikTok @menschwarmers. Support the show by subscribing to this podcast or donating to The CJN.

A few days ago, Israeli Knesset member Sharren Haskel, who was born in Canada, made headlines when she said her 88-year-old grandmother, who lives outside of Paris, had been badly beaten by two Arab suspects who noticed the visibly Jewish elderly woman wearing a Star of David necklace. The alleged attack is part of a series of antisemitic violence against French Jews that has sprung up since Oct. 7—and spiked even higher in the run-up to the recent French election. Over the weekend, early ballot results proved a surge in popularity for the federal far-right party with Holocaust-denial roots, led by Marine Le Pen, but also tallied the shocking victory of a hastily assembled leftist coalition whose leader has sided with Palestinians, engaged in antisemitic tropes and downplayed the antisemitism problem sweeping France. Haskel posted on social media that France has abandoned its responsibility to protect Jews, and argues it's time for her grandmother—and other Diaspora Jews—to move to Israel for their own safety. The Israeli politician warns that these same antisemitic currents in France are also at play here in Canada, and brought her message directly to this country's lawmakers and Jewish leaders during a recent trip to Toronto and Ottawa, sponsored by the Exigent Foundation. Haskel joined The CJN Daily's Ellin Bessner to explain why she thinks Canada is seeing the growing influence of the forces of Iran and the Muslim Brotherhood, and why Canada's pro-Palestinian stance on the war—including support for UNRWA—is like "a knife in the back" that "will cost Israeli lives." What we talked about: Read Haskel's article in a French newspaper from July 3 about how France is failing to protect its Jews from radical Islam Learn why Haskel's IDF military service during the Second Intifada coloured her views of possible peace with Palestinians, in The CJN from 2017, and read other Sharren Haskel coverage in The CJN archives Follow Haskel on Instagram **Credits: ** The CJN Daily is written and hosted by Ellin Bessner (@ebessner on Twitter). Zachary Kauffman is the producer. Michael Fraiman is the executive producer. Our theme music is by Dov Beck-Levine.  We're a member of The CJN Podcast Network. To subscribe to this podcast, please watch this video. Donate to The CJN and receive a charitable tax receipt by clicking here. Hear why The CJN is important to me.

In this episode, Einat argues that although she once believed that the best thing for a Jew living in the Diaspora to do was to move to Israel, "to make Aliyah," today, it matters more for Israel to live in every Jew, rather than for every Jew to live in Israel. In order to make this a reality, Israel must invest resources not just in bringing Jews to Israel to stay, but to engage Diaspora Jews in all areas: education, culture, military, business, and more. 

Rabbi Delphine Horveilleur, considered one of the most powerful and prominent voices of French Jewry, spoke with Haaretz Podcast host Allison Kaplan Sommer during her first visit to Israel since the October 7 attacks and the beginning of Israel's war in Gaza, and discussed the way in which for Diaspora Jews, the attacks meant "that our refuge isn't safe anymore." Horveilleur describes 'a feeling of vulnerability and exile that came back to us. And even in Israel, there's a feeling that we're all in a way in a kind of 'galut" - exile - and there is an awareness of brokenness in us." At the same time, she says, the current situation presents an opportunity for a "renewed conversation" between Israel and the Diaspora. She feels Israelis, who are usually "focused on strength," are currently more able to relate to feelings of "fragility and the vulnerability," that Diaspora Jews deal with more openly. Contemplating the rise of antisemitism around the world, Horveilleur says confronting people about their antisemitism is "totally useless." "It never even makes them aware of the problem," she expands. "Many people say 'I am not an antisemite' but they speak in an antisemitic language, it's almost an ancient antisemitic tongue that people use without knowing." Also on the podcast, Hebrew University professor Tamar Megiddo, an expert in public international law, lays out the challenges that face Israel in the International Court of Justice and International Criminal Court. Megiddo discusses the likely consequences of the request for arrest warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on charges of violating international humanitarian law.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Diaspora Jews, Palestinian Israelis, and Turkish Kurds have more in common than meets the eye.

On this show: Tamar speaks with Aliyah Activist Josh Wander on a special conference that took place in Jerusalem last week on the subject of 'Emergency Aliyah'. The 'What and Why'. Check out the conference at: https://youtu.be/c8BJGdAK__s?feature=shared and their website at: https://bringthemhome.org.il/ Also, the latest news from the northern border to the southern border, both under attack. How will Israel take out the Hamas, and has the government finally given the green light for Rafah, since their bombings today on Israeli forces? Alan Silver from 'Alan Silver News' on Whatsapp, speaks to Tamar and gives Listeners the run-down. Try this link to join the Alan Silver News on Whatsapp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DBoIFbeVr8H9r8sGo7Zn2W The Tamar Yonah Show 05MAY2024 - PODCAST

The chaos sweeping across US campuses has captured the attention of Americans and those worldwide no less. We watch as events unfold, we hear what is chanted on repeat, and see the unironic conviction of student protesters assured of their righteousness even as identifiably Jewish kids are physically blocked and bullied as they navigate a campus turned into a threatening neighborhood. In Israel where half of the world's 15 million Jews live, we face daily the potential for life threatening terrorism and war. The vast majority of Diaspora Jews live in the US and have thrived in its bastion of freedom, we gave the best of our brilliance and innovation and together we have grown.“Palestine” as the story goes, is both a place and a genocide unlike any other before or since. Primarily because it consists of each individual's varied and most aspirational fantasies and thus cannot be contradicted enmeshed as is it, in storytelling, ignorance, and an emptiness all in one.We, America and the West, are at a turning point. The pillars of civilization are crumbling from within. Who will take the reins? Those who champion freedom and the vigilance to maintain it or those who would thrust us into totalitarian and absolute rule for the foreseeable future to come?Ilana Rachel Daniel speaks with Eyal Yakoby, a student at UPENN, one of the hotbeds of turmoil, to learn more.https://twitter.com/EYakoby Get full access to Ilana Rachel Daniel at ilanaracheldaniel120.substack.com/subscribe

Rabbi Dunner cites Ben Shapiro, who argues for the value of working beyond age 65. Likening society to an ecosystem, where every part, including the elderly, plays a crucial role, Rabbi Dunner draws parallels to Jewish community dynamics, emphasizing the interdependence of Israel and Diaspora Jews. Highlighting the communal spirit illustrated in Parshat Pekudei, he champions the Jewish tradition of unwavering support and collective contribution, asserting that active participation sustains community strength and resilience, ensuring a vibrant future for all.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Political reporter Sam Sokol and reporter Sue Surkes join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Dozens of people protested outside the Knesset in Jerusalem today, calling on the government to quit and call new elections. There's been some disorder inside the Knesset recently as well, starting with a much-leaked cabinet meeting on Thursday evening following the IDF's announcement that the IDF would begin investigating itself and what led to the Oct. 7 disaster. In light of huge amount of leaks from the meeting, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had a proposal during yesterday's cabinet meeting. Sokol explains. Despite the recent surge in attacks and harassment against Diaspora Jews, Israel's diplomatic service has no money to combat antisemitism abroad, the head of the Foreign Ministry's Department for Combating Antisemitism claimed on Wednesday. Why is this a problem? For the past seven weeks, a team of experts in artifact documentation and preservation have been sifting through the detritus of October 7 to find objects that can testify to that terrible day. Among the items the team has collected is a donkey skull. Surkes tells us about this project, that object in particular and what the experts are seeking. While Surkes was in the Gaza envelope, she noted several groups who were making a pilgrimage to the devastation. What were some of their motivations? A group of soldiers long since released from the army and a collection of tanks no longer in use have been brought together to create Phoenix, a new armored tank battalion that is already seeing action in Gaza. We hear more. For the latest updates, please look at The Times of Israel's ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Live blog January 8, 2024 Police disperse protesters blocking Knesset entrance in demand for ‘elections now' Railing against cabinet leaks, Netanyahu calls to subject ministers to polygraph tests As cracks widen in coalition, National Unity members skip cabinet meeting Foreign Ministry says it has ‘zero budget' for combating antisemitism abroad Under expert eyes, objects retrieved from rubble help document October 7's horrors Kibbutz Kfar Aza, devastated on October 7, becomes a grim place of pilgrimage Fixing up old tanks and recruiting old reservists, a tech VP creates a new battalion THOSE WE HAVE LOST: Civilians and soldiers killed in Hamas's onslaught on Israel THOSE WE ARE MISSING: The hostages and victims whose fate is still unknown Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on iTunes, Spotify, PlayerFM, Google Play, or wherever you get your podcasts. ILLUSTRATIVE IMAGE: Pro-Palestinian supporters hold up signs during a demonstration, October 20, 2023, in Atlanta, that intimate that the Hamas massacre of 1,200 people on October 7, 2023, was legitimate resistance to 'occupation.' (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scripture Reading: Acts 6:1-7 1 Now in those days, when the disciples were growing in number, a complaint arose on the part of the Greek-speaking Jews against the native Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. 2 So the twelve called the whole group of the disciples together and said, “It is not right for us to neglect the word of God to wait on tables. 3 But carefully select from among you, brothers, seven men who are well-attested, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may put in charge of this necessary task. 4 But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” 5 The proposal pleased the entire group, so they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, with Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas, a Gentile convert to Judaism from Antioch. 6 They stood these men before the apostles, who prayed and placed their hands on them. 7 The word of God continued to spread, the number of disciples in Jerusalem increased greatly, and a large group of priests became obedient to the faith.Major ThemesToday we read a short text, but I want to slow down for two reasons. First, this text introduces an important new group of people who serve as a bridge on the journey to sharing the gospel with all the world. Second, this text is often described as the appointment of the church's first seven deacons. I want to take that idea, whether accurate or not, as a springboard to discuss church government more broadly. I think this is an important topic as new or prospective Christians assess which church they would like to visit or join.Hebrews and HellenistsChapter 6 broadens the stage of the church's story. Up to this point, the narrative has centered exclusively on Israeli Jews—Jews who lived in Israel, spoke the Israeli language (which was no longer Hebrew but Aramaic), and followed the Israeli customs. These are the “native Hebraic Jews,” as the NET translation puts it, or, literally, “Hebrews.”In chapter 6, we meet a different kind of Jew—the “Greek-speaking Jew”—or, literally, the “Hellenist.” The NET translation avoids using that word not because it is inaccurate but because “this descriptive term is largely unknown to the modern English reader.”However, the phrase “Greek-speaking Jew” can be misleading. Taken too literally, one may conclude that the key difference, perhaps the only difference, between the two Jewish groups is their first language. The translators seem to share my concern since they add a few explanatory notes. First, they point out that, “The translation ‘Greek-speaking Jews' attempts to convey something of who these were, but it was more than a matter of language spoken; it involved a degree of adoption of Greek culture as well.” They add, “The Greek-speaking Jews were the Hellenists, Jews who to a greater or lesser extent had adopted Greek thought, customs, and lifestyle, as well as the Greek language. The city of Alexandria in Egypt was a focal point for them, but they were scattered throughout the Roman Empire.”Many earlier scholars focused on a supposed theological divide between Hebrews and Hellenists. The claim was that Hellenists had lesser regard for or perhaps even opposed the temple and temple worship. The trend today, as evidenced by the NET notes, is to view the groups as linguistically and to some extent culturally distinct. The Hebrews spoke primarily Aramaic and in varying measures Greek; the Hellenists were primarily Greek speakers. Hellenists were probably Diaspora immigrants or their descendants in Jerusalem. (The term Diaspora refers to the dispersion of the Jewish people beyond Israel.)Notice that the term Hellenist does not mean “Gentile.” For context, the verb “hellenize” was often used in contrast to “barbarize” and hence meant speaking correct Greek. Greeks spread their language and culture together. Consequently, the title Hellenist probably included a certain Greek disposition, education, and support for Greek culture.However, we must also recall that Jews in the Diaspora—that is, in the Greek and Roman world—did not abandon their Jewish customs. So, we should not conclude that Hellenists adopted all Greek customs and beliefs, particularly those opposed to Judaism. Moreover, Jews who cared enough to relocate to their homeland probably had high regard for Jewish customs. (Archaeological evidence suggests that many Diaspora Jews did settle in Jerusalem, perhaps to spend their final days there.)Racism?The interaction of two ethnic groups predictably leads to problems. I use the term ethnicity not to denote race—both groups were made up of Jews—but, as Oxford Dictionary puts it, to denote groups “made up of people who share a common cultural background.” The neglect of the Hellenist widows leads to charges of favoritism or, at worst, discrimination. This is the first reported internal schism in the church (as long as one does not count the episode with Ananias and Sapphira, which was more of an infiltration than an internal schism).In the ancient world—Israel included—widows were truly marginalized. They were often unable to inherit property, purchase land, or work outside the home. In other words, the system left them destitute, which also left them dependent on the resources of relatives and charity. Due to war, the number of widows was great (by one study, a third of all women in the Roman empire). Their need could overwhelm a community.Notice that the problem between Hebrews and Hellenists is prefaced with the good news that “the disciples were growing in numbers.” Growth presents challenges; the church is not an exception to the rule. And, if the last 20 years of multiculturalism in the West have taught us anything, cross-cultural growth is even more challenging. (This is only an observation, not an argument that the church should not expand cross-culturally.)The apostles were among the Hebrews and supervised the distribution of food (4:35). So, the widows' complaint was aimed not only at the church in general but, at least by implication, at the apostles in particular. Should we assume ill will on the part of the apostles? Not really. Given the rapid spread of their fame in the city and explosive rise in church membership, surely they were unable to offer detailed attention to the ministry of charity. Their very success pressed them beyond their abilities.But, how could the apostles overlook the Hellenist widows unintentionally? Although unlikely, food for the poor may have been distributed through a public dole. (In the Roman world, the grain dole was the system by which the government provided subsidized or free grain to the Roman population. Much like welfare today, eligible citizens would be entered into a registry. Then they would receive grain stored by the government.) Immigrants might have had less knowledge of and access to the dole. However, the more likely case is that charity was distributed through private means and synagogues. In that case, Hellenists may have had fewer connections to local families distributing the food. In either case, Hellenists may have had a disproportionate number of widows since many Hellenists moved to Israel once advanced in age. (So, perhaps there were more unprovided Hellenist widows simply because there were more Hellenist widows.) Finally, as I explained above, local widows may have had family to care for them, making them less dependent on charity.The SolutionFaced with the widows' charge, how do the apostles respond? They recognize their limitations and their explicit calling. They realize that they must prioritize the “word of God” and leave the distribution of food to someone else. This is a clear example of delegation of duties in the context of ministry. It is also an example of prioritizing the message over charity when the two are mutually exclusive. Jesus had already exemplified both of these points.After Jesus called the twelve together, he gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. Luke 9:1-2The next morning Jesus departed and went to a deserted place. Yet the crowds were seeking him, and they came to him and tried to keep him from leaving them. But Jesus said to them, “I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns too, for that is what I was sent to do.” So he continued to preach in the synagogues of Judea. Luke 4:42-44Even if a solution is clear in principle, it is not always clear in practice. To whom should the apostles delegate the important duty of handling and distributing church property? We will discuss the character requirement of the new leaders in a minute, but we must notice that (probably) all of them belong to the offended minority. We can surmise their Hellenist ethnicity from their names and the bit of information provided about a couple of them. I know that the church's “affirmative action” in Acts 6 is sure to be viewed extremely negatively (or extremely positively, depending on one's political persuasion) in our modern-day culture; but, if we can leave that aside for a minute, consider the strategy's efficacy. To address the complaint that Hellenists are being subjected to discrimination in the distribution of food, Hellenist are put in charge of the food distribution. The claim of favoritism is resoundingly defeated. (Notice the apostles did not require the church to select Hellenists. Presumably, the church as a whole thought that this course of action was appropriate.)Nonetheless, the new leaders are not merely affirmative-action hires. The apostles define basic qualifications for service: good reputation; full of the Spirit and wisdom. They invite the church as a whole to choose representatives who meet these qualifications.In the ancient world, qualifications for leadership were common, including to hold civic offices. Being of good reputation, or as our passage puts it, “favorably attested,” was essential in Greco-Roman politics. The new leaders must also be “full of the Spirit.” This probably indicates a continuous state rather than a mere occasion of being “filled with the Spirit” (although the two senses of the phrase are not mutually exclusive).In the list of qualifications for leadership, the Spirit is linked to wisdom (“full of the Spirit and wisdom”). As we discussed during our study of John, Jewish literature often linked and sometimes equated the Spirit of God with wisdom. Consider, for example:You are to speak to all who are specially skilled, whom I have filled with the spirit of wisdom, so that they may make Aaron's garments to set him apart to minister as my priest. Exodus 28:3For the Lord gives wisdom, and from his mouth comes knowledge and understanding. Proverbs 2:6For wisdom is more mobile than any motion; because of her pureness she pervades and penetrates all things. For she is a breath of the power of God, and a pure emanation of the glory of the Almighty; therefore nothing defiled gains entrance into her. For she is a reflection of eternal light, a spotless mirror of the working of God, . . . Wisdom 7:24-26Part of the requisite wisdom would undoubtedly be knowledge of how to manage funds.12 and 7As we discussed at the beginning of our Acts study, the number of apostles is important. Twelve was the number of Jewish tribes; the twelve apostles represent the remnant of Israel carrying on the faith. What about the number seven? Is there a reason that seven people were selected as leaders of the Jerusalem church?Several ancient cultures, including the Jewish people, used the number seven symbolically, particularly for groups of leaders. The number 70 (or seventy-something) appears frequently as well. For example, in Luke 10:1, Jesus appoints 72 men to preach the good news from town to town. But most importantly, there is a particular Old Testament story that connects with Acts 6. The fact that seven leaders are appointed in response to a complaint by the people of God harkens back to Numbers 11.When the people complained, it displeased the Lord. When the Lord heard it, his anger burned, and so the fire of the Lord burned among them and consumed some of the outer parts of the camp. When the people cried to Moses, he prayed to the Lord, and the fire died out. So he called the name of that place Taberah because there the fire of the Lord burned among them.Now the mixed multitude who were among them craved more desirable foods, and so the Israelites wept again and said, “If only we had meat to eat! We remember the fish we used to eat freely in Egypt, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic. But now we are dried up, and there is nothing at all before us except this manna!” . . .Moses heard the people weeping throughout their families, everyone at the door of his tent; and when the anger of the Lord was kindled greatly, Moses was also displeased. And Moses said to the Lord, “Why have you afflicted your servant? Why have I not found favor in your sight, that you lay the burden of this entire people on me? Did I conceive this entire people? Did I give birth to them, that you should say to me, ‘Carry them in your arms, as a foster father bears a nursing child,' to the land that you swore to their fathers? From where shall I get meat to give to this entire people, for they cry to me, ‘Give us meat, that we may eat!' I am not able to bear this entire people alone, because it is too heavy for me! But if you are going to deal with me like this, then kill me immediately. If I have found favor in your sight then do not let me see my trouble.”The Lord said to Moses, “Gather to me seventy men of the elders of Israel, whom you know are elders of the people and officials over them, and bring them to the tent of meeting; let them take their position there with you. Then I will come down and speak with you there, and I will take part of the Spirit that is on you, and will put it on them, and they will bear some of the burden of the people with you, so that you do not bear it all by yourself. Numbers 11:1-16However, we should also consider the possibility that the apostles meant nothing by the number seven. Perhaps they were simply being practical. Consider the study note in the NET Bible:Seven. Jewish town councils often had seven members (Josephus, Ant. 4.18.14 [4.214])In other words, the apostles needed a ruling council and ruling councils generally had seven members. This would be like if we started a company today and appointed a president, a secretary, and a treasurer. Why three officers? Why call them president, secretary, and treasurer? Because that is “how it's done.” We would intend no deeper meaning. Deacons for Them, Deacons for Us? Wait, Deacons?A question churches have wrestled to answer for two thousand years is what constitutes proper church government—or, as is referred to in theological terms, church polity. Central to the discussion of church polity is determining which church “offices” (if any) are ordained by Scripture. Recall my example above in which I mentioned three corporate offices: president, secretary, and treasurer. One can hardly discuss which duties belong to the secretary and which belong to the treasurer until one determines that a company should have a secretary and a treasurer. In the church context, there are three potential offices: bishop, elder (or pastor, or presbyter), and deacon (or servant). (Sometimes a fourth office is considered, that of pastor or teacher from the Greek words poimen and didaskalos. Let's ignore that for now, but I will mention it again at the end of our discussion.) Each of these offices comes from a distinct Greek term. Here is a brief rundown of these terms that I adapted from this handy article.Episkopos. This word episkopos (from which we get Episcopal) is used a total of 5 times in the New Testament, always in reference to someone who has authority to lead in ministry. It is usually translated “overseer” or “bishop.”Presbuteros. The word presbuteros occurs 72 times in the New Testament, and it has a range of meanings. The majority of the time (57 times) it is translated "elder" and means a position of leadership in the church, like a pastor or other member of church leadership. It differs from episkopos in that it also assumes the quality of old age. In fact, the word presbuteros is also translated at times to mean “older man” (10 times) and even once as “older woman.”Diakonos. The word diakonos means “one who serves in ministry” or more generally, “servant.” The word appears 29 times in the New Testament. Of those 29 times, it is translated (by the NASB) as “deacon” three times, as “minister” seven times, and as “servant” 19 times.The most controversial of the three offices is the first: bishop. Bishops are generally understood to be overseers of several pastors (i.e., presbuteros). They are regional leaders. Yet, many Christian denominations believe that each congregation is governmentally independent so there can be no such thing as a leader of multiple congregations. An example of a denomination that recognizes bishops (episkopos) as distinct and superior in rank to elders (presbuteros) is the Catholic church. An example of a denomination that does not recognize bishops is Baptist churches. The main argument made by churches that do not recognize bishops is that the terms episkopos and presbuteros are synonyms—not distinct church offices.You might be wondering: how can Christian churches disagree about something like this? Surely the text of scripture is crystal clear. Alas, languages are tricky and Greek is no exception. Consider Acts 6. Is it a good biblical foundation for the church office of deacon (diakonos)?In Acts 6, the word diakonos does not appear. In verses 1 and 4, a related but different noun appears (diakonia), translated as “distribution” and “ministry” respectively. The verb cognate of diakonos appears in verse 2. It is translated as “to wait” (as in, “to wait on tables”). Yet, one cannot simply assume that the verb points to its noun cognate. In other words, the text may only be referring to the act of service and not to some special office. For example, consider the noun “server” and the verb “to serve” in English. The noun can refer to a particular office (e.g., a restaurant server) while the verb rarely points to such office. (If I say, “I served food at home,” I am not implying that I hold the office of “server” at home.) However, this has not stopped many Christian thinkers, including ancient thinkers such as Irenaeus, Pseudo-Tertullian, Cyprian, and others, from applying this passage to the diaconate.Of course, one could use Acts 6 to argue for a certain church office apart from linguistic evidence. Undoubtedly, the apostles gave the new seven leader some kind of authority in the church. But without the linguistic component to connects Acts 6 with other passages that mention the word diakonos, one has a harder time arguing for a universal church office. Moreover, even the noun form of diakonos most often refers not to a church leader but to servants in other ministry contexts (Christ as minister (Rom 15:8), Paul as minister (2 Cor 11:23; Eph 3:7; Col 1:23, 25), Paul and colleagues (1 Cor 3:5; 2 Cor 3:6; 6:4), Paul's fellow ministers of the gospel (Rom 16:1; Eph 6:21; Col 1:7; 4:7; 1 Tim 4:6)).Where am I headed with this extensive discussion? In regard to Acts 6 particularly, I think the text clearly shows that a church may find itself in need of people to assist with different matters, and the church is right to recognize and appoint such helpers. However, I do not think that Acts 6, at least on its own, can be used to argue for some special, universal church office. In regard to the broader discussion of church polity, I am trying to show that church polity is a difficult topic. Scriptural passages are sometimes used to argue beyond what the text truly conveys. Furthermore, even when arguing in good faith, churches may reasonably reach different conclusions.With that in mind, I would like to explore some of the different ways that churches organize and govern themselves. Before we do that, let's discuss the last two noteworthy points in today's text.Democracy?How are the seven leaders selected? We are not really told, but we are given two important details. The selection was made by the “group.” And, the group “chose” the leaders. The latter fact means that the group did not cast lots or employ another form of chance to identify the leaders. So, how did the “group” make the selection? As modern readers, we assume a democratic vote was taken. That could be the case, but it is by no means a necessary implication of the text. For example, perhaps the elders (i.e., older men) made the choice. As with the discussion of deacons above, Acts 6 allows for only modest conclusions. On one hand, the apostles did not lord their authority over the congregation and left the leadership decision up to the group. On the other hand, we are not told that the church should be organized democratically. In this passage, there is simply not enough data to surmise a non-hierarchical, democratic church government or, for that matter, its opposite. (Perhaps one could reach some of those conclusions by taking the whole counsel of scripture. I am obviously not denying that.)Laying HandsThe people chose the leaders, but the apostles commissioned them by praying and “lay[ing] hands on them.” This recalls the Old Testament scene in Numbers 27.Then the Lord said to Moses, “Go up this mountain of the Abarim range, and see the land I have given to the Israelites. When you have seen it, you will be gathered to your ancestors, as Aaron your brother was gathered to his ancestors. . . .Then Moses spoke to the Lord: “Let the Lord, the God of the spirits of all humankind, appoint a man over the community, who will go out before them, and who will come in before them, and who will lead them out, and who will bring them in, so that the community of the Lord may not be like sheep that have no shepherd.”The Lord replied to Moses, “Take Joshua son of Nun, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay your hand on him; set him before Eleazar the priest and before the whole community, and commission him publicly. Then you must delegate some of your authority to him, so that the whole community of the Israelites will be obedient. . . .So Moses did as the Lord commanded him; he took Joshua and set him before Eleazar the priest and before the whole community. He laid his hands on him and commissioned him, just as the Lord commanded, by the authority of Moses. Numbers 27:12-22Laying of hands is a form of commissioning, but it also evokes patriarchal blessings and empowerment. After the fall of Jerusalem, Rabbis used laying of hands to ordain their pupils. Unsurprisingly, churches use it today to ordain pastors, priests, bishops, and sometimes deacons. The fullest examples of laying of hands in the New Testament are found in two letters written by Paul.Command and teach these things. Let no one look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in your speech, conduct, love, faithfulness, and purity. Until I come, give attention to the public reading of scripture, to exhortation, to teaching. Do not neglect the spiritual gift you have, given to you and confirmed by prophetic words when the elders laid hands on you. 1 Timothy 4:11-14(As the NET notes explain, the last phrase in the verses quoted above can be translated more literally as, “with the imposition of the hands of the presbytery,” i.e., the council of elders.)Because of this I remind you to rekindle God's gift that you possess through the laying on of my hands. For God did not give us a Spirit of fear but of power and love and self-control. So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me, a prisoner for his sake, but by God's power accept your share of suffering for the gospel. 2 Timothy 1:6-8Notice that inducting members into a position of authority by laying of hands requires there to be someone already in leadership. Otherwise, there would be nobody to perform the laying of hands. This raises a no small question. Is church leadership only valid if it is conveyed by a prior church leader. Must there be a line of succession from Jesus, to the apostles, to whomever the apostles appointed to lead, all the way to your local pastor? As you might imagine, this idea is debated, but (rather surprisingly) most denominations agree that some kind of succession is necessary. I say “some kind” of succession because there is less agreement as to what succession really entails.Modern Denominations' PolityAs I mentioned at the beginning, I want to end today's session on a practical note. I imagine that some of this Bible study's participants may be considering which church to join. One of the questions that seems unfathomable from the outside is how churches are organized. Who is really in charge? How are churches connected, if at all? Below I include a summary of churches' polities adapted from a Gospel Coalition article. This summary is not great, but I will discuss more details during our live session.Eastern Orthodox: Bishops, following in the succession of the apostles, appoint male priests (also known as elders or presbyters) to pastor the people. Deacons serve the material needs of the congregation and play a key role in liturgical life. Synods (teams of bishops) lead the church, not a single bishop or pope.Catholic: Authority rests with the bishops who follow in the succession of the apostles. Bishops are helped by male priests (also known as elders or presbyters) to pastor the people. Deacons serve the material needs of the congregation. The pope, the bishop of Rome, is the key human authority over the church, who is infallible when speaking ex cathedra (from the full seat of authority on issues of faith or morals).Anglican: Anglicanism resembles Catholicism in organizational structure, with an archbishop presiding over other bishops, who preside over priests and deacons in local congregations. The Archbishop of Canterbury is the senior bishop and symbolic head, as a first among equals.Lutheranism: Lutheran Churches can vary between a more episcopal form of government and a more congregational form of government. Lutheran churches in America tend to be more congregational, though with some authority given to synods at different levels.Presbyterian: Local congregations are governed by teams of elders (teaching and ruling elders), who take part in a larger assembly of elders (presbyteries), which take part in an even larger assembly (synod or a general assembly).Methodism: The Methodist system follows the polity of connexionalism, which teaches the importance of connection among believers at various levels. Methodism uses conferences at different levels composed of both elected laypeople and ordained ministers to govern the needs and concerns of local churches up through the entire denomination.Baptist: Baptist churches believe that Christ is the head of the church and that Christ guides every local church through the Spirit living within the members of each church. While Baptists may voluntarily join associations, each individual church is autonomous. Most Baptist churches are congregation-ruled, but some are led by single pastors while others are led by a plurality of elders, selected by church members.Evangelical Free Church: Evangelical Free churches follow a congregational model of church governance.Church of Christ: Churches of Christ are independent congregations with elders, deacons, and ministers leading the congregation. Ministers are understood to serve under the oversight of the elders. While the presence of a long-term professional minister has sometimes created significant de facto ministerial authority"and led to conflict between the minister and the elders, the eldership has remained the ultimate locus of authority in the congregation.Pentecostal: Pentecostal churches are congregationalists. They may be independent congregations or local congregations that associate with other like-minded churches (“cooperative fellowships”). Generally, the congregation selects a minister and a board of deacons. Some Pentecostal churches are adopting an “eldership model” vesting some of the congregation's authority on a group of elders.Non-Denominational Churches: Non-denominational churches will be congregational since they have no commitment to any specific denomination.

 Is Zionism and Israeli identity a burning question in your mind? You're not alone--and we're here to navigate these waters together. Join us as we engage in a conversation with Esther Piekarski. Esther, a Shlucha in Tel-Aviv, shares her experiences in spreading the Rebbe's message about our approach to Israel and Zionism, and clearly delineates what the message should be.As we traverse the ideological differences between Eretz Israel and Medinat Israel, we look to the Rebbe as our compass. We also discuss the Rebbe's views on Israelis serving in the army and how the Diaspora Jews can show solidarity with Israel. It's not just about waving the flag; it's about understanding our unique roles in the Jewish narrative and contributing to the protection of Am Yisrael.The conversation ends with an invitation for you to step out of your comfort zone and strengthen your bond with Israel. After all, our unity is our strength. Together, let's build a better tomorrow for you, for me, for us, for Am Yisrael.Support the show

Raised in Jerusalem, ordained in NY, and now living in Palo Alto, Rabbi Amitai Fraiman is the Director of the Z3 Project, an initiative of the Oshman Family JCC aimed at strengthening the relationship between Diaspora Jews and Israel based on a peoplehood-oriented Zionism.R' Fraiman is also the founder of שזור/Interwoven, an organization specializing in telling the story of American Jewry to Israelis.Amitai is an ELI speaker, a musmach of YCT, and a graduate of NYU's Wagner- Skirball dual MPA-MA program.Together with Michal, they are the proud parents of Maya, Yahli and Roee which they love bigger than the sky.This conversation is just in time for the Z3 event coming up in Palo Alto Sunday 11/5 ... The event is almost sold out and it will be streamed as well.Go to https://www.z3project.org/for more infoFor Holy Sparks DONATIONS http://igfn.us/form/haHSSQThank you for your support!

As we await the next steps in Israel's war against Hamas, Rabbi Wildes is joined by activist, filmmaker, and IDF reservist Rudy Rochman from an undisclosed location to discuss whether this war is going to end differently than past wars with the final destruction of Hamas, whether the Palestinian civilians are truly innocent, how Diaspora Jews can fight back against Hamas supporters on college campuses, and what we as Jews can do to finally alleviate the world of antisemitism. 00:00:00 - Intro 00:03:30 - Is This Time Different? 00:06:10 - Are the Palestinian People Innocent? 00:09:40 - Life as an IDF Reservist 00:11:53 - Empowering Jews in the Diaspora 00:19:29 - Hiding Your Jewish Identity to Stay Safe 00:23:24 - The Root Cause of Antisemitism

Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploration into one key issue shaping Israel and the Jewish World — right now. This week, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu flew to the United States for a series of meetings, including a long-awaited face-to-face with US President Joe Biden. He was met by anti-judicial overhaul protesters at every possible stop. But are these protests the right move for Diaspora Jews? Do they actually serve their purpose or are they, as the prime minister himself insinuated, fodder for the BDS movement? This week I bring you a second webinar with a panel of experts who discuss the role of global Jewry during this time of intense internal conflict in the Jewish State. So this week, we ask former US ambassador David Friedman, Israel's Special Envoy for Combatting Antisemitism Michal Cotler-Wunsh and leading Zionism expert Prof. Gil Troy, what matters now. What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on iTunes, TuneIn, Pocket Casts, Stitcher, PlayerFM or wherever you get your podcasts. IMAGE: Protesters wave flags and chant slogans near the site of a planned meeting between United States President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in New York, Sept. 20, 2023. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 15-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world, from Sunday through Thursday. News editor Luke Tress and US bureau chief Jacob Magid join host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. Today's show begins with a brief report from diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman, who is traveling with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the United States. Tress sheds light on what anti-judicial overhaul protesters have in store for the prime minister this week and delves into who they are and where their funding comes from. Magid reports on an optimistic initiative put together by Saudi Arabia, the European Union, the Arab League and other international partners that is aimed at incentivizing Israel and the Palestinian Authority to restart peace talks. Magid reported last week that the United Arab Emirates Ambassador to the United States said that the Israeli government is engaged in a process of de facto annexation of the West Bank, and that it may be up to other countries weighing normalization with Israel to stop it. He speaks about this carrot versus stick approach. And finally, the Orthodox Union has certified a strain of lab-grown meat as kosher for the first time. We hear what kind of cells these are and where they can be found. Discussed articles include: TOI Webinar: No vote, no voice? Diaspora Jews' influence on Israel's judicial overhaul crisis PM says original overhaul proposal ‘was bad,' but must fix how Israel chooses judges New York anti-overhaul activists launch week of protests as Netanyahu arrives ‘100% carrots': Arab states, EU unveil plan to entice Israel, PA to sign peace deal Saudi-backed EU venture aims to incentivize Israeli-Palestinian peace UAE envoy: De facto West Bank annexation unfolding, but our ability to stop it wanes In first, leading kosher authority Orthodox Union certifies lab-grown meat Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on iTunes, Spotify, PlayerFM, Google Play, or wherever you get your podcasts. IMAGE: A plane flies a banner protesting against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as he visits Tesla's Fremont, California, factory on September 18, 2023. (AP Photo/Noah Berger)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 15-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world, from Sunday through Thursday. Editor David Horovitz and military correspondent Emanuel Fabian joint host Amanda Borschel-Dan. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu set off last night for about a week in the US. We talk about what he hopes to accomplish, how was he greeted at Ben-Gurion Airport and his flammable response to protesters. Rioting continued along the Gaza border on Friday and Sunday and yesterday morning, a Palestinian was reportedly stabbed and wounded as groups of settler and Arab youths clashed in the West Bank city of Hebron overnight. Fabian updates on clashes with Palestinians over the long weekend. On Friday, the High Court of Justice pushed off a planned hearing on petitions against Justice Minister Yariv Levin's refusal to convene the Judicial Selections Committee by a month. Horovitz weighs in on the new timing of the hearing and gives background. On early Friday, an explosive device that was planted near a tree in Tel Aviv's Hayarkon Park went off. What do we know about who was behind this as well as the unrelated arson of the famous statue of prime minister David Ben-Gurion on early Saturday morning? Discussed articles include: TOI Webinar: No vote, no voice? Diaspora Jews' influence on Israel's judicial overhaul crisis Outcry after Netanyahu says anti-overhaul protesters joining forces with Iran, PLO Leaving for US, PM says protesters joining forces with PLO and Iran, defaming Israel Israel temporarily shutters Gaza pedestrian crossing following border rioting Palestinian said stabbed in brawl with settlers in Hebron High Court pushes off Tuesday hearing on Levin's refusal to convene judicial panel 2 suspects detained on central Israel highway after blast in Tel Aviv park Iconic Ben-Gurion headstand statue on Tel Aviv beach badly burned in attack Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on iTunes, Spotify, PlayerFM, Google Play, or wherever you get your podcasts. IMAGE: Anti-judicial overhaul demonstrators protest against the Israeli government's judicial overhaul and against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, at the Ben-Gurion International Airport near Tel Aviv, September 17, 2023. (Avshalom Sassoni/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 15-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world, from Sunday through Thursday. Zman Yisrael editor Biranit Goren and senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur join host Amanda Borschel-Dan in today's episode. Ahead of next week's High Court hearing, Justice Minister Yariv Levin told the High Court of Justice on Wednesday that only he has the right to convene the Judicial Selection Committee and that the court has no authority to order him to do so. At the same time, Speaker of the Knesset Amir Ohana seems to be suggesting an alternative court system. What is going on here? On Tuesday, Rettig Gur published an in-depth oped titled, "Neither coalition nor High Court respects Basic Laws. Urgently needed: A constitution.” Both guests weigh in on why Israeli institutions deserve to learn the real "rules of the game." Discussed articles include: TOI Webinar: No vote, no voice? Diaspora Jews' influence on Israel's judicial overhaul crisis Levin tells court: ‘Only I have authority to convene Judicial Selection Committee' Neither coalition nor High Court respects Basic Laws. Urgently needed: A constitution Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on iTunes, Spotify, PlayerFM, Google Play, or wherever you get your podcasts. IMAGE: Israeli Justice Minister Yariv Levin attends the weekly cabinet meeting at the Prime Minister's Office in Jerusalem, March 5, 2023. (Gil Cohen-Magen/Pool via AP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the phenomena of the Judicial coup in Israel is the great awakening of Israelis who live abroad and until recently did not set foot in a Jewish setting or were involved in Political activity are now protesting in their thousands. All around the world, groups of concerned Israelis are rallying in city centers and trying to raise awareness of what is happening in Israel. I had the pleasure of hosting my dear friend Offir Guttelzon, founder of UnXeptable, a grassroots movement, to speak about the growing involvement of Israelis abroad and why it is important that Diaspora Jews join the rallies and have their voice heard. Between September 18-22, the UN General Assembly will convene in New York City, and the protestors are waiting for PM Netanyahu with many surprises.  If you are interested in reading more about the protest movement and what you can do, please check the following links -  UnXeptable - https://www.unxeptable.org/ Donate to Unxeptable - https://www.americaisraeldemocracy.org/unxeptable UnXeptable Link. tree - https://linktr.ee/unxeptable Usa4IsraeliDemocracy - https://www.usa4israelidemocracy.org/   #IsraeliDemocracy #Israel #Democracy #Netanyahu

Heather Dean's featured guest in this episode of “613 Books” Podcast is Yoel Berman, who compiled a book called, “Living in the Land: First-hand Accounts of Bnei Torah and their Families.” Yoel is involved in a variety of initiatives to educate his fellow Jews about the centrality of Eretz Yisrael for all of the Jewish people, as well as about the growing opportunities for those from English-speaking countries who wish to make a home for themselves in the Land of Israel. “Living in the Land” comprises the first-hand stories of a wide variety of over fifty (!) Diaspora-born Jews who now reside in Eretz Yisrael in easy-to-read essays that will inspire you to rethink your relationship to the Land of Our Soul. PLUS author and social worker Jonah Simcha Chaim Muskat-Brown is back on the podcast to tell us about the deep, meaningful book that's on his reading table. SUBSCRIBE to “613 Books” Podcast and never miss an episode! Show notes: Featured Guest: Yoel Berman Author of “Living in the Land: First-hand Accounts of Bnei Torah and their Families” To Purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Living-Land-Firsthand-accounts-families/dp/1957579773/ref=sr_1_1?crid=IGLO5T4HOL7&keywords=yoel+Berman+Living+in+the+Land&qid=1693157447&s=books&sprefix=yoel+berman+living+in+the+land%2Cstripbooks-intl-ship%2C236&sr=1-1 To Purchase from Mosaica Press: https://mosaicapress.com/product/living-in-the-land/ To contact Yoel: info@aviraderetzyisroel.org = = = = = = “What's on My Reading Table” Contributor: Jonah Simcha Chaim Muskat-Brown Reading Table Selection: “DMC: The Amidah” by Rabbi Ira Kosowsky To Purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/DMC-Amidah-Rabbi-Ira-Kosowsky/dp/1957579579 To Purchase from Mosaica Press: https://mosaicapress.com/product/dmc-the-amidah/ Simcha Chaim Muskat-Brown's book “Expanding Potential” may be purchased: On Mosaica Press: https://mosaicapress.com/product/expanding-potential/?v=920f83e594a1 On Feldheim (distributor): https://www.feldheim.com/expanding-potential On Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Expanding-Potential-Journeying-Beyond-Think/dp/1957579110/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PILWWYPFSGZ0&keywords=expanding+potential&qid=1686581246&sprefix=expanding+potential%2Caps%2C109&sr=8-1 To contact Jonah Simcha Chaim Muskat-Brown: j.muskatbrown@gmail.com = = = = = = Show Announcer for 613 Books Podcast: Michael Doniger Michael's contact info, voice-over samples, and demo: www.michaeldoniger.com/

Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Bret Stephens spoke at Temple Beth El in May 2023 about the state of Israel as Israel celebrates its 75th birthday. If you had the chance to hear his conversation with Rabbi Dan Levin in person, you know how incredibly informative it was. If not, you can listen to this bonus episode - a recording of the live conversation they had as they tried to answer the following questions: What do the changes in Israel's government mean for American Jews and Diaspora Jews around the world? How is the uptick in global antisemitism related people's perception of Israeli politics and Israeli leadership? How are we as Reform Jews supposed to feel about Israel? What is the state of Israel as it celebrates its 75th birthday?

Rabbi Wildes recently rejoined the Orthodox Conundrum Podcast with Scott Kahn to discuss the complicated relationship Diaspora Jewry has with the State of Israel. In Scott's own words: With the terrible and heartbreaking news that came out of Israel over the course of Pesach – a mother and two children murdered by terrorists, a car ramming in Tel Aviv with an Italian tourist dead and others injured, plus rockets launched at Israel from Lebanon and Gaza – some have noted a disconnect between the attitudes of Jews who live in Israel, and those who live in the diaspora. The two groups sometimes seem to possess different mindsets – that is, very different ways of thinking about events like these. In particular, the heaviness that was widely experienced by Israeli Jews may have sometimes been lacking among some Jews outside of Israel. Is this assumption accurate or misplaced? Furthermore, is Israel viewed, emotionally if not intellectually, as just another Jewish community like any other? Is the proximity and ease of getting to Israel and communicating with people in Israel a double-edged sword, taking away some of the mystery and sense of holiness that people otherwise would have? Moreover, what is the place of diaspora Jewry? Is their only role to pack up and move to Israel, or is there a need for Jewish communities to thrive outside of Israel? How can we better inculcate a sense of solidarity with Jews in Israel, and with what's happening in Israel? Is the emotional gap between Israelis and those outside of Israel destined to get larger or smaller? To discuss these and other questions, Scott (who lives in Ramat Beit Shemesh) spoke with Rabbi Mark Wildes (who lives in New York). Their conversation will give you food for thought, especially as they draw upon their own life experiences to discuss the relationship between diaspora Jews and Jews living in Israel. Please listen to and share this podcast, and let us know what you think on the Orthodox Conundrum Discussion Group on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/groups/432020081498108). Thanks to all of our Patreon subscribers, who have access to bonus JCH podcasts, merch, and more – we appreciate your help, and hope you really enjoy the extras! Visit the JCH Patreon site at https://www.patreon.com/jewishcoffeehouse. Visit https://www.jchpodcasts.com/ to learn all about creating your own podcast. Music: “Happy Rock” by bensound.com

How Should Diaspora Jews Express their Ideas About Israeli Politics?Note: This is the end of the season and our podcast will be on a brief hiatus. Keep subscribed for season 9! There are several factors that can make it complicated for diaspora Jews to express their opinions on Israeli politics. Here are a few:Lack of firsthand experience: Diaspora Jews may not have firsthand experience living in Israel or the Palestinian territories, which can make it difficult to fully understand the complexities of the political situation. They also don't share the heaviest burdens or pay the heaviest costs of living in Israel.Fear of alienation: Expressing opinions that are contrary to the dominant narrative within the Jewish community can lead to feelings of alienation or ostracism.There may be pressure from within the Jewish community to conform to a particular political viewpoint on Israel, which can make it difficult for individuals to express their own opinion.Perceived lack of influence: Some diaspora Jews may feel that their opinions on Israeli politics carry little weight, given that they are not Israeli citizens and do not have a direct say in Israeli policy. Overall, these factors can create a challenging environment for diaspora Jews who wish to express their opinions on Israeli politics. However, it is important to remember that open and respectful dialogue is essential for building understanding and finding solutions to complex issues. How do we resolve this tension?Matt moderated this debate between Calev who argues for Diaspora Jews to be reserved, and Mike who argues for robust expression of opinions.Let us know what you think about the issue, and who you agree with. Enjoy! Please let us know what you think! This episode was recorded and edited by the amazing Ben Wallick Studios. Ben is awesome!Theme music by Akiva Y. Unterberg.Masa WebsiteFacebook pagePlease rate, review, share and recommend our podcast.