The Jewish Weekly Issue 310 - January 25th

THE LARGEST CIRCULATED JEWISH NEWSPAPER IN THE UK! CONTACT US FOR ALL YOUR PROPERTY NEEDS SALES

WANT TO SELL? WANT TO LET?

LETTINGS INVESTMENTS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

020 8203 2111 WWW.THEROUNDTREE.COM MAIL@THEROUNDTREE.COM 25 JANUARY 2024 / 15 SHEVAT 5784

@TheJewishWeekly 310

‫ַעל ֵאלֶה אֲ ִני בו ִכיָּה‬

FOR THESE I WEEP... (LAMEN​TATIONS 1:16)

PARASHAT BESHALACH BEGINS 16:24 16:24 16:17 16:24 16:26 17:03 16:30 16:12 16:31

Se e in for pa fo m g rm o e at re 7 io n

SHABBAT: London Manchester Leeds Liverpool Birmingham Antwerp Bournemouth Gateshead Jerusalem

20 of the fallen soldiers

ENDS 17:31 17:35 17:35 17:42 17:35 18:17 17:43 17:32 17:47

GREEN SUNDAY 2024

REMEMBERING ISRAEL’S VICTIMS OCTOBER

7

MEMORIAL FOREST

2 NEWS

BY DAVID SAFFER

Israel suffered its highest daily death toll on Monday since the beginning of the IDF’s ground offensive across Gaza following Hamas’ brutal terror in October.

The IDF, which has surrounded Khan Younis in complex operations, confirmed 21 reservists were killed in action close to the border in the central Gaza Strip. A number of troops were also injured. The IDF is conducting a full investigation.

Three soldiers were also killed in southern Gaza. Thousands attended the 24 funerals.

Since the October 7 terror attack, 555 IDF soldiers have been killed including 221 inside Gaza.

IDF spokesperson, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari confirmed on Tuesday that forces were operating near the community of Kissufim when the tragedy occured.

The mission was providing security conditions for residents of southern Israel to return to homes.

“Forces were removing structures and terrorist infrastructure in the area,” he said.

“It appears that around 4 o’clock, an RPG missile was fired by terrorists toward a tank that was securing the force. Simultaneously, there was an explosion that resulted in the collapse of two two-story structures, while most of the force was inside them and nearby.

“The explosion of the structures was most likely from explosives laid by our forces, which were about to be used for demolishing terror infrastructure and buildings in the area.”

Hagari added: “This war has a very painful

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488 and heavy price, the devoted reservists who rallied to the flag sacrificed everything for the security of Israel so that we all can live here securely.”

Israeli leaders offered condolences. Prime Minister Netanyahu, in an address to the nation, said the incident was “one of the most difficult days since the outbreak of the war”.

“Together with the citizens of Israel, I grieve for each one of them,” he said. “I embrace the families, whose lives have changed forever. We send prayers for the well-being of our wounded. The IDF is carrying out a thorough inquiry into the tragedy; we must learn the lessons and do everything for the well-being of our soldiers.”

Netanyahu added: “We are in the midst of a war, the justification of which is without parallel. In this war there have been great achievements, including today, in completing the encirclement of Khan Yunis, but there have also been very heavy costs. While we bow our heads in memory of our fallen, we are not relenting, even for a moment, in striving for the goal that has no alternative, achieving total victory.”

President Isaac Herzog: “Every name represents a shattered family, whose world has been torn apart by loss. We hold these families close to our hearts, sharing their sorrow and pain, yet also feeling immense pride in the heroism displayed by this generation. They embraced their mission with unwavering determination, facing the forces of evil, and remained steadfast in their commitment to our shared goal and unwavering love for our people and homeland.”

He added: “Even in the face of this sombre and challenging morning, we stand united

giggles concept love joyous

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu preparing soldiers before they go into Gaza

in strength, knowing that together we will emerge victorious.”

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant: “We continue at this time with the spirit of the fallen, to complete our missions and do everything necessary. Our forces operate deep in the enemy’s territory. We are keeping an eye on everything that is happening in the north.

Hezbollah continues to provoke us. We are prepared, we do not want war, but we are ready for any situation. We have one hand reaching to the south and a watchful eye towards the north.”

War Cabinet Minister Benny Gantz: “These were reservists who left everything and turned out to defend the State of Israel and the Zionist vision. We remember all those who have fallen. We are all wholehearted in the important mission for which they fell and left for us to realise and ensure the peace of the State of Israel, our children and future in this region. I have no doubt that when they went out yesterday on their mission, they intended for us to continue, and this is what we will do.”

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich: “The news is utterly heart-wrenching. The nation of Israel stands by you, united in our sorrow and anguish. We are committed to ensuring that the sacrifice of these young men will not be in vain. They serve as a guiding light, illuminating the path for us to continue this just campaign of the Israeli people, until we triumph over the forces of evil.”

National Security Minister Itamar BenGvir: “Now, more than ever, it is clear that we must not halt the war, we must not diminish our fight. We must relentlessly continue to subdue, crush, and defeat the Nazi-like enemy in Gaza with our full strength. The blood of our finest soldiers, our brave fighters,

The Jewish Weekly The Jewish Weekly

www.thejewishweekly.com www.thejewishweekly.com

We can’t wait to be a part of yours

office@thejewishweekly.com office@thejewishweekly.com editorial@thejewishweekly.com editorial@thejewishweekly.com letters@thejewishweekly.com letters@thejewishweekly.com advertising@thejewishweekly.com advertising@thejewishweekly.com

London tel. 0203 906 8488 London tel. 0203 906 8488 Manchester tel. 0161 804 1321 Manchester tel. 0161 804 1321

020 8203 2111

25 JANUARY 2024

was not shed in vain. I hope that we will be worthy of their sacrifice and fulfil their unwavering determination, written in their blood, to crush and dismantle Hamas, and to bring back all the hostages.”

Netanyahu continued his visits to troops at the Elyakim IDF base where he met cadets on the company commanders training course.

“My main expectation is nothing less than total victory,” he told them. “There is no substitute for victory. These monsters (Hamas) will be thoroughly defeated. There is no substitute for victory. This is my main expectation and I am certain that it is also yours.”

Netanyahu added: “What is important is your spirit. It is the spirit of the people of Israel, of the citizens of Israel.

“I rely and believe in you. It is not simple to be a commander because you laden yourselves with responsibility to carry out the mission and do so in the best way possible.

But each one of you carries on your shoulders the destiny of the people of Israel and of the State of Israel. I wish you success. May you be excellent commanders.”

Netanyahu was briefed by Training Centre Deputy Commander Col. Sharon Eltit.

He heard about the training programme for future IDF officers who take up posts in a few months fighting at the front.

Netanyahu spoke with course cadets and answered questions on the progress of fighting across Judea and Samaria.

Chief of Staff, Tzachi Braverman, and his Military Secretary, Maj.-Gen. Avi Gil attended.

WHAT’S INSIDE THIS WEEK WHAT’S INSIDE THIS WEEK 01 04 News News 15 Opinion 10 Letters 16 Games 16 18 Community Community 26 Opinion Feature 18

20 Games 28 Cookery 30 Judaism 24 Community 36 Kids 28 Judaism 38 Youth 34 Family Fun 38 Expert Advice

DISTRIBUTEDIN: IN: DISTRIBUTED UNITED BOURNEMOUTH, GATESHEAD, BIRMINGHAM, LIVERPOOL UNITEDKINGDOM: KINGDOM:LONDON, LONDON,MANCHESTER, MANCHESTER,LEEDS, LEEDS, BOURNEMOUTH, GATESHEAD, BIRMINGHAM, LIVERPOOL BELGIUM: BELGIUM:ANTWERP ANTWERP

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

“I just hope to survive the winter” Hanna’s home was destroyed by a bomb.

This winter, temperatures will reach -20°C in Ukraine. She needs your help.

Will you repair Hanna’s home and keep her warm this winter?

SCAN TO DONATE NOW

T: 020 8736 1250 E: info@worldjewishrelief.org

worldjewishrelief.org/winter

Get online, get informed, the Jewish Care way Now you can be part of our digital community, anywhere, anytime • Professional information and advice • Live and pre-recorded streaming entertainment • Singalongs and friendships • Service information • Exercise and wellness activities • Become a volunteer and get involved

All and more on-tap at

jewishcare.org Charity Reg. No. 802559

4 NEWS

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Hostage families meet Sunak Hamas to release our children.”

Regarding the politicians, Eli, he Hostage families have called on the UK noted: “Each person told us they will do government to pressure Qatar to do more everything they can including talking to in the ongoing campaign to release loved Qatar and Egypt to release our families, ones from captivity in Gaza.

136 people. They understand the situaLiran Berman, brother of twins Ziv and tion. They need to know who is bad and Gali kidnapped in Kfar Aza, Eli Albag, good, who wants to live and who wants father of Liri Albag kidnapped near the to kill.”

Gaza border and Ziv Abud, girlfriend of As for the atmosphere in Israel, Eli Eliya Cohen, kidnapped at the NOVA parnoted: “It’s very difficult in Israel when ty have attended a host of meetings with you don’t see your daughter and cannot parliamentarians and media this week. work. Sometimes I ask, who wants to live The three-day visit is of strategic imporin a country that sends missiles without tance due to Qatar assets in the UK. Key any reason. If someone kidnaps a son, audiences took place with Prime Minister daughter, mother or father how should a Rishi Sunak and Lord Cameron. government act against such people.”

As to whether the Israeli government have done enough to get the hostages back, Eli gave a frank response.

“I hope they have done their best,” he said. “We are here and in Israel day by day pushing that they will do their best. All the families are together, we are speaking and fighting together all over the world. Hamas on October 7 didn’t just kill Jewish people, they also kidnapped citizens of Britain. The whole world must know.”

Eli had firm views about Hamas and their inhumane actions.

He said: “With Hamas, there is evidence of what they did on October 7. Hamas have kidnapped the Palestinians in Gaza PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES too, they put them up as human Eli’s daughter Liri is 18. It is hard to shields. One day when Hamas are no comprehend the heartache he and his longer in power the world will hear the family has experienced since the October real stories from the Palestinian people.

7 terror attack by Hamas.

When I hear people at demonstrations He told The Jewish Weekly, “We don’t defend Hamas and release Palestine, I know what has happened to Liri, I’ve not say, release Palestine from Hamas.” seen her for 109 days. We don’t know Eli was speaking on the day, 21 IDF if she has been able to eat, sleep, how reservists were killed in Gaza in a tragedy. they are treating her. We don’t know He said: “I was very sorry to hear the anything. Liri loves the world, people, news, over 500 soldiers have been killed likes to dance, sing, her dream is to visit already. For us each one is very imporJapan, she wants to help people and is tant, each one is not only a number, each a peace girl. We are very worried; all the family miss her. We cry every day and night for her. We are doing everything we can to get her back.

“We want everyone to know what has happened. We want the UK government to pressure Qatar, they have supported Hamas with billions of dollars to build a nice Palestine. But Hamas have built underground tunnels with a lot of weapons and taught their children to kill people.

Qatar needs to push

BY DAVID SAFFER

25 JANUARY 2024

one has a family, each one wants to live.

Our neighbours, Hamas, they want to die.

This is the difference between two people and organisations. Hamas want to die, we want to live but are dying because we are against this devil.”

Appearing on BBC Newsnight on Monday night, Liran Berman said his mother

and 13 were murdered. Liri was one of seven abducted. Pictures were taken over 50 days ago but there are no sightings or knowledge about her condition or whereabouts.

Eliya Cohen, 26, is an estate agent from Tel Aviv, who met his partner Ziv as teenagers. Eliya wasn’t keen on going to

felt the largest burden about his abducted brothers Ziv and Gali as his father has dementia.

“It is tremendous stress,” he said. “The last hostages released saw them separately. They had minor injuries, but in tunnels for over 100 days minor injuries can turn into severe ones. But the relief of them being alive was tremendous.”

Liran thanked Sunak for his efforts regarding the hostages.

“He was one of the first Prime Ministers in the world to come and support the families since October 7,” Liran said. “We have asked him to do more, to keep fighting, to keep pressure on Qatar because we know Qatar has leverage on Hamas.

They are hosting their senior leadership.

And they are vastly involved in Europe.”

Asked about families interrupting a Knesset session this week, Liron responded: “You can’t blame them. They’ve had more than 100 days of not knowing, of suffering, of no sleep.”

Regarding a possible deal, he said: “I don’t want to be in the shoes of (politicians in) the decision making and they don’t want to be in my shoes. I’m thankful of not being involved. Right now, we will take whatever we can.

We want our families back. We needed them yesterday. It’s been 108 days.”

26-year-old twins Ziv and Gali Berman lived in Kibbutz Kfar Aza. They were kidnapped from home. They are football fans, playing for a local team and fans of Maccabi Tel Aviv. They did everything together including flying, enjoying travelling and new experiences.

Liri Albag lives in Moshav Yarhiv and hopes to be an interior designer. She has started her career in the military.

Liri was among 28 girls in a bomb shelter near the border. Eight escaped

the NOVA party in Re’im, but the couple got tickets two hours beforehand. They were the first to leave when violence broke out but got a call from a cousin telling them not to continue as there was shooting up ahead. They took shelter with 30 others in front of the Re’im base and waited for the army. But two vans with 30 terrorists arrived and threw grenades into the shelter. Eliya was shot in the leg.

Ziv’s nephew Amit and his partner Karin were murdered with 18 others. Four were kidnapped and six remained. They were discovered after six hours. A child was found murdered. Nothing is known about Eliya’s condition or whereabouts.

Qatar business interests in the UK make it Britain’s 10th largest landowner with more assets than the Royal Family.

The Board of Deputies has launched a scheme to encourage synagogues and communities to highlight a named hostage held in Gaza. Around 20 synagogues have joined the initiative The community will liaise with families to offer support and provide publicity for the ‘adopted’ hostage.

Synagogues and organisations can remember hostages in prayers, social media post, reach out to local press and reserve a seat in the synagogue with a photograph of the hostage.

BoD President Marie van der Zyl said: “Jewish communities all around the country have told us they want to do something to help in this awful situation.

This is a way they can keep the names of hostages in the public consciousness and provide support to loved ones.”

The Board is holding twice-weekly hostage vigils at Westminster while Parliament is in session.

To join the campaign email sara.radivan@bod.org.uk

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

Is Your Mum Sitting On a Stash of Cash?

Cash deposits are an easy target for 40% Inheritance Tax. Fortunately, there are some investment solutions which can swiftly shelter those savings from Inheritance Tax. What's more, the funds can stay in your mum's name giving her access when needed, including the ability to take monthly withdrawals for income.

Get in touch to arrange a meeting and see how much inheritance tax you could save.

Not ready just yet? Join our mailing list; newsletter@arnoldaaron.co.uk Specialist Inheritance Tax Planning & Investments 78 York Street, London W1H 1DP Tel: 020 7692 0884 e: advice@arnoldaaron.co.uk w: arnoldaaron.co.uk Inheritance tax planning is open to both males & females (not just mums)!

HM Revenue and Customs practice and the law relating to taxation are complex and subject to individual circumstances and changes which cannot be foreseen. The value of investments and any income from them can go down as well as up and you may not get back the original amount invested. Arnold Aaron is a trade name of Arnold Joseph Aaron, who is an appointed representative of The Openwork Partnership, a trading style of Openwork Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

(POTENTIAL TO TURN INTO A KOSHER ESTABLISHMENT)

he got the promotion

Uses credit card to get through the month Money issues are more common than you think.

Even for higher earners.

No matter what you earn, Mesila offers confidential, expert one to one coaching, using tried and tested steps to help maximise your income.

CONTACT US TO FIND OUT MORE

coaching@mesilauk.org www.mesilauk.org 0333 344 1711

YOUR PATH TO FINANCIAL PEACE OF MIND

GREEN SUNDAY 2024

Remember Israel’s October 7 Victims

MEMORIAL FOREST

JNF UK’s Memorial Forest will commemorate all those brutally murdered in the barbaric attacks in our beloved homeland.

The Memorial Forest will serve as a living tribute, a symbol of resilience, and a sanctuary for reflection and solace for generations to come.

This Green Sunday, with your generous support, we can make a long-lasting legacy for the Israeli victims who will never be forgotten.

HELP BRING THIS MEMORIAL FOREST TO LIFE

No donation is too small.

www.jnf.co.uk/gs2024 020 8732 6100

Donations from £100 will receive a special commemorative certificate.

Stay connected:

jnf.co.uk/subscribe

jnfuk

jnfuk

SCAN ME

@jnf uk

jnf uk

Registered Charity Number 225910

TO DONATE

8 NEWS

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

1.4m march against AfD

BY ADAM MOSES

An estimated 1.4million people marched against the far-right Alternative for Germany Party in nationwide protests last weekend.

Organisers Campact and Fridays for Future said protests took place across 100 towns and cities to send a “signal against the AfD”.

The backlash has seen reports this week of a possible political debate to ban the far-right AfD Party.

Berlin saw 100,000 people in the city centre last Sunday. In Dresden, authorities changed the route of a march due to the “enormous number of participants”, police said on X. Some 70,000 people attended while in Bremen, police said 45,000 people participated. There were also large numbers in Cologne, Dresden, Leipzig, Bonn, Hamburg, Frankfurt, Hanover, Dortmund and Nuremberg.

Signs sent a clear message including ‘Fascism isn’t an alternative’, ‘Voting AfD is 1933’, ‘no place for Nazis’ and ‘Nazis out’.

The demonstrations followed a report from news outlet Correctiv revealing that AfD members met far-rigth extremists last November in Potsdam.

Discussions included the possibility of expulsion of immigrants and non-assimilated citizens.

25 JANUARY 2024

AfD confirmed its presence noting its proposals for remigration did not involve ‘naturalised’ German citizens.

According to reports, Austrian far-right member Martin Sellner, who is not an AfD member, was attributed to the comments at the meeting.

But the meeting has caused outrage across German politics.

Josef Schuster, Central Council of Jews in Germany, told broadcaster Welt TV the protests restored trust in “democratic

conduct” as Jews had felt “huge uncertainty” due to a surge in antisemitic incidents during the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz, attended a demonstration stating that plans to expel immigrants or citizens was an attack against democracy.

Scholz called on protesters to take a stand for cohesion, tolerance and a democratic Germany.

Interior Minister Nancy Faeser likened the situation to the “horrible Wannsee conference” where Nazis planned the extermination of European Jews in 1942.

Politicians, church leaders and Bundesliga football managers called on people to stand Interior Minister Nancy Faeser PHOTO: WIKIPEDIA against the far right.

Across Europe demonstrathe march sent the strongest message that tions continue. After London, where huge unity and understanding are our strongest numbers turned out last week, allies against prejudice.

Manchester took centre stage on Sunday “Israel is not alone, the Jewish people are with around 6,000 attending a rally. not alone”, he said.

The Jewish Representative Council of The Chief Rabbi thanked King Charles Greater Manchester organised and the and politicians for showing solidarity with rally. Politicians and community leaders the Jewish people. across different faiths attended.

PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis said

Chancellor Olaf Scholz

Aliyah: Building Dreams & Saving Tax ✓ Tax efficient investing before and after Aliyah ✓ 10 years tax free income ✓ 10 years tax free gains

✓ No inheritance tax ✓ Receive your entire pension pot tax free ✓ Specialist portfolio management for Olim

• The leading provider of Aliyah financial planning for 20 years • Helped thousands of UK Olim • To maximise the generous tax advantages and investment opportunities, contact our specialist team.

020 8202 1944 GoldersGreen@RaymondJames.com GoldersGreen.RaymondJames.UK.com

230 Golders Green Road London NW11 9AT

With investing, your capital is at risk.

Raymond James Investment Services Ltd is a member of the London Stock Exchange and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England and Wales number 3669657. Registered office: Ropemaker Place, 25 Ropemaker St, London EC2Y 9LY.

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

10 NEWS

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

25 JANUARY 2024

Goldschmidt scoops Charlemagne prize

BY DAVID SAFFER

Chief Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt and Jewish communities in Europe have been awarded the prestigious 65th International Charlemagne Prize in Aachen, Germany.

The Conference of European Rabbis President received the accolade in recognition of his ‘outstanding efforts to promote peace, the right of all peoples to self-determination, European values, tolerance, pluralism and understanding and in acknowledgement of his significant commitment to interreligious and intercultural dialogue’, according to the citation.

The Charlemagne Prize Board of Directors noted Jewish life is a “natural part of Europe” and there was “no place for antisemitism in Europe”.

“Jewish life is an essential part of Europe’s past, its present and its future,” they observed in a statement.

The Board recalled a quote from former Vice-President of the European Commission, Frans Timmermans, who stated: “Any attack on a Jew is an attack on everything that Europe prides itself in. The way we treat Jews and other minorities is like a litmus test for the state of health of our open European society.”

The Board added: “Every form of antisemitism, every attack, every denigration and, above all, every act of violence, is an attack on us all. An attack on our liberal, democratic and pluralistic order, on our coexistence in a Europe that strives to attain its unity precisely by embracing, respecting and, as a matter of course, practising its diversity. A Europe that, wherever minorities are under threat, must visibly demonstrate its attitude, its responsibility and its solidarity.”

The Board continued: “We live in a pluralistic, and increasingly secularised, society. But our united Europe is not value-neutral. It is only where the dignity and the diversity of individuals are respected that peaceful coexistence, one characterised by tolerance, understanding and humanity, is possible.”

The Board said Goldschmidt made three decisive points clear that ‘people of the most diverse religious and cultural backgrounds must find their place in Europe, intercultural dialogue is one of the great challenges of our time and European values are not negotiable.’

“The European way of life, characterised by democracy, freedom and the rule of law, is not up for discussion,” they added.

In terms of Goldschmidt’s achievements, the citation noted he ‘provides reports on the state of the Jewish community, discusses the threats of antisemitism and cam-

to preserve religious freedom and religious peace, intensify dialogue and improve mutual understanding between Europe’s approximately 1.5 million Jews and over 40 million Muslims.

“We work with Imams on combating threats to religious freedom,” Goldschmidt has stated. “Even on national levels, we support these talks even though it isn’t always easy. But we believe it’s extremely important. Because Jews are not only in danger from the far-right, but also from radical religious Muslims. So that makes dialogue with Muslim leaders really important.”

paigns against the restriction of religious life in Europe.’

They added: ‘As a representative of one of the oldest religious minorities in Europe, he has made it his goal to ‘help put an end to this burgeoning antagonism and conflict, which, in the years to come, could prove to be the greatest threat ever to the unity and security of Europe.’

Goldschmidt’s commitment to interreligious dialogue, the Board continued, is held in high esteem.

He co-founded the European Muslim-Jewish Leadership Council and aims

The Jewish-Christian dialogue has been given ‘impetus’, noted the Board from the CER. They observed: “The document ‘Between Jerusalem and Rome’ has been available since 2016 and is, so to speak, a Jewish response to the ‘Nostra Aetate’ declaration adopted by the Second Vatican Council in 1965, a milestone in Jewish-Christian relations.

‘We are presently experiencing a fruitful moment of dialogue,’ declared Pope Francis when he welcomed a delegation of European, American and Israeli rabbis

at the Vatican in August 2017.

Chief Rabbi Goldschmidt said it was a “catalyst for increased cooperation in the future”.

Following his meeting with the Pope, in November 2023, he noted: “We (the CER) are for peace. We believe in the right of all peoples to self-determination. We hope that the civilian population suffers as little as possible from this (Gaza) war. We pray for them and we hope that peace will return to the Middle East, to the Holy Land and to Europe.”

He added: “Gaza will become a free democratic country that does not pose a threat to Israel, but guarantees security and a life in peace for its citizens. Or Gaza must be administered by a Palestinian leader who is supported by a community of Arab states.”

Regarding Europe, Chief Rabbi Goldschmidt was asked by the newspaper Judische Allgemeine, whether Judaism had a future in Europe.

He responded: “If we look at Russia, I have my doubts. The more authoritarian that country becomes, the fewer Jews will remain there. As far as Ukraine is concerned, if there is a Marshall Plan to rebuild everything after the end of the war, I definitely see a chance that Jewish life will flourish there again. And as far as the EU countries are concerned, a lot depends on whether extreme parties come to power and whether Europe will remain an area that can guarantee freedom, security and diversity for Jews, too.”

The Board, in its conclusion, noted it was honouring an “outstanding representative of European Judaism and Jewish life in Europe”.

Chief Rabbi Goldschmidt was Chief Rabbi of Moscow from 1993 until 2022, serving Moscow Choral Synagogue. He founded and has headed the Moscow Rabbinical Court of the Commonwealth of Independent States since 1989. Rabbi Goldschmidt has served as president of the CER since 2011.

EJC welcome Musicant comments

BY HARRY SIMONS

The European Jewish Congress has welcomed the European Parliament conditioning a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas on the unconditional release of all hostages held in Gaza.

The resolution, which passed in a plenary session in Strasbourg last Thursday, conditions an end to hostilities with ‘full dismantlement’ of Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

EJC President Ariel Musicant said the vote was a “resounding acceptance” the conflict emanated from the “brutal murders and abductions” committed by Hamas on Israel on October 7.

Hamas’ dismantlement was an “obvious condition’” for future peace and security of people in the region, he noted, adding, “This is a strong and resolute statement

by the Parliament representing Europe’s democracies. It further asserts strong condemnation of those countries arming, financing and providing political support to terror and clearly recognises the inalienable right of Israel to defend its territory and its citizens.”

The EJC also welcomed a Council of the European Union decision to place Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar on a list of ‘sanctioned’ individuals. Sinwar’s assets are frozen in European Union states.

The list includes Hamas military leaders, Mohammed Deif and Marwan Issa.

“The move is welcome, correct and logical,” Muzicant said. “Hamas is a terror organisation, there is no difference whatsoever between its so-called military and political wings and it should stand to reason

that all its leaders should automatically of Qatar and Turkey. Europe must show no appear on sanctions lists of the EU and its tolerance to terrorism anywhere.” member states. The tragedy is that it took the massacre of October 7 for this recognition of the need to sanction Sinwar. It should now be evident to all who Hamas is and who its leaders are. A terror organisation committed to the wiping out of Israel and the slaughter of Jews.”

He added: “We call on the European Union to automatically extend this sanctions list to all senior political and military leaders of Hamas, whether those directly involved in the terror campaign in Gaza or those nestled up in the hotels Dr Ariel Muzicant

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

Who else wants to save money on their health insurance?

After a couple of years of mediocre service from other brokers, I tried Lifepoint. They were extremely attentive and supportive of our company’s needs.

They saved us over £60K! Their care didn’t end with the deal.

The whole team continues to support the company and employees directive with quick, kind service. Can’t recommend more!

Call now for your free consultation!

020 3348 9868 www.lifepointhealthcare.co.uk

info@lifepointhealthcare.co.uk Please use the code 81 when you get in touch!

Lifepoint Healthcare Ltd, is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), under firm reference number 843831

THE UNTHINKABLE HAS HAPPENED AGAIN 1939

2023

NEVER AGAIN IS NOW! 36 HOURS

www.charityextra.com/yvuk

BELIEVE IN YOUR BUSINESS?

JTRADE 2024 LIKE IT’S NEVER BEEN BEFORE. Calling all B2B leaders and ambitious entrepreneurs, for a one-day-only business exhibition at our new, central location. Meet thousands of potential clients, network with industry leaders and break into new markets.

Go to

www.jtrade.co.uk

Alexandra Palace, London

14 NEWS

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

25 JANUARY 2024

Ancient Judean Hills coin discovered

BY HARRY MOSES

Evidence of the earliest use of coins dating to the Persian period was recently discovered in an Israel Antiquities Authority excavation in the Judean Hills.

A 2,550-year-old silver coin was among the finds with a sheqel weight from the First Temple Period exposed during infrastructure works by the Netivei Israel National Transport Infrastructure Company.

The coin minted with a square stamp on one face was discovered by Semyon Gendler, Acting Judean District Archaeologist of the IAA.

D r. R o b e r t Kool, IAA Numismatic Department head said: “The coin is extremely rare, joining only half a dozen coins of its type that have been found in archaeological excavations in the country. The coin was minted in a period when the use of coins had just begun. The rare find contributes information concerning the way trade was carried out, and the process whereby global commerce moved from payment by weighing silver pieces, to the use of coins.”

He added: “The coin belongs to a group of very early coins that were minted outside Israel, in the regions of ancient Greece, Cyprus and Turkey. In the 6th5th centuries BCE, such coins began to appear at sites in the land of Israel.

Although the silver coin was minted as

a coin, it was found intentionally cut into two. This indicates that in the 4th century BCE, it was used as a weighed piece of silver, rather than as a coin, even though coins were current in this period.”

Michal Mermelstein and Danny Benayoun, IAA excavation directors, said in a statement: “The site was situated in the rural area of the Kingdom of Judah, whose capital was in Jerusalem. It was first settled in the First Temple period, in the 7th century BCE (2,700 years ago), during the reigns of the kings of Judah, Hezekiah, Manasseh, Amon and Josiah, a peak

must accordingly respect the expert advice of those responsible for the safety of participants and spectators. In all the circumstances, CSA has decided that David should be relieved of the captaincy for the tournament. This is in the best interests of all the players, the SA U19 team, and David himself.”

Reports followed of opposition political parties, Jewish community leaders and human rights commentators alleging political

interference.

The furore has since grown with Jewish organisations around the world conveying its disdain.

The Board of Deputies, Anti-Defamation League and Executive Council of Australian Jewry have called on the ICC to help reverse an unjust ruling against Teeger.

The BoD’s CEO Michael Wegier, ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt and Executive Council of Australian Jewry CEO Peter

settlement period in the kingdom of Judah.”

They added: A characteristic ‘four-room house’ was uncovered from this period, the sheqel weight, found on the floor of one of the rooms in the house, provides early evidence for trade. The dome-shaped stone weight would have been used for weighing metals, spices, and other expensive commodities. The sign on the weight was an ancient Egyptian (hieratic) abbreviation for the word sheqel, and the single incised stroke represents one sheqel. The weight weighs 11.07 g.”

This was a standard weight in the in the markets according to archaeologists.

Eli Escusido, IAA Director noted: “It is always surprising, how important findings are discovered in unexpected places. The tiny coins are a crucial source of information in archaeology. They provide us visual details, inscriptions, and dates. Through a tiny object like a coin, it becomes possible to trace human thought processes and observe that our economic habits have remained largely unchanged for thousands of years, only the technology has changed.

In this context, it is interesting to consider future archaeological research in a world that has adopted electronic commerce.”

CSA blasted over Jewish cricketer

BY DAVID SAFFER

Jewish organisations have called on the International Cricket Council to reverse a decision by the Cricket South Africa to take away the captaincy from U19 captain David Teeger ahead of the Cricket World Cup. The tournament, hosted by South Africa, started last Friday, and runs until February 11. The hosts played their opening game against England earlier this week.

Teeger was removed as skipper the day Israel defended itself on a ‘genocide case’ at the International Court of Justice in the Hague earlier this month.

CSA’s stance followed the annual Jewish Achievers Awards when Teeger dedicated his Rising Star Award to the State of Israel and its soldiers”.

Following an investigation by CSA after a complaint a judge ruled Teeger had not brought the association into disrepute.

The judge reportedly noted: “He was a young Jewish man speaking to his fellow Jews. It was clear from his comments that he did not purport to speak for cricket, cricketers generally, or indeed anybody else.”

But CSA acted, stating the decision followed advice of possible protests about the Gaza War at venues, a focus on Teeger and a risk of violence between rival protestors.

CSA noted in a statement Teeger would remain an important and active member of the squad.

CSA added: “CSA has a primary duty to safeguard the interests and safety of all those involved in the World Cup and

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

Wertheim have written to ICC CEO Geoff Allardice stating it is “highly likely” CSA’s action breaches the ICC Code of Conduct in anti-Jewish discrimination.

They observed: ‘If CSA’s decision were based solely on security concerns, the manner in which CSA balanced security interests with non-discrimination interests demonstrates CSA’s complete indifference to discrimination against the Jewish U19 captain. CSA’s statement gives no indication that enhanced security measures were even considered in order to protect Mr. Teeger’s ability to participate in the tournament among potentially hostile fans.

As you know, tournament hosts and local law enforcement have a variety of security measures to address demonstrations and potential violence. To get to the truth of this matter, we respectfully urge you to demand a copy of the CSA security advice and to review it against ICC’s Tournament Safety Planning Framework to assess whether CSA’s action was legitimate or illegitimate.

We also ask that your assessment be made public through an ICC statement.’

The statement added: ‘CSA’s decision makes no sense from a security point of view. It makes perfect sense as an act of discrimination. Israel may be unpopular in South Africa, but the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of antisemitism includes the example of holding non-Israeli Jews responsible for the actions of the State of Israel.’

The Teeger affair is set to continue against the backdrop of the competition.

16 COMMUNITY

JNF UK’s Green Sunday Campaign: A Poignant Tribute to October 7 Victims In a solemn response to the tragic events of October 7, JNF UK, is proud to unveil its Green Sunday campaign, historically launched around Tu B’Shvat. This initiative seeks to create a profound and enduring tribute by establishing a memorial forest to commemorate those who were tragically murdered on that fateful day.

For decades, JNF UK has been a beacon of support for Israel’s development, particularly in the Negev. The organisation has played a vital role in building and strengthening new and existing communities, helping them to grow and thrive. Since October 7, JNF UK has stood side by side with the affected communities, offering unwavering support and swiftly delivering crucial assistance to those most impacted.

JNF UK’s long-standing commitment to environmental projects inspired their Green Sunday campaign. This living tribute invites individuals to contribute in various ways—whether to the planting and maintenance of trees, the creation of walking trails, the construction of seating areas, or the building of a commemoration wall within the forest.

The Memorial Forest is more than just a collection of trees; it is a heartfelt response to the thousands of lives lost in an attack

25 JANUARY 2024

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

on our beloved homeland. It stands as a living testament to resilience, strength, and the unbreakable spirit of the Israeli people.

The act of planting trees, deeply rooted in Jewish tradition, symbolises not only remembrance but a collective commitment to renewal and hope for a brighter future in Eretz Yisrael.

Elan Gorji, JNF UK’s CEO, expressed, “This Green Sunday, we have an opportunity for everyone to unite and create a poignant living memorial. It will stand as a testament to the enduring strength and solidarity of the Israeli people, reminding us that even in the face of tragedy, hope can blossom anew. It sends a message that whilst our enemies seek to destroy us we are here to stay and this forest will be a legacy to those that were murdered for generations to come. “ Every contribution, regardless of its size, will be crucial in bringing this memorial forest to life.

To find out more and contribute to the memorial forest, please visit www.jnf.co.uk/ gs2024.

COURT OF THE CHIEF RABBI BETH DIN, LONDON ‫בית דין צדק דק"ק לונדון והמדינה‬ Dayan M. Gelley, Rosh Beth Din Dayan I. Binstock Dayan S. Simons Dayan D.S. Englander Dayan E. Zobin

‫בס"ד‬

KASHRUT DIVISION – KLBD Rabbi E. Schoemann, Interim Director Rabbi J. D. Conway, Senior Adviser

KASHRUS NOTICE

This is to inform the public that as of Wednesday 24th January 2024, the restaurant La Fiesta, 235 Golders Green Road, will no longer be under the supervision of KLBD.

Kashrut Division, London Beth Din, 305 Ballards Lane, London N12 8GB, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)20 8343 6251 Email: info@kosher.org.uk Web: www.kosher.org.uk

Holocaust Memorial Day at Jewish Care Jewish Care is holding Holocaust Memorial Day commemorations across Jewish Care in our care homes, Retirement Living and community centres. At Jewish Care’s Holocaust Survivors’ Centre members lit memorial candles and held a Holocaust Memorial Day commemoration service followed by a lunch and heard words of comfort and hope from Rabbi Junik, Jewish Care’s Pastoral and Spiritual Lead.

Members, accompanied by volunteers and Jewish Care staff also attended the HMD event in Central London and on Thursday held a tea with music to give the opportunity for the survivors, volunteers and staff to be together at the Centre.

Holocaust survivor, Susan Pollack, MBE who was in a slave labour camp and then was liberated from Bergen-Belsen, later discovering that her brother Laci, was the only member of her family to have survived.

After lighting a candle at the Holocaust Survivors’ Centre, she said, “I light a candle for my family and for those who have lost so many and for who we grieve. We have come a long way to survive the Holocaust and what we want peace and for people to talk to one another.”

At Jewish Care’s Betty and Asher Loftus Centre in Friern Barnet, there was a screening of the Survivor’s Testimony of former resident Toby Biber z’l, who sadly passed away at Jewish Care’s Stella and Harry

Freedman House on 2nd December 2023.

The film was made in 1995 when Toby was 70. The interviewer ( and narrator), Bernice Krantz joined the screening to present the film on behalf of the Stephen Spielberg “Stories of the Shoah Visual History” Foundation, which was set up with the proceeds from Spielberg’s film, “Schindler’s List” , and with the mission to record testimonies of all Holocaust survivors. Residents will be marking HMD across the homes with candles.

Rabbi Junik, Jewish Care’s Pastoral & Spiritual Lead, said, “I want to pause and reflect about the effects of the Holocaust and the men, women and children who lost their lives and also to talk about the amazing men and women who survived, and are with us today.

“The Holocaust didn’t begin with violence.

Hatred begins with speech. It’s a blessing that we can express our culture in this country, but that’s not something we can ever take for granted. We continue to say

never again, and while we see suffering, racism and bigotry we should not be silent.

We remember and we should be encouraged to change the world around us and to change the future.”

MANCHESTER COMMUNITY STANDS UNITED AROUND 6,500 TURNED OUT ON SUNDAY FOR THE MARCH AGAINST ANTISEMITISM STARTING OUTSIDE MANCHESTER CATHEDRAL, DOWN DEANSGATE TO CASTLEFIELD BOWL. SPEAKERS INCLUDED LORD JOHN MANN AND MARK ADDLESTONE.

PHOTO: LAWRENCE PURCELL

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

PHOTO: LAWRENCE PURCELL

25 JANUARY 2024

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Beyond the Headlines A weekly glimpse into the Israel you won’t read about in the news

INVITATION TO THE KOTEL These days, when there is so much advice going around on how to cope, here’s another suggestion: Come to the Kotel.

Just come. Last week, I witnessed the profound impact of visiting the “Wall.”

Every week, I connect with hundreds of women via Zoom for a study session.

Last week, though, we gathered in person at the Kotel.

For many, it was their first visit since the onset of the war. One woman from Kiryat Shmona expressed her feelings: “How could it be that I haven’t come until now?

I feel incredibly strengthened!”

Shortly before we arrived, soldiers from the Golani Brigade, stationed at Har Dov on the northern border, came to pray and give thanks. They were joined by soldiers from the Shura army base and Zaka volunteers, who had endured harrowing days and nights identifying bodies of the fallen. A couple of weeks earlier, on the eve of Rosh Chodesh, a massive gathering of 50,000 people assembled here to pray for the safety and release of the hostages.

Nearly every day, a new group arrives — survivors of the Nova festival, evacuees from the south and the north, wives of reservists, and just everyday Israelis.

During our visit, a woman from Spain approached Racheli Hadad, the supervisor of tours at the Kotel, and myself. A Jewish woman, feeling a deep need to be at the Kotel during these times, had simply purchased a plane ticket and came.

Soli Eliav, director of the Western Wall Heritage Foundation, shared a touching story. Recently, five youths who were suffering from trauma, accompanied by their mentor, found comfort for the first time in the presence of the Kotel’s ancient stones. “There’s something in Jerusalem that soothes and heals,” he observed. “It connects us to the essence of our current actions and all that is unfolding around us. It’s no coincidence that so many chapters of Tehilim describe the pilgrimage to Yerushalayim. Like the pilgrims of old, may we too ascend to Jerusalem with great joy.”

special occasions. The Yarchi family from Talmon found a unique way to celebrate their son Amitai’s bar mitzvah by sharing it with a displaced family from the Gaza periphery. Shira Yarchi, Amitai’s mother, shared her thoughts: “As Amitai approached his bar mitzvah, we wanted to imbue the event with a deeper sense of meaning, connection, and unity. We reached out to a family from the Gaza-border community of Kibbutz Magen, which had been evacuated to a Dead Sea hotel and who were also celebrating a bar mitzvah. This led to a joint celebration.

“During a visit to the Dead Sea, we PHOTO: SIVANRAHAVMEIR.COM met the Levin family, including their son, Yuval. Our families instantly connected and formed a bond.

The following Friday, both boys, Amitai and Yuval, attended my father’s shul in Ra’anana, where they donned tefillin together, marking a significant milestone in their lives.”

Yuval’s mother, Maayan, added her perspective: “Ever since the war began, we’ve been displaced from our home.

Organizing Yuval’s bar mitzvah was bittersweet. But when the Yarchis proposed a joint celebration, it was a gesture that touched our hearts. The boys have so much in common, and celebrating together, especially the moment they put on tefillin, brought an added layer of significance to the entire event.”

Mazal tov, Amitai and Yuval. Your first mitzvah was performed together, in a special partnership. Welcome, as men, to Am Yisrael!

CELEBRATING IN TRYING TIMES In these uncertain and difficult times, many grapple with how to joyously mark

PHOTO: SIVANRAHAVMEIR.COM

VOICE OF COURAGE FROM THE REHAB WARD During a recent visit to the rehabilitation department at Sheba Medical Centre near Tel Aviv, I encountered profoundly inspiring individuals.

Amichai Shindler, who lost both hands while rescuing Kibbutz Kerem Shalom from the terrorists, expressed his optimism with a smile: “I am waiting to get prosthetics for my hands so that I can hug my children.”

Yehonatan Ben Hamo, who lost his leg to an RPG missile in Gaza, shared his philosophy: “You know the saying, ‘I came to give strength and left strengthened’? That’s my goal for everyone who visits me. I aim to empower them. My role extends to offering support and reassurance to all the newly injured people who arrive here.”

These statements embody the remarkable spirit prevalent among the wounded and their families.

Despite enduring significant challenges and pain, they radiate hope, a zest for life, and even humor.

FROM THE DUNGEONS OF THE KGB TO TUNNELS OF HAMAS I had the privilege this week of speaking with Natan Sharansky, a prominent figure who endured nine years in a Russian prison due to his opposition to the Soviet regime and his active advocacy for emigration rights, particularly for Jews seeking to make Aliyah.

Earlier, Yaron Or, father of Avinatan Or, currently held hostage in Gaza, had shared his thoughts in a media interview, saying, “These days, my mind often turns to my son and to Sharansky, from whom I draw considerable strength.” Moved by those words, Sharansky reached out to Yaron, offering words of solidarity and resilience: “When I was in prison, I derived strength from many sources, first and foremost, my wife Avital. I felt her presence even though we never met during that period. Am Yisrael was also a source of great strength; knowing that people were praying for me helped me hold on.

“I always kept with me a copy of Tehillim, written by David Hamelech, and that, too, gave me strength. I felt as if David Hamelech’s words were directed specifically to me and my distress.

“After enduring many years in confinement, the realization dawned on me that it wasn’t just David Hamelech who empowered me; I was empowering him! The previous generations were observing my

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

COMMUNITY 17

struggle and I was upholding their legacy.

I couldn’t let them down. I was connected to our glorious past and to the promise of our even more glorious future; I was part of our magnificent story! This held true as a prisoner of Zion in Russia and it resonates just as strongly regarding the hostages currently held captive in tunnels in Gaza. We are all small yet significant parts of a grand and enduring story.”

GREETINGS FROM NEW JERSEY We recently spent Shabbat in Tenafly, New Jersey, together with the local Israeli community. Just minutes before Shabbat, we were joined by Ran and Orly Gilboa, parents of Daniela Gilboa, who is being held hostage by Hamas. They had just arrived from significant meetings in

PHOTO: SIVANRAHAVMEIR.COM

Washington. Suddenly, the name “Daniela bat Orly” – one of the Israeli hostages I’ve been praying for – took on a deeper, more immediate meaning.

At the Shabbat meal, which drew hundreds of participants, Rabbi Yitzhak Gorshevitz, the Chabad shaliach of Tenafly, invited everyone to dedicate the “Eshet Chayil” zemer to Daniela, as a prayer for her swift return. “Eshet Chayil” or “A Woman of Valor,” is a chapter from Mishlei traditionally sung every Shabbat.

It is an ode to the mother, the wife, and the women of the nation, verse by verse, in the order of the aleph-bet. On this occasion, the Rabbi urged us to direct this heartfelt song towards Daniela, sending these powerful words from New Jersey all the way to Gaza: “A woman of valor, who can find... Her candle burns throughout the night…

Strength and dignity are her clothing…

Let us praise her for her achievements…”

This marked the start of a profoundly meaningful and stirring Shabbat. In a conversation with Orly, I asked her what was the source of her strength during these difficult times. She shared that it was precisely these acts of solidarity and mutual responsibility from around the globe, prayers and good deeds from people who are strangers, yet deeply connected on the soul level, that provided her with the fortitude to endure each day.

18 OPINION

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Never Again!!!

OPINION PIECE

BY RABBI DR SAMUEL D. LANDAU AND PROFESSOR LESLIE M. GUTMAN

The phrase, “Nie Wieder” or “Never Again” was a slogan first used by liberated prisoners from Buchenwald concentration camp. They wrote these words on handmade signs in numerous languages and displayed them on the barbed wire fences of the place that had just been their hell on earth. It was a call to the world to never again descend into such darkness.

Jews are familiar with the cycle of destruction and rebuilding across the millennia. In ancient times, it began with slavery in Egypt followed a few centuries later with exile, first at the hands of the Babylonians and then the Romans. Across subsequent history, Jews were attacked

by Greek assimilators, Catholic crusaders, York murderers, Spanish Inquisitors, Russian pogroms, Arab-land expulsions and the (seeming) “grand-finale”; the so-called final solution to the Jewish “problem” – the systematic annihilation of six million by the Nazis and their collaborators.

Growing up in the shadow of the Holocaust, Jews believed that the cycles of collective trauma and the need for collective resilience were a thing of yesteryear.

Perhaps we naively thought that such hatred could not be repeated. We were shockingly wrong.

Whilst Oct 7th was nowhere near the scale of Nazi activity, it was aligned in purpose and execution. In the wake of Hamas’ brutal attacks, antisemitism has surged across the world, from university campuses to the streets of major cities. This year, Holocaust Memorial Day is no longer remembering the horrors of the past alone, it is reflecting a terror of today. Old wounds have been opened again.

Oct 7th marks another cycle of collective trauma, which refers to the psychological distress that an entire group of people

experience in response to a shared tragedy.

Just as individuals must process trauma in ways that foster their recovery, so too must groups work together to build collective resilience in the face of a collective trauma.

Collective resilience is an iterative process. Over time, collective trauma becomes collective memory, involving an ongoing reconstruction of the event to understand its meaning for future generations. The meaning that is made from collective

Benny Newton’s badge from Buchenwald concentration camp, torn off his clothing and given to his grandson, Samuel Landau (co-author of this article).

trauma becomes a core identity marker for the group and thereby a processing tool for interpreting, contextualising and understanding future threats. In this way, the Holocaust is a lens that enables an understanding of the Jewish response to Oct 7th.

Terrorism by design undermines a society’s structures and cohesion. In this sense, the brutal and barbaric acts of Oct 7th were intentionally committed to create strife and division. Horrific attacks were perpetuated against Jews, Muslims, Christians, Druze, Bedouin and Thais, all for merely living in Israel. Despite terrorism’s divisive intentions, when its victimisation is shared across group boundaries, it can reinforce the sense that “we are all in this

of the Oct 7th terrorist attacks and Israel-Hamas war. Moreover, the focus on victimhood as a dominant form of identity politics can foster a climate of competitive victimhood reinforcing and perpetuating conflict-defined divisions. The rejection of simplistic conflict narratives and one-sided blame and the promotion of proactive “we-thinking” can build bridges. Seeing the “other” as part of the “we” is an important process in collective resilience and a potential first step towards the pursuit of peace.

The first ever Jewish national trauma was the enslavement and infanticide of the Israelites in ancient Egypt. Jews retell that story on an annual basis with symbols of

nothing they can do but I am certain the reality is that they just don’t want to do anything. Maybe it is because they think the hate marchers might turn violent, or because they don’t want to be seen to arresting people who are not white or maybe they just agree with the premise of the organisers; that Israel is a racist state and needs to be dismantled.

Frankly I don’t believe for a moment it is the last of these. I do believe though that the police are the don’t want to do anything because they are frightened of the outcome. Imagine the response from the loud left if 250 of worst Jew-haters were arrested. The cries of racism would echo around the country leaving the Metropolitan Police Commissioner being forced to apologise for upholding the law. That assumes that the arrests would take place without any violence, which in turn would

lead to claims of police brutality.

Much better then to put up the Jews complaining since when push comes to shove, Jews don’t riot or throw bricks at police officers. Much easier to fail to protect them, no real downside.

Head north then, where the story is very different. Last Sunday, 21 January, 6,500 people turned out in solidarity with Israel.

In what has been reported as the largest turnout in Manchester ever in support of Israel, communal leaders and politicians spoke in support of Israel and the Jewish community. The support from the Greater Manchester police was apparent to see and really welcome.

The protection of a minority doesn’t just depend upon the appropriate legislation being in place. It also requires the authorities to exercise their powers to ensure that the protection is real. In London, sadly,

A tale of two cities OPINION PIECE

BY ROBERT FESTENSTEIN

London and Manchester. For reasons which have already been explored, for Jews, central London is a no-go zone. When the anti-Israel/anti-Jew marches take place, pretending to support the Palestinians, London Jews stay at home. Where is the purpose in going into central London when there are hundreds of thousands of people calling for a ceasefire so as to let Hamas continue to exist and consequently kill Jews. None.

It’s not as if the police cannot see what is happening. They can see this very clearly and they are just as clearly doing nothing to prevent, week after week, these hateful marches. The police claim that there is

together” and solidify collective empowerment. Indeed, some polling suggests there has been increased solidarity across diverse groups in Israel.

How can we move forward from Oct 7th?

In contrast to disaster myths of widespread panic and helplessness, collective violence can bring about cohesion, peace and ultimately reconciliation. This involves going beyond the “us versus them” narrative that constitutes much of the media reporting

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

25 JANUARY 2024

collective memory to give new generations the strength to overcome adversity. Nevertheless, within this evening of Passover memory the demise of the Egyptians is not celebrated. On the contrary, Jews spill their wine in mourning at the loss of Egyptian life. Suffering is not a zero-sum game; there is only sadness. As the late Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks said, “I wonder if anyone who has known the depths of Jewish suffering through the ages can understand how deeply the desire for peace is etched in the heart of almost every Jew.” Whilst the narratives explored in this article are distinctly Jewish, they apply equally to all that suffer. Holocaust Memorial Day teaches universal lessons of the effects of collective trauma and the adaptive responses of collective memory and resilience. If both sides of the conflict in Israel and Gaza can recognise their shared collective processes, and in so doing see their shared humanity, perhaps this time, “Never Again” can really be never again.

Samuel D. Landau is a clinical psychologist and community Rabbi. He is the founding director of Someone Else’s Eyes, an organisational culture change company that supports the British Army and UK Police Forces, amongst others. He is currently undertaking a PhD at UCL researching group-based interventions to improve organisational cultures.

Leslie Morrison Gutman has a PhD from University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. She is Programme Director of the MSc Behaviour and Professor of Applied Developmental and Health Psychology at UCL. Her research examines mental health; risk and resilience; and intervention development, implementation and evaluation, with an interest in diversity and inclusion. Her book is entitled, ‘Resilience: A Jewish Guide to Facing Adversity, Fostering Strength and Living Your Best Life’ (Mosaica Press).

those powers are not being used and the result is there for all to see. It is reassuring though to know that where there is a will, in Manchester at least, the Jews can feel safe in the knowledge that the police are prepared to do their job. We need now to put as much pressure as possible ensure that the Metropolitan Police do the same.

Robert Festenstein is a practising solicitor and has been the principal of his Salford based firm for over 20 years.

He has fought BDS motions to the Court of Appeal and is President of the Zionist Central Council in Manchester which serves to protect and defend the democratic State of Israel.

25 JANUARY 2024

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

OPINION 19

NJA Hails Commons’ Approval NJA Condemns Kings College of Legislation Against Public Terrorism Course for Biased Body Boycotts Content The National Jewish Assembly (NJA) celebrates a significant milestone in the fight against discrimination with the recent approval of legislation in the House of Commons. The proposed changes, outlined in the Economic Activity of Public Bodies (Overseas Matters) Bill, aim to prevent public bodies, including councils, from boycotting goods or services from any country, except those specifically exempted by ministers.

In a vote last Wednesday evening, Members of Parliament voted 282 to 235 in favour of giving the Bill a third reading, demonstrating strong support for the measure. The NJA commends this decision as a crucial step in combating discriminatory practices and promoting fair and unbiased economic relations.

One particularly commendable aspect of this legislation is the fact that ministers will not have the authority to exempt Israel, the occupied Palestinian territories, or the Golan Heights from its provisions. This ensures that the principles of non-discrimination apply equally to all nations.

The NJA acknowledges that the road to passing this legislation was not without its challenges. The Government faced opposition from various quarters, including within

its own ranks. However, it is heartening to see that the importance of preventing public bodies from implementing their own boycotts against Israeli goods prevailed in the end.

Communities Secretary Michael Gove rightly pointed out that the Bill provides a targeted and proportionate approach to address divisive and discriminatory campaigns like the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement. By preventing public bodies from taking decisions that conflict with UK Government foreign policy, the Bill ensures that a unified and consistent approach is maintained.

The NJA extends its gratitude to all those who supported and voted for this legislation, recognising that it aligns with the values of fairness, non-discrimination, and equality. We believe that this legislative victory will contribute to fostering a more inclusive and just society, where economic decisions are made based on merit and not influenced by discriminatory biases.

The NJA looks forward to the next stages of the legislative process and remain committed to advocating for policies that promote these values in the United Kingdom and beyond.

The National Jewish Assembly (NJA) expresses deep concern and disappointment over the revelations concerning the “Issues in Countering Terrorism” course offered at Kings College, London. According to a report published by the pro-Israel advocacy group Britain Israel Communications and Research Centre, the course content has raised serious questions about its objectivity and impartiality.

The report, authored by Anna Stanley, a former civil servant who attended the course, sheds light on disturbing aspects of the curriculum. The NJA is alarmed that a prestigious institution like Kings College would offer a course that appears to promote biased perspectives and mischaracterisations.

One of the most troubling aspects highlighted in the report is the repeated reference to Israel as a prime example in discussions about whether a state can commit acts of terrorism. The NJA firmly believes that using Israel in this context is both inappropriate and unbalanced. Such insinuations can contribute to a distorted view of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and unfairly label Israel as a “terrorist state.”

Furthermore, the report suggests that some participants in the course questioned the

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

focus on Islamist extremism within the UK’s counter-terrorism strategy, claiming it made Muslims feel uncomfortable. The NJA believes that addressing extremism and terrorism should not be hindered by misguided concerns about political correctness.

It is concerning to see that the course materials imply that condemning terrorism is equivalent to endorsing the power of the strong over the weak. This perspective undermines the very essence of counter-terrorism efforts and fails to recognise the importance of addressing acts of violence and terror.

The NJA calls on Kings College to review and address these issues promptly. It is essential that educational institutions maintain a commitment to impartiality, rigorous analysis, and balanced perspectives when teaching sensitive subjects like terrorism.

The NJA believes that fostering an environment of open dialogue and critical thinking is vital for the academic community.

The NJA urges Kings College to take these concerns seriously and take appropriate actions to ensure that future courses on counter-terrorism are fair, objective, and free from bias.

20 GAMES

25 JANUARY 2024

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Games

Bridge With Harold Schogger

www.haroldschogger.com 0208 905 3877

Dealer: North ♠8 6 ♥Q 9 5 2 ♦ A 10 8 ♣A Q 9 8 ♠ K Q 10 9 4 3 ♥7 W ♦K 9 ♣ J 10 6 3

W

N E S

♠J 7 5 2 ♥ 10 3 ♦Q J 7 5 4 3 ♣4

2♠ Pass End 1

N

E

S

1♣ 3♥ 5♠3

Pass 4♠ Pass

1♥ 4NT2 6♥

1. WEAK 6-10

♠A 2. ROMAN KEY CARD BLACKWOOD ♥A K J 8 6 4 3. 2 KEY CARDS PLUS QUEEN OF TRUMP ♦6 2 Lead ♠K ♣K 7 5 2 This deal arose in a team game. West’s weak-jump overcall was brushed aside at both tables and the slam was reached via the Key-Card enquiry of 4NT. The five spade reply at both tables promised two Key-Cards and the queen of hearts.

The king of spades, asking for count from partner , was led at both tables. Both East players signalled that they held an even number of spades. After taking the king of spades with his ace, the first declarer drew trumps with ace and king then cashed the ace and king of clubs. When West proved to hold four clubs he was down one.

The declarer at the other table also took the ace and king of trumps at tricks two and three. However, this declarer saw that there was no rush to tackle clubs. Instead, he decided to gather some information about how the diamond suit lay. His first move in that direction was to play a low diamond from both hands. After ruffing the spade continuation in his hand, declarer led his remaining diamond to dummy’s ace and

HAROLD SCHOGGER’S BRIDGE 18 HIGHVIEW GARDENS, EDGWARE, MIDDLESEX, HA8 9UE TELEPHONE: 0208 905 3877 EMAIL: SCHOGGER@HAROLDSCHOGGER.COM WWW.HAROLDSCHOGGER.COM

AFTERNOON FREE TASTER ON MONDAY 15TH JANUARY 2024 AFTERNOON BEGINNERS COURSE STARTS MON 22ND JANUARY 2024 AFTERNOON INTERMEDIATE COURSE STARTS TUE 23RD JANUARY 2024 GUARANTEED SUCCESS PHONE 0208 905 3877 FOR MORE DETAILS ruffed dummy’s ten of diamonds in hand.

After West discarded a spade on the third diamond, declarer had that hand counted as an original 6:1:2:4 shape. So, after he cashed the king of clubs he led a low club towards dummy. When West followed with the six of clubs declarer covered it with dummy’s nine with complete confidence that it would win the trick. So, declarer had his contract when, as expected, East discarded a diamond.

Of course it would not have helped if West had played one of his honours on the second round of clubs. Declarer would win the trick in dummy, then return to his hand with a trump to take the proven finesse against West’s remaining club honour.

Finally, if West followed to the three diamonds then he could have at most three clubs and so declarer would play the ace and queen of clubs next. Then if clubs were 3-2 (or West proved to have begun with a singleton jack or ten of clubs) the suit would play for four tricks and the contract would come home.

Advertisement

MISSED GIFTING OVER CHANUKAH? IT'S NOT TOO LATE! GIFT ISRAEL BONDS.

During this holiday season, join us in standing with Israel by giving meaningful gifts.

Together, let's make a lasting impact.

See More here

israelbondsintl.com/chanukah-en

infoEN@israelbondsintl.com 020 3936 2712 Development Company for Israel (International) Ltd.

Your capital may be at risk.

This advertisement has been issued by the Development Company for Israel (International) Ltd., which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and registered in England No. 01415853. This is not an offering, which could only be made by prospectus. Your capital is at risk, the rules under FSMA for the protection of retail clients do not apply. An investment in any of these bonds will not be covered by the provisions of the Financial Services Compensation scheme, nor by any similar scheme. Israel bonds are intended as a long-term investment as they are not listed or admitted to dealing on any recognised investment or stock exchange nor is there any established secondary market, as a consequence Israel bonds are not readily realisable before their maturity date. DCI (International) Ltd is not the issuer of these bonds, they are issued by the State of Israel. 12-23

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

Looking to live or invest in Israel?!

REGISTER NOW

We’ve got you covered

FEB 4 TH | FREE TO JOIN | 30 + SESSIONS | COME & GO THROUGHOUT THE DAY! TIME

TO P I C

PRESENTER

10:00

Understand the Aliyah application process

Tami Lapid Fuehrer

10:15

Aliyah Rights and Benefits

Dov Newmark

10:30

Planning a Pilot Trip

Ovadia Sofer

10:45

Post Aliyah support and Guidence

Sid Slivko

11:00

Healthcare in Israel

Dr Tanya Cardash

11:15

Volunteering in Israel

Sunny Marshansky

11:30

Higher Education and Universities

Prof David Newman

11:45

Manage your career path in Israel

Rachel Hamer Shemesh

12:00

Learn Technical Writing & find work

FE King

12:15

Understanding Bituach Leumi

Yanina Musnikow

12:30

Insurance, from car to home to private health

Danny Newman

12:45

Managing your finances

Simon Benarroch

13:00

Transferring money - Best rates, No fees

Naomi Feltham

13:15

Banking In Israel

Jonathan Gross

13:30

Shipping - what to bring and what not to bring

Stephen Morris

13:45

An introduction to purchasing property in Israel

Simon Seitz Adv

14:00

Home-Buyers surveys of second hand homes

Robert Ferris

14:15

Architect – creating a home in Israel

Nina Anders

14:30

Interior designer

Stephanie Freud

14:45

Choosing the right Mortgage

Chaim Friedman

15:00

Taking the taxing out of tax

Mark Struel

15:15

Modiin Property

Debbie Goldfischer

15:30

Beit Shemesh & RBS Property

Ilana Fish

15:45

Services for Olim in Beit & Ramat beit Shemesh

Alisa Coleman

16:00

Carmei Gat Property

Marcia Mimran

16:15

Jerusalem Property

Ben Levene

16:30

Services for Olim in Jerusalem

Yisrael Cohn

16:45

Ashkelon Property

Motti (Mr Ashkelon)

17:00

Netanya Property

Maxine Marks

17:15

Rehovot Buying into a Project

Izzy Leizerowitz

17:30

Ra'anana Property

Yafit Gould

17:45

Tel Aviv Property

Daniel Goldstein

18:00

Services for Olim in Tel Aviv

Neta Burnstein

18:15

Zichron Yaakov Property

Merle Amrani

Webinar sponsored by: STEPHEN MORRIS SHIPPING

So

thin e m

or f g

!

e n o ry eve

24 COMMUNITY

Howard leads 5cycle solidarity ride Howard Kayman led London’s solidarity ride of 500 cyclists to mark 100 days since the October 7 terror attacks and kidnapping of hundreds of people earlier this month.

Israel Premier Tech teamed up with Hostages and Missing Families Forum and Israeli Cycling Federation for the global event. Thousands of cyclists participated at capitals across the globe

25 JANUARY 2024

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Cheers to Networking

at the Velodrome in Tel Aviv. Four-time Tour de France winner Chris Froome, who competes Premier Tech, joined the campaign.

Froome was moved by the Kalderon family. Ofer and his 12-year-old son Erez, both cyclists, were abducted by Hamas.

Erez, was released after 51 days captivity, Ofer is still held.

“Their suffering and that of all the other

60 young professionals joined Aish UK at Must Wine Bar in Hampstead on Thursday January 18th for an evening of cheese, wine and networking. The evening provided a wonderful opportunity for young professionals to meet like minded individuals for a relaxed evening trying several delicious cheese and wines.

GIFT Expands its Dynamic Bnei Mitzvah Programme

Howard Kayman leads the cycle ride

including Barcelona, Paris, Melbourne and Los Angeles.

Participants tied yellow ribbons to bikes and uploaded photos to social media.

Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely backed the initiative. She said. “The global initiative is a powerful reminder to the world that there remain over 130 innocent people still held captive by Hamas in Gaza. We stand united in our demand for their immediate release and determination to bring them home.”

In Israel, the main event took place

hostages deeply affects me,” he said.

Sylvan Adams, Premier Tech owner, called for January 14 to become a day of freedom. He noted: “Our freedom ride showcases our values of sportsmanship and fairness in contrast to the brutality of Hamas.”

Hadas Kalderon, Erez’s mother, thanked Froome and Premier Tech team.

“Every moment that passes for Ofer and the other hostages in Hamas captivity is critical,” she said.

Blue & White Club comedy night Ninety pro-Israel professionals beat away the January blues in a bustling underground Camden club with multi-award-winning stand-up comedian Rachel Creeger.

The event was hosted by the Blue and White Club, a 500-strong volunteer-led movement of young adults supporting Israel, powered by StandWithUs UK. The Club’s committee, who organised the event, said: “Humour has always been an integral part of the Jewish spirit, and that is needed no more than today.”

Isaac Zarfati, StandWithUs, said, “We will continue to inspire and empower young professionals across the UK to be proud of their Zionist identities. Since

October 7, many have faced incredible difficulties in their workplaces, with office cultures turning increasingly hostile. We will endeavour to ensure that they will receive the support and mentorship they need.”

Since establishing in 2022 the group has reached over 1500 individuals through educational and social programming. There have been free therapy programmes for members after October 7th and employment advice due to antisemitism at work.

The club is a testament to support the Jewish young professional community need in difficult times.

GIFT is thrilled to announce the expansion of its enhanced Bnei Mitzvah programme, newly spearheaded by the passionate and dedicated Shosh Hill.

The Bnei Mitzvah programme at GIFT is grounded in Jewish law and tradition surrounding the coming of age for boys and girls. Bar and Bat Mitzvahs symbolize a significant milestone, signifying a transition to responsibility and an opportunity to give back to the community. At GIFT, we empower young individuals to become ‘givers’ through various programmes, weekly packing sessions, and educational initiatives that encourage the creation of personalised giving projects.

A shining example of the impact our Bnei Mitzvah programme can have is Aurelia Evers, who recently organised a fundraiser to mark her Bat Mitzvah. Her ambitious goal of raising £12,000 to allow 12 girls to celebrate their Bat Mitzvah was not only met but exceeded, resulting in a joyous celebration for a dozen young ladies. The message from Aurelia’s family resonates strongly: “Do something meaningful on your special day and raise money for others who are less fortunate to celebrate too!”

In a heartwarming event last Tuesday evening, twenty Kinloss Bat Mitzvah girls and their mothers gathered at Mountcliff House for a soup-packing event. The girls together with their mums, peeled, chopped and prepared vegetables for soup before vacuum packing to be distributed to GIFT families. The dedication of these girls, along with their mothers, in preparing nutritious food packs for GIFT families showcased the true spirit of giving and community involvement.

The GIFT hub hosts a popular Tuesday evening Bnei Mitzvah packing event, where over twenty enthusiastic young individuals generously volunteer their time to assemble food parcels for GIFT families. This initiative not only provides tangible assistance to those in need but also instills a

sense of responsibility and empathy in the participants.

Exciting developments lie ahead, with plans to launch an after-school Giving Club tailored for Years 6 and 7. This dynamic club will engage the Bnei Mitzvah programme in various activities designed to foster the spirit of giving. Additionally, GIFT is working on parent and Bnei Mitzvah learning sessions, school holiday activities, and collaborating with families to create meaningful giving opportunities as part of their simchah celebrations.

As we embark on this exciting journey, GIFT encourages the community to stay tuned for updates and invites participation in shaping the future of the Bnei Mitzvah programme.

Shosh Hill said: “The Bnei Mitzvah programme has become an integral part in young people marking a unique and cherished milestone. The current cohort of participants in the Bnei Mitzvah programme are truly remarkable, with their impressive commitment and inspiring incorporation of charitable initiatives into their celebrations. I am really looking forward to expanding the programme and contributing to the growth and enrichment of even more young lives as they joyfully enhance their simchas.”

Aurelia with GIFT‘s Michelle Barnett

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

25 JANUARY 2024

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Library radiates warmth Childs Hill Library is a partnership library run by Kisharon Langdon.

The library has become a warm hub for the winter offering the Cricklewood community a cosy and welcoming space and reducing the need for costly heating at home.

Visitors enjoy the library space thanks to a Barnet Innovation Community Fund Grant which runs until the spring. This has funded drinks and 64 sets of warm clothes for families in greatest need.

Kisharon Langdon members play a pivotal role in facilitating refreshments.

But their most impactful contribution lies in dedicated efforts to assemble essential care packages. These include a hat, blanket, gloves, scarf, jumper and socks, all meticulously chosen in appropriate sizes and obtained at the best prices.

Kisharon Langdon team’s commitment to acquiring substantial quantities of brand-new clothing reflects its dedication to supporting vulnerable communities with compassion and efficiency.

Library Manager Neha Dhakar said: “Some come to the warm hub at the library to read the papers with a drink, others to have a chat.

Parents drop in on their way to pick

up children from school and children pop in after lessons for soup. Others want help with IT or support with language skills.”

Aviva Braunold, Development and Learning Lead, added: “The project has significantly enhanced skills in IT, communication, budgeting and teamwork.

It’s truly rewarding to contribute positively to the community.”

Several people have taken part in food safety and customer services courses, learning basic hygiene to serve drinks and soup to library visitors.

Opening hours: Mon 10am-1pm, Tue 10am-1pm & 2-5pm, Wed 2-8pm, Thu 2-5pm and Sun 2-5pm.

Probation history exhibition The official opening of a new exhibition, Five Shillings of Faith: The History of Probation, took place at the House of Life Heritage Centre at Willesden Jewish Cemetery earlier this month.

The facility is now a multi-faith probation and chaplaincy service. The exhibition runs until January 28.

The forerunner of the modern Probation Service was set up in the courts of Victorian London with a donation of just five shillings.

Early work undertaken by missionaries included setting up jobs, accommodation and opportunities.

Some of the tales are heart-breaking The exhibition is about

COMMUNITY 25

Exciting new development at the Bwood Kollel Nestled just off the bustling Shenley Road in Borehamwood is the Borehamwood Kollel, a centre of Torah learning and Jewish growth in South Hertfordshire. The Kollel was founded by Dayan Chanoch Ehrentreu in 2019 with an aim of strengthening Jewish identity in Borehamwood and Elstree by offering all members of the local community access to meaningful Jewish learning experiences and educational programming.

Now with a team of young couples who have moved to Borehamwood to learn, teach and contribute to the development Borehamwood, the Kollel is entering a new stage in its growth with the appointment of a Director of Communal Engagement.

Jewish Weekly spoke with the founder and head of the Kollel, Rabbi Yehuda Boruch Lieberman to hear about this recent and exciting development: “My firm belief is that Jewish identity is most meaningfully cultivated through immersive and engaging Jewish learning experiences. We have a strong and dedicated team who spend the majority of their day engaged in Torah study but who also make themselves available in their spare time to share their knowledge with others. They are an approachable, skilled and outward-facing team who have already had a meaningful impact in Borehamwood through the various programmes and initiatives that have been run both independently and in conjunction with local Jewish organisations.

“That said, as more and more individuals are being serviced by the Kollel, it became clear that we required a new role to effectively manage the communal engagement that the Kollel offers the local community. We are delighted therefore to have Rabbi Chaim Burman join our team in the role of Director of Communal Engagement. Together with his wife Abi, the couple will coordinate the Kollel’s involvement with the local community through shiurim, learning initiatives and other programming for all ages and

professionalism of the present day service, which employs 19,000 people in England and Wales, managing some 250,000 people on probation.

Over a century later, through an evidence-based approach, people on probation receive education and training through a Community Payback work which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

ensure that we are doing our best possible to service the local community.

“We value our positive relationships with local Jewish institutions and our new couple will further develop the partnership the Kollel has established with local shuls and organisations to enhance Jewish learning and identity throughout Borehamwood.

Rabbi Gary Bazak, Director of Education at the Kollel added: “The appointment of the Burmans is extremely exciting for the Kollel and the Borehamwood community. The Kollel has already done some fantastic work in the community.

This, however, is a game changer. Both Rabbi and Mrs Burman bring a wealth of experience and creativity to upgrade the Kollel’s impact. We’re all very excited.”

Graduates of the Ner Le’elef Rabbinic Training Programme, the Burmans are no strangers to community building; they come to this role having served as Rabbinic Couple for YAM, a minyan of young families in Edgware, prior to which they were amongst a number of founding members of the new Amsterdam Community Kollel.

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity of working together with this outstanding team in nurturing Jewish identity in Borehamwood through positive and transformative learning experiences,” remarked Rabbi Burman. “The Kollel have already achieved much and the potential impact is enormous. The Kollel couples are an amazing team dedicated to sharing their knowledge and skills with the local community.

“I look forward to maintaining and deepening the Kollel’s existing partnership with local rabbanim, shuls, Jewish organisations and schools who we will work with to offer meaningful learning opportunities for the Jewish community in Borehamwood and Elstree.

26 COMMUNITY

25 JANUARY 2024

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Passover Programmes: Pricing

You’ve got your heart set on a glorious Passover Programme in the Bahamas, Florida or Mexico this year. You’ve been dreaming for months about the glistening beach and the gorgeous weather.

And you cannot wait to go this year. You deserve it, you worked so hard. And the only thing stopping you from booking this programme is the price. How much does it cost? Is it worth it?

You know Passover programmes can be costly, and you want to ensure that you’re getting the biggest bang for your buck. So, you decide to visit the Passover programme’s website and submit an inquiry to figure out pricing.

Simple, right? Not so. Prices are often not posted. And if you’re interested in multiple programmes, a simple inquiry can turn into a tedious, time-consuming project. And if that’s not enough, it may take several days for some programme operators to get back to you. And what if the price doesn’t fit your budget? Sorry, it means starting your search all over again.

I’m sure you would agree that frustrating moments like this, you wish there were a single website to obtain immediate pricing for all Passover programmes.

Fortunately, there is. At Passover Listings, a website created a few years back by friends Daniel Kramer and Doni Schwartz, has the answer. Obtaining feedback from a variety of Passover vacationers, they found that vacationers’ main

gripe was having to call each programme individually. As one vacationer puts it, “it’s hard when the prices aren’t posted, and all you want is a quick, basic answer of what a standard room cost. You can wait days before the programme operator gets back to you and you have to do this for each programme.”

Technological advancements in the Jewish travel world have been a major focus of Daniel and Doni. Passover Listings was created with one main goal in mind: onestop shopping that included an extensive list of worldwide Passover programmes, replete with services, amenities and real traveler reviews.

And now, Passover Listings is excited to roll out its latest feature, the Pesach Programme Pricing Tool. In a nutshell, this tool will allow travelers to key in certain basic information to get immediate pricing details. Here’s a quick rundown of how it works. First, users select the number of rooms they are interested in and the number of people in their party (separated into adults, teens, and children).

Then a maximum budget is set. There are other filters that can be toggled as well, such as location and programme name to refine results. You are able to submit your room details directly to the Programme Owner and instead of doing all the work yourselves, you can now select the button that allows programme operators to call you back. This is immensely helpful, you can move on with your day, have the operator reach out to you, all while being fully aware of the initial price. That one piece of information that everyone is so badly trying to figure out is finally available now.

Once figuring out the price and confirming that you still are interested, you can move on to our other forums and social media channels where you can research authentic and real reviews/feedback. Such as the Passover Programme Reviews Facebook group, Passover Listings’s Facebook page, Instagram and WhatsApp Groups all created for the sole purpose of helping those who are interested in finding their dream Passover programme or who have attended

a programme in the past and wish to inquire about a programme, connect with guests, or to write a review of the overall programme, hotel, food, cost, entertainment, ambiance, etc.

Programme operators will also benefit from the new tool and are ready to take the leap. Frucher from Leisure Time Tours agrees stating, “Some people have no idea how much a Pesach programme costs. They should know in advance what the costs are.” It’s also vital to keep in mind that being transparent about pricing reduces time for both prospective Passover travelers and operators. It can be extremely tedious for an operator to respond with pricing to each traveler that is interested- if only there was a way to reduce the time and energy. With this pricing tool,” it would help to get the most out of advertising by channeling families to the right budgets”, says Lety from Hafikoman. Key it all in and you’ll get what you came for, a listing of programmes that match your criteria and your price. You can sort by lowest price up, or highest price down.

So, the next time you hear about a Passover programme, or you’re interested in one yourself- visit passoverlistings. com and search the programme with our Passover Programme Pricing Tool for immediate pricing. It’s the greatest thing since sliced matzah, try it now and thank us later.

PESACH PROGRAM PRICING TOOL! PRICE YOUR VACATION BEFORE YOU BOOK passoverlistings.com

INPUT ROOMS AND PEOPLE

SET YOUR BUDGET THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

@passoverlistings

GET A QUOTE

28 JUDAISM

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

ASK THE RABBI Looking for answers? Send your question to Rabbi@RabbiSchochet.com HASBARAH Dear Rabbi I have long maintained that Israel can be its own worst enemy. By that I mean that they do a terrible job at PR while other countries and yes, even some Arab countries do a much better job of it. Why can’t we do better?

Sandra Dear Sandra It is commonly suggested that “it’s not what you say but how you say it.” And while there is truth to that, what you say is every bit as important. There has to be substance – more than just words and noise - in the message.

Whether in business, education, politics and indeed interpersonal relationships, more than the art of communication is the strength of the message which is key for garnering respect, and eliciting understanding.

In the timeless words of the Rabbis of yesteryear: “words that emanate from your heart will penetrate the heart.” You have to say what you mean and mean what you say. To put it differently, if the

message isn’t getting through, sometimes you have to take a better look at yourself.

“Hasbarah” is the buzzword of the day.

Israel has long struggled with putting its message out there. In the past I think it is fair to say Israel didn’t care much and just got on with the business of doing what they had to do. But all too often that backfired on their standing in the eyes of the world (again, not that they cared much about it). Today, they have come to appreciate that there are countless “keyboard warriors” out there and what with social media, they cannot afford to just ignore the message. In our current crisis, spokespeople are popping up everywhere. Some are impressive. Some are - I’m just going to say this - outright embarrassing.

Truth be told, beyond Israel’s official spokespeople we all have a role to play.

We are all communicators. Some from pulpits or platforms, others within their workplace or home. Be authentic in what you communicate, ensure your words carry depth, clarity, and purpose. Always say what you mean and mean what you say. Express how you feel and don’t ever apologise for being real.

25 JANUARY 2024

WHEN SILENCE IS DEAFENING Dear Rabbi I am one of those people who feel the need to make my voice heard on Israel wherever I go. I join in conversations and can be very vocal. I will comment on people’s anti-Israel sentiments on Instagram. My friend thinks I am being disrespectful and shouldn’t always feel the need to say something. Am I right or am I “being obnoxious?” (My friend’s choice words).

Kellie Dear Kellie When you are hurting, you cry.

Why? The tears won’t alleviate the pain. So why do we cry? The answer is: Because pain hurts! As in the old Yiddish expression: As es ez tutvei, shreit men. “When it hurts, you scream!” It’s an inevitable and intuitive reaction!

It is all too easy to pursue popularity by being what people want you to be; a liberal to liberals, a conservative to conservatives. And sometimes just staying quiet. But real people live by conviction, not by what will buy them popularity.

In fact how can you remain silent? You scream, you holler, you protest, you cry, you do something even if you think that your voice isn’t going to bear any results, just as one cries out in pain upon suffering though the cry will in no way help the situation.

On the underground in the United States there’s a recording that plays repeatedly to alert people to potential dangers (similar to here): “See something say something.” That’s the reaction incumbent upon us all.

HOW TO ARGUE Dear Rabbi I absolutely love your column. I am getting married in a month and I would love some advice. I hope that’s not a big ask.

Simon Dear Simon It is commonly suggested that “it’s not what you say but how you say it.” And while there is truth to that, what you say is every bit as itries do a much better job of it. Why can’t we do better?

Simon Dear Simon

You’re looking for free advice? I won’t charge you but if you like my advice I hope you send me an invitation.

One of the worst pieces of advice young husbands often get is, “when you’re in an argument with your wife just tell her she’s right!” No one likes to be treated like a child and patronised or placated just so that you can move onto better things.

The issues will fester and with it some resentment.

The real question is, how do you effectively have arguments with your spouse? Rule number one: Remember, you are talking/arguing with someone you love and care about. This will help you moderate your tone and the language you use. Rule number two: Facts matter.

Not that perspectives and feelings don’t matter but they don’t trump facts. However there’s good ways and not such good ways to deliver those facts. See rule number one. Rule number three: You’re not in competition with one another. Remember that the real reason you are going through the process with one another is because you want to resolve the issue and come out at better at the end of it.

Is this guaranteed to work? Not always and it very much depends on the temperament of the individuals concerned. If after all said and done she’s still mad and ignoring you – tighten all the jars in the house really well. She’ll have to come talk to you.

I ook forward to that invite.

Follow Rabbi Schochet at: RabbiSchochet.com Twitter: @RabbiYYS Facebook: facebook.com/Rabbiyys.

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

30 JUDAISM

25 JANUARY 2024

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Weekly Dvar Torah F R O M E R E TZ Y I S R A E L

The Test of Time

BY RABBI DANNY MIRVIS

“And Hashem said to Moshe, ‘Behold I shall cause bread to rain for you from the heaven, and the people shall go out and collect each day’s portion on its day, so that I can test them, if they follow my teaching or not’” (Shemot 16:4).

Following the crossing of the sea and the subsequent rejoicing, the Israelites enter the desert and we read of how they were to be miraculously sustained.

Whereas mankind usually receives food from the ground and water from the sky, the Israelites received their water from the ground (Miriam’s well) and their food rained down from the sky (manna).

When informing Moshe about the manna and its rules, Hashem describes it as a test, “…so that I can test them, if they follow my teaching or not.” At first glance,

this seems to be the easiest test of all time. The Israelites did not have to make the slightest effort in producing or preparing their food. They did not even have to make a living, for Hashem Himself ensured there was bread on their tables and roofs over their heads. All they had to do was walk out each morning and collect their Divine meals. In what way was the manna a test of observance?

Where is the challenge in living a life of luxury and relaxation?

Or HaChaim answers: “Because food from heaven needs no fixing, they (the Israelites) will be free of everything and then I will see if they follow… (my teaching or not)” (Or HaChaim, Shemot 16:4).

According to the Or HaChaim, it was the carefree and relaxing lifestyle created by the manna that provided the real test.

Without any of the concerns of food production, preparation or livelihood, the Israelites had an abundance of free time.

Therein lay the test. Free of distractions and potential excuses, would the Israelites immerse themselves in futile pursuits or would they utilize their time for learning, observing Hashem’s teachings and bettering the world?

The miraculous existence in the wilderness was never meant to be a long-term solution and we no longer rely on manna to fall from heaven. Nor do we rely on being otherwise miraculously sustained. The realities of this world dictate that there will not be food on our tables or roofs over our heads if we do not invest a significant amount of time in making a living. Nevertheless, whilst we do not have the abundance of time the Israelites had in the wilderness, the test of

the manna remains true.

Once we have worked enough hours to ensure a fair standard of living, how do we use the rest of our time? Do we spend our spare time in selfish endeavors or do we give time to others? Do we fill our remaining hours with meaning? Do we set aside time for learning Torah?

By setting our priorities straight and wisely utilizing our spare time, may we successfully pass the test.

Rabbi Danny Mirvis is Acting CEO of World Mizrachi, and Rabbi of Ohel Moshe Synagogue in Herzliya Pituach. He is a member of Mizrachi’s Speakers Bureau (www.mizrachi.org/speakers).

Selling items of value has never been simpler.

Whether you’re clearing a home, moving, remodelling, I will get the best prices for any items of value you’re looking to sell.

I am a independent broker acting solely on your behalf • I sell through many different auction houses, high-end dealers, collectors and private clients • Having been in business for over 10 years looking after many, many clients you will always receive my personal discreet one-to-one service (references available) • There is no cost or obligation meeting with me at your home or storage facility • Probate valuations carried out • Based in St Johns Wood, clients in the UK and Europe

Perry Field | 07802 157500 | E: perryfield@hotmail.com (Independent renowned antiques expert BBC’s Dealing with Dickinson, Antiques Master and ITV’s Storage Hoarders.)

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

020-3633-8567

Asking Price £480,000

Lakeside Lodge, Bridge Lane NW11

Eli-G Estates are pleased to have been instructed on this purpose built 2 double bedroom flat, in good decorative order on the second floor of this small block & comes with allocated parking as well as a lift in the building. The property has a welcoming entrance hallway with a cloakroom cupboard, there are two bedrooms both are good size double bedrooms, the dining room lounge is also a good size with plenty space for both lounging & entertaining. The kitchen comes with plenty of cupboard space, work surface, space for a washing machine & a dryer & has two sinks, space for a fridge freezer as well as a larder cupboard, The property & block is well maintained, The apartment also benefits from a share of freehold with very reasonable service charges & is in good decorative order, Service Charge Ext for 23-24 is £2,650pa

32 JUDAISM

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

25 JANUARY 2024

Filling the Void: The Spiritual Joy of Wasting Words (Part 2)

BY RABBI SHMUEL REICHMAN

In our previous article, we began exploring the deeper reason behind our desire to waste time and words.

Chazal connect this strange desire to an important historical transition in history: the transition away from avodah zara (idolatry), and our loss of nevuah (prophecy). In the modern age, avodah zarah seems foolish, senseless, and pointless. We are no longer enticed by it, and we cannot even grasp how one could be. However, this inability to grasp the appeal of avodah zarah is not incidental.

The world has changed, the very inner workings of the human consciousness have shifted, and we no longer crave idolatry. However, we no longer crave nevuah and transcendence either, at least not to the same degree. Why is this? What changed?

THE DESIRE FOR NEVUAH AND AVODAH ZARAH In order to understand why we have such a strong desire to waste time and words, we must study the historical origin of this desire. Until a few thousand years ago, human beings had a nearly unquenchable desire for transcendence.

This manifested in two unique spiritual drives: nevuah, and avodah zarah. Both of these drives embodied our desire to transcend the limits of the finite self to reach into that which is higher, that which is beyond us. The drive for nevuah is the drive to connect back to our ultimate source, Hashem Himself. This is a deeply spiritual, existential desire for transcendence, connection, meaning, and accomplishment. As with all drives, there is a negative expression for this desire to transcend — the desire for idolatry. Idolatry takes the root desire for transcendence and corrupts it, using the drive to rise above oneself in a way that cuts one off from Hashem. The Rambam (Mishneh Torah: Avodah Zarah, 1), Ramchal (Derech Hashem), and others explain that the sin of avodah zarah lies in worshiping the intermediaries that serve Hashem’s functions in this world, rather than sourcing the world, and everything in it, back to Hashem Himself.

The statues that idolaters “worship” are merely tangible representations of the higher forces they serve.

Therefore, there is potential for good in the root of avodah zarah — it is the process of looking upwards to the source of this world, to that which is beyond us. The mistake lies in stopping at the intermediaries, addressing those who are merely servants of Hashem. This is both misguided and evil.

While the ancient sin of avodah zarah may be easy to understand, its appeal is now almost impossible to relate to. In the modern age, avodah zarah seems foolish, senseless, and pointless. We are no longer enticed by it, and we cannot even grasp how one could be. However, this inability to grasp the appeal of avodah zarah is not incidental. The world has changed, the very inner workings of the human consciousness have shifted, and we no longer crave idolatry. However, we no longer crave nevuah and transcendence either, at least not to the same degree.

Why is this? What changed?

THE TRANSITION In the Second Temple Era, the Anshei K’nesses Hagedolah (Men of the Great Assembly) recognized the destruction that was being caused by the overwhelming craving for avodah zarah. A challenge is only worthwhile when there is a genuine chance for success. At this point, Klal Yisrael were no longer able to overcome the appeal of avodah zarah. It had become purely harmful, no longer a source of potential merit for overcoming it. It was no longer a challenge, it was a plague, a source of spiritual death.

Something had to be done; the desire for avodah zarah had to be obliterated.

The Gemara (Yoma 69b) relates in detail the steps the Anshei K’nesses Hagedolah took to excise the desire for avodah zarah from the human psyche. The sages fasted for three days and nights, after which the yetzer hara for avodah zarah came flaming out of the Kodesh Hakodashim. They were able to contain and neutralize this flaming inclination, which is why we no longer have the desire for idolatry. While the decision to excise the desire of avodah zarah is understandable, the method for doing so seems strange.

Why did the yetzer hara for avodah zarah, the most abhorrent sin, come from the Kodesh Hakodashim, the holiest, most transcendent place on Earth?

We can understand this seeming inconsistency based on the ideas that we previously developed regarding avodah zarah.

Avodah zarah is a corruption of the desire to transcend and connect with that which is higher. When correctly manifested, this drive leads one to connect with Hashem in the deepest of ways, i.e., through nevuah. The drive that emerged from the Kodesh Hakodashim was the desire to transcend. When it was destroyed, both the desire for idolatry and the desire for prophecy were destroyed along with it.

Prophecy and idolatry are not opposites; they are contrasting manifestations of a single drive. The difference lies only in how the drive is harnessed — whether for evil and idolatry, or spiritual transcendence and nevuah. (Everything in this world is potential, neither inherently

good nor inherently bad; it depends on how it is used.)

EMPTINESS AND VOID Destroying the yetzer for transcendence was like destroying a spiritual radio located within our consciousness. Once you destroy the radio, the transmitter and receiver no longer operate. Once this spiritual organ was excised — surgically removed — we lost the ability to connect to a higher reality through nevuah.

It is important to note that although this drive was mostly destroyed, it was not completely eliminated. We still possess a yearning to transcend, and we still struggle with the core concept of avodah zarah — of correctly and fully sourcing ourselves back to Hashem. Nevertheless, this drive was significantly diminished, and the desire to transcend that we feel now cannot be compared to the original.

This shift dramatically changed the nature of reality. Avodah zarah was gone, and nevuah was gone, but there was an even more fundamental and meaningful change as well. Hashem was no longer openly manifest in the world. The stage of open miracles had come to an end, replaced with a new reality: one of darkness, distance, and apparent disconnect from Hashem. But there was one more dramatic change that resulted from this new reality: we began to tremendously enjoy wasting time.

THE DESIRE FOR NOTHING What happens when you remove an organ from the body? You are left with empty space. If you remove a kidney or liver, what remains is the empty space that this organ used to occupy. The same applies to spiritual organs as well. Within our consciousness, there used to be a spiritual organ — the drive to transcend.

This organ generated a powerful desire to connect to that which is transcendent, i.e., to Hashem Himself. We had an antenna, a receiver, a transmitter that connected us to this higher dimension.

This organ was also connected to our drive for achievement, accomplishment, and destination. It drove us toward our goals, toward living a life of purpose and meaning. But that was removed. And what is there in its place? Nothing…

Nothing at all.

When we lost this spiritual organ, the desire to transcend, what filled that empty space is not simply a lack of spiritual desire. What took its place is an incredible desire to connect to nothing, to do nothing, and to talk about nothing.

But we have to understand that this space of spiritual emptiness is not simply a lack of spiritual desire. What was once the pleasure of transcending the self and connecting to something higher

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

has been replaced with the pleasure and desire to exist in a state of endpoint and non-movement. Instead of speaking to connect to a higher world, we desire to speak for no reason at all. Instead of spending one’s life devoted to a higher truth, committed to growth and development, there is an incredible desire to simply waste time away.

CORRUPTING THE WORLD TO COME There is a second level to this discussion as well, which reaches into an even deeper layer of wisdom. The Gemara (Berachos 57b) compares Shabbos to Olam Haba. The weekdays represent Olam Hazeh, because this world is a place of process and becoming, movement and work. The World to Come, in comparison, is a place of existing, where we stop the process of becoming and exist as the person we have become. In this dimension, we enjoy everything we accomplished and everything we created.

Shabbos is ideally meant to be a taste of that experience — a taste of destination and endpoint, where we mindfully halt the creative process. However, the entire purpose of Shabbos is for us to refocus our priorities and gain inspiration in order to enter the coming week reenergized; to reenter the “weekday” (Olam Hazeh) with clarity and purpose, ready for a week full of growth, accomplishment, and creativity.

The ultimate corruption of Shabbos is turning our entire lives into a Shabbos experience, so that instead of experiencing a taste of endpoint and static existence, our entire life becomes one long vacation, free of responsibility, devoid of genuine achievement and accomplishment. This is the root behind our obsession with wasting time, taking vacations, playing games, and having meaningless conversation. A game is something self-contained, where the process becomes justified within itself; a completely intrinsic existence of purposelessness, something that goes nowhere. The enjoyment is that it’s an escape, a time outside of time. There are no external influences; it is justified within itself. Of course, games can be very productive and help foster meaningful relationships, but when life itself becomes a game, something self-contained that goes nowhere, that is a tragedy.

JOURNEYING TOWARD GREATNESS These truths can be hard to hear, as the struggle described is genuine and deeply human. However, it is only if we understand our overwhelming desire to waste time that we can hope to maintain control over our lives. We need to live growth-oriented lives full of purpose and spiritual accomplishment. Shabbos is

25 JANUARY 2024 not life. Shabbos is meant to be a guiding force in our life, reminding us to live with our goals and destination in mind.

When one strives for greatness and journeys toward the truth, there is a lengthy, often bumpy process that ensues.

When one encounters these obstacles that arise, there are a few options for how to proceed. One option is to push through the journey, focused only on the end goal, despite the fact that it is painful and unenjoyable. Another option is to give up, terminating the journey. The complete corruption of this process would be to enjoy the journey toward nowhere, forgetting about destination, and getting lost within the journey itself.

However, the ideal is to journey toward your greatness, toward your truth, and yet still enjoy every step of the way. For when you know that you are building your eternity, and when you know that every step of the journey is leading you closer to your destination, you can enjoy every single step of the process. May we be inspired to harness the extraordinary potential within us, utilizing the power of time and speech to the fullest while wasting as little as possible. May we attempt to revitalize that spiritual organ within our consciousness and use it to strive for greatness and truth, using our time in this world to build toward the ultimate Shabbos.

JUDAISM 33

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488 .

Rabbi Shmuel Reichman is a bestselling author, international speaker, and the CEO of Self-Mastery Academy. He has lectured internationally on topics of Torah thought, Jewish medical ethics, psychology, and leadership. His bestselling book, The Journey to Your Ultimate Self, serves as an inspiring gateway into deeper Jewish thought. He is also a business, executive, and leadership coach, with a unique approach based on Torah values. After obtaining his BA from Yeshiva University, he received Semicha from Yeshiva University’s RIETS, a master’s degree in education from Azrieli Graduate School, and a master’s degree in Jewish Thought from Bernard Revel Graduate School.

He then spent a year studying at Harvard as an Ivy Plus Scholar. He currently lives in Chicago with his wife and son where he is pursuing a PhD at the University of Chicago. To enjoy more of Rabbi Reichman’s content, to contact him, or to learn more about his services, visit his website: ShmuelReichman.com

The specialist masons in creating bespoke Granite and Marble Memorials for all Cemeteries.

Clayhall Showroom 14 Claybury Broadway Ilford. IG5 0LQ T: 0208 551 6866

Edgware Showroom 41 Manor Park Crescent Edgware. HA8 7LY T: 0208 381 1525

Email : info@garygreenmemorials.co.uk

www.garygreenmemorials.co.uk

Gary Green ad A6 128 x 165mm JN.indd 1

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

09/04/2019 13:38:01

Family Fun 34 FAMILY FUN

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

25 JANUARY 2024

Beshalach

Moshe Rabbeinu finally leads the Jewish people out of Egypt! But a few days later, Pharaoh thinks it would be clever to chase after the Jews, and force them back to being slaves. He takes a large army, and runs after the Jews, who are approaching a sea – Yam Suf. As he gets nearer the Yidden realise they must daven to Hashem,

and Hashem says – time to move forward! The sea splits, leaving dry land for them to walk through, completely calmly. The Egyptians decide to chase after the Jewish people, and the waters came onto the Egyptians, drowning them and their chariots.

The Jews then travel further to Marah, guided by a cloud during the day and a pillar of

fire by night. They are now beginning their journey in a desert, but they completely trust Hashem. When they ask for food, Hashem sends them a special food called Manna which had fabulous tastes!

At the end of the Sidra, Amalek comes to fight with the Jews. Moshe goes up to Daven, ably supported by his devoted Yehoshua and,

with heartfelt connection to Hashem, the Jews were able to succeed in winning the war.

Hashem tells us not to forget what Amalek did. And so, each year, we recall the bad deeds of Amalek and his great (great…. though not great) grandchild Haman. Can you remember when we do this?

Parasha Stats

Word Search

Facts about Parashat Beshalach

C

V

V

W

A

G

K

T

T

F

I

V

K

O

Z

B

P

E

N

D

T

Y

W

O

E

V

M

S

Z

X

F

O

O

K

K

I

I

E

C

P

F

Q

J

D

C

Y

B

S

V

R

A

L

L

I

P

P

T

A

E

F

D

F

P

I

O

A

E

T

F

L

J

L

O

D

E

T

Q

U

I

S

O

X

U

F

Q

M

T

F

A

A

D

N

I

R

M

O

V

F

B

O

N

E

S

S

D

O

A

V

H

W

I

N

E

G

S

Y

H

C

F

R

S

B

A

R

V

R

E

L

N

C

W

A

I

M

L

R

E

H

Q

L

Y

Q

K

D

Number of Lines in the Sefer Torah - 216 Number of Verses - 116 Number of Words - 1,681 Number of Letters - 6,423

Jewish Riddle

This weeks Question: I am a Levi. There is one thing I have never witnessed in my entire adult life, and I never will either. Yisraelim sometimes see it, so do kohanim, but me and my fellow levi’im?

Never! What is it?

BONES • CLOUDS • COMPLAIN • FIRE • MANNA • PILLAR • REEDS • SPLIT

Last weeks Answer: When would I have to make at least 20 Berachot because I drank one cup of orange juice?

Answer: On motzei Shabbat, if one forgets "ata chonantanu", they need not repeat the amida unless they eat or drink before saying havdalah. However, if he forgets ata chonantanu and then eats or drinks before havdalah, then he must repeat the entire shemone esrei (19 blessings plus the blessing after the orange juice).

(Well done Manny Aronson for getting the right answer)

Email your name, age, where you live and the answer to office@thejewishweekly.com!

Next weeks paper will feature the answer and will mention one person who gave the correct answer!

Dingbats

LE 1

2

3

4

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

5

6

25 JANUARY 2024

FAMILY FUN 35

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

Tangram Challenge!

Using all the shapes, can you make the shape on the right?

Word Wheel The goal of a word wheel puzzle is to create as many words possible with the letters in the word wheel.

E

Each word must contain at least three letters. You can only use each letter once and every word must have the letter in the centre of the wheel.

B S

Last edition’s words

dyne ends lend lens need news seen

R O

L

send sewn wend yens dense lends needs

needy newel newly newsy weeny wends lensed

newels weensy densely newlywed newlyweds

Riddles

Jokes

1. What can be seen in the middle of March and April

Q: Where are sharks from?

A: Finland!

that cannot be seen at the beginning or end of either month?

: What do you get when you cross a cow and a Q lawnmower?

A: A lawnmooer.

Q: What did the dog say to the flea?

A: Stop bugging me!

2. I love to dance and twist and prance, I shake my tail, as away I sail, wingless I fly into the sky. What am I?

3. The more you take, the more you leave behind. What am I?

1. The letter ‘R’ | 2. A Kite | 3. Footsteps

Dingbat Answers

1. One step forward two steps back 2. Cornerstone

3. Dipstick 4. Parting of the ways

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

Answers

den end nee new yen dens deny

L

D O

Here are some words you may have found from last week – you may have found more!

Use the area below to write the words you have found.

5. Break a leg 6. Equal rights

NOW MORE THAN EVER ISRAEL NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT

Leave a gift in your Will to JNF UK to support Israel for life

INHERITANCE TAX PLANNING EXECUTORSHIP

LASTING POWERS OF ATTORNEY

PASTORAL CARE

WILL SERVICES

Mountcliff House, 154 Brent Street, London NW4 2BF

020 8732 6101 • ENQUIRIES@KKL.ORG.UK • WWW.KKL.ORG.UK KKL Executor and Trustee Company Ltd (a Company registered in England No. 453042) is a subsidiary of JNF Charitable Trust (Charity No. 225910) and a registered Trust Corporation (authorised capital £250,000).

PESACH 2024

‫עם ישראל חי‬ ‫ביחד ננצח‬

Elysium

RHODES, GREEK ISLES

ALL INCLU PRICE 300SIVE PER PERS 0€ ON

A Slice of Heaven...

Rabbi Dr. Laibl Wolf

Ohad

Rabbi David Meyer

The Solomon Brothers

Rabbi Yossi Fachler

Meni Hollander

Aleeza Ben Shalom

Shlomi Lanyado

Shay Barak

YOUR 5* EXCLUSIVE PESACH PACKAGE INCLUDES: 10-nights at our Beach front property Hotel exclusive to our guests in 250 Rooms A wonderful Chag atmosphere hosted by David & Chana Walles Inspiring Tefillot & Learning by World Renowned Scholars & Guest Speakers Top lineup of Entertainment Private, Semi Private/Family and Communal Seder options

3 Gourmet meals daily incl. wines & Soft Drinks.

Lavish Kiddushim Lobby bar open midday to midnight Early kids dinner.

Kids Club & Teen Program Day trip options & attractions Lagoon Pool & Spa heated pool.

Discounted Kosher Travelers charter flights and airport transfers Professional Security Team

Kashrut is Glatt Mehadrin, under the strict supervision of Rabbi Berel Simpser. Non-Gebrochts www.ikmehadrin.com David & Chana Walles Arik Porat Hosts Executive Chef

38 EXPERT ADVICE in association with

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488 richdale

25 JANUARY 2024

YOUR FINANCIAL SERVICES COMPLIANCE EXPERTS

EXPERT ADVICE

FINANCIAL SERVICES (FCA) COMPLIANCE

Dear Marc We have a financial dilemma. My spouse and I are retired. We don’t want our children to have to pay 40% inheritance tax but we also might need care in the future and don’t want to have to be dependent on our children. We own a second property which is rented out and have various savings and investments. Is there a way to mitigate inheritance tax and keep control and access to our money for now ?

Mr and Mrs Cohen Dear Mr and Mrs Cohen Your dilemma is a common one! A competent adviser will be able to direct you through all the important issues you should consider and decisions you need to make to reduce your estate’s inheritance tax liability. Gifting to your children is an option for mitigating inheritance tax. However, this option presents two problems. Firstly, it takes 7 years for the gift to fully exit your estate for tax purposes. You might not have that long before you pass away! Secondly once you gift, you lose access and control of that money/asset.

Therefore, it’s not a viable option as you would have to be dependent on your children’s generosity to meet your potential care needs. An attractive alternative option you ought to consider is investing in assets that qualify for Business Relief. The benefits of this option are that it only takes ownership of two years for those assets to be deemed exempt from inheritance tax and you can retain access and control of your money indefinitely. No gifting is required. If you hold these investments at death and they have been held more than two years, these investments will be exempt from inheritance tax.

You can also use these investments to pay for your prospective care costs. Investments that qualify for Business Relief come in various forms and with different advantages and disadvantages as well as risks to each investment. Seek advice for an appropriate investment.

JACOB BERNSTEIN A member of the APCC, specialising in financial services compliance for: • Mortgage, Protection and General Insurance Intermediaries; • Lenders, Credit Brokers, Debt Counsellors and Debt Managers; • Alternative Investment Fund Managers; • E-Money, Payment Services, PISP, AISP and Grant-making Charities.

Contact: 020 7781 8019 info@richdale.co.uk www.richdale.co.uk

WEALTH MANAGMENT MARC OVITS – BA (HONS) APFS CERT PFS (DM) Over 25 years of successful experience in financial services including 11 years of investment banking experience.

Offering expert independent financial advice to individuals, businesses, charities and trusts.

Individual services:- Wealth Management, Investment, Retirement, Estate/IHT, protection planning, Tax Mitigation and Cash Management Solutions Business & Charity services:- Investment Planning, Business Succession & Business Exit Planning, Business Protection, Corporate Pensions, Employee Benefits, Cash Management Solutions, Profit extraction strategies Alpha Wealth Management Contact: 020 8203 6920 info@alphawm.co.uk www.alphawm.co.uk

Marc Ovits

ESTATE AGENT

BUTCHERS

MARTIN FRYDENSON - ROUNDTREE REAL ESTATE Roundtree Real Estate are your local experienced Estate Agent having been established on the High Street since 2009. We are both ARLA and NAEA Propertymark regulated and we are here to offer you expert advice in Property Sales, Lettings, Commercial and Full Management Services, covering Hendon, Golders Green, Finchley, Colindale and surrounding areas. We have built long standing relationships with all our clients and should you have any property related queries please do contact us.

KOSHER DELI Kosher Deli was established with the intention of making kosher meat and poultry affordable for all with the convenience of multiple locations and a comprehensive delivery service. All this without compromising on kashrus or quality.

Locations in: Golders Green, Hendon, Temple Fortune, Edgware, Borehamwood & Manchester

Contact: 020 8203 2111 mail@theroundtree.com www.theroundtree.com

Contact: 020 8381 4450 info@kosherdeliuk.co.uk www.kosherdeli.co.uk

PRIVATE HEALTHCARE SPECIALISTS

CHARITY

PATIENT HEALTH Market specialists is affordable health cover, advising on maximising cover with lowest premiums, for individuals, families, and companies (1-200).

Excellent knowledge on health providers, pre-existing issues, and family-company scheme • FCA Licensed • LLB Solicitors Finals • Member of Chartered Institute

JEWISH CARE Jewish Care is the largest health and social care organisation serving the Jewish community in London and the South East. Our vital services touch the lives of 10,000 people every week. We provide services and offer a wide range of support groups to older people, people with mental health needs, Holocaust survivors, people living with dementia, people with a variety of needs and carers support.

Contact: Trevor Gee 020 3146 3444 07956 244350 trevor@patienthealth.co.uk www.patienthealth.co.uk

Contact: 020 8922 2222 helpline@jcare.org www.jewishcare.org

RICHDALE – YOUR FINANCIAL SERVICES COMPLIANCE EXPERTS THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

25 JANUARY 2024

EXPERT ADVICE 39

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488

YOUR FINANCIAL SERVICES COMPLIANCE EXPERTS

in association with

richdale

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

ALIYAH ADVISORS

MARTIN HEIMAN – SMARTINET We’ve been providing businesses with all of their communication needs since 2010.

We specialise in supplying businesses with VoIP Packages, Mobile Plans, Broadband, Card Merchant Services, Leased Lines, On-Hold Marketing, and Call Centre Services.

Smartinet, your reliable and efficient business communications provider.

ALIYAH ADVISORS - GARY BROWN - PRACTICAL ALIYAH ADVICE Book a FREE meeting with UKAA’s founder Gary Brown, who will go through your particular needs and wants on a the PRACTICAL side of leaving your country of origin and/or living in/moving to Israel. This is both for pre and post- Aliyah Olim.

This FREE meeting will allow Gary to advise on who you need to speak with for each requirement and when in the year you should approach them. Confidentiality assured.

Contact: 0333 613 0000 connect@smartinet.co.uk smartinet.co.uk

Contact: +972 (0)2 372 3775 / +44 (0)20 3 989 5080 info@aliyahadvisors.com aliyahadvisors.com/aloh-naaleh/

BUILDING AND PARTY WALL SURVEYING

MANAGED I.T. SERVICES PROVIDER (MSP)

MATRIX SURVEYORS LIMITED Offering a range of building surveying services and specialising in party wall matters, nationwide, for both consumers and businesses, including; • Pre-acquisition Surveys • Planned Preventative • Party Wall Matters Maintenance Schedules • Defect Inspections • Construction Project Management • Schedules of Condition • Licence for Alterations • Insurance Reinstatement Costs Assessments • Insurance claims

SIMON MOSCOVITZ BSC (HONS) – EUROTEK UK LIMITED We are a well-established and successful Managed I.T. Services Provider (MSP) with a clear sense of purpose. We plan, design and enable the procurement, implementation, protection and management of a wide range of modern technologies through an earned and trusted partnership with our clients across the UK. We enable our clients to be operationally efficient by successfully embracing their digital transformation journey.

• Why choose Eurotek UK? Deliver > Manage > Automate > Secure > Backup

Contact: Toli Moscovitz BSc (Hons) MRICS 0161 823 6973 info@matrixsurveyors.co.uk www.matrixsurveyors.co.uk

Contact: 0161 660 2745 hello@eurotekuk.co.uk www.eurotekuk.co.uk

SHIPPING STEPHEN MORRIS SHIPPING With almost 40 years experience, our company has the ability to move household and personal effects and antiques and fine art with the professionalism and care that comes from that experience coupled with an attention to detail.

We construct our own Tri-Wall and wooden packing cases on site and employ full-time art installers and handymen for those ‘extra’ jobs that always need doing on a move or installation.

And size is no limitation – we have moved trains, boats and planes across the world and even bridges and a 5,000 seater tent!

Contact: 020 8832 2222 info@shipsms.co.uk www.shipsms.co.uk Looking for a bespoke Kosher holiday that meets all your tailored needs?

YOUR ADVERT HERE CALL TODAY 0203 906 8488

Discover your perfect Kosher getaway with Bespoke Kosher Travel! Our experienced team specialises in creating customised holidays that meet your every Kosher requirement. From remote destinations to popular tourist spots, we've got you covered.

30,000 PEOPLE WAITING TO SEE YOUR AD! office@thejewishweekly.com

Contact us today and let us plan your dream Kosher holiday!

BOOK NOW info@bespokekoshertravel.com

+44 (0)20 3151 1660

www.bespokekoshertravel.com

+44 77 3823 6468

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

@bespokekoshertravel