Podcasts about Western Wall

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Soulful Pilgrimage: A Purim Journey in Old Yerushalayim Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2026-03-14-07-38-19-he Story Transcript:He: רחובות העיר העתיקה של ירושלים רחשו חיים.En: The streets of the old city of Yerushalayim buzzed with life.He: היה זה יום פורים באביב, והאוויר היה מלא בשמחת החג.En: It was Purim, a spring day, and the air was filled with the joy of the holiday.He: רונן, יעל וליאור טיילו בין הסמטאות הצרות, נדהמים מהאנשים הצבעוניים ומההתרחשויות שמסביבם.En: Ronen, Yael, and Lior strolled through the narrow alleys, amazed by the colorful people and the happenings around them.He: רונן התבונן באבן העתיקה שסיבה אותה מותירה אותו בתחושה של חיבור עמוק למורשתו.En: Ronen gazed at the ancient stone, feeling a sense of deep connection to his heritage.He: הוא חיפש בתוכו התעוררות רוחנית, משהו שישיב את נפשו המתרגשת והמסתקרנת.En: He was searching within himself for spiritual awakening, something to revive his excited and curious soul.He: יעל, תמיד מלאת אנרגיה והתרגשות, רק רצתה לחוות את העיר במלואה, לחקור ולחגוג כל רגע.En: Yael, always full of energy and excitement, just wanted to experience the city in its entirety, to explore and celebrate every moment.He: ליאור, המעשית והמודעת, שהתה בין השניים, מתפקדת כמתווכת וכרוח מרגיעה.En: Lior, practical and aware, stayed between the two, functioning as a mediator and a calming presence.He: "אני רוצה רגע להיות לבד," אמר רונן, מנסה להסביר את רצונו לחבור למשהו עמוק יותר.En: "I want to be alone for a moment," said Ronen, trying to explain his desire to connect with something deeper.He: "אני חייב ללכת אל הכותל.En: "I must go to the Kotel."He: " יעל וליאור הסתכלו האחד על השני והבינו.En: Yael and Lior looked at each other and understood.He: הם הבטיחו להיפגש בהמשך והניחו לו ללכת.En: They promised to meet up later and let him go.He: בעודו הולך, העולם סביבו הפך לצמצם והדרן לתוך תחושתו האישית.En: As he walked, the world around him narrowed and tuned into his personal sensation.He: חיוכים הצללים והשמחות המגוונות נשארו מאחור, והוא הגעה אל ליבו של הכותל המערבי.En: The smiles, shadows, and varied joys were left behind, and he arrived at the heart of the Western Wall.He: מקום קדוש זה, מלא תפילות עתיקות ורוחניות רוטטת, העניק לרונן תחושת חיבור שלא חווה לפני כן.En: This sacred place, full of ancient prayers and vibrating spirituality, gave Ronen a sense of connection he had never experienced before.He: עמד שם, במרחק, עיניו סגורות וידיו מונחות על אדירים העתיקים.En: He stood there, at a distance, his eyes closed and his hands placed on the ancient stones.He: לבו התפעם, ותחושת חיבור הולכת ומעמיקה הציפה אותו.En: His heart was pounding, and a deepening sense of connection overwhelmed him.He: הוא הבין שהמסע האמיתי הוא חיפוש אישי אך גם שיתוף הרגעים עם יקיריו הוא חלק מהמסע.En: He realized that the true journey was a personal quest but also sharing the moments with loved ones is part of the pilgrimage.He: כשחזר לחפש את יעל וליאור, הוא מצא אותם מחכים ליד הכניסה לשוק.En: When he returned to find Yael and Lior, he found them waiting at the entrance to the market.He: פניהם אורו כשראו אותו חזור.En: Their faces lit up when they saw him return.He: "נו, איך היה?En: "So, how was it?"He: " שאלה יעל בחיוך גדול.En: Yael asked with a big smile.He: "חוויה מדהימה," ענה רונן.En: "An amazing experience," replied Ronen.He: "אני מבין עכשיו כמה חשוב לחוות גם לבד, אבל גם יחד.En: "I now understand how important it is to experience alone, but also together.He: תודה שהבנתם.En: Thank you for understanding."He: "הקבוצה המשיכה לטייל בעיר העתיקה, לבם פתוח ומלא הכרת תודה על כניסתם למסע זה שעורכם עמוקות.En: The group continued to wander through the old city, their hearts open and full of gratitude for embarking on this journey that deeply enriched them.He: רונן התקדם לראש הקבוצה, חיוך חדש על פניו, מרגיש חלק מהכל.En: Ronen moved to the front of the group, a new smile on his face, feeling part of it all. Vocabulary Words:buzzed: רחשוstrolled: טיילוnarrow: צרותgazed: התבונןheritage: מורשתוspiritual: רוחניתawakening: התעוררותcurious: מסתקרנתentirety: מלואהmediator: מתווכתcalming: מרגיעהpilgrimage: המסעsacred: קדושvibrating: רוטטתoverwhelmed: הציפהquest: חיפושgratitude: הכרת תודהwander: לטיילenriched: עורכםrevive: להשיבexplore: לחפשexperience: חוויהfunctioning: מתפקדnarrowed: הפך לצמצםsensation: תחושתוshadows: הצלליםpounding: התפעםawaiting: ממתיניםsmiles: חיוכיםentrance: כניסהBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Lakeway Baptist Church

Lakeway Baptist Church

For review:Operation Epic Fury / Roaring Lion Continues.1. Three American soldiers have been killed, and five have been seriously wounded in the ongoing conflict with Iran, the US Central Command said Sunday, announcing the first US casualties in the conflict.2. The United States and Israel clashed with Iran at an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council on Saturday as the United Nations chief led calls for a halt to attacks by either side and a return to negotiations to prevent the conflict from spreading further.3. China, Russia and North Korea condemned the news that Iran's notorious strongman Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had been killed an Israeli airstrike, as did Iranian proxies Hamas, Hezbollah and Palestinian Islamic Jihad.4. As outlined in its constitution, Iran on Sunday formed a council to assume leadership duties and govern the country, while the process to select a new Supreme Leader begins.The council is made up of Iran's sitting president, the head of the country's judiciary, and a member of the Guardian Council chosen by Iran's Expediency Council, which advises the supreme leader and settles disputes with parliament.5. Israeli and American authorities spent weeks tracking the movements of senior Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, sharing information that allowed the strikes to be carried out in a surprise daylight attack, according to an Israeli military official and a person familiar with the operation.6. US President Donald Trump threatened early Sunday morning to hit Iran with unprecedented force after Tehran warned it would step up attacks in retaliation for the killing of its supreme leader and fired successive volleys of rockets at Israel for a second consecutive day Sunday.7. Israeli Air Force fighter jets have dropped over 2,000 bombs in strikes against hundreds of Iranian regime targets and military sites since the start of the conflict with the Islamic Republic on Saturday morning, the Israel Defense Forces said Sunday.The amount of munitions dropped on targets in Iran over the first 30 hours of the conflict was around half of what the IAF said it used over the entire course of the 12-day war in June 2025.8. The warhead of an Iranian missile hit a site just several dozen meters from the Old City of Jerusalem, and just several hundred meters from the Western Wall and the Temple Mount, during the course of Saturday, police announced on Sunday.9. Lebanon's Hezbollah terror group claims responsibility for firing rockets at northern Israel tonight for the first time since the November 2024 Israel-Lebanon ceasefire.10. Lebanese and Arabic news outlets report Israeli strikes in Lebanon's capital, Beirut, after several rockets were fired at northern Israel earlier tonight.Lebanese security sources tell Reuters that at least one target in Beirut's southern suburbs was hit in the strikes.There is no immediate comment from the IDF.11. US President Donald Trump on Sunday said he would “be talking” with Iran's leaders at their request, even as he continued to call on “Iranian patriots” to seize the moment created by the killing of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei the previous day and topple the regime.12. Ali Larijani, the secretary of Iran's National Security Council, is seeking to return to the negotiating table with the United States, less than two days after the start of a coordinated assault on Iran by the US and Israel, the Wall Street Journal reports, citing US and Arab officials familiar with the matter.According to the report, Larijani reached out to the US through Omani mediators to see about resuming negotiations.

A Place Where God Will Live Ephesians 2:11-22 by William Klock In today's Old Testament lesson we hear King Solomon praying at the dedication of the temple.  The temple was finally completed and Solomon gathered the elders of Israel at the tabernacle, where they offered sacrifices too many to number.  Then with the priests leading them with the ark of the covenant, they processed up the mountain to the temple.  When they'd placed it in the holy of holies, the presence of the Lord, the shekinah, the cloud of his glory descended to fill the temple as it once had the tabernacle.  And Solomon prayed.  He prayed for the new temple and he prayed for his people.  He prayed that they would be faithful.  And then, our lesson today, he prayed for the foreigners, for the gentiles who might come to the Lord's temple having heard of his great name, his mighty hand, and his outstretched arm—that coming to the temple, they would know his glory.  Solomon's kingdom was, however imperfectly, a fulfilment of the Lord's promise to Abraham to make Israel a light to the nations.  And the nations came to Israel and to Solomon, because they saw and because they heard of the Lord's reputation.  Not only had he blessed his people, but in him they saw a god unlike their own.  And so they came, and they saw for themselves the goodness of the Lord, the God of Israel.  And Solomon knew, too, that they would come to the temple that he'd built.  So he prayed that when these foreigners came and prayed, that the Lord would answer them, that he would make himself known to them, so that “all the peoples of the earth may know your name and fear you, as do your people Israel.”  Again, this wasn't some one-off prayer that Solomon came up with.  Solomon's prayer is rooted in the promises of God and in the story of his people.  Solomon knew that the world is not as it should be; Solomon knew the Lord's promises to set it to rights; and Solomon knew that God had given an integral role to his people to bring the fulfilment of those promises.  And Solomon great desire was for his people to be faithful to that calling, to that vocation—faithful to be a temple people. Now, this imagery and idea of the temple wasn't new with Israel; it goes all the way back to the beginning of the story.  The garden was God's first temple.  And the man and woman he created—he created them—us—to bear his image.  That means to be his representatives in the temple, to serve him, and steward his goodness to the rest of creation.  We rejected that vocation and the story ever since has been about God restoring his temple and his people.  Two weeks ago, when we looked at Ephesians 2:1-10, we saw how Jesus—the one in whom God and humanity have come together—represents God's work to restore his temple, but we also saw there that, as Paul stresses so much, what is true of Jesus is also true of those who are in him.  One day his people will be raised to be like him—heaven and earth people—but in the meantime, God has filled his church—filled us—with his Spirit as a foretaste and a down payment of that hope.  Brothers and Sisters, that means that we, purified by the blood of Jesus and filled with God's Spirit, we're now the temple—not a temple of bricks and mortar, but a temple of people filled with God's presence. Just as Solomon prayed that the nations would know the glorious reputation of the God of Israel through his people and come to meet him at his temple, our prayer, our desire, our commitment ought to be that the world will know God's glorious reputation through us and come to meet him here.  What God promised to Adam and Eve, to Abraham, to Moses, to the people through the Prophets is now reality in us.  The promise isn't completely fulfilled.  One day the knowledge of the glory of God will fill the earth.  On that day the new creation that began when Jesus rose from the dead will come to full fruit.  Creation and us with it will be made fully new.  God will wipe every last remaining bit of evil from the world and sin and death will be no more.  But, Brothers and Sisters, here's the really important thing here: The church—you and I and everyone else who is in Jesus the Messiah—we are God's vehicle to get the world to that point.  The church is God's means of making his glory known until it fills the earth.  And that ought to get us reflecting on how faithful we are to our mission.  When the world looks at the Church, when it looks at Christians, does what we say and do and live declare the glory of God: his great name, his mighty hand, and his outstretched arm?  (To put it as Solomon did.)  Does what we say and do and live give the world a desire to come to the church to meet God?  Do we at least make the world constructively curious?  If not, we need to reflect on our priorities and on what we're doing. And this is true of everyone who is in Jesus the Messiah, but Paul, writing to the Ephesians who were mostly gentile believers, wants to stress to them just how significant it is that through Jesus and the Spirit they have been made a part of this temple people.  Brothers and Sisters, this is something that we don't spend enough time talking about and reflecting on.  For Paul, the unification of Jews and gentiles in the Messiah was at the heart of the gospel.  It was the proof that God was fulfilling his promises.  This church, made up of Jews and gentiles, men and women, rich and poor, slave and free, all together, unified, one body was a testimony to the glory of God.  In fact, for Paul, it was the testimony of the gospel's power. And I don't think it's even on the radar for many of us today, because we've become so used to and even so complacent about divisions within the church.  Anglicans, Presbyterians, Methodists, Baptists, Lutherans, Mennonites, Romans, and Eastern Orthodox—and those are just some older divisions amongst us before we got really split-happy in the last century or two.  And it's not just theology and polity.  I suspect Paul might have at least a little sympathy for those sorts of divisions, especially over serious, gospel-compromising theological matters.  But Paul would be furious to see how we divide over things like language and ethnicity.  The English are here and the Germans are at that Lutheran church and the Swedes at that other Lutheran church and the Italians and Spanish and Filipinos are at the Roman church and the Greeks at the Greek Orthodox, the Russians at the Russian Orthodox, the Ukrainians at the Ukrainian Orthodox, the Syrians at the Syrian Orthodox.  The Dutch are in their Reformed church and the Scots are in their Reformed church.  And there's a church just for Chinese-speakers and another for Afrikaans and so on and on.  And you've got Messianic Jews forming their own synagogues.  And Paul would be shouting at us and asking, “Haven't you read a single thing I've written to you?  Your divisions are undermining the very gospel you claim to preach!” Paul did not want this to happen in the Ephesian churches, but even more than that, he wanted the people in those churches, especially he wanted them to appreciate just what God had done for them in Jesus and the Spirit, because if we understand what God has done to make us one, we'll hopefully be far less likely to let it be undone.  So, Paul writes in Ephesians 2:11-12 and reminds them of what they used to be: “Therefore, remember this: In human terms—that is, in your ‘flesh'—you are ‘gentiles'.  You are the people whom the so-called circumcision refer to as the so-called uncircumcision—circumcision, of course, being something done by human hands to human flesh.  Well, once upon a time you were separated from the Messiah.  You were alienated from the community of Israel.  You were foreigners to the covenants of promise.  There you were in the world, with no hope and no God.” You were gentiles.  Of course, Gentiles didn't think of themselves that way.  They were just regular people; it was the Jews who were weird.  But the fact that Paul can say this to them, “You were gentiles” means that they've now been brought into the family of Israel.  And just in case they might have forgotten the significance of that, he describes them as having been outsiders with this string of descriptors that work up to a crescendo of alienation. First, they were separated from the Messiah—from the rightful King.  The Messiah was some weird thing the Jews were into.  What would Greeks or Romans—who were oh, so superior—want to have to do with him?  And even if they did, the Messiah wasn't part of their story.  Then second, Paul says that they were alienated from the community—the commonwealth as the King James puts it—of Israel.  They were foreigners.  Israel was not their nation and Israel's God was not their God.  Even if they did see something attractive in Israel and went to the temple in Jerusalem—think of Solomon's prayer for the foreign visitors who would come—there was a wall between the court of the gentiles and the court of the women.  In Paul's day there was an inscription on that wall warning that foreigners passed it on pain of death.  Gentiles could look from a distance, but they were cut off from the living God.  And third, they were foreigners to the covenants of promise.  Most of them had never heard of Abraham or Moses, but if they had, that simply wasn't their story and it certainly wasn't their family.  They didn't belong there.  Whatever promises the God of Israel had made, those promises were not for the gentiles.  And Paul then sums it all up and says: You were in the world without God and without hope. I think Paul intends a bit of irony there.  When he says they were without God he uses a word that essentially means they were atheists.  And “atheist” is exactly what the gentiles called Jews and the first Christians.  Because Jews and Christians worshipped only one God and one God might as well have been no god to them with their vast pantheons.  And Jews and Christians refused to take part in the pagan worship and festivals that ran all through gentile life and society.  And so Paul flips it around.  “No, it was you gentiles, separated from the Messiah, alienated from Israel, foreigners to the covenant promises—it was you who were the atheists.  You were the ones without God.  And because of that you had no hope.  And if being called atheists didn't make an impact, I have to think this would have.  Because it's not that the Greeks and Romans didn't understand the idea of hope; it's that they had no reason, no grounds to live with hope.  No one in their world believed in progress the way people do today.  That idea is rooted in our biblical heritage.  They thought things just went round and round in cycles—forever stuck.  And while their philosophers might talk about life after death, it was all very vague and not hopeful at all.  Hesiod imprisoned hope in the bottom of Pandora's box, lost forever.  Aristotle and others wrote about hope as fickle and treacherous—a foolish thing to trust in.  Things could go wrong just as easily as they could go right.  Hope just wasn't a big deal for the Greeks.  But in stark contrast, hope was at the centre of the whole Jewish and early Christian worldview.  As I said last time, no one in the pagan world would have ever dreamed that the gods loved them or even really cared about them, so why would anyone in the pagan world have reason to hope?  So Paul sums it all up: Without God and without hope, the gentiles were alone and lost in the world.  Paul reminds them just how bleak things were for them before they were captured by the gospel.  I think it's a good thing for us to reflect on this ourselves and if we did, I think we would have a greater appreciation for what God has done for us and for what he has made his church. So after painting this bleak and pitiful picture of where these people were before Jesus, Paul cuts through the hopelessness and despair.  Like he did with that great, “But God!” in verse 3, now in verse 13 he practically shouts out, “But now!” “But now, in Messiah Jesus, you who used to be far away have been brough near by the Messiah's blood.  He is our peace, you see.  He has made the two to be one.  He has pulled down the barrier, the dividing wall, that turns us into enemies of each other.  He has done this in his flesh, by abolishing the law with its commands and instructions.” Paul wrote about the Messiah's blood back in Chapter 1.  Jesus' blood is the means through which God has accomplished redemption and forgiveness.  This was the great, once-and-for-all-time sacrifice that the Old Testament sacrificial system was pointing to all along.  In the Old Testament, sacrificial blood was like a disinfectant.  It cleansed the tabernacle and later the temple; and it cleansed the people of Israel so that the holy God could come to his people and dwell with them.  Pagan sacrifices were all about killing valuable animals to placate the gods.  In Israel, the sacrifices were all about the blood—a symbol of God-given life—and that blood was shed to wash away the stain of sin and death so that God could come and dwell and fellowship with his people.  Brothers and Sisters, the blood of Jesus, shed at the cross, has fully accomplished once and for all and for everyone what the Old Testament sacrifices did partially and temporarily.  And in doing that, God has abolished the law. You see, the law was the thing that set Israel apart from the rest of the world and Paul saw that wall in the court of the gentiles as symbolic of it.  The law, like that wall, kept the gentiles out of God's people, out of his covenant, and out of his promises.  The law marked out the gentiles as idolaters and as unclean—unworthy of God's presence.  But Jesus' blood has washed us clean—Jew and gentile alike—making both the law and the wall that kept the gentiles out irrelevant.  In Jesus, God had brought these Greek believers into the family—fully and no longer aliens and foreigners.  And why?  Paul goes on in the second half of verse 15: “The point of doing all this was to create, in him, one new humanity out of the two, so making peace.  God was reconciling  both of us to himself in a single body, through the cross, by killing the enmity in him.” Do you remember the first thing the risen Jesus said to his disciples when he entered that locked-up house where they were hiding after he'd been crucified?  It was “Peace”.  Shalom.  Peace is what the world looks like set to rights.  And so it makes perfect sense that “Peace” would be the first thing Jesus would say to his disciples after rising from death and inaugurating God's new creation.  He'd just begun the work of setting the world to rights.  And for Paul, this new humanity—Jews and gentiles, once divided by the law, but now brought together—this new humanity, the church, is the first sign of God's peace breaking out into the world.  The church is the sign of the new age.  As I've said before, we are God's working model of his new creation.  Jesus has killed the enmity that was once between us and he has reconciled both to God and, through that, to each other.  Jesus' blood as washed us clean and Paul stresses regularly to his fellow Jews, this means there's no longer any reason to consider gentile believers in Jesus to be unclean.  We gentiles, with hearts renewed by the Holy Spirit, have turned away from our idols to serve the living God and by the blood of Jesus he has washed us clean.  And if there's any doubt, Paul would point to the fact that the same Spirit has come to fill the gentile believers who first filled the Jewish believers.  So he goes on in verse 17: “So the [he Messiah] came and proclaimed peace, to you who were far off and to those who were near.  Through him we both have access to the Father in one Spirit.”  Again, it's all the fulfilment of God's promises.  In Isaiah 57 God had promised that he would heal the broken and humble in spirit and give peace: peace for those far off and peace for those who are near.  He's now done that in Jesus and the unity of the church—these people who were once separated, these people who once hated each other—their unity in the Messiah as one people is the proof, the testimony, the witness of God's faithfulness and the power of the gospel. And Paul, again, wants to drive this home.  Look at verses 19 to 22: “So then [—this is the result—] you are no longer foreigners and aliens.  No, you are fellow citizens with God's holy people.  You are members of God's household.  You are built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Messiah Jesus himself as the cornerstone.  In him the whole building is fitted together, and grows into a holy temple in the Lord.  You, too, are being built up together, in him, into a place where God will live by the Spirit.” The point of all this is that through Jesus and the Spirit, the living God has welcomed us into this amazing story.  We've been adopted into a family that was not ours.  We were poor, dirty refugees without hope, but God has washed us clean in the blood of Jesus, he has made us welcome members of his family, and most importantly, he has come to dwell with us.  He has filled us—aliens, foreigners, strangers, gentiles—with his Spirit—the presence that he had promised to his own people and in doing that he has made us holy.  And just just because.  God has a purpose for us.  He always has. And this is where Paul stops hinting at things with temple language and imagery and comes out and says it: God has done this in order to establish a new temple.  For centuries the Jews had been waiting for God's presence to return to the temple, not that unlike the way so many Jews today go to the Western Wall and pray for a new temple and God's return.  Brother and Sisters, Paul's stressing that God has, in fact, returned, that he has built a new temple, and that he now dwells with his people.  But not in a stone building on the mountain above Jerusalem.  He has built is new temple and returned to live with his people through Jesus and the Spirit. And, again, that means that we—the church—are God's ongoing means of fulfilling his promises to set creation to rights.  God's presence with us is the sign that one day his presence will fill all of creation.  We are the temple, the working model of new creation.  As we proclaim the gospel, we proclaim the glories of God to the world.  As we live the gospel, we put on display the glories of God to the world.  And our unity in Jesus and the Spirit—something we've often forgotten—is one of the most important ways we ought to be living out the gospel.  Just as there was one temple in Israel, there is only one church.  By our divisions and schism and arguments, by our elevating language and race and nation over the gospel, we've often obscured this reality, but Brothers and Sisters, there is but one church and the unity of that one church across our natural divisions of language and race—and class, and status, and every other way the world divides and separates us—that unity is meant to be a witness.  A witness to the power of the gospel.  A witness to the power of Jesus and the cleansing power of his blood.  A witness to the Holy Spirit who indwells every believer.  And most of all, witness to the faithfulness of God, who has been true to his promises.  And through that, our unity becomes a witness to a bleak and hopeless world of God's coming new creation—not just of the world set to rights, but of humanity set to rights within it: one people, renewed and purified, in fellowship forever with the living God. Let's pray: Gracious Father, you have purified us by the blood of your Son and filled us with your Spirit to make us your temple.  Pour out your grace that we might be faithful stewards of the gifts you have given us.  Teach us to guard the unity of your church, so that the nations will see in us a witness to your mighty hand, your outstretched arm, and your great name.  And when they draw near, hear their prayers, we ask, that they might know your great name as we have, through your Son and through your Spirit.  Amen.

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. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Negotiators resumed US-Iran nuclear talks in Geneva on Thursday, hours after senior American officials made the case that Iran poses a major threat to the United States and is actively working toward a nuclear bomb. Horovitz updates us on US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance's statements and describes the intense US military buildup in the Mideast. He then assesses the Israeli public's willingness to join in on any eventual strike against Iran and how Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could leverage the crisis in this election year. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a two-day visit to Israel on Wednesday and Thursday, where he pledged to work in lockstep with the Jewish state to confront Islamist terrorism. In what Horovitz describes as a regrettably rare sentiment from world leaders, the Indian premier told the Knesset that his nation stands “firmly” with Israel. We learn what else happened behind the scenes. In an effort to circumvent a Supreme Court order to expand egalitarian prayer access at the Western Wall, lawmakers voted 56-47 Wednesday afternoon in favor of the preliminary reading of a bill giving the Chief Rabbinate full control over prayer at all parts of the holy site -- not just the Orthodox prayer plaza. It has drawn harsh condemnation from progressive Jewish groups, which condemned the controversial legislation as “patronizing and antisemitic.” Horovitz weighs in. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Facing Trump, Hamas bet on survival and is being vindicated; Iran’s regime has the same game plan As talks resume, Rubio, Vance accuse Iran of trying to restart its nuclear program Iranian FM arrives in Geneva for talks as US demands any nuclear deal last indefinitely F-22 jets deploy at Israeli Air Force base as US builds up forces for Iran strike In the Knesset, Modi says India stands firmly with Israel ‘in this moment and beyond’ MKs approve preliminary bill cementing Orthodox control over entire Western Wall Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: A Valar Atomics microreactor is seen on a C-17 aircraft, without nuclear fuel, at March Air Reserve Base, California, February 15, 2026. (AP Photo/Matthew Daly)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Israel's Supreme Court ordered the government on Feb. 19 to complete long-delayed renovations to Robinson's Arch, the official egalitarian prayer section just south of the main Western Wall. For years, it's where non-Orthodox Jews, including women, can pray together, and also read from a Torah scroll. But what began as a ruling about construction permits has quickly become something bigger. Members of Israel's governing coalition are advancing legislation this week that would effectively bring the broader Kotel site, including Robinson's Arch, under the authority of the ultra-Orthodox Chief Rabbinate. The law could mean prison terms of up to seven years for anyone deemed to be desecrating the holy site — and observers fear the new proposal could ban any alternative forms of Jewish prayer around Judaism's holiest place. This raises a deeper question: where does that leave millions of Jews, especially outside of Israel, who are not Orthodox? On today's episode of The CJN's “North Star” podcast, Toronto Rabbi Elyse Goldstein joins host Ellin Bessner to explore what's at stake. The Rabbi is a longtime advocate for pluralistic prayer, for women's place in Judaism, and a supporter of the Women of the Wall movement's decades-long struggle for equality at the Kotel. Related stories: Read about the Israel Supreme court decision on Robinson's Arch Feb. 19, 2026, and reaction, in The CJN Learn more about what Rabbi Elyse Goldstein experienced joining the Women of the Wall's 25th anniversary prayer service in 2013, in The CJN . Hear what it was like in July 2023 at a Women of the Wall prayer service in this eye-witness account by The CJN's producer Zachary Judah Kauffman , who was studying in Israel and produced this podcast for The CJN's North Star Podcast. Credits Host and writer: Ellin Bessner ( @ebessner ) Production team: Zachary Kauffman (senior producer), Michael Fraiman (executive producer), Alicia Richler (editorial director) 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 ) Watch our podcasts on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@TheCJN Help others find this podcast by leaving us a review for “North Star” on Apple Podcasts via your iPhone or iPad device, or with your Android. (Spotify allows only starred ratings but you can do that, too!)

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Walls of Wisdom: Friendship and Discovery in Jerusalem Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2026-02-23-08-38-20-he Story Transcript:He: השמש הייתה מוחבאת מאחורי עננים כהים בירושלים החורפית.En: The sun was hidden behind dark clouds in the wintery Jerusalem.He: הקור נגע בלחיים ופזר טיפות גשם קלות על אבני הכותל המערבי.En: The cold touched their cheeks and scattered light raindrops on the stones of the Western Wall.He: יהודית, יהודית, על ראשי החג.En: Yehudit, Yehudit, on my head the holiday.He: היו אלו ימי פורים, וצלילי החג וריחות הסופגניות הציפו את אוויר העיר.En: These were the days of Purim, and the sounds of the holiday and the scent of sufganiyot filled the city's air.He: יעל עמדה מול הכותל עם ספריה ומחברת, שניסתה לסדר ברוח הקרה.En: Yael stood in front of the wall with her books and notebook, trying to organize them in the cold wind.He: יעל הייתה נחושה.En: Yael was determined.He: היא רצתה להכין את הפרויקט הכי טוב לכיתה על משמעות התרבותית של הכותל המערבי.En: She wanted to prepare the best project for class on the cultural significance of the Western Wall.He: אבל היא לא לבד.En: But she wasn't alone.He: לצדה עמד אברהם, עם חיוך רגוע על פניו.En: Beside her stood Avraham, with a calm smile on his face.He: אברהם הציץ מסביב, מתבונן במתחפשים ובשמחת החג.En: Avraham glanced around, watching those in costumes and the joy of the holiday.He: קולות הפורים הסיחו את דעתו מהמטרה המרכזית שלהם.En: The sounds of Purim distracted him from their main goal.He: "יעל, תראי את התחפושת הזו," הוא צחק.En: "Yael, look at that costume," he laughed.He: יעל גילגלה את עיניה אך חיוך קל הופיע על פניה.En: Yael rolled her eyes, but a slight smile appeared on her face.He: "אברהם, חשוב לנו לסיים את הפרויקט," היא אמרה בעדינות אך בתקיפות.En: “Avraham, we need to finish the project," she said gently but firmly.He: אברהם נאנח וביטל את ענייניו החיצוניים לרגע.En: Avraham sighed and dismissed his external interests for a moment.He: "אני יודע, זה חשוב," השיב לבסוף.En: "I know, it's important," he finally replied.He: כך ישבו שניהם מול הכותל, כשאברהם מנסה להתרכז.En: So, they both sat in front of the wall, with Avraham trying to concentrate.He: הם הבינו שצריך גם לשתף ולא רק לעבוד.En: They realized they needed to share, not just work.He: חילופי סיפורים התחילו במקרה - אברהם הזכיר את סבא רבא שלו שפעם עלה לרגל לכותל, ויעל סיפרה על התפילות שהיא אומרת שם בכל שנה ביום כיפור.En: Their exchange of stories began by chance - Avraham mentioned his great-grandfather who once made a pilgrimage to the wall, and Yael spoke of the prayers she says there every year on Yom Kippur.He: בעודם מדברים, הם מצאו עצמם נוגעים באופן אישי יותר בהיסטוריה של המקום.En: As they talked, they found themselves becoming more personally connected to the history of the place.He: הם קלטו שהכותל הוא יותר מאבן עתיקה, הוא מייצג זיכרונות, חלומות ותקוות.En: They realized that the wall is more than an ancient stone; it represents memories, dreams, and hopes.He: הדיון הפך לחברות, להפחתת המתח ולעבודה משותפת.En: The discussion turned into friendship, reducing tension and leading to joint work.He: כשהגיעו לבית הספר והציגו את הפרויקט המוגמר, הוא היה שילוב של עובדות היסטוריות וחוויות אישיות.En: When they arrived at school and presented the completed project, it was a combination of historical facts and personal experiences.He: לימודם לא היה רק על כותל, אלא גם על חשיבות האיזון בין עבודה לחיים, ועל ההקשבה זה לזה.En: Their learning wasn't just about the Kotel, but also about the importance of balancing work and life, and listening to each other.He: יעל הבינה שבזמן שהמטרה חשובה, גם החברות וההבנה חשובים.En: Yael understood that while the goal is important, so are friendship and understanding.He: ואברהם גילה שהיכולת להתרכז ולתרום משמעותית מובילה לתוצאות מרשימות.En: And Avraham discovered that the ability to focus and contribute meaningfully leads to impressive results.He: יחד, הם הראו שלפעמים החגיגות יכולות להעשיר את הלימוד, ולא רק לשבש אותו.En: Together, they showed that sometimes the celebrations can enrich the learning, not just disrupt it. Vocabulary Words:hidden: מוחבאתwintery: החורפיתcheeks: לחייםscattered: פזרdetermined: נחושהcultural significance: משמעות תרבותיתconcentrate: להתרכזpilgrimage: עלה לרגלancient: עתיקהmemories: זיכרונותdreams: חלומותhopes: תקוותdiscussion: דיוןfriendship: חברותtension: מתחjoint work: עבודה משותפתbalance: איזוןlistening: הקשבהimpressive: מרשימותcelebrations: חגיגותenrich: להעשירnotebook: מחברתexternal interests: ענייניו החיצונייםgoals: מטרהexchange: חילופיpersonally connected: נוגעים באופן אישיcombination: שילובmeaningfully: משמעותיתdistracted: הסיחו את דעתוfirmly: בתקיפותBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

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. Settlements reporter Jeremy Sharon and religion reporter Rossella Tercatin join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. On Sunday, the cabinet approved the opening of a new land registration process for Area C in the West Bank, some 60 percent of the territory, which it and critics said would enable the state to declare large swaths of land in the territory as available for public development, meaning the creation and expansion of settlements and settlement infrastructure. Sharon weighs in on the trend of increasing Israeli civilian control of the territory, or de facto annexation, and Tercatin brings the example of legislation that would give the State of Israel control of archaeological sites in territory currently administered by the Palestinian Authority. Yesterday, for the first time in three years, representatives of the state and the Jerusalem municipality explained to the High Court why there is a delay in implementing a 2016 government-mandated upgrade to the egalitarian prayer section at the Western Wall and restoring its direct access to the wall itself. Tercatin updates us on the ongoing saga and Sharon weighs in with the potential legal outcomes. We finish the program with a new reading of the New Testament's cleansing of the Temple, which brings out Jesus's more human aspects. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Cabinet OKs new West Bank land registration process, critics decry ‘de-facto annexation’ Local and state government trade blame over delays upgrading Western Wall egalitarian plaza Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht. IMAGE: Palestinians visit the Roman historical site in the West Bank town of Sebastia, November 20, 2025. (AP Photo/Nasser Nasser)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At the Western Wall in Jerusalem, Ushers once again prevented Women of the Wall from reading from the Torah at plaza in honor of Rosh Chodesh Adar. The ushers refused to allow the women to bring their own Torah scroll or use one of the scrolls offered to the public. The Women of the Wall were forced to hold the ceremony at the entrance to the Western Wall plaza amid shouting and pushing from rioters. At the end of the reading, police detained two of the women, claiming they were obstructing the emergency passage. Anat Hoffman, the chairperson of Women of the Wall, said rioters shredded and burned up dozens of their Jewish prayer books. “We wanted to read it (the Torah) by women, for woman at the woman’s section at the wall… the authorities are keeping us away from Torah,” she said. (photo: Chaim Goldberg/flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

IDF paratrooper mortally wounded in tragic friendly fire incident in Gaza Strip, Heightened security as Ramadan begins, Women of the Wall assaulted and pushed out of Western Wall plaze See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Lost in History: Amit's Heartfelt Homecoming in Jerusalem Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2026-02-17-23-34-02-he Story Transcript:He: רוחות קרירות נשבו ברחובות הצרים של העיר העתיקה בירושלים.En: Cool breezes blew through the narrow streets of the Old City in Jerusalem.He: החורף באוויר והריח המתוק של אוזני המן פיזר תחושת קדושה ועושר בקרב הקירות העתיקים.En: Winter was in the air, and the sweet smell of ozney haman spread a feeling of holiness and abundance among the ancient walls.He: עמית, יונה וליאור צעדו עם אביהם ברחובות העמוסים, אוחזים במפת הירושה של ירושלים.En: Amit, Yonah, and Lior walked with their father through the crowded streets, holding the inheritance map of Jerusalem.He: עמית, נער עם חיבה להיסטוריה, ניסה להתחבר לחגיגות הפורים מסביב.En: Amit, a boy with a fondness for history, tried to connect with the Purim celebrations around him.He: הוא ראה אנשים מחופשים, ילדים צוחקים ומבוגרים נושאים שקיות ממתקים.En: He saw people in costumes, laughing children, and adults carrying bags of candies.He: אך בתוך כל ההמולה חש עמית מעט חיצוני.En: But amid all the commotion, Amit felt somewhat out of place.He: הוא ידע את הסיפורים וההיסטוריה, אך הלב שלו הרגיש ריק.En: He knew the stories and the history, but his heart felt empty.He: יונה וליאור הצביעו לכיוון כותל המערבי, אך עמית הרגיש שאולי היום ימצא משהו אחר, משהו שהוא לא ידע קודם.En: Yonah and Lior pointed toward the Western Wall, but Amit felt that perhaps today he would find something different, something he hadn't known before.He: הוא פנה ברגליים אל סמטה בלתי נודעת, חיפוש אחר מהות אמיתית.En: He turned his steps toward an unknown alley, searching for genuine meaning.He: הלמות הלב שלו הובילו אותו הלאה מהקול התוסס והאלכוהול של המסיבה הציבורית.En: His racing heart led him away from the lively and alcoholic sounds of the public party.He: בפינה נסתרת של העיר הוא מצא קבוצת מקומיים מתכוננים לחגיגת פורים אחרת.En: In a hidden corner of the city, he found a group of locals preparing for a different kind of Purim celebration.He: תפאורה פשוטה, נגנים וחבורה צוהלת.En: Simple decor, musicians, and a joyful gathering.He: הם לא נשאלו על זהותו של החוגג החדש שהגיע.En: They didn't question the identity of the new celebrant who had arrived.He: עמית נמשך אל תוך החמימות שלהם כמו מגנט.En: Amit was drawn into their warmth like a magnet.He: תוך דקות הוא מצא עצמו מרקד לצלילי החליל, נותן לעצמו לשחרר כל תחושה של זרות.En: Within minutes, he found himself dancing to the sounds of the flute, allowing himself to release any feeling of alienation.He: הלב שלו התרחב והתחושות חזרו.En: His heart expanded, and his emotions returned.He: בין חברים חדשים, סביב שולחן מלא בכל טוב, הרעידה הפנימית הפכה לשיר.En: Among new friends, around a table full of delights, the internal trembling turned into a song.He: עמית ראה עיניים מחייכות ופטפטים מלאים משמעויות.En: Amit saw smiling eyes and chatter full of meaning.He: הוא הרגיש חיבור עמוק לכל פינות המקום והאנשים שבו.En: He felt a deep connection to every corner of the place and the people there.He: כשהערב ירד על העיר העתיקה, הארות התחילו לנצנץ והשמחה הפנימית שלו בערה כמו נר חנוכה.En: As evening descended on the Old City, lights began to twinkle, and his inner joy burned like a Hanukkah candle.He: עמית לא הרגיש יותר זר.En: Amit no longer felt like a stranger.He: הוא היה אחד מהם.En: He was one of them.He: בפורים ההוא הוא הבין שהשורשים שלו הם יותר מסיפור היסטורי.En: On that Purim, he realized that his roots were more than just a historical tale.He: זה היה חיבור בלב.En: It was a connection of the heart.He: בלילה הזה, עמית באמת חזר הביתה.En: That night, Amit truly returned home. Vocabulary Words:breezes: רוחותnarrow: צריםholiness: קדושהabundance: עושרinheritance: ירושהfondness: חיבהcommotion: המולהalienation: זרותgenuine: אמיתיתlively: תוססalcoholic: אלכוהולcelebrant: חוגגmagnet: מגנטflute: חלילrelease: לשחררtrembling: רעידהchatter: פטפטיםexpanded: התרחבdelights: בכל טובdescended: ירדtwinkle: לנצנץstranger: זרroots: שורשיםhistorical: היסטוריconnection: חיבורsweet: מתוקfeeling: תחושהprepare: מתכונניםinternal: פנימיתjoyful: צוהלתBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Healing in the Holy Land: A Tale of Renewal and Discovery Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2026-01-25-23-34-02-he Story Transcript:He: הבוקר בירושלים התחיל בהמון רגש.En: The morning in Jerusalem started with much emotion.He: אריאלה ונעם עמדו מול הכותל המערבי, נשימתם נעתקה מהמראה המרגש של אבן העתיקה, עוטפת בזכרונות ותפילות.En: Ariela and Noam stood in front of the Western Wall, their breath taken away by the moving sight of the ancient stone, enveloped in memories and prayers.He: זה היה יום ט"ו בשבט, וחגג בטבע את ראש השנה לאילנות.En: It was the holiday of Tu Bishvat, celebrating the New Year for the Trees.He: אריאלה הייתה נרגשת במיוחד להשתתף בטקס הנטיעה.En: Ariela was especially excited to participate in the planting ceremony.He: היא הרגישה זיקה עמוקה לרוחניות של המקום והחג.En: She felt a deep connection to the spirituality of the place and the holiday.He: נעם, ידודה הטוב, היה לצדה כדי לתמוך ולעזור.En: Noam, her good friend, was by her side to support and help.He: הם הרגישו שהם חלק ממשהו גדול וקדוש.En: They felt they were part of something large and sacred.He: לפתע, אריאלה חשה בסחרחורת מוזרה.En: Suddenly, Ariela felt a strange dizziness.He: היא ניסתה להחזיק במקום, אך התחושות הלכו והתגברו.En: She tried to hold her ground, but the sensations grew stronger.He: "נעם, אני לא מרגישה טוב," לחשה עם דאגה בעיניים.En: "Noam, I'm not feeling well," she whispered with concern in her eyes.He: נעם הביט בה בחשש, "אולי כדאי שנחזור למלון?En: Noam looked at her worriedly, "Maybe we should go back to the hotel?"He: "אך אריאלה רצתה מאוד להשתתף בטקס הנטיעה.En: But Ariela really wanted to participate in the planting ceremony.He: היא אמרה לנעם: "אני חייבת לנסות.En: She said to Noam, "I have to try.He: אני מרגישה שזה חשוב.En: I feel it's important."He: " נעם הנהן, אך עדיין היה מודאג.En: Noam nodded, but was still concerned.He: באותו רגע הגיע אלעזר, מדריך מקומי עם חיוך חם.En: At that moment, Elazar, a local guide with a warm smile, arrived.He: הוא שם לב למצב של אריאלה ושאל אם הוא יכול לעזור.En: He noticed Ariela's condition and asked if he could help.He: "אני קצת מבין בענייני רפואה טבעית," הציע בעדינות.En: "I know a little about natural medicine," he offered gently.He: אריאלה ונעם הסכימו, והם מצאו מקום שקט לשבת.En: Ariela and Noam agreed, and they found a quiet place to sit.He: אלעזר בדק את אריאלה והציע לשתות מים ולקחת כמה נשימות עמוקות.En: Elazar examined Ariela and suggested drinking water and taking a few deep breaths.He: בעזרת הידע שלו, הוא הצליח להרגיע את תחושת הסחרחורת.En: Using his knowledge, he managed to calm the dizziness.He: כאשר התחיל טקס הנטיעה, אריאלה הרגישה טוב יותר.En: When the planting ceremony began, Ariela felt better.He: היא חפרה באדמה, נוטעת שתיל קטן, ובלבה תקווה והודיה.En: She dug into the earth, planting a small sapling, with hope and gratitude in her heart.He: התחושה המיוחדת של נטיעת עץ במקום הקדוש והתפילות שחברו לכל תנועה העניקו לה חווית התחדשות.En: The special feeling of planting a tree in the sacred place, and the prayers that accompanied every movement, gave her a sense of renewal.He: בסיום הטקס, אריאלה הסתכלה על אלעזר בענווה והודתה לו מכל הלב.En: At the end of the ceremony, Ariela looked at Elazar with humility and thanked him wholeheartedly.He: אלעזר הרגיש שחווית ההצלחה בריפוי אריאלה הדליק בנפשו את השאיפה להיות מרפא.En: Elazar felt that the success of healing Ariela ignited in him the aspiration to become a healer.He: בדרך חזרה למלון, אריאלה חשבה על מה שקרה ולמדה שאסור להתעלם מהסימנים שהגוף נותן.En: On the way back to the hotel, Ariela thought about what happened and learned that one should not ignore the signs the body gives.He: היא הרגישה מלאת אנרגיה ושמחה וידעה שתחזור לירושלים לעוד חוויות רוחניות.En: She felt full of energy and joy and knew she would return to Jerusalem for more spiritual experiences.He: ובין המאמינים הרבים שעמדו ליד הכותל, אלעזר הסתכל על ידיו ותהה על יכולותיו, מבטו הקדיש לא רק לאבנים העתיקות אלא גם לעתידו החדש.En: And among the many believers standing by the Western Wall, Elazar looked at his hands and pondered his abilities, his gaze dedicated not only to the ancient stones but also to his new future. Vocabulary Words:emotion: רגשbreath: נשימהenveloped: עוטפתmemories: זכרונותspirituality: רוחניותdizziness: סחרחורתwhispered: לחשהconcern: דאגהworriedly: בחששparticipate: להשתתףceremony: טקסcondition: מצבnatural medicine: רפואה טבעיתexamined: בדקaspiration: שאיפהhealer: מרפאignore: להתעלםsapling: שתילgratitude: הודיהrenewal: התחדשותhumility: ענווהsuccess: הצלחהpondered: תההdedicated: הקדישancient: עתיקsacred: קדושsensation: תחושהprayers: תפילותguide: מדריךjoy: שמחהBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Don't miss a special mini-tour of Israel from September 2025 on Open Line with Dr. Michael Rydelnik. Join us around your radio kitchen table as he and Dr. Bryan O'Neal answer a few Bible questions. Then hear Michael teach on-location in Capernaum and at the Western Wall. We'll also hear the testimony of a Jewish tour guide named Shira. Be sure to join us for this special edition of Open Line. Learn more about resources mentioned:Future trips with MichaelOpen Line Live TourChosen People Ministries free giftFEBC podcastMoody Bible Commentary Open Line is listener-supported. To support the program, click here. Become a Kitchen Table Partner: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/openline/partnersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

King Herod (born 72; died 4 or 1 BC) was an infamous tyrant, but he was also known for his colossal construction projects throughout Judea. Among these works are the rebuilding of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the expansion of its base—the Western Wall being part of it. Ee86. Dan Snow's History Hit podcast available at https://amzn.to/48HlmtH Books by Seth Schwartz available at https://amzn.to/49US5vJ ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPORT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark Vinet's TIMELINE video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVinet Mark's History of North America podcast: www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-of-north-america Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 Twitter: https://twitter.com/HistoricalJesu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Mark's books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Audio credits: Dan Snow's History Hit podcast (Episode 1337: King Herod with Seth Schwartz, professor of Classical Jewish Civilization at New York City’s Columbia University). Audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Lazar Focus. Each Friday, catch diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. This week, while Berman was in Florida to cover the summit between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan invited senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur to sit in the hot seat and prepare five scenarios for Israel for 2026. Rettig Gur came prepared -- plus one -- and the two spend the first half discussing the three main fronts of the war, Lebanon, Gaza and Iran. In the second half, we learn about more domestic/political issues, including Rettig Gur's projection that Israel will begin to wean itself from US aid as the political winds shift in the States. Lazar Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht. IMAGE: A man walks down to the Western Wall as the Dome of the Rock at the Al-Aqsa mosque compound appears in the background in the Old City of Jerusalem on December 4, 2025. (JOHN WESSELS / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Finding Light and Love: Ariel's Journey in Jerusalem Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2025-12-27-08-38-20-he Story Transcript:He: בירושלים העתיקה, בזמן החורף של חג החנוכה, אבנים עתיקות סיפרו סיפורים עתיקים וגשרים מוארים בחום זהוב הרגישו את שמחת החג המקיפה את הכול.En: In Yerushalayim (Jerusalem) of old, during the winter of Hanukkah, ancient stones told ancient stories and bridges illuminated in golden warmth felt the joy of the holiday that enveloped everything.He: אריאל, סטודנטית סקרנית ומחפשת משמעות, הגיעה לדרוך על האדמה הקדושה הזו כדי להרגיש חיבור עמוק יותר לשורשיה.En: Ariel, a curious and meaning-seeking student, arrived to tread on this holy ground to feel a deeper connection to her roots.He: בערב חגיגי של נרות חנוכה, אריאל נעמדה מול הכותל המערבי, מוקפת באנשים, במוזיקה ובשירה אשר מילאו את האוויר הקריר.En: On a festive evening of Hanukkah candles, Ariel stood before the Kotel HaMa'aravi (Western Wall), surrounded by people, music, and singing that filled the chilly air.He: היא רצתה למצוא משמעות ולהרגיש חלק מהחגיגות, אך גם היססה, לא בטוחה אם אכן זו מקומה.En: She wanted to find meaning and feel part of the celebrations, but she also hesitated, unsure if this was truly her place.He: בין ההמונים פגשה את דוד.En: Among the crowds, she met David.He: דוד היה מקומי חמים וקשוב, שהתנדב כמדריך והכיר בבקיאות כל אבן וכל סיפור בירושלים.En: David was a warm and attentive local, who volunteered as a guide and was knowledgeable about every stone and story in Yerushalayim (Jerusalem).He: חיוכו היה מדבק, ונראה היה שהוא מאיר באור משלו בכל מקום אליו הלך.En: His smile was infectious, and he seemed to light up every place he went.He: הוא קרא לה להצטרף אליו לסיור מיוחד באזור הכותל ובירושלים העתיקה.En: He invited her to join him on a special tour around the Kotel and in old Yerushalayim.He: אריאל, שעדיין הרגישה קצת אבודה, החליטה לנצל את ההזדמנות, להיפתח למסורת המקומית ולחברות החדשה עם דוד.En: Ariel, still feeling a bit lost, decided to seize the opportunity, open up to the local tradition, and explore the new friendship with David.He: השניים הלכו יחד בסמטאות הצרות, שם דוד הדגים לה כיצד כל פינה מספרת סיפור משל עצמה.En: The two walked together through the narrow alleys, where David demonstrated to her how every corner tells its own story.He: הם עצרו מול חנויות קטנות, היכן שנמכרו סופגניות ולביבות, והאווירה הייתה שמחה ומזמינה.En: They stopped in front of small shops, where sufganiyot and levivot were sold, and the atmosphere was joyful and inviting.He: ככל שעבר הזמן, אריאל הרגישה איזה חום בלב שלא הכירה.En: As time passed, Ariel felt a warmth in her heart that she hadn't known.He: היא הרגישה שייכת, למרות הזרות.En: She felt belonging, despite being a stranger.He: כשהגיע הרגע לשיאו, נרות החנוכה הודלקו בכותל המערבי.En: When the moment reached its peak, the Hanukkah candles were lit at the Kotel HaMa'aravi.He: אור חמים ורך נשטף עליהם, ואריאל ודוד עמדו יחד, מוקסמים מהמראה.En: Warm, soft light washed over them, and Ariel and David stood together, mesmerized by the sight.He: אריאל הרגישה משהו שהיה חסר לה, משהו עמוק ובעל משמעות אמיתית.En: Ariel felt something she had been missing, something deep and truly meaningful.He: הייתה זו רגע קסום של חיבור ורגע של התרחבות הלב.En: It was a magical moment of connection and a moment of the heart's expansion.He: אריאל הביטה בדוד והבינה שהיא רוצה להישאר, להמשיך לחקור ולהעמיק את הקשר שנוצר ביניהם.En: Ariel looked at David and realized that she wanted to stay, to continue exploring and deepening the relationship that had been formed between them.He: היא הייתה מוכנה להישאר מעבר לתכניתה המקורית, ומצאה עצמה מביטה לעבר עתיד חדש ומבטיח עם דוד לצידה.En: She was ready to stay beyond her original plan and found herself looking towards a new and promising future with David by her side.He: כך, בין נרות החנוכה וצלילי החגיגה, אריאל כבר לא הרגישה כזרה.En: Thus, between the Hanukkah candles and the sounds of celebration, Ariel no longer felt like a stranger.He: היא מצאה מקום בליבה לירושלים ולחברה החדשה שהולידה רגעי קסם בבית אבותיה.En: She found a place in her heart for Yerushalayim and the new friendship that had birthed moments of magic in the home of her ancestors.He: חג החנוכה הפך עבורה לסמל של אור, חיבור וזהות מחודשת.En: Hanukkah became for her a symbol of light, connection, and renewed identity. Vocabulary Words:ancient: עתיקהilluminated: מואריםenveloped: המקיפהtread: לדרוךhesitated: היססהattentive: קשובvolunteered: התנדבdemonstrated: הדגיםnarrow: צרותinviting: מזמינהmesmerized: מקסמיםbeyond: מעברgateway: שערroots: שורשיהfestive: חגיגיcurious: סקרניתconnection: חיבורstranger: זרהidentity: זהותexpansion: התרחבותpromising: מבטיחsurrounded: מוקפתknowledgeable: מכיר בבקיאותbelonging: שייכתshop: חנויותsufganiyot: סופגניותlevivot: לביבותmagical: קסוםmoment: רגעwarmth: חוםBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Top stories from 2025:1,000 pastors at the Southern Steps & the Western Wall w/renewed vision for supporting Israel. Eli Sharabi, held hostage in Gaza for 491 days. Fulfilling prophesy: two brothers growing grapes in Tekoa. Aaron Shust sings 'Zion.'

Top stories from 2025:1,000 pastors at the Southern Steps & the Western Wall w/renewed vision for supporting Israel. Eli Sharabi, held hostage in Gaza for 491 days. Fulfilling prophesy: two brothers growing grapes in Tekoa. Aaron Shust sings 'Zion.'

Top stories from 2025:1,000 pastors at the Southern Steps & the Western Wall w/renewed vision for supporting Israel. Eli Sharabi, held hostage in Gaza for 491 days. Fulfilling prophesy: two brothers growing grapes in Tekoa. Aaron Shust sings 'Zion.'

Top stories from 2025:1,000 pastors at the Southern Steps & the Western Wall w/renewed vision for supporting Israel. Eli Sharabi, held hostage in Gaza for 491 days. Fulfilling prophesy: two brothers growing grapes in Tekoa. Aaron Shust sings 'Zion.'

Top stories from 2025:1,000 pastors at the Southern Steps & the Western Wall w/renewed vision for supporting Israel. Eli Sharabi, held hostage in Gaza for 491 days. Fulfilling prophesy: two brothers growing grapes in Tekoa. Aaron Shust sings 'Zion.'

Top stories from 2025:1,000 pastors at the Southern Steps & the Western Wall w/renewed vision for supporting Israel. Eli Sharabi, held hostage in Gaza for 491 days. Fulfilling prophesy: two brothers growing grapes in Tekoa. Aaron Shust sings 'Zion.'

Top stories from 2025:1,000 pastors at the Southern Steps & the Western Wall w/renewed vision for supporting Israel. Eli Sharabi, held hostage in Gaza for 491 days. Fulfilling prophesy: two brothers growing grapes in Tekoa. Aaron Shust sings 'Zion.'

Top stories from 2025:1,000 pastors at the Southern Steps & the Western Wall w/renewed vision for supporting Israel. Eli Sharabi, held hostage in Gaza for 491 days. Fulfilling prophesy: two brothers growing grapes in Tekoa. Aaron Shust sings 'Zion.'

Top stories from 2025:1,000 pastors at the Southern Steps & the Western Wall w/renewed vision for supporting Israel. Eli Sharabi, held hostage in Gaza for 491 days. Fulfilling prophesy: two brothers growing grapes in Tekoa. Aaron Shust sings 'Zion.'

Top stories from 2025:1,000 pastors at the Southern Steps & the Western Wall w/renewed vision for supporting Israel. Eli Sharabi, held hostage in Gaza for 491 days. Fulfilling prophesy: two brothers growing grapes in Tekoa. Aaron Shust sings 'Zion.'

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Love and Light: A Hanukkah Journey Through Jerusalem Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2025-12-17-23-34-02-he Story Transcript:He: הרחובות הצרים בעיר העתיקה של ירושלים היו מלאים באור נרות החנוכה.En: The narrow streets of the Old City of Jerusalem were filled with the light of Hanukkah candles.He: ריח הסופגניות והלביבות התפשט בכל פינה ומילא את האוויר בניחוחות של חג.En: The scent of sufganiyot and latkes spread to every corner, filling the air with the aromas of the holiday.He: עונת החורף הוסיפה לקסם, עם קור נעים שמלטף את הפנים.En: The winter season added to the magic, with a pleasant cold gently caressing the face.He: עבור עזרא, זו הייתה הפעם הראשונה שהוא יצא לדייט עם מיה.En: For Ezra, this was the first time he went on a date with Mia.He: לבו היה מלא התרגשות וחרדה.En: His heart was full of excitement and anxiety.He: הוא היה סטודנט באוניברסיטה, ראש מלא בכל מחשבה על איך להרשים את מיה.En: He was a university student, his mind consumed with thoughts of how to impress Mia.He: מיה, לעומת זאת, הייתה נערה בטוחה בעצמה, חובבת היסטוריה שאהבה לגלות פינות נסתרות בעיר הקדומה.En: Mia, on the other hand, was a confident girl, a history enthusiast who loved discovering hidden corners in the ancient city.He: "כאן," אמרה מיה בחיוך קורן, כשהובילה את עזרא לסמטה קטנה.En: "Here," said Mia with a radiant smile as she led Ezra to a small alley.He: "זה המקום האהוב עלי.En: "This is my favorite place.He: יש פה חנות קטנה של ספרים ישנים.En: There's a small shop here for old books."He: "עזרא הסתכל מסביב בעיניים מרובן, מנסה להירגע.En: Ezra looked around with wide eyes, trying to calm down.He: הוא הבחין כיצד מיה מלהיבה ושמחה בכל פניה.En: He noticed how Mia was enthusiastic and joyful at every turn.He: האווירה הייתה חגיגית, והמוני תיירים ומקומיים זרמו מכל רחבי העיר לחגוג את החנוכה.En: The atmosphere was festive, with crowds of tourists and locals converging from all over the city to celebrate Hanukkah.He: "כמה אנשים," לחש עזרא כשהוא מנסה להסתיר את תחושות החרדה.En: "So many people," whispered Ezra, trying to hide his feelings of anxiety.He: "אני מקווה שלא אגרום לפשלה.En: "I hope I don't mess up."He: ""עזרא," ענתה מיה בעדינות.En: "Ezra," Mia replied gently.He: "פשוט תהנה מהרגע.En: "Just enjoy the moment.He: אנחנו כאן בשביל לגלות יחד.En: We're here to discover together."He: "הם המשיכו במסעם, עוברים דרך שער יפו אל רחבת הכותל.En: They continued on their journey, passing through Jaffa Gate to the plaza near the Western Wall.He: תחושותיו התחילו להירגע כאשר הוא ראה את הנרות הדולקים על המנורה הגדולה.En: His feelings started to calm when he saw the candles burning on the large menorah.He: מיה הציעה שיידליקו יחד נר.En: Mia suggested they light a candle together.He: בעודם עומדים מול החנוכייה, עזרא חש בפרץ של שלווה.En: As they stood before the Hanukkiah, Ezra felt a surge of peace.He: למראה האור המרצד והרגע הקדוש, הוא שכח מהלחצים והפחדים.En: At the sight of the flickering light and the sacred moment, he forgot about his stresses and fears.He: שניהם פלטו צחוק כאשר הנר הראשון ניצב והתלקח.En: They both burst into laughter when the first candle stood and ignited.He: "האור הזה מופלא," אמר עזרא.En: "This light is wonderful," said Ezra.He: "זה באמת מרגש.En: "It's truly exciting."He: "מיה חייכה אליו, ידיה אוחזות בעדינות בידו.En: Mia smiled at him, her hands gently holding his.He: "תודה שאתה כאן איתי," ענתה.En: "Thank you for being here with me," she replied.He: כשהלילה סגר על העיר העתיקה, שניהם הלכו יחדיו עד לשער העיר.En: As night descended upon the Old City, they walked together to the city gate.He: עזרא כבר לא הרגיש אותו הצורך להצטיין.En: Ezra no longer felt the need to excel.He: הזמן שבילה עם מיה היה מיוחד, וההנאה הייתה אמתית ופשוטה.En: The time he spent with Mia was special, and the enjoyment was genuine and simple.He: "נלך לאכול משהו בפעם הבאה?En: "Shall we go eat something next time?"He: " שאלה מיה בקריצה.En: asked Mia with a wink.He: "בהחלט," ענה עזרא בביטחון חדש.En: "Absolutely," replied Ezra with newfound confidence.He: הם נפרדו עם הבטחה לפגוש שוב, בעוד העיר העתיקה מוקפת באורות חג החנוכה.En: They parted with a promise to meet again, while the Old City was surrounded by the lights of Hanukkah.He: ואז, עזרא הבין שאם הוא רק יישאר נאמן לעצמו, כל פגישה תהיה מושלמת.En: Then, Ezra realized that if he only stayed true to himself, every meeting would be perfect.He: חנוכה בעיר הזאת תמיד תהיה בלתי נשכחת בזכות התחושות שהוא למד לשחרר ולחוות.En: Hanukkah in this city would always be unforgettable thanks to the feelings he learned to release and experience. Vocabulary Words:narrow: צריםscent: ריחcaressing: מלטףanxiety: חרדהenthusiast: חובבתalley: סמטהradiant: קורןgently: בעדינותconverging: זורמיםfestive: חגיגיתwhispered: לחשsurge: פרץflickering: מרצדsacred: קדושignited: התלקחgenuine: אמתיתsimple: פשוטהdescended: סגרplaza: רחבתpromise: הבטחהunforgettable: בלתי נשכחתrelease: לשחררexperience: לחוותcorners: פינותconsumed: מלאimpress: להרשיםenjoyment: הנאהcalm: להירגעfears: פחדיםconfidence: ביטחוןBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Subscribe for unfiltered analysis and on-the-ground truth from the Land of Israel. Turkey is signaling it is ready to send troops into Gaza as part of an International Stabilization Force (ISF), a move Israel strongly opposes, even as the United States pressures Ankara to take a leading role. Turkish and Egyptian officials argue the force should “separate” Israel and Hamas, not disarm the terror organization. a position Israeli leaders warn will guarantee failure. In this wide-ranging and urgent episode, the discussion explores: Why foreign troops on Israeli soil threaten Israel's security How Turkey's ambitions intersect with Trump's emerging “Board of Peace” Why the world is being whipped into a frenzy against Israel The return of Hellenism in modern form The spiritual meaning of Hanukkah, sovereignty, and inheritance of the Land And why Israel's survival depends on clarity, strength, and truth Powerful scenes unfolding in Israel today, from Haredi soldiers completing IDF training at the Western Wall to Levitical singing returning to the Temple Mount for the first time in nearly 2,000 years This is not just geopolitics, it's history, faith, and destiny unfolding in real time.

How can the ancient Hebrew language unlock a deeper way of listening to Christ with our whole heart, soul, and might?In this week's episode of Latter-Day Lights, Scott Brandley and guest co-host Emily Hemmert sit down with Dr. Trina Boice—university professor, longtime author, avid scripture educator, and Hebrew enthusiast—to explore the “Via Dolorosa,” more commonly known as the sorrowful path Christ walked from condemnation to crucifixion. Dr. Trina shares what it's like to trace the traditional stations through Jerusalem, why this journey can reframe the Atonement as more than a single moment, and how sacred spaces (even outside our own faith tradition) can invite powerful spiritual reflection. Together, these experiences point to a discipleship that is not only believed, but lived through both body and spirit.And, as we look ahead to the 2026 "Come, Follow Me" study of the Old Testament, Trina introduces a foundational Hebrew word, “Shema,” and how its layers of meaning (to hear, to hearken, to obey) can transform the way we approach scripture study and prayer. Along the way, she shares moving experiences from the Western Wall, insights into Jewish worship and devotion, and a renewed invitation to find Jesus Christ woven throughout the Old Testament.Ultimately, this conversation invites us to move beyond simply reading the scriptures to truly living them. Through language, history, and lived experience, Dr. Trina reminds us that discipleship is not passive, but a wholehearted response to the Savior's voice in every season of our lives.*** Please SHARE Dr. Trina's story and help us spread hope and light to others. ***To WATCH this episode on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/ZsmC_RzdGeg-----To LEARN MORE about Dr. Trina, visit: https://www.TrinaBoice.comTo LEARN MORE about Dr. Trina's author coaching services, visit: https://www.frombook2business.com/To READ Dr. Trina's book, "The Language of Heaven," visit: https://a.co/d/4j5b4kXTo READ Dr. Trina's book, "Via Dolorosa," visit: https://www.cedarfort.com/products/via-dolorosa-christs-path-to-the-cross?srsltid=AfmBOoriQlGGDu7ngEuLrfu0GN38cg1FUe-z7ovPv7bYXO6i-NCc9pD6To LISTEN to Dr. Trina's podcast, "Daily Inspirational Quote," visit: https://open.spotify.com/show/17RPUlzByZQVu4zmqktoZ0?si=86c6033495a048f1To WATCH Dr. Trina's movie reviews, visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/MovieReviewMom To READ Scott's new book “Faith to Stay” for free, visit: https://www.faithtostay.com/-----Keep updated with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/latter.day.lights/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/latterdaylightsAlso, if you have a faith-promoting or inspiring story, or know someone who does, please let us know by going to https://www.latterdaylights.com and reaching out to us.

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Illuminating Tradition: Finding Inspiration in Yerushalayim Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2025-12-12-08-38-19-he Story Transcript:He: ירושלים הייתה מכוסה באווירה ייחודית, מוזיאון פתוח של היסטוריה וחלומות.En: Yerushalayim was enveloped in a unique atmosphere, an open museum of history and dreams.He: הרחובות היו צפופים באנשים שבאו לחגוג את חג החנוכה, ואורות המנורה האירו כל פינה בעיר העתיקה.En: The streets were crowded with people who came to celebrate Chanukah, and the menorah lights illuminated every corner of the Old City.He: יונה ומרים הלכו יחד ברחובות הצרים.En: Yonah and Miriam walked together through the narrow streets.He: יונה היה אמן צעיר, המחפש השראה לציוריו.En: Yonah was a young artist seeking inspiration for his paintings.He: מרים, היסטוריונית, אהבה את ההיסטוריה העמוקה של עיר הבירה.En: Miriam, a historian, loved the deep history of the capital city.He: הם הלכו אל הכותל המערבי, המקום שבו הזמן עמד מלכת.En: They went to the Western Wall, the place where time stood still.He: יונה הרגיש את ההתרגשות, אבל גם את הלחץ.En: Yonah felt the excitement, but also the pressure.He: המוני התיירים חשפו אותו מכל צד, מהקשישים שהתפללו ועד הילדים ששמחו באורות החנוכיה.En: Crowds of tourists surrounded him on all sides, from the elderly who were praying to the children delighted by the menorah lights.He: הוא התקשה להתרכז בעבודתו.En: He found it difficult to concentrate on his work.He: "איך אוכל למצוא כאן שקט?En: "How can I find peace here?"He: ", חשב לעצמו.En: he thought to himself.He: מרים, מצד שני, נאבקה בתחושותיה לגבי המסורת.En: Miriam, on the other hand, grappled with her feelings about tradition.He: היא חשבה שנים רבות שהתפילות העתיקות אינן רלוונטיות לעולמה.En: For many years, she thought that the ancient prayers were not relevant to her world.He: אבל היום, בין האורות והאנשים, היא הייתה סקרנית לבדוק את רגשותיה.En: But today, among the lights and people, she was curious to explore her emotions.He: יונה ישב ליד הכותל.En: Yonah sat by the Wall.He: במקום לצלם, החליט לצייר.En: Instead of taking photos, he decided to draw.He: בלי לחשוב יותר מדי, נתן לידייו לרשום את מה שראו עיניו.En: Without thinking too much, he let his hands sketch what his eyes saw.He: הוא רצה לגלות יופי ופשטות.En: He wanted to discover beauty and simplicity.He: מרים הניחה נר על מקום מיוחד בקיר הנשים והדליקה אותו.En: Miriam placed a candle in a special spot in the women's section of the Wall and lit it.He: היא שרה כמעט בלחש תפילה שלמדה מאמה.En: She sang a prayer she had learned from her mother, almost in a whisper.He: הם חלקו את מחשבותיהם ליד הכותל.En: They shared their thoughts by the Wall.He: מרים ביקשה מיונה לתאר את מה שהוא רואה.En: Miriam asked Yonah to describe what he sees.He: היא שאלה אותו מה הוא מרגיש.En: She asked him what he feels.He: יונה הרים את מבטו מהדף והבין, דרך המילים של מרים, שהפשטות בעיניה היא היופי האמיתי של המקום.En: Yonah lifted his gaze from the page and realized, through Miriam's words, that simplicity in her eyes is the true beauty of the place.He: הוא יכול להרגיש את נשימתה הרכה של ההיסטוריה בכל אבן.En: He could feel the gentle breath of history in every stone.He: באותו רגע, מרים הרגישה משהו עמוק.En: In that moment, Miriam felt something profound.He: היא הבינה שהמסורת היא חלק ממנה, לא משנה כמה התקדמו החיים.En: She realized that tradition is part of her, no matter how much life has progressed.He: יונה גילה שההשראה אינה דורשת הרפתקאות, אלא ראייה חדשה של אותם המקומות והדברים.En: Yonah discovered that inspiration doesn't require adventures, but a new vision of the same places and things.He: בערב ההוא, כשהאורות כבו והקור התעצם, יונה ומרים עזבו את הכותל בהרגשה חדשה.En: That evening, when the lights dimmed and the cold intensified, Yonah and Miriam left the Wall with a new feeling.He: הם קיבלו את מה שחשקו בו.En: They got what they yearned for.He: יונה הבין את הערך של סבלנות והתבוננות, בעוד מרים התחברה מחדש לשורשיה.En: Yonah understood the value of patience and observation, while Miriam reconnected with her roots.He: החנוכיה שהאירה את הלילה סימלה להם התחלה חדשה.En: The menorah that lit up the night symbolized a new beginning for them. Vocabulary Words:enveloped: מכוסהunique: ייחודיתcelebrate: לחגוגilluminated: האירוnarrow: הצריםinspiration: השראהconcentrate: להתרכזgrappled: נאבקהtradition: מסורתrelevant: רלוונטיותcurious: סקרניתemotions: רגשותיהsketch: לרשוםsimplicity: פשטותwhisper: בלחשgaze: מבטוgentle: הרכהprofound: עמוקprogressed: התקדמוadventures: הרפתקאותvision: ראייהdimmed: כבוintensified: התעצםyearned: חשקוpatience: סבלנותobservation: התבוננותreconnected: התחברה מחדשroots: שורשיהmenorah: חנוכיהsymbolized: סימלהBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Why are the Western Wall, the Garden Tomb, and the Garden of Gethsemane so important to Jews and Christians? Rabbi Schneider shares why people of the Jewish and Christian faith still revere the holy places, pray at the Western Wall, and look for Jesus to return. Learn how Jesus did not operate in His feelings. He operated in truth. Learn how to distinguish feelings from truth and obedience. Continue to choose truth and obedience even when you don't feel like it and you will be blessed. To get strong, you have to pray. **** BECOME A MONTHLY PARTNER - https://djj.show/YTAPartner  **** DONATE - https://djj.show/YTADonate  **** TEACHING NOTES - https://djj.show/02948c 

The Bible hits different when you walk where Jesus walked. Pastor Stephen Martin and Pastor Nate Brown just returned from Israel with 120+ believers—and what they experienced will change how you read Scripture forever.In this special episode, discover why every Christian should visit Israel as early as possible, not as a bucket list item in retirement. From standing at the gates of hell where Jesus declared "I will build my church" to touching the Western Wall where God's presence is undeniable—this isn't just travel. It's transformation.✅ Why Israel is the safest place on Earth for travelers✅ The supernatural reality behind the "gates of hell"✅ How geography confirms biblical prophecy✅ The Prodigal Son story you've been reading wrong

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Lights of Tradition: Finding Unity at the Western Wall Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2025-12-08-08-38-20-he Story Transcript:He: קור קר חורפי עטף את העיר ירושלים.En: A cold winter chill enveloped the city of Yerushalayim.He: מזג האוויר היה קריר, אבל הלבבות חמים מהתרגשות לקראת חג החנוכה.En: The weather was frigid, but hearts were warm with excitement for the holiday of Hanukkah.He: משפחת כהן הגיעה למקום הקדוש ביותר - הכותל המערבי.En: The Cohen family arrived at the most sacred place - the Kotel HaMa'aravi (Western Wall).He: המון אנשים התאספו שם, נרות חנוכה מאירים את הלילה החשוך.En: Many people gathered there, Hanukkah candles illuminating the dark night.He: מיכה הוא הבכור במשפחה.En: Micha is the eldest in the family.He: הוא אחראי, אבל מרגיש לעיתים קרובות שלא רואים אותו.En: He is responsible, but often feels that he's not seen.He: נועה, האחות האמצעית, תמיד מחפשת את תשומת הלב של הוריה.En: Noa, the middle sister, always seeks her parents' attention.He: אשר הוא הצעיר ביותר, מלא סקרנות ושאלות חכמות.En: Asher is the youngest, full of curiosity and wise questions.He: כשמיכה עמד מול הכותל, הוא חשב על הרצון שלו להתחבר למורשת שלו.En: As Micha stood in front of the Wall, he thought about his desire to connect with his heritage.He: הוא הרגיש קרוע בין הצורך שלו להיות האח הבכור האחראי לבין הרצון האישי שלו לחפש את זהותו.En: He felt torn between his need to be the responsible eldest brother and his personal desire to search for his own identity.He: בזמן שמשפחת כהן הייתה עסוקה בהכנות לחג, מיכה הרגיש שהזדמנות לשיחה מעמיקה חסרה.En: While the Cohen family was busy with holiday preparations, Micha felt a deep conversation was missing.He: אך הוא ידע שזה הזמן שלו.En: But he knew this was his moment.He: הוא נשם עמוק, ניגש אל קיר האבן ובלחש ביקש את בקשותיו.En: He took a deep breath, approached the stone wall, and whispered his prayers.He: לא הרחק משם, קבוצת אנשים פרצה בריקוד חגיגי לכבוד החנוכה.En: Not far from there, a group of people broke into a festive dance in honor of Hanukkah.He: המוזיקה והחגיגה משכו את קהל ההולכים ושבים.En: The music and celebration drew passersby.He: לרגע קצר, מיכה עמד וצפה, הרגיש את הקשר שבין האנשים.En: For a brief moment, Micha stood and watched, feeling the connection among the people.He: הרוקדים הזמינו גם את משפחת כהן להצטרף.En: The dancers invited the Cohen family to join in.He: הם חייכו, פתחו מעגל, והרגע הזה היה מלא בגיל ושמחה.En: They smiled, opened a circle, and the moment was filled with joy and happiness.He: תוך כדי ריקוד, מיכה חש שחרור פנימי.En: While dancing, Micha felt an inner release.He: הוא הבין את חשיבות האחדות וההשתייכות למשפחה ולמסורת.En: He understood the importance of unity and belonging to family and tradition.He: לאחר הריקוד, משפחת כהן עמדה יחד מול הכותל.En: After the dance, the Cohen family stood together in front of the Wall.He: כולם הרגישו קרבה חדשה אחד לשני.En: Everyone felt a new closeness to each other.He: נועה עודדה את מיכה והודתה לו על כך שהביא אותם לרגע הזה.En: Noa encouraged Micha and thanked him for bringing them to this moment.He: אשר, עם חוכמתו הילדית, חיבק את אחיו הגדול ואמר: "אנחנו תמיד כאן בשבילך, מיכה.En: Asher, with his childlike wisdom, hugged his big brother and said, "We're always here for you, Micha."He: "באותו ערב, מיכה הרגיש קבלה ושלמות.En: That evening, Micha felt acceptance and completeness.He: הוא ידע שמשפחתו תומכת בו יותר ממה שחשב.En: He knew his family supported him more than he had thought.He: הכתל המערבי הפך לסמל של שייכות ואהבה, ומיכה יותר מתמיד הרגיש חלק מהמשפחה ומהמסורת.En: The Western Wall became a symbol of belonging and love, and Micha felt more than ever a part of the family and tradition.He: המשפחה צעדה חזרה לביתם, נרות החנוכה מאירים את דרכם.En: The family walked back home, Hanukkah candles lighting their way.He: הלב של מיכה היה מלא אורה ושמחה, והוא ידע שהקשר המשפחתי חזק ואמיתי.En: Micha's heart was filled with warmth and joy, and he knew that the family bond was strong and true.He: מה שהיה יום מלא בשאלות וחיפושים הפך ליום של הבנה וקבלה.En: What had been a day full of questions and searches turned into a day of understanding and acceptance.He: הלילה הירושלמי קר, אבל הלבבות הלכו לביתם חמימים ומלאי תקווה.En: The night in Yerushalayim was cold, but the hearts went home warm and full of hope. Vocabulary Words:chill: קורfrigid: קרירenvelop: עטףsacred: הקדושgathered: התאספוilluminating: מאיריםeldest: הבכורresponsible: אחראיcuriosity: סקרנותheritage: מורשתtorn: קרועconversation: שיחהapproached: ניגשwhispered: בלחשfestive: חגיגיcelebration: חגיגהpassersby: הולכים ושביםunity: אחדותbelonging: השתייכותcloseness: קרבהencouraged: עודדהacceptance: קבלהcompleteness: שלמותsymbol: סמלbond: קשרunderstanding: הבנהacceptance: קבלהhearts: לבבותhope: תקווהBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

More than one thousand pastors and Christian influencers continue their trip to Israel as they plan to help strengthen and spread support for the Jewish state; the group visits the Western Wall, where the Rabbi commends them for their support; ...

More than one thousand pastors and Christian influencers continue their trip to Israel as they plan to help strengthen and spread support for the Jewish state; the group visits the Western Wall, where the Rabbi commends them for their support; ...

More than one thousand pastors and Christian influencers continue their trip to Israel as they plan to help strengthen and spread support for the Jewish state; the group visits the Western Wall, where the Rabbi commends them for their support; ...

More than one thousand pastors and Christian influencers continue their trip to Israel as they plan to help strengthen and spread support for the Jewish state; the group visits the Western Wall, where the Rabbi commends them for their support; ...

More than one thousand pastors and Christian influencers continue their trip to Israel as they plan to help strengthen and spread support for the Jewish state; the group visits the Western Wall, where the Rabbi commends them for their support; ...

The Western Wall  Part 16:  Warren's Gate and The Ark of The Covenant  -  English and Spanish.  Warren's Gate, one of King Herod's original passages to the Temple Mount, lies inside the Western Wall Tunnels.  What makes this gate so fascinating?  Perhaps its connection to the Ark of The Covenant! You will not want to miss this thrilling episode!   Recorded November 3, 2025. This an updated version with translation of a podcast originally recorded May 29, 2023.  El Muro Occidental  Parte 16:  La Puerta de Warren y el Arca de la Alianza  -  Inglés y español.  La Puerta de Warren, uno de los pasajes originales del rey Herodes al Monte del Templo, se encuentra dentro de los túneles del Muro Occidental.  ¿Qué hace que esta puerta sea tan fascinante?  ¡Quizás su conexión con el Arca de la Alianza! ¡No te pierdas este emocionante episodio!   Grabado el 3 de noviembre de 2025. Esta es una versión actualizada con traducción de un podcast grabado originalmente el 29 de mayo de 2023.

Near the Western Wall, archaeologists found a small clay tablet from the King of Assyria demanding that the Kingdom of Judah pay tribute. It's the first time an Assyrian inscription has been found in Jerusalem, and it falls perfectly in place during the story of Hezekiah, who defied Assyria and stopped paying tribute in the late 8th century. Cole and Terry discuss this new discovery and other evidence that supports the veracity of Scripture. 

In this MUST-WATCH episode of Chicks on the Right, Josh Hammer—host of The Josh Hammer Show, Newsweek senior editor-at-large, and author of the new book Israel and Civilization—goes FULL SEND on the growing anti-Western, anti-Christian, anti-Semitic cancer infiltrating conservative spaces.  Tucker Carlson called Christian Zionists “the scum of the earth”—including Charlie Kirk, who prayed at the Western Wall quoting Genesis 12:3 just months before his tragic death. Candace Owens labeled Josh “subhuman filth” and twisted his words to smear him—is a defamation lawsuit coming? Nick Fuentes, Holocaust denier and racist, gets a friendly Tucker interview—while pro-Israel voices are silenced. JD Vance's inner circle raises red flags—but is he really a “crypto-groyper”? Josh weighs in.   Josh reveals never-before-heard details from his private group chat with Charlie Kirk—including the final Zoom call the night before Charlie's assassination, where they prepped pro-Israel talking points to fight campus anti-Semitism.   This isn't just drama. This is a battle for Western civilization itself. #TuckerCarlson #CandaceOwens #JoshHammer #CharlieKirk #NickFuentes #JDVance #ChicksOnTheRight #ConservativePodcast #Israel #Antisemitism #MegynKelly #BenShapiro #trump

In this episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues the discussion of Tractate Bava Metzia 84b, focusing on Rabbi Elazar ben Rabbi Shimon's emotional and spiritual struggle after executing a guilty laundryman (referenced from a prior episode, likely tied to the “vinegar, son of wine” incident). The episode explores themes of guilt, divine justice, Torah study, and the efficacy of prayer, connecting them to personal anecdotes and broader Jewish responsibilities. Key points include:Rabbi Elazar's Guilt and Suffering: Rabbi Elazar, a marshal who executed a disrespectful laundryman (justified by the man's capital offense), feels lingering guilt despite following the law. Like a police officer experiencing PTSD after a justified shooting, Rabbi Elazar cannot rely on his reasoning to absolve himself and accepts physical suffering as atonement. He suffers a severe illness, losing blood and pus nightly, but recovers after his wife prepares 60 types of fig-based food (lifta). He converses with his afflictions, inviting them at night but dismissing them in the morning to avoid disrupting Torah study, showing his dedication despite pain (0:26–3:32).Wife's Reaction and Wealth: His wife, frustrated by his self-imposed suffering and believing he squandered her father's wealth, leaves for her father's house. Sixty sailors then bring Rabbi Elazar 60 slaves with 60 money bags, preparing 60 types of lifta, restoring his wealth. He tells his daughter to inform her mother that “ours is greater than theirs,” citing Proverbs 31:14 (from Eishet Chayil) to affirm that Torah brings sustenance from afar. His wife's absence allows him to return to the study hall (3:32–6:45).Rabbinic Rulings and Validation: In the study hall, Rabbi Elazar examines 60 blood samples from women checking for ritual purity (tahar) during their seven clean days post-menstruation. He declares all samples pure, enabling marital resumption after mikvah. Other rabbis question the statistical likelihood of all 60 being pure, suggesting an error. Rabbi Elazar prays that if his rulings are correct, the women will conceive boys (who cannot become niddah); if incorrect, at least one girl (who can become niddah) will be born. All 60 babies are boys, named after him, validating his rulings and demonstrating divine confirmation (7:07–14:21).Transmission of Halacha: Rabbi Wolbe explains the expertise required to identify impure blood, a skill transmitted from Moshe at Sinai through generations of rabbis, including himself, underscoring the mesorah (oral tradition). This parallels other halachic details (e.g., temple offerings) requiring precise training, like distinguishing colors of blood (8:39–11:27).Prayer's Efficacy: Addressing his daughter's question, Rabbi Wolbe shares a personal story of praying at the Western Wall for a son to fulfill Pidyon HaBen (redeeming the firstborn), which was granted, and accepting Hashem's choice of a daughter for his second child. He clarifies that Hashem answers all prayers, but not always as requested, citing “Ein Tfilason Chozeres Reikam” (no prayer returns empty). Answers may be “no” or “wait,” tailored to what's best, as seen in Rabbi Elazar's answered prayer (15:04–17:08).Broader Lessons: The episode emphasizes human sensitivity in upholding justice (Rabbi Elazar's guilt), the transformative power of Torah study despite physical suffering, and the communal responsibility to trust expert rabbinic rulings. Rabbi Wolbe connects this to the upcoming holidays (Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, post-October 8, 2025), urging listeners to carry forward spiritual growth and good deeds._____________The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan MarbinRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on September 12, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 31, 2025_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thinking-talmudist-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1648951154Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cZ7q9bGYSBYSPQfJvwgzmShare your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Talmud, #Justice, #Law, #Morality, #Guilt, #Redemption, #TorahStudy, #Faith, #Patience, #Prayer ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues the discussion of Tractate Bava Metzia 84b, focusing on Rabbi Elazar ben Rabbi Shimon's emotional and spiritual struggle after executing a guilty laundryman (referenced from a prior episode, likely tied to the “vinegar, son of wine” incident). The episode explores themes of guilt, divine justice, Torah study, and the efficacy of prayer, connecting them to personal anecdotes and broader Jewish responsibilities. Key points include:Rabbi Elazar's Guilt and Suffering: Rabbi Elazar, a marshal who executed a disrespectful laundryman (justified by the man's capital offense), feels lingering guilt despite following the law. Like a police officer experiencing PTSD after a justified shooting, Rabbi Elazar cannot rely on his reasoning to absolve himself and accepts physical suffering as atonement. He suffers a severe illness, losing blood and pus nightly, but recovers after his wife prepares 60 types of fig-based food (lifta). He converses with his afflictions, inviting them at night but dismissing them in the morning to avoid disrupting Torah study, showing his dedication despite pain (0:26–3:32).Wife's Reaction and Wealth: His wife, frustrated by his self-imposed suffering and believing he squandered her father's wealth, leaves for her father's house. Sixty sailors then bring Rabbi Elazar 60 slaves with 60 money bags, preparing 60 types of lifta, restoring his wealth. He tells his daughter to inform her mother that “ours is greater than theirs,” citing Proverbs 31:14 (from Eishet Chayil) to affirm that Torah brings sustenance from afar. His wife's absence allows him to return to the study hall (3:32–6:45).Rabbinic Rulings and Validation: In the study hall, Rabbi Elazar examines 60 blood samples from women checking for ritual purity (tahar) during their seven clean days post-menstruation. He declares all samples pure, enabling marital resumption after mikvah. Other rabbis question the statistical likelihood of all 60 being pure, suggesting an error. Rabbi Elazar prays that if his rulings are correct, the women will conceive boys (who cannot become niddah); if incorrect, at least one girl (who can become niddah) will be born. All 60 babies are boys, named after him, validating his rulings and demonstrating divine confirmation (7:07–14:21).Transmission of Halacha: Rabbi Wolbe explains the expertise required to identify impure blood, a skill transmitted from Moshe at Sinai through generations of rabbis, including himself, underscoring the mesorah (oral tradition). This parallels other halachic details (e.g., temple offerings) requiring precise training, like distinguishing colors of blood (8:39–11:27).Prayer's Efficacy: Addressing his daughter's question, Rabbi Wolbe shares a personal story of praying at the Western Wall for a son to fulfill Pidyon HaBen (redeeming the firstborn), which was granted, and accepting Hashem's choice of a daughter for his second child. He clarifies that Hashem answers all prayers, but not always as requested, citing “Ein Tfilason Chozeres Reikam” (no prayer returns empty). Answers may be “no” or “wait,” tailored to what's best, as seen in Rabbi Elazar's answered prayer (15:04–17:08).Broader Lessons: The episode emphasizes human sensitivity in upholding justice (Rabbi Elazar's guilt), the transformative power of Torah study despite physical suffering, and the communal responsibility to trust expert rabbinic rulings. Rabbi Wolbe connects this to the upcoming holidays (Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, post-October 8, 2025), urging listeners to carry forward spiritual growth and good deeds._____________The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan MarbinRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on September 12, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 31, 2025_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thinking-talmudist-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1648951154Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cZ7q9bGYSBYSPQfJvwgzmShare your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Talmud, #Justice, #Law, #Morality, #Guilt, #Redemption, #TorahStudy, #Faith, #Patience, #Prayer ★ Support this podcast ★

What if everything we've been told about biblical archaeology is wrong? Former SWAT team member and FBI-trained investigator turned archeologist and author, Bob Cornuke, joins us to share his transformation from law enforcement to biblical archaeology. After a harrowing shootout that changed his life, Bob partnered with Apollo 15 astronaut Jim Irwin and spent the next four decades following evidence that challenges centuries of tradition. In this explosive conversation, Bob reveals why he believes Mount Sinai is in Saudi Arabia, Noah's Ark rests in Iran (not Turkey), and most controversially—why the Western Wall, Judaism's holiest site, might actually be part of a Roman fortress while the real Temple lies in the City of David. Join us for a mind-bending journey through hidden history, archaeological cover-ups, and the dangerous pursuit of biblical truth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Western nations recognize a Palestinian state, prayers at the Western Wall, Jimmy Kimmel and the FCC, and the music of Nathan Oglesby. Plus, the changing seasons, Katelyn Walls Shelton on infertility treatments, and the Tuesday morning newsSupport The World and Everything in It today at wng.org/donateAdditional support comes from Dordt University, whose online MBA and MPA programs prepare leaders for lasting impact. Dordt University. Until All Is Made New.From His Words Abiding in You, a Bible memorization podcast designed for truck drivers. His Words Abiding in You … on all podcast apps.And from Cedarville University—a Christ-centered, academically rigorous university located in southwest Ohio, equipping students for Gospel impact across every career and calling. Cedarville integrates a biblical worldview into every course in the more than 175 undergraduate and graduate programs students choose from. New online undergraduate degrees through Cedarville Online offer flexible and affordable education grounded in a strong Christian community that fosters both faith and learning. Learn more at cedarville.edu, and explore online programs at cedarville.edu/online

Krystal and Saagar discuss the latest on the Charlie Kirk assassin, knives out for Kash Patel, cancel culture over Kirk responses, UK ambassador fired over Epstein links, Rubio prays at Western Wall as Gaza is destroyed. To become a Breaking Points Premium Member and watch/listen to the show AD FREE, uncut and 1 hour early visit: www.breakingpoints.comMerch Store: https://shop.breakingpoints.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is visiting to discuss the war in Gaza following Israel's attack on Hamas members in Qatar. His visit comes as Israeli forces continue to destroy residential buildings in Gaza City, forcing thousands to flee ahead of an expected ground offensive to seize the city.Also on the programme: We hear from an American city sitting on the border between two US states with opposing abortion laws three years on from US citizens losing their constitutional right to abortion nationwide; and we'll speak to one of the organisers of the protests in Nepal about why she is backing the country's interim prime minister.(Photo: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visit the Western Wall, Judaism's holiest prayer site, in Jerusalem's Old City on September 14, 2025. Credit: REUTERS/Nathan Howard/Pool)

As the US secretary of state, Marco Rubio, begins his visit to Israel, he has once again criticised the Israeli strike on Qatar. We ask whether this will bring about a policy change in Israel and how the Gulf states will react to the strike.Also in the programme, fighter jets are scrambled as Romania becomes the second NATO country to report an incursion into its airspace by a Russian drone. And the rock band, Queen, gives their first symphonic performance of their rock operetta Bohemian Rhapsody at the Last Night of the BBC Proms.Credit: Photo by ABIR SULTAN/EPA/Shutterstock (15485623ao) US Secretary of State Marco Rubio (L) and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (R) visit the Western Wall in the Old City of Jerusalem, 14 September 2025