PARASHAT PEKUDEI & SHABBAT HACHODESH SHABBAT: BEGINS ENDS
London 18:12 19:16
Manchester 18:22 19:29
Leeds 18:16 19:31
Liverpool 18:22 19:36
Birmingham 18:17 19:22
Antwerp 18:51 20:01
Bournemouth 18:15 19:26
Gateshead 18:18 19:34
Jerusalem 18:20 19:34
BY DAVID SAFFER
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strengthened his coalition government after the Knesset passed a record-breaking 2025 budget this week.
Te 66-52 vote came a week before Monday’s March 31st deadline for new elections.
Te 620 billion plus budget includes a large hike in the defence budget as the war against Hamas approaches 18 months since the terror attack.
But there are cuts in education, health, welfare and transport. Tax increases are expected.
Whilst Netanyahu’s coalition celebrated there were demonstrations outside the Knesset.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich was forced to walk to the Knesset due to roadblocks, Defence Minister Israel Katz arrived by helicopter. Other Knesset members were stuck outside the building.
Smotrich welcomed the ‘war budget’ result. “It is everything we need to win on the home front,” he said, adding it was a “budget for reservists, the story of border heroes, pioneering settlers, and an entire nation fghting to win and bring back the hostages”. Smotrich’s speech was interrupted by opposition Knesset members.
Commenting on protesters, Smotrich noted. “A handful of anarchists are breaking the law, this is a collapse of the rule of law. I call on the police chief to act. No other country would allow 20 people to block a road. You
don’t care about the rule of law, only about maintaining privileges and power.”
Opposition leader Yair Lapid condemned the budget result as “the biggest robbery in Israel’s history”.
Addressing the public, Lapid said: “Middle-class Israelis are fed up with being taken for fools. Tey are tired of being exploited by a government that does not care about them.”
Controversially, according to Israeli media, the budget includes over fve billion shekels for ‘coalition funds’. Tis will reportedly beneft ultra-Orthodox and settler communities where religious schools do not teach core curriculum subjects.
Te coalition includes four MKs with the return of Gideon Saar’s party. Te far-right Jewish Power party led by Itamar Ben-Gvir rejoined the coalition after the ceasefre collapsed.
Continued on page 3
Neot Dagan is a one-of-a-kind private home offering breathtaking views, refined design, and seamless integration with Efrat’s most sought-after neighbourhood. This is a rare opportunity to build your dream home, surrounded by nature, community, and a vibrant Dati Leumi atmosphere.
Designed as a two-family house, the property is built to your custom specifications, with potential to expand and build an additional 100+ sqm in the basement. Crafted with high-end finishes and European standards in mind, Neot Dagan offers the ideal balance of comfort, style, and community living in the heart of Gush Etzion.
7,500,000 SHEKELS | OCCUPANCY 18 MONTHS Scan for details
Subject to brokerage commission.
Continued from page 1
Despite intense public opinion against the coalition’s stance on the remaining hostages, draft exemptions and state commission of inquiry, Netanyahu has a bigger majority than before October 7. He is now expected to concentrate his eforts on axing Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara and Shin Bet head Ronen Bar.
In this regard, the Supreme Court upheld its decision to suspend Bar on Tuesday despite appeals, including from Baharav-Miara.
Netanyahu was given permission, and has begun, to interview successors to Bar.
Te cabinet, meantime, chaired by Justice Minister Levin as Netanyahu could not attend due to a confict of interests, unanimously passed a vote of no confdence in the attorney general as a frst step towards her removal from ofce.
Levin said: “Te attorney general operates in complete contradiction to her role, in a way that cannot be described as anything other than political, while citing legal impediments in a long list of things. Te attorney general is using her technical power to prevent government legislation and has become a sort of veto.”
Baharav-Miara, who did not attend, stated in a letter: “Tis proposal is not trying to further the cause of confdence, but rather loyalty to the political leadership. It is not about governance, but rather unchecked governmental power as part of a wider programme to weaken the
judiciary and to deter all the professional levels. Te government wants to be above the law and to act without checks and balances.”
Tousands demonstrated outside the building.
Retired Supreme Court Justice Ayala Procaccia addressed protesters, stating: “We are in the midst of a deep rift that threatens to bring down the entire democratic institution. For the frst time, the unwritten agreement that all governments have respected is being violated. Breaking the independence of central institutions and breaking down oversight institutions will cause the face of this country to go from one extreme to the other. Israel will no longer be a free, democratic country but rather a diferent type of regime that we cannot recognise.”
Te decisions to dismiss Baharav-Miara and Bar could be appealed in the Supreme Court.
Te situation regarding Netanyahu is complex as Baharav-Miara is prosecuting his corruption trial.
Te Court is set to consider Bar’s case on April 8.
Te latest mass protests in Tel Aviv demanded a return to the ceasefre and increased eforts to free the hostages. In Jerusalem, demonstrators blocked the entrance to the Knesset in protest of the budget. Hostage families protested inside the Knesset.
Talks continue in Egypt on a ceasefre and hostage deal with difering reports of progress.
BY DAVID SAFFER
US Ambassador to Israel nominee Mike Huckabee unequivocally backed Israel at a confrmation hearing Tuesday on Capitol Hill.
Various Democrat senators questioned Huckabee’ long term support for the State of Israel, his views on annexing Judea and Samari and opposing a Palestinian state. Republicans, however, welcomed Huckabee’ defence for Israel.
Sen. John Boozman (R-AR) said Huckabee was the right representative at a critical moment.
He reportedly said. “Mike is not only qualifed to serve as our ambassador to Israel, but he is uniquely suited for this role given the way he has championed Israel throughout his entire life, including as a steadfast supporter of Israel’s right to exist and defend itself.”
Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-TN) asked Huckabee about the importance of the US’ “arm-in-arm” standing with Israel.
Huckabee reportedly replied: “Israel needs an ally and the Jewish people need to know that they have friends. I am proud to have the right, as a Christian, to say to the Jews, you are not alone. We will not walk behind you but alongside you.”
Huckabee was well of aware of Democrat concerns regarding his nomination. He reportedly told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, “I have no illusion that everyone on this committee agrees with President Trump’s policies or his choices for roles in his administration. It is simply my hope that we will be able to engage in a meaningful discussion. I am not here to articulate or defend my own views or policies, but to present myself as one who will respect and represent the president.”
Democrats questioned Huckabee’ views on Judea and Samari and a Palestinian state.
Huckabee said a “cultural shift” was needed from the Palestinians for “lasting peace” in the region.
“To see people who are raised up with an irrational hatred toward Jewish people, that cannot lead to any level of peaceful co-existence, whether it’s here, there or anywhere else on the planet,” he reportedly told senators. “Tere can be no peace and two-state solution if there continues to be education from the time a child is fve and six years old, living under the Palestinian Authority that says it’s OK, in fact, it’s desirable to murder Jews and to reward them for it.”
Regarding expansion of the Abraham
Accords without a twostate solution, Huckabee said Israel must have a right to exist.
“Tere has to be some recognition that there will be a change in the policy of educating children to hate Jews,” he reportedly observed. “Tat does not lead toward a peaceful coexistence anywhere at any time.”
Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) described Huckabee as a “big hero of the Jewish settler movement” in Judea and Samaria.
Te ambassador-elect said his role was not to create policy but enforce it.
“If confrmed, it’ll be my duty to carry out the president’s policies, not mine,” he reportedly said. “One of the things that I will recognise, an ambassador doesn’t create the policy, he carries the policy of his country and his president.
I have previously supported it, Judea and Samaria, but it would not be my prerogative to make that the policy of the president.”
In other questions, Huckabee backed Trump’s “maximum pressure” campaign to stop Iran obtaining a nuclear weapon.
“Te president is taking the right course of action,” he reportedly said. “When his term ended and President Biden took ofce, unfortunately they relaxed some of those pressures and the result was Iran had money again. Tey didn’t use it to help their people, they used it to murder people in Israel through the Houthis, through Hezbollah and through Hamas.
I’m grateful to serve a president who recognises that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon and that it is better to bankrupt them than it is to bomb them.”
Prior to the panel hearing, the former Arkansas Governor visited the resting place of the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M.
Schneerson, in Queens, N.Y last Sunday. Huckabee and his wife, Janet, prayed at the Ohel. Tey were escorted by Rabbi Dr. Joseph Frager and Rabbi Dovid Katz of the Israel Heritage Foundation.
Chabad’s delegation greeting them included Rabbi Motti Seligson, Rabbi Sholom Duchman, Rabbi Zalman Duchman and Rabbi Yossi Vogel. Rabbi Elie and Dr. Naama Weinstock, Senior Rabbi of the Jewish Center of Atlantic Beach on Long Island also attended.
“After visiting the Ohel, I’m even more confdent it will all work out,” Huckabee said.
Regarding, the ambassadorial role,
Huckabee spoke about his belief in Israel.
“I’ve never been willing to use the term ‘West Bank’.’” he said. “Tere is no such thing. I speak of Judea and Samaria. I tell people there is no ‘occupation.’ It is a land that is occupied by the people who have had a rightful deed to the place for 3,500 years, since the time of Abraham.”
Huckerbee said the relationship between the US and Israel was “incredibly important”.
As for his nomination by Trump, he previously stated: “Tere was never a doubt in my mind that if he asked me to do it, it’s a way to serve my country and a way to serve my president.”
BY DAVID SAFFER
United Kingdom visitors to Israel continues to rise.
Figures released by the Israel Ministry of Tourism this week show 7,400 visitors travelled between the countries last month. And UK to Israel traveller numbers were the second biggest in the Europe. Only France headed the UK in the Top 10 list behind France.
Te UK remains third globally overall with visitors from the UK showing the highest last month at 27,000 travellers.
According to the Ministry, UK visitor numbers in February were up 25% yearon-year with 167,000 visitors entering Israel during January and February from across the world.
In February, a total of 88,200 tourist entries were recorded, compared to 67,500 in 2024, an increase of around 31%. Data shows 119,000 came from the top 10 countries.
Te US leads the way with 56,100 (January to February) followed by France (18,500) and UK (13,200). Other fgures are the Russian Federation (9,300), Germany (5,100), Ukraine (4,500), Rumania (3,800), Canada (3,300), Italy (2,900) and Nigeria (2,500).
Tese numbers represent 42% of visitors compared to the pre-COVID peak in 2019 of 564,000 global visitors to Israel for the opening months of the year.
Confdence in the UK/Israel tourism industry continues to gain momentum as an almost normalised fight schedule has resumed.
Foreign and Commonwealth Ofce advise remains favourable for Israel travel.
Michael Ben Baruch, Director, Israel Ministry of Tourism UK, welcomed the progress.
“It’s wonderful to see that UK travellers are the second biggest visitor group to Israel from Europe,” he said.
“It really means a lot to the Israeli people that tourists are returning to Israel after such a difcult 18 months.
“Whilst numbers of visitors to Israel are still signifcantly down on historic peaks, we continue to look forward to a return to wide-scale travel between the UK and Israel. We have recently enjoyed the success of events like the Dead Sea and Tel Aviv Marathons and as we move into spring and summer, we will see more reasons to travel to Israel.”
Ben Baruch added that there are new hotel, restaurant and exhibition openings.
seven more planned over the next fve years. Te chain is also renovating its fagship King Solomon hotel in Eilat and the Mitzpe HaYamim and Gomeh Hotels.
Israel, meantime, continues to invest in tourist infrastructure with hotel development accelerating as Isrotel’s recent announcement of fve new properties with over 600 rooms opening this year.
Tis £200 billion plus investment will bring Isrotel’s portfolio to 28 hotels, with
Other developments include David’s Harp Galilee Resort’s recent reopening and renovated Galilion Hotel’s January return. Te Gordonia Golan Beach Hotel and two Zichron Ya’akov Wine Park properties are also in development.
Berekhat Ya’ar, HaSharon and Avtach join Israel’s network of nature reserves and national parks, marking expansion of protected natural areas.
Yam Caesarea becomes Israel’s frst marine national park.
Tower of David Citadel has enhanced accessibility with new ramps, elevator installation and exhibits, making this UNESCO World Heritage Site more welcoming to visitors with mobility needs or visual impairments.
Almog Beach in Eilat is also set to undergo expansion to become the southern region’s frst designated city beach, enhancing public access to the Red Sea coastline.
BY ADAM MOSES
Jewish advocacy groups have condemned the annual Al Quds Day march that took place in London.
Te march is arranged by the Islamic Human Rights Commission, a controversial charity, according to Campaign Against Antisemitism, as it is known for featuring placards hailing Hezbollah.
CAA’s Demonstration and Events Monitoring Unit was present and photographed a man standing on the entrance to Marble Arch Underground Station in London waving a contentious fag.
A sign at the Al Quds Day march called for ‘Resistance: by any means necessary’.
“In the past, the Al Quds Day march has been an annual display of support for the murderous theocracy in Iran and its client terror groups like Hezbollah,” said a CAA spokesman. “Some cities have
banned the march altogether. Since we and others secured the proscription of Hezbollah in the UK, the organisers and marchers have had to rethink some of their paraphernalia.
“Sunday’s march featured what we have all come to expect in our nation’s capital at the weekend, support for violent terrorism and calls for the destruction of the Jewish state.
“Extremism is on the march in London, it is a devastating indictment of our political class and of the state of our criminal justice system that they simply do not seem to care.”
Action Against Discrimination chairman Jonathan Metliss is appalled and describes the rally as “vile”.
“Yet another anti-Israel, pro-Palestinian protest and gathering with strong anti-semitic overtones,” he raged. “It is the most extreme, pro-terrorist and virulently antisemitic march and a stain on our city.
“Criminal ofences were committed including the burning of an Israel fag and the making of Nazi salutes as well as the overall incitement to racial hatred. Again the Metropolitan Police are reluctant to arrest the perpetrators. Tis is another example of two-tier policing.”
Metliss called for the government to ban the rally outright and Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary
Guards Corps.
“Te government must take serious and efective action to prevent antisemitic hate speech prevalent at the protest,” he added. “Te Prime Minister and ministers have a duty to promote equality under the law, stand up and uphold our basic values.”
Metliss applauded Stop the Hate which organised a counter protest carrying Israeli and British fags with ‘Free London from terror supporters’ and ‘Ban the IRGC’ placards.
“Like Stop the Hate, the Jewish community and communal organisations should shake of their timidity and confront this anti-Israel and antisemitic behaviour full on,” he noted.
Metliss added: “We need to send a strong and unconditional message to the Al Quds protesters for the avoidance of doubt, Jerusalem is and always will be the eternal capital of the State of Israel.”
An NJA spokesman noted: “Te Al Quds Day march is a grotesque annual spectacle of hate, imported straight from the playbook of the Iranian regime. It is not a ‘protest’, it is a public celebration of violent extremism, openly supporting proscribed terrorist organisations like Hamas and Hezbollah, and calling for the destruction of the world’s only Jewish state. Tat this continues to take place in the heart of London, under police protection, in the wake of Octobers 7, is a national disgrace. It emboldens extremists,
Worried your matzah isn’t the only thing that might crumble this Pesach? Getting stressed getting ready for Pesach? Here are the hugs you need!
intimidates Jewish citizens and makes a mockery of Britain’s supposed commitment to countering antisemitism and terrorism. Te government must fnally proscribe the IRGC and put an end to this parade of hate.”
CAA, meantime, continue to monitor weekly pro-Palestine marches.
“What was interesting about that march was that it took place when there was a ceasefre in Gaza, which was exactly what the Palestine protesters claim to have been calling for over the past year and a half,” a spokesman noted. “Many of us argued that the animosity on these marches went much deeper and spoke to far darker motivations. We were not surprised that, notwithstanding the ceasefre, they continued to march.
“Judging by the chanting and signs many seemed to be marching for the destruction of the world’s only Jewish state and exile or murder of its millions of Jewish citizens. For the few who still believed in the mask, it has well and truly fallen.”
CAA also continues to be critical of the response of authorities to the Palestine marches for 18 months.
Te organisation has long called for the proscription of the IRGC, polling shows 93% of British Jews support a ban.
“A proscription was promised by the Government prior to the General Election but has not yet been delivered,” CAA observed.
BY HARRY SIMONS
Te Board of Deputies has called for action from the BBC over its coverage of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.
Representatives met Director-General Tim Davie and senior leadership of the BBC to discuss concerns about reporting of the 17-month confict and also the wellbeing of Jewish staf Te Board wants a commitment to a series of changes ahead of Pesach.
“Te Jewish community has long been sounding the alarm regarding BBC misreporting on the Israeli-Palestinian confict,” said a spokesman. “Not for years, but for decades. Te refusal by the corporation to commit to proper change has led to the situation it fnds itself in where a signifcant number of errors in its coverage have been logged during the last 17 months including the son of a senior Hamas ofcial narrating its recent Gaza documentary. Te BBC leadership needs to grip the issue with a seriousness and urgency we have not yet seen.”
corporation’s reporting on Israel-Gaza since 10/7 terror attack.
Te broadcaster must inform audiences of organisations proscribed as terrorist groups by the government including Hamas and Hezbollah, change its editorial policy of mistranslating words cited by Palestinians and a ‘one-strike’ policy when staf breach rules of impartiality and antisemitism.
A separate review is required for BBC Arabic network, where members of staf celebrated the terror attack and were briefy suspended before reporting again on Israel.
Te Board noted a serious deterioration in the health and well-being of Jewish staf, including hostility and isolation over the last 18 months.
“We found the BBC to be active listeners to our concerns,” said a spokesman.
“Te community will judge them on the actions they take to address these serious matters.”
BY HARRY SIMONS
Te police have dropped an investigation into activist Niyak Ghorbani who is renowned for declaring that Hamas and Hizballah are terrorists under UK law.
Ghorbani has been praised for his bravery by Jewish advocacy groups in the face of anti-Israel protesters.
Te investigation stemmed from an accusation by a counter-protester against Ghorbani at a demonstration last November at Queen Mary University in London. Ghorbani, of Iranian heritage, was accused of making racially aggravated threats to kill.
Protesters alleged Ghorbani said: “I’ll kill you, you Arab *******.” A police investigation was launched.
Ghorbani been informed the investigation has been dropped.
Police also confrmed an investigation will be opened to determine if the
allegation was an attempt to pervert the course of justice.
Stephen Silverman,CAA Director of Investigations and Enforcement, welcomed the decision to drop a “ludicrous investigation”.
“Mr Ghorbani should never have been subjected to this ordeal. It is appalling that those who speak out against terrorism are targeted while actual extremists go unchallenged. We are proud to have provided legal assistance and will continue to stand with all those who stand with the Jewish community and face repercussions for doing so. Justice has prevailed, but this case raises serious concerns about the priorities of those tasked with upholding the law.”
Te Board wants action including an independent Tematic Review into the
Te Board believes the BBC can begin signifcant changes by Pesach to meet the high standards expected of a national public broadcaster.
Steve Winston, National Jewish Assembly, added: “It is an outrageous indictment of our justice system that a brave anti-terror activist was subjected to a criminal investigation, while actual supporters of those genocidal groups parade openly through our streets.
“Tis cowardly attempt to silence a principled voice has thankfully failed, but it reveals just how skewed the priorities of law enforcement have become. When truth-tellers are treated as suspects and hate preachers as victims, something is deeply rotten.
“Te NJA stands with Mr Ghorbani and all those targeted for standing up to extremism.”
Our dedication to trust , extensive experience , unwavering reliability , and vast professional contacts enable us to offer you a fulfilling and seamless Aliyah experience. We are passionate about helping you make Israel your home, and our mission is to support you every step of the way.
I'm Dov Newmark , and I'm here to help! Be in touch today to learn how I can help make your Aliyah easy !
TO SCHEDULE A FREE IN-PERSON MEETING WITH DOV OR A MEETING OVER ZOOM PLEASE BE IN TOUCH
Te National Jewish Assembly (NJA) strongly condemns the annual Al Quds Day march held in central London this past Sunday - a parade of pro-Iranian extremism that has no place on British streets, especially in the aftermath of the Hamas massacre of October 7.
Originating from the Iranian regime and frst declared by Ayatollah Khomeini in 1979, Al Quds Day has always served as a rallying point for Islamist ideologues who seek not peace, but the violent destruction of the State of Israel. Te slogans, banners, and speakers on display this year made that agenda clear once again. With chants in support of Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the event represented not a protest for Palestinian rights, but an unapologetic celebration of terrorism and antisemitism.
Tat such an event was permitted to proceed in the heart of London, under the banner of “resistance,” is a national disgrace. Tis is not a peaceful demonstration; it is a pro-terrorist mobilisation that openly promotes Islamist violence, calls for the annihilation of Israel, and advances the fantasy of a global caliphate ruled from Jerusalem. Its ideological foundation is rooted in the same genocidal ambition that led to the mass murder, rape, and abduction of Israelis
on October 7. To allow it to take place is a shameful dereliction of moral and civic duty.
NJA Chairman Gary Mond stated: “Al Quds Day is not a civil rights protest - it is a theatre of hatred orchestrated by a regime that funds terrorism across the world. To see British streets used to legitimise calls for Israel’s destruction, while invoking the language of religious war and jihad, is utterly indefensible. Te government’s failure to ban this march emboldens extremists and endangers Jewish communities across the UK. Enough is enough. No democratic society should tolerate events that glorify terrorism and promote theocratic totalitarianism.”
Te NJA calls on the British government to immediately proscribe the IRGC, clamp down on extremist incitement, and ban future Al Quds Day marches in the UK.
By Rabbi Shlomi Wise | Rabbinic Coordinator KLBD
Rabbi Gavriel Zinner1 shares a story from Rabbi Zvi Hirsch Halberstam of Rudnick. A righteous man, meticulous about Pesach, personally cleaned the kitchen, slaughtered animals, koshered the meat, and cooked with utmost care. On Seder night, he was distressed to find a wheat kernel in his soup, rendering his food and vessels chometz. Praying for an explanation, he learned that a bird had dropped wheat into his pot, placed under the chimney for extra caution. This occurred because he forgot to seek siyata dishmaya (Heavenly assistance) with his preparation. The lesson: without Hashem’s protection, even the most careful eforts can fail.
Since Yetzias Mitzrayim, Yidden have meticulously removed all chometz before Pesach, applying this to all food brought into the home. The Chida2 writes that strict chometz avoidance ensures a good year.3
Alongside chometz and kitniyos, customs arose to exclude other foods on Pesach due to contamination concerns, some still observed today.
In the 18th century, the Pri Megodim4 noted that some avoided garlic on Pesach, although no reason was found. The Chayei Odom5 dismissed this as baseless. Rabbi Meir Bransdorfer6 suggested the custom likely arose from concerns about garlic dried in distant places using unknown methods, while fresh garlic remains widely consumed in many ehrliche (upright) homes.
Some Chassidishe communities only consume fish that were purchased live before Pesach. Rabbi Akiva Osher Padwa explained that the custom stemmed from unscrupulous sellers rubbing fish with ethanol around the gills to prevent undesirable odours. If the ethanol was derived from chometz, it would contaminate the fish.
In Europe, mead was popular; therefore, the Rema7 recorded a custom to avoid honey unless sourced directly from beehives in large barrels, as flour was often added to aid fermentation. The Baer Hetev8 noted flour was rarely added to barrelled honey and if present would be nullified (botel b’shishim) before Pesach when heated. But honey in small containers, especially for mead, often contained flour. The Magen Avrohom9 and Taz10 debated the permissibility of honey when not used for mead. The Shulchan Oruch HaRav11 explained the ban was a precaution in places where flour was added, but where it wasn’t customarily added, honey was permitted.
In Ashkenazi communities, sugar was not only prohibited for consumption on Pesach but was also forbidden to be stored throughout the Yom Tov. The Maharil12 recorded in the 15th century that his own rabbi ate sugar from Crete on Pesach as it contained no chometz. (This may be linked to the Venetian Senate granting Jews in Crete sugar export privileges in gratitude for David Maurogonato’s role in suppressing two revolts.)
The Noda B’Yehuda13 wrote that in regions where sugar was grown, adulteration was not a concern since flour was unavailable. However, barrels may previously have contained flour, or flour could have been added later to powdered sugar. Some were meikel (lenient) when a major merchant sold the sugar, provided a Yid oversaw the barrel’s opening in Rotterdam and took sugar only from the centre to avoid contamination. The Teshuvos Tiferes Tzvi14 wrote that in his time, rough-cut brown sugar was usually not problematic, as any white flour contamination would be clearly visible.
Cloves were not eaten on Pesach. The Biur HaGra15 explains the chometz concern was that old cloves might be soaked in brewing water or beer to impart a clovelike smell, which would mask staleness.
The Rema notes that many abstain from dried fruits on Pesach since they may be dried in ovens used for baking bread, and flour may be added during the drying process. Today, rice or oat flour is often applied to dried fruits such as figs, apricots, dates, and prunes to prevent clumping or extend shelf life, though this is usually declared on packaging. In Darkei Moshe, he notes that small raisins, typically sun-dried, were consumed, while the Magen Avrohom observed that larger raisins were also allowed to make raisin wine. Despite chometz concerns, any flour potentially present would be nullified (botel b'shishim) in the water added during the wine making process before Pesach.
The issue of finding a kernel of wheat in cooked chicken on Pesach has arisen many times over the past thousand years. The Maharil noted that women would remove the gizzard before Pesach and tie its opening
to prevent wheat or barley from falling out. In some Ashkenazi communities, such as Amsterdam, people refrained from eating chicken altogether on Pesach.
Today, this issue is rare, as the London Board for Shechita removes intestines, crop, and gizzard from chickens, which are then powerfully vacuumed, washed and checked by dedicated mashgichim (supervisors) for any feed residue—all before melichah (salting). They also prohibit selling pupicks (gizzards) unless rigorously inspected before salting, which is why pupicks rarely carry a kosher for Pesach label.
We respect these long-standing customs, in deference to the diligence with which they have been preserved for generations. At KLBD, we are committed to ensuring that all products are thoroughly checked before certifying or approving them for Pesach. This careful attention to detail helps to maintain the sanctity and integrity of the holiday for all those who observe it.
Whatever your family customs, may our commitment to these minhogim be a source of brocho, and may we all be zocheh to a Chag Kosher v’Sameach, filled with gezunt, simcha, and true cheirus The Kashrut Division of the London Beth Din (KLBD) confirm that the following products are certified Kosher for Passover -
Tate & Lyle
Caster, Granulated, Demerara, and Preserving are certified Kosher l’Pesach all year round and bear a KLBD-P logo. Caster Golden and Granulated Golden are Kosher for Pesach all year round, even when bearing the regular KLBD logo.
Nescafe
Certified Kosher l’Pesach all year round, provided the product has an English label and a UK customer service number. No logo.
For the full range of certified coffees, see the listing pages.
The following products, which are kosher certified for year round use, are approved by KLBD for Pesach
1 Nitei Gavriel, Pesach, vol.1, p.15. 2 Rabbi Chaim Yosef David Azulai, 1724-1806. Moreh B’Etzba, 196.
3 See also Baer Hetev, Orach Chaim, 447:1 paraphrasing the Arizal.
4 Rabbi Yosef ben Meir Teomim, 1727-1792. Orach Chaim 467, Eishel Avrohom, 1.
5 Rabbi Avrohom Danzig of Vilna, 1748-1820. Klal 127, 7.
6 Yerusholayim, 1934-2009.
7 Rabbi Moshe Isserles, c.1520-1572. Orach Chaim, 467:8.
8 Rabbi Yehuda Ashkenazi, Poland, c.1700-1745. Orach Chaim 467:13.
9 Rabbi Avrohom Abele Gombiner, Poland, c.1635-1682. Orach Chaim 467:7.
10 Rabbi Dovid HaLevi Segal of Poland c.1586-1667. Orach Chaim 467:6.
11 Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Lyady, Belarus, 1745-1812. Orach Chaim 467:14.
12 Rabbi Yaakov HaLevi Moelin of Mainz. c.1365-1427. Minhagim, Ma'acholos Asuros B'Pesach, note 13.
13 Rabbi Yechezkel HaLevi Landau of Prague, 1713-1793. Mahadura Tinyana, Orach Chaim, 72 (end).
14 Rabbi Zvi Hirsch Bushka of Poland, 1740-1806. Orach Chaim, 18 and 19.
15 Rabbi Eliyohu ben Shlomo Zalman of Vilna, 1720-1797. Orach Chaim, 467:8.
Supermarket own brand Sunflower Oil in 1l, 2l, 3l and 5l bottles is approved for Pesach when the code next to the BBE on the neck of the bottle includes an 'H'.
of Harrogate Red label only. Certified KLBD-P all year round. No logo.
Nescafe Certified
KLBD-P Americano
KLBD-P
KLBD-P
Nescafe
Certified
KLBD-P Alta Rica
KLBD-P Barista Style
KLBD-P Blend
KLBD-P Cap Colombia
KLBD-P Decaff
NP Espresso
KLBD-P Indonesian Sumatra
KLBD-P Intense
KLBD-P Rich & Smooth
KLBD-P Roastery Collection Dark
KLBD-P Roastery Collection Light
Only certified for Pesach when the code next to the date stamp ends with 1092.
KLBD-P Smooth
San Francisco Bay Cofee
Certified Kosher for Pesach all year round with a KLBD-P logo. Available from Ocado and www.sfbaycoffee.uk. Ground and whole bean.
KLBD-P Colombian Supremo
KLBD-P French Roast
KLBD-P Gourmet Blend
KLBD-P Gourmet Blend Decaf
KLBD-P Nicaraguan
KLBD-P Rainforest Blend
KLBD-P Sumatran
KLBD-P Welsh Blend
The following coffee pods are approved for Pesach. We recommend using either a new machine or a machine which has been taken apart, cleaned and kashered.
Nescafe Dolce Gusto
Certified Kosher for Pesach all year round, provided 'ENGLAND', 'GERMANY' or 'SPAIN' is ink jetted on the underside of the box. No logo.
KLBD-P Americano
P Americano Decaff
KLBD-P Americano Intenso
KLBD-P Americano Mexico
KLBD-P Americano Smooth Morning
KLBD-P Espresso
KLBD-P Espresso Barista
P Espresso Decaff
KLBD-P Espresso Intenso
KLBD-P Grande
KLBD-P Grande Intenso
KLBD-P Grande Intenso Morning Blend
KLBD-P Grande Mild
KLBD-P Grande Morning Blend
KLBD-P Lungo P Lungo Decaff
KLBD-P Lungo Intenso
KLBD-P Morning Miami
KLBD-P Morning New York
KLBD-P Ristretto Ardenza
KLBD-P Ristretto Barista
KLBD-P Ristretto Napoli
Nescafe Dolce Gusto Starbucks
Certified Kosher for Pesach all year round, provided 'ENGLAND', 'GERMANY' or 'SPAIN' is ink jetted on the underside of the box. No logo.
KLBD-P Espresso Colombia
KLBD-P Espresso Roast
KLBD-P Espresso Roast Blonde
KLBD-P House Blend
KLBD-P Veranda Blend
Nespresso
For a full list of approved Nespresso, Nespresso Starbucks and Nespresso Vertuo coffee pods see www.passover.isitkosher.uk. Please note that Nespresso Variations are not approved for Pesach.
ALLERGIES
For advice about milk substitutes which are permitted on Pesach for children with dairy allergies, see the FAQ's on our Pesach website or alternatively email info@kosher. org.uk or call 020 8343 6247.
EGG ALLERGIES
We are not aware of any egg replacers on the market which are suitable for Pesach. Email info@kosher.org. uk or call 020 8343 6247 for advice about suitable alternatives.
FRESH PRECUT FRUIT & VEGETABLES
Precut fresh fruit and vegetables are not approved due to the fact that citric acid (potentially of chametz origin) is commonly used to prevent discolouration. There is no problem with precut fresh herbs or herbs grown in pots. Chopped herbs should be avoided as they cannot easily be checked for infestation.
FRESH & FROZEN FISH
It is preferable to buy fish from a kosher licensed fishmonger. If this is not possible, one may buy fresh or frozen fish from a non-supervised source, provided some skin (bearing easily detachable scales) is still attached. It is advisable to rinse the fish thoroughly before use. For a list of kosher fish, see The Really Jewish Food Guide or check www.isitkosher.uk.
FROZEN FRUIT
Unsupervised frozen fruit should not be used because factories may use ascorbic or citric acid as a processing aid, which is often derived from chametz sources.
FROZEN VEGETABLES
Unsupervised frozen vegetables should not be
All bottled, still water is approved. Carbonated water should only be purchased if bearing a kosher l'Pesach hechsher
Perfumes
Perfumes
Base (www.beautybase.com).
Only brands listed on www.passover.isitkosher.uk have so far confirmed their source of alcohol. Other brands would be permitted, provided denatured alcohol is specified in the ingredients declaration.
This summary has been compiled by Rabbi A Adler BPharm MRPharmS, a retired pharmacist, in consultation with the food technologists of the KLBD. A full list of medicines for Pesach can be downloaded from our website at www.kosher.org.uk pesach medicines or alternatively check our online search www.passover.isitkosher.uk.
General points regarding medication for Pesach In general, all solid dose tablets and prescribed capsules are in order for Pesach use. Those who prefer not to take gelatine capsules are advised to request their medication in an alternative form. When taking non-essential medicines, it is preferable to use tablets rather than gelatine capsules. Wherever possible, tablets or capsules should be used in preference to liquid or chewable preparations, as these may contain ingredients such as sorbitol and glucose, which could be derived from wheat. In cases of need, the liquid and chewable preparations listed below as approved may be used. All inhalers are permitted. Please note that many powder inhalers contain lactose and should not be used after a meat meal, except in cases of emergency. Ointments and creams are permissible, except for those specifying chametz ingredients on the packaging (eg Aveeno cream, based on oats), which should be avoided. Prescribed medication should not be altered without consulting a doctor.
Special Note About Medication for Children
Most liquid medications for children cannot be guaranteed free of chametz derived ingredients. It is permissible to give a child liquid medication, for example Paracetamol or Ibuprofen, even if there is no danger to life. All such medication should be included in the sale of chametz.
The Rabbi arranging the sale should be notified, so that he can arrange with the non-Jewish purchaser to allow such use. It may then be taken from the chametz location, used as necessary, and returned.
All tablets and capsules are permitted. Note about Antibiotics Sugar free antibiotic liquids should be avoided, if possible, as they usually contain sorbitol which could be chametz.
able to advise whether there is a suitable alternative. Please note antibiotic liquids sweetened with sucrose may still contain other problematic ingredients such as xanthan gum and ethanol and therefore all antibiotic liquids should, if possible, be included in the sale of chametz.
P Amoxicillin Suspension (not sugar free)
P Erythromycin Suspension (not sugar free)
NP Nystan Nystatin Suspension
P Nystatin Suspension Only Sandoz brand is approved for Pesach.
P Penicillin V Solution (not sugar free)
P Phenoxymethylpenicillin Solution (not sugar free)
ASTHMA & RESPIRATORY
All inhalers may be used. Please note that many powder inhalers contain lactose and should not be used after a meaty meal, except in cases of emergency.
P Bricanyl Tablets
CONSTIPATION
P Bisacodyl Tablets
P Boots Senna 12 Years Tablets
P Boots Senna Adult Tablets
P Compound Macrogol Sachets
P Cosmocol Plain Sachets
P Fybocalm Constipation Relief Capsules
P Fybogel Natural Sachets Flavoured varieties are not suitable for Pesach. P
HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES
Due to the large number of homeopathic preparations on the market it is impossible to list individual items. Those obtaining homeopathic remedies from a practitioner should ask for the name of the supplier. If the company is not listed below, please contact KLBD for advice.
HOMEOPATHIC TABLETS & GRANULES
Tablets and granules don't generally present a problem, but some are formulated with lactose which is Dairy. Such preparations should not be used together with or after meat. The following companies have been checked
P Goulds Solid
D Nelsons Solid
NP Weleda Solid
HOMEOPATHIC LIQUIDS
These are often formulated with ethyl alcohol. This can be derived from wheat and should be avoided unless the source of alcohol has been verified. The following companies have been checked
P Ainsworths Liquid (excluding Bach Remedies which contain brandy)
P Goulds Liquid
NP Nelsons Liquid
NP Weleda Liquid
Available from Goulds Homeopathic Chemist, Churchill House, 137-139 Brent Street NW4 4DJ Tel 020 8457 2750 or 020 8457 2753
Email goulds@btconnect.com, www.gouldshomeopathic.com
INDIGESTION & ULCERS
P Boots Indigestion Relief Peppermint Tablets
Gaviscon Advance Liquid
Gaviscon Cool Liquid
Gaviscon Liquid
Guardium Tablets
Peptac
INFANT COLIC & REFLUX
P Colief Infant Drops
Dentinox Infant Colic Drops
Gaviscon Infant Sachets 2ml of Gaviscon Adult Liquid may be used to replace one Infant Sachet or added
All
Vaseline
The following establishments are supplying ready cooked meals and provisions for Seder:
1070 Kitchen
Tel: 020 7624 2013 office@1070kitchen.co.uk www.1070kitchen.shop
Goldstein's
Tel: 020 8801 0999/1999 order@yomtov.uk www.yomtov.uk
Hermolis
Tel: 020 8810 4321 sales@hermolis.com www.hermolis.com/pesach
Just Kosher
Tel: 020 8207 5556 info@justkosher.co.uk www.justkosher.co.uk
Kosher Deli
Tel: 020 8381 4450 info@kosherdeliuk.co.uk www.kosherdeli.co.uk
Menachem's Tel: 020 8201 8630 info@menachems.co.uk www.menachems.co.uk
Just Kosher
5-7 Croxdale Road
Borehamwood WD6 4QD
Tel: 020 8207 5556 Online orders www.justkosher.co.uk
Kosher Deli
51 Shenley Road Borehamwood WD6 1AE Tel: 020 8953 9713
EDGWARE
Kosher Deli 13 The Promenade Hale Lane Edgware HA8 7JZ Tel: 020 8905 4423
Kosher Edge 17-19 Edgwarebury Lane Edgware HA8 8LH Tel: 020 8958 3444 orders@kosheredge.co.uk
GOLDERS GREEN
Kosher Deli
132 Golders Green Road
Golders Green NW11 8HB Tel: 020 8731 6450
Kosher Kingdom
7 Russell Parade
Golders Green Road
Golders Green NW11 9NN
Tel: 020 8455 1429
info@kosherkingdom.co.uk www.kosherkingdom.co.uk
Leon's Fruit Shop
5 Russell Parade
Golders Green NW11 9NN
Tel: 020 8455 3330 www.leonsfruitshop.co.uk
Menachem's 15 Russell Parade
Golders Green NW11 9NN
Tel: 020 8201 8630
HENDON
Kosher Deli
43 Brent Street
Hendon NW4 2EA
Tel: 020 8202 0402
Tapuach
108-110 Brent Street
Hendon NW4 2HH
Tel: 020 8202 5700 sales@tapuach.co.uk www.tapuach.co.uk
TEMPLE FORTUNE
Kosher Deli 9a Halleswelle Parade Finchley Road
Temple Fortune NW11 0QS Tel: 020 8458 7933
WEST END
1070 Kitchen
Fridge in the Food Hall at Selfridges containing pre-packed foods
400 Oxford Street W1A 1AB Tel: 020 7624 2013
Pourtoi
Artisan Gluten Free Tel: 020 3674 3156 hello@pourtoi.co.uk www.pourtoi.co.uk
Leveyuson 47a Brent Street
Hendon NW4 2EA Tel: 020 8202 4949 leveyuson@gmail.com
Nat Jacobs 7 The Promenade
Edgwarebury Lane
Edgware HA8 7JZ Tel: 020 8958 5585 sales@natjacobs.co.uk www.natjacobs.co.uk
Kasa Bar & Grill (Glatt Meat) Located at JW3 341-351 Finchley Road Swiss Cottage NW3 6ET Tel: 020 3441 3527 info@kasagrill.com www.kasagrill.com www.jw3.org.uk/kasa
Novellino Brighton (Glatt Meat) 29-31 New Church Road Hove BN3 4AD Tel: 01273 750334 info@bnjc.co.uk bnjc.co.uk/your-visit/food-and-drink/ restaurant-cafe/
Sami's
(Glatt Meat) 157 Brent Street Hendon NW4 4DJ
Tel: 020 8203 8088
The day before Pesach is universally accepted as the busiest day in the Jewish calendar. On this day, the last remains of chametz are used up and the changeover from chametz to Pesach is completed. Chametz foods may be eaten at breakfast, but lunch must be Pesach-dik. Preparations for the Seder night and laying the table for Yom Tov usually ensure that no one gets much rest.
All this changes, however, when the day before Pesach falls on a Shabbos, as many of these activities are forbidden. There is still a requirement to eat two Shabbos meals, both of which must include challot for Hamotzi, since matzo may not be consumed on erev Pesach!
The Fast of the Firstborn usually occurs on the day before Pesach. However, since we do not fast on Shabbos, it is brought forward to Thursday. At the conclusion of the Thursday morning service, the study of a tractate of Talmud is completed, after which a Siyum (celebratory meal) is made for all participants. This absolves any firstborn men present from the obligation to fast.
The search for chametz usually takes place on the night before Pesach. As this year, that would be Friday night and the use of a candle is forbidden on Shabbos, the search takes place on Thursday night after nightfall, which is at 8.32pm. The blessings and declaration made after the search can be found at the beginning of the Haggadah or in the Sacks siddur on page 642.
The burning of the chametz should take place in the morning before 11.54am. The declaration Kol Chamira, which annuls any leftover chametz, is omitted at this time, as a quantity of bread must be kept for Shabbos.
All preparations for Seder should be made before Shabbos. At the Friday night meal, challah is eaten and the crumbs carefully collected up, so that they can be disposed of in the morning. Some prefer to use pitta bread instead of challah, which create fewer crumbs. It is ideal to use paperware for the first two Shabbos meals.
The morning service is held early as one needs to finish eating chametz by 10.45am
After the meal, leftover crumbs should be flushed away, paperware disposed of and the chametz tablecloth shaken out and stored with the chametz utensils. The declaration Kol Chamira, which was omitted on Friday morning, is now recited. It can be found at the beginning of the Haggadah or in the Sacks siddur on page 642. This should be completed before 11.54am
The mid-day meal Seudah Shlishit is consumed on Pesach dishes without challah or matzo. Cooked matzo or matzo meal products such as kneidlach may be consumed on Erev Pesach but not, according to most authorities, baked items made with matzo meal.
Yom Tov candles should not be lit until after 8.41pm, when Shabbos has terminated. The candles should be lit from a flame which has been burning since before the commencement of Shabbos. Large candles made specially for this purpose may be purchased from kosher shops.
The second day of Yom Tov begins at 8.43pm at which time candles should be lit and preparations for the second Seder may commence. Second day Yom Tov ends at 8.56pm on Monday 14th April.
Chai Cancer Care has released new fgures highlighting a dramatic increase in the number of women seeking support through its vital services. Tese statistics, released ahead of Mother’s Day (30 March), underscore the growing need for holistic, community-based care in addressing the challenges faced by women diagnosed with cancer.
Over the past fve years, the number of women attending appointments — ranging from counselling to complementary therapies — has risen by 45%, from 9,038 in March 2020 to February 2021- to 13, 111 over the past year (March 2024 to February 2025). In addition, there has been a 170% increase in participation in support groups such as Breast Buddies and BRCA-diagnosis support, with attendance increasing from 216 women to 584 over the same period. Women helped by Chai have described the services as invaluable, with oferings like BRCA-support groups, bereavement sessions, and styling workshops providing crucial comfort, while demonstrating the organisation’s understanding of the unique challenges women face in balancing roles as mothers, sisters, aunts, and more.
Dietician Charlotte Herman, 31 , was 23 weeks pregnant when she was diagnosed with stage 3 Hodgkin lymphoma. Te Whitefeld Hebrew Congregation member was later supported by Chai’s centre in Manchester. “I remember asking horrendous questions: ‘Am I going to die? Do I need to terminate my pregnancy?’ We had to talk about whether to deliver the baby and then have treatment, or
have treatment whilst I was pregnant. Tere were so many unknowns,” she says, adding: “We eventually decided to have treatment whilst I was pregnant. On the one hand, you’re told to avoid something like ibuprofen when you’re pregnant, but then I was being given these treatment drugs and chemotherapy. Tey reassured me that the baby would be okay with the treatment.”
Refecting on the support she received at Chai, Charlotte adds: “Te counselling was really important, to have that individual who is not directly in your life. I could have conversations with my Chai counsellor, that I couldn’t have with my husband or my mum, because I didn’t want to upset or trigger them. It was really important I had that support from Chai.”
Sara* (not her real name), in her late 40s, is married with 2 teenage children. Sara, who was diagnosed with breast cancer, has been supported by Chai, beneftting from services, including counselling and scar tissue massage therapy to sooth the post-surgery area. She says: “Having cancer is really complicated. As well as managing your daily care, you must project manage a lot of things and there are so many decisions to have to make. Tere’s a mixture of competing demands: for example, on the one hand, they tell you to keep exercising and moving, but then there’s a lot of fatigue and they tell you to rest. And then there’s having a family and house to still run.”
She adds: “Post-surgery, I have been getting the most amazing support from Chai. Tey have been brilliant. I have been getting counselling support from the most amazing woman, who is so compassionate and reassuring, and has there for so many years that she’s able to ofer practical support too,” also noting: “Being in a Jewish space has been so reassuring. When you’re feeling vulnerable and not sure in yourself, there’s nothing like being surrounded by so many special people.”
Victoria Portnoi, Chief Executive of Chai Cancer Care, says: “At Chai, we provide expert care in a safe, supportive environment where women can regain confdence and connect with others. Tis surge in women accessing our services refects the trust they place in us, reinforcing our commitment to ensuring no woman in our community faces cancer alone.”
Tis past weekend, families gathered for an unforgettable retreat hosted by family education charity Seed, centred around the theme “Energise – Stop Surviving, Start Triving.” Te event encouraged participants to rethink their Jewish journey, shifting Judeasm from being just one aspect of life to its central focus.
A key highlight of the weekend was a lively parent-child learning session, where families explored what makes a Jewish superhero. Another was a moving Havdalah ceremony, flled with uplifting stories and heartfelt singing.
Te event was a huge success, with participants describing it as inspiring, engaging, and transformative. Children enjoyed a range of exciting activities and outings, while adults were enriched by thought-provoking shiurim—all in the beautiful setting of the 4* Woodland Grange Hotel in Leamington Spa with exceptional food.
Seed also celebrated Mrs Joanne Dove in an evening of tribute and thank you. Mrs Joanne Dove has been working for Seed for almost two decades and in a video message Chief Rabbi Goldstein of South Africa described her as an ‘icon’ in the feld of Jewish outreach.
She has initiated many new projects at her time at Seed including a Women’s ‘Israel trip’ and a mother and daughter Links Bat-Mitzvah programme. Te founder of Seed Rabbi Joey Grunfeld
saluted her as a ‘nediv lev’ a ‘personality with an exceptional giving heart’. Expressing his admiration for her to make space in her own heart for so many and to introduce them to the wisdom and beauty of Yidishkeit.
Indeed, Mrs Dove is legendary for maintaining contact with students across the decades of her career so far. She was also the pioneer behind the challah bakes which originated as part of the Shabbat Project from South Africa and through her energies have now become an event in their own right.
Joanne, as she is afectionately known to all, responded paying tribute to her many students for sharing their experiential journey with her and to her colleagues at Seed.
Te evening was graced with the presence of Rebbetzin Ehrentreu, the wife of the late Dayan Ehrentreu, head of the London Beth Din and founder trustee of Seed and hosted by Mr and Mrs Moshe and Lizzie Morris, long-standing trustees of Seed.
Mrs Dove is certainly not retiring! On the contrary, she is now establishing her own organisation known as ‘JD Inspires’ and she will continue to give her popular classes and lectures up and down the country.
For more details on all our events and courses, visit www.seed.uk.net
Students who are passionate about Jewish education or leadership, and would like to earn a degree whilst working, should consider applying for Te London School of Jewish Studies (LSJS)’s BA (Hons) in Jewish Education, as applications are now open for a September 2025 start.
Te BA is ideal for those planning to specialise in Jewish Education or work in Jewish schools and is suitable for both recent school leavers and mature students. Te degree is validated by Middlesex University and graduates will receive an ofcial Middlesex award upon completion.
Students study at LSJS’ London campus for the part-time degree programme, which provides the fexibility of combining study with work, volunteering and/or family responsibilities. For students out of London, there is a Distance Learning option.
Te four-year, part time, competitively priced degree course in Jewish Education teaches a variety of relevant areas including the unique nature of Jewish Schools and Jewish settings, how children develop and learn within those settings and catering for the diversities of learners in school. Students enrolling on the course
will now also qualify for a government loan, making it even more accessible.
“Currently we have 30 students on our BA (Hons) degree programme”, said Dr Helena Miller, Director of Degrees and Teacher Training Programmes, Senior Research Fellow. “Tis is a great degree to get if you’re planning on becoming a fully qualifed teacher, or if you are interested in any career in Jewish Education. Teaching is a graduate career and with this degree, it is then a simple process to obtain your QTS (qualifed teacher status).”
“Te BA and the amazing support that we get at LSJS have had a huge impact on my personal growth as an educator, as well as helping with my confdence in the classroom and knowledge of the curriculum, ” said BA fourth-year student Cher Zairi.
“We are very proud of both our BA (Hons) and MA in Jewish Education”, said Joanne Greenaway, Chief Executive of LSJS. “All our students really beneft from our expert teaching staf who are exceptionally dedicated and supportive.”
For more information please go to: www.lsjs.ac.uk/degees or call 020 8203 6427.
Excitement, joy and unity flled the air at Te Wohl Campus, Kisharon Noé School, A Loftus Learning Centre as pupils, parents and staf came together for a truly special Siddur Party - an event designed to celebrate and enhance the accessibility of davening for every child, regardless of ability.
Recognising the importance of meaningful and inclusive prayer, Kisharon Noé School unveiled two brand-new, tailor-made siddurim at the event. One focuses on sensory davening, while the other features pictorial representations of the songs. Both siddurim are vibrant, engaging and feature PECS images, ensuring that all pupils can connect with tefllah in a way that is both accessible and inspiring. Additionally, phonetic transliterations in the siddurim allow non-Jewish staf members to actively support the children in their daily prayers.
Brocha Gutstein shares the reason she created the siddur, “Davening is an important part of the day, I realised that having put together so many diferent siddurim over the years, our children needed something special for themselves
and thus started the two years in the making of this siddur”.
Te Siddur Party itself was a joyous occasion. Children dressed smartly, proudly wearing siddur themed hats they had decorated in preparation for the event. Parents were warmly welcomed as they watched their children receive their siddurim, marking a signifcant milestone in their Jewish learning. Te room was alive with song, davening, and dancing, creating a true atmosphere of simcha.
For the younger classes, props were incorporated to make the davening experience even more immersive and engaging. Meanwhile, the older pupils had the mitzvah of laying tefllin and taking the Torah from the ark, deepening their connection to their heritage.
Refecting on the event, Head of Kodesh, Eitan Kohn, shared: “Te siddur party event was incredibly special, with a historic energy to it. Te smiles on the pupils’ faces when they received their new siddurim said it all. Siddur parties are a right-of-passage in many schools, in
presenting our pupils with a siddur that they can use and enjoy, reinforces that their davening is as important as anyone else’s and that they too deserve a siddur on the communal bookshelf. Tis is a message that is so powerful for our pupils and it is important for everyone in the
community to understand this as well”. Tis milestone event stands as a testament to Kisharon Noé School’s unwavering commitment to inclusion, proving that no matter a child’s ability, they can engage in meaningful tefllah.
BY RABBI GIDEON GOLDWATER
At Aish UK, we are always seeking innovative ways to inspire and strengthen Jewish connection. One of the most powerful tools in our educational approach is the Chaburah, a small learning group that bridges the gap between one-on-one study and larger classes. Tis dynamic format ofers the best of both worlds: the intimacy and personal attention of individual learning, combined with the stimulating energy of group discussion. Whether it’s a girls’ group in Birmingham, a Sixth Form Lunch & Learn at JFS, or a “Dinner & Deeps” in Manchester, this approach has proven both popular and deeply impactful. Unlike traditional large classes, Chaburahs create a welcoming and non-judgmental environment where participants feel comfortable asking questions,
expressing their thoughts, and engaging in meaningful discussion. Te small group setting fosters an open, friendly atmosphere that encourages curiosity and genuine exploration of Jewish topics, ensuring each participant has the time to speak and be heard.
One of the greatest strengths of a Chaburah is the ability to delve deeply into specifc topics. With fewer participants, there is ample opportunity for thorough exploration, making learning more personal and relevant. Tis depth not only enriches knowledge but also strengthens participants’ connection to Judeasm in a way that resonates with their individual experiences. Examples of recent topics that have prompted ongoing discussions amongst students are, “trading terrorists for hostages”, “Are there positive side-efects of social media?” and, “what does the rise of AI mean for the future of the Jewish community?”
Tis style of learning isn’t unique to Aish, but it aligns beautifully with our
mission: providing young Jews with opportunities to explore their Jewish journey on their own terms. It is far more engaging than a traditional lecture-style class and fosters active participation.
Chaburahs also facilitate both teaching and relationship-building, allowing participants to form deeper connections with their educator and fellow learners while fostering trust and camaraderie that enhance the overall experience. Te small group format is not just about learning content but about building meaningful relationships that extend beyond the sessions. Tey also cater to diverse learning styles, whether someone prefers a structured approach or a more conversational, exploratory method. Tis fexibility ensures that every participant feels valued and engaged.
Many students who interact with Aish have not connected with traditional Jewish educational methods. Our focus on informal, creative learning - combined with relevant, inspiring, and impactful
content - opens the door for genuine exploration and connection to Judeasm. Whether deepening understanding of Jewish texts, exploring ethical dilemmas, or engaging in thought-provoking discussions on life’s biggest questions, the impact of these Chaburahs is both profound and lasting. As we continue expanding our Chaburah programmes, we remain committed to helping individuals connect with their Judeasm in a meaningful and accessible way - tailored to what works best for them.
Rabbi Goldwater holds a BSc in Psychology and an MA in Jewish Education and spent two years living in Birmingham as the Aish Rabbi on Campus. He went on to direct Aish’s national Campus programme before taking on his current roles as Managing Director of both Aish UK and Jewish Futures. He has overseen the expansion of the teams and programming that are currently impacting over 20,000 young Jews across the UK.
Te National Jewish Assembly (NJA) strongly condemns Early Day Motion 864, tabled by Richard Burgon MP and supported by over 50 MPs, calling for sanctions on Israel.
Over the past week, GIFT, in partnership with the Israeli organisation One Family, welcomed a group of ten bereaved mothers and two social workers to London for a profoundly moving and transformative visit. Te trip, flled with care, compassion, and a strong sense of community spirit, ofered these mothers a chance to heal and connect with others who understood their grief.
Te visit was made possible through a grassroots initiative, where volunteers in the UK raised funds by selling “Bring Tem Home” necklaces. Tis campaign, which previously funded a trip for bereaved widows, has now extended its support to mothers who have lost children in terror attacks and confict.
Te purpose of the trip was to show these mothers that, despite the distance, the UK Jewish community stands with them in solidarity. Shira Joseph from GIFT explained, “Tis wasn’t just about giving the women a break. It was about reminding them that they are not alone. Our communities are connected, and their pain is shared.”
Te week was flled with both joyful and meaningful experiences. Highlights included a boat ride along the Tames, a visit to the immersive art exhibition Frameless, an evening at the West End show Mamma Mia, a tour of Windsor, and a visit to the Saatchi Gallery. One of the more special moments was a night of music at Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club.
A particularly touching part of the week was the spa day, generously hosted in a private home, where local therapists volunteered their time to pamper the mothers. One mother shared that, since the death of her child, she hadn’t been able to do something as simple as paint her nails or watch television. Tis moment of self-care, shared with other mothers who truly understood her grief, allowed her to begin the long process of healing.
However, the most emotional event of the week took place during a gathering called ‘Mothers Supporting Mothers’ in a private home in Hampstead Garden Suburb. Over 110 women gathered to listen as the Israeli mothers shared stories, photos, and videos of their lost sons. Te room was flled with raw emotion, with many in the audience visibly moved by the courage and strength of the mothers. In a poignant moment, the mothers
asked the crowd to honour their sons’ memories by performing acts of kindness in their names.
From GIFT’s perspective, this initiative truly embodied the essence of giving. Volunteers supported every aspect of the trip, from sponsoring activities to donating their time and services. It became a powerful example of how giving fows in
all directions, creating deep connections, meaning, and healing for all involved. Allison Kanter, one of the original necklace sellers and a key organiser of the trip, remarked, “Tis week was not only uplifting for the mothers, but for us as well. We gave, but we received just as much.”
Against the stunning backdrop of Grange-over-Sands in Cumbria, over 60 Year 12 students gathered for Aish Manchester’s latest Shabbaton, last weekend. It was an amazing culmination of their journey post-Poland. After an intense and emotional trip, followed by three refective and educational sessions, this Shabbat experience ofered the perfect space to deepen their connection to Judeasm, their peers, and to themselves. Over the last few months, Aish Manchester has run three separate Shabbatons, engaging 180 students across diferent year groups - its largest reach to date. Schools include Manchester Grammar, King David, Withington Girls and Bury College. Led by Rabbi Zvi Gefen, alongside the schools’ team of Saul and Chani Bishop and Mrs. Adina Strom, the weekend was a blend of inspiration, relaxation, and meaningful discussions. A key highlight was the exploration of the Five Levels of Pleasure, a concept taught by Rabbi Noach Weinberg zt”l. Trough engaging sessions, students challenged conventional ideas of happiness, discovering that true fulflment comes not from feeting pleasures, but from giving, growing, and fnding deeper meaning in life.
Beyond the education, the atmosphere
of Shabbat itself left a lasting impact. A relaxing Shabbat walk through the picturesque landscape provided students with the chance to step back from their busy lives and refect. A spirited oneg Shabbat late into the night brought out laughter, song, and deep conversations, strengthening the bonds between participants.
During meals, students shared personal refections on how Aish experiences have shaped their Jewish identity. Sam from Manchester Grammar School shared, “I learnt a lot about the Five Levels of Pleasure and how to apply it to my life. Being on a Shabbaton encourages you to express and embrace your Judeasm in a really positive way.”
A standout moment came after Shabbat when the Travelling Chassidim arrived for an evening of entertainment. Teir message was clear: no matter our background or level of observance, we are one Jewish family. As voices joined together in song, students felt the power of Jewish unity—a message that holds even deeper signifcance in the wake of October 7th. Now more than ever, standing together as one people is not just important, it is essential.
Emily, another participant from King David, summed up the experience: “I’ve gained so much from Aish Shabbatons
and trips, but this one was truly special. Te deep discussions reshaped my perspective on my Jewish identity and life in general. Being away for Shabbat gave me the space to pause and refect. I was on a high all weekend—singing, dancing, and having real, meaningful fun. Tank you, Aish, I’ve taken so much from this experience!”
Refecting on the success of the programme, Rabbi Gefen remarked: “Shabbatons provide a wholesome, positive Jewish experience, tackling big questions and allowing young Jews to experience the warmth and beauty of their heritage. Tis winter, we’ve engaged more students than ever before, and we’re committed to expanding our programming, creating more opportunities for Jewish teens to connect in
meaningful and exciting ways.”
With its growing impact, Aish Manchester continues to inspire the next generation, ensuring that every student has the chance to explore, connect, and strengthen their Jewish journey.
Te National Jewish Assembly (NJA) strongly condemns Early Day Motion 864, tabled by Richard Burgon MP and supported by over 50 MPs, calling for sanctions on Israel.
EDM 864 paints a one-sided picture of Israel’s recent security operations, omitting entirely the role of Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and other terror groups operating within civilian infrastructure. It ignores the fact that these operations have followed months of escalating terror
attacks, and that the IDF’s objective has been to dismantle terrorist networks - not to “occupy” for the sake of domination. But the problem is not just the content of the motion - it is the person leading it. Richard Burgon is no impartial observer of the Israeli-Palestinian confict. In 2014, he declared that “Zionism is the enemy of peace and the enemy of the Palestinian people.” He denied ever saying it - until video evidence emerged proving otherwise. Only then did he issue
From individuals items and specialist collections to complete house clearances, removals, and probate valuations. We do as much as you need - just ask !!!
a half-hearted expression of “regret,” hiding behind platitudes and claiming the phrase “does not refect how I now think about this complex issue.”
Yet now, in 2025, he leads a motion that once again singles out the Jewish state, ignores context, and echoes the language of delegitimisation. Tere is no mention in EDM 864 of the October 7th massacre, the most savage pogrom of Jews since the Holocaust. Tere is no recognition of the trauma faced by Israeli civilians, nor of
• As an independent broker acting on your behalf, I aim to get the highest prices for your pieces
• No need to worry about posting your valuables
• I sell through many diferent auction houses, high-end dealers, collectors and private clients
• With over 18 years in business you will always receive my personal discreet one-to-one service
• Free consultations at your convenience
the grotesque abuse of Palestinians by Hamas.
Steve Winston, Managing Director of the NJA, said: “Richard Burgon’s motion is a disgrace to Parliament and a betrayal of the truth. It deliberately whitewashes terror, demonises a democratic ally, and insults British Jews by framing Israel’s right to self-defence as a crime. It is a morally bankrupt document drafted by someone with a long and troubling record of anti-Israel rhetoric. Parliament should reject it out of hand.”
Te NJA urges all responsible MPs to refuse association with this motion and to reafrm their support for Israel’s right to defend itself.
Dear Rabbi
With so much going on in the world today I wonder, when we sit down at the Seder table, whether it is appropriate to discuss current events, or somehow tie the Exodus story into contemporary relevance. Must we stick to the text discussing an ancient past, or can we adapt to refect a more relevant present?
Joseph
Dear Joseph
At its core, the Haggadah is not just a retelling of history; it’s a reliving of the Exodus story. As our Rabbis taught, “In each and every generation, a person is obligated to see himself or herself as if they had left Egypt.” Tis is more than dramatic reenactment - it is spiritual immersion. Maimonides codifes this (Hilchos Chametz U’Matzah 7:6), emphasising the personal, lived nature of the story.
Tis perspective opens the door for contemporary relevance. While the text of the Haggadah itself is fxed, the commentary, discussion, and interpretation surrounding it have always been fuid, shaped by the needs of each generation. Troughout Jewish history, communities have adapted their Pesach discourse to refect their current challenges. Te Warsaw Ghetto Haggadah, written under Nazi occupation, is a poignant example of this. Even without altering the core text, the night was used to confront the reality of exile and yearn for Divine redemption.
Similarly, Rav Soloveitchik, in Festival of Freedom, speaks of the Exodus story as a “paradigm for the future of the Jewish people.” He writes that “each generation writes its own commentary,” meaning that we must bring our own spiritual and national experiences to the table.
At the same time, the Haggadah is not a soapbox. Its role is to transmit faith, Divine providence and the chosenness and destiny of the Jewish people. When referencing current events, they must serve to deepen these themes, not politicise them.
As Rav Aharon Lichtenstein warned, using the Haggadah to score political points or push partisan agendas (think oranges on the Seder plate – see next question) undermines its universality and eternal relevance.
If one chooses to weave contemporary examples into the Haggadah experience, use current events as a modern lens through which to understand the Exodus, not as a substitute. For example, discussions about antisemitism can be linked to the themes of oppression and redemption.
Also, ask the right questions: Te Seder is built around questions - especially those of children. Asking, “What does it mean to experience exile today?” or “How are we seeing Divine intervention
in our lives now?” brings modern relevance without overshadowing the traditional narrative.
Finally, any reference to current events should aim to inspire faith, unity, and hope for redemptioncore themes of Pesach.
Incorporating current events, when done with sensitivity, reverence, and insight, is not only permissible - it may be a practical fulflment of the obligation to see oneself as part of the Exodus story. As the Vilna Gaon wrote, “Te entire Torah is eternal, and every event in our lives is alluded to in it.” Pesach invites us to fnd that resonance, and to let the past illuminate our present - and our future.
Dear Rabbi I am going to my niece this year for Seder night. She insists on putting an orange on the Seder plate “to represent inclusion.” I have never heard of this before and wonder whether there is such a thing and is it even acceptable?
Gertrude
Dear Gertrude
Ah yes, the orange on the Seder plate - the fruit that launched a thousand Facebook debates and gave thousands of Grandmothers heartburn before even tasting the matzah and bitter herbs.
Let me be perfectly clear: An orange has no business being on a Seder plate. Te Seder plate is sacred - not a produce aisle of progressive symbolism. It’s not a blank canvas for someone’s modern art project or an Instagrammable ode to trendy causes. It is a ritual object with deeply rooted, ancient symbolism, each item carefully chosen by our Sages to tell a specifc story - a real story of slavery, liberation, tears, blood, sufering, and Divine redemption. We don’t toss a mango on there to refect on climate change. We don’t add a papaya for world peace. So why on earth are we wedging an orange between the marror and the charoset?
Yes, I know the backstory: Professor Susannah Heschel introduced the orange as a gesture of inclusivity. But good intentions don’t make it sacred. If someone wants to talk about feminism at their Seder — great! Raise a glass! Tell the story of Miriam and the midwives! But do
it with words, not citrus. Te orange on the Seder plate is yet another example of the progressive dilution of authentic traditional, historical Judeasm. Before you know it, you’ll need a second table just to hold the produce bufet. Judeasm is rich with real symbols already on that plate - each one hard-earned through history, oppression, and Divine drama. Bitter herbs, salt water, shank bone - these aren’t decorative. Tey’re visceral, they sting, they matter. Tey connect us to exodus, to memory, to meaning. If we start adding modern fair like it’s a Pinterest Seder board, we dilute the depth of our traditions. Our ancestors didn’t cross the Red Sea so you could squeeze a modern metaphor into the Haggadah like it’s a TED Talk. Want to have a meaningful Seder? Wonderful. But keep the Seder plate sacred. Leave the orange in the fruit bowl, where it belongs - and let the Exodus speak for itself.
BY RABBI NAFTALI SCHIFF
What would you want your Last 3 Words to be?
I love you?
I’m so sorry? If only I’d? If I could?
Let’s go back?
G-d save me?
I’m writing this whilst accompanying a JRoots journey to Poland. We facilitate about 100 such trips each year. Each one is a bespoke educational experience, designed by our staf, hand in hand with teachers, heads of organisations or community leaders, with their particular cohort in mind. Te group I have been with this week consists of 30 young English speaking Outreach Rabbis-in-training from the Jerusalem Kollel headed by Rav Yitzchak Berkovits. Its focus has been upon leadership and taking responsibility.
We bore witness at the site of the pits in Treblinka that devoured 900,000 Jews in the space of 13 months from the summer of 1942-3. We stood together near to the mountain of tons of human ash by the crematoria and killing ditches at Majdanek. We formed a circle by the gas chambers at Auschwitz. We huddled as one, next to the box car on the railway siding by the infamous ramp in Birkenau where 80 years ago countless transports of Jews were brutally separated- men and women and children then paraded before the fick of an arrogant thumb decided their fate.
In each place I kept thinking of what Last 3 Words?
On these momentous journeys I have often wondered- what did a Mother whisper whilst holding tightly onto two toddlers as she is ruthlessly pried away from her other teenage children? What would a Father have told his beloved wife as they were separated forever? What did a Buba and Zeide shout back at their children whilst each chaotic queue faded to a distant oblivion? As they neared the end of the line and the tight grasp of parent vainly grasping onto child was loosened for eternity, what words were uttered? Were they defant? Were they weak? Were they a scream or a whimper? Were they meaningful or banal? As thousands were shoved brutally into a dark overcrowded chamber surrounded by the vile stench of death and despair, what were the last words? As whole families huddled together at the precipice of already squirming dark ditches of hell, what was said?
We will never know and there clearly exists no scientifc or statistical record to such things. I can only pass on that which I have heard frsthand from the mouths of hundreds of Holocaust survivors I have personally interviewed. From these, the similarity of last sentiments shared has been most striking.
Te number of survivors who related
to me that their parents last words at the moment of separation were Bleib a Yid, (Stay a Jew), is truly remarkable. From my experience alone there are too many to mention by name and from research, more widespread than to limit the phenomenon to an attitude limited to the ultra orthodox communities of Hungary. It is as if deep down in subconscious of each Jew is the innate drive to ensure our children remain Jewish. Ensuring the Jewish future was the most important parting message each wanted to share.
Te frst Survivor who mentioned this to me over 20 years ago, was Mrs Eva Newman. “Bobby” Newman is well known via the tens of thousands of young people introduced to Bobby’s Story by the JRoots documentary of that name. Hailing from the picturesque hot spring town of Solyva on the Czech- Hungarian border in the Carpathian Mountains Bobby, she related the last shocking encounter with her Father just days after the ruthless separation of parents and children, husbands and wives on arrival in Birkenau. Imprinted in her memory are the last 3 words he hurriedly uttered to her when, by chance they came face to face in the chaotic camp
March in retreat to Germany, or the years rebuilding a life lost in Switzerland and then Manchester, England, Bleib a Yid were the Last 3 Words of a cadre of Jews that powered a generation of bereft Survivors with the will to carry on, to live, to remember and above all- to rebuild.
Bobby celebrated her 96th birthday in Manchester this month surrounded by children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, too many to enumerate here, each one of them a proud, upright Jew!
Mrs Eva “Bobby” Newman represents a world that perhaps was ready with their Last 3 Words because it was so real with its frst three.
When I asked her why and how was it that after years of post war loneliness, despair and wandering did she return to her observant Jewish roots, she simply explained that it was so elemental and deep rooted in her being that despite all, she felt it was like coming home.
Due to her proximity to the gas chambers, Bobby endured months of tolerating the agonising Last 3 Words of tens of thousands of Jews; of countless transports of led straight to their deaths with the cries of Hear O Israel, of Shma Yisrael
conditions of May 1944. 15 year old Eva had already been assigned to slave labour in the store houses known as Canada. Its proximity to the crematoria had her under no illusion as to where her grandmother was going as she stood in the queue to her fnal stop just days before inquiring of young Eva as to her Mother’s whereabouts. “ Don’t worry, you’ll soon see Mummy”, Eva told her Grandmother as she followed the thronging masses down the steps towards the gas chambers. Nor was the irony of weighty responsibility placed on her shoulders with her Father’s parting words- “Look after Mummy” (he didn’t know she had already been taken to the gas chambers with her two little brothers on arrival) Tese were followed by his last 3 words- “ Bleib a Yid”-
Stay a Jew, which became almost a hypnotic mantra driving Eva with the indomitable will to survive whilst others gave up, went to the electrifed wire or were disposed of.
Troughout the unimaginable nightmarish months that followed, sorting clothes of the dead and condemned in “Canada” Birkenau, the infamous Death
ensure Jewish continuity point conclusively to upbringing as the most decisive infuencing factor.
Te Last 3 Words of so many as conveyed by those who narrowly escaped oblivion just 80 years ago, were manifestly resonant with deep seated Jewish identity and values. So many Jews throughout our history have died with the legacy of Bleib a Yid, Stay a Jew, and of Shma Yisrael on their lips.
Today we live in a generation where, in the freedom and comfort of the English speaking world the average upbringing of Jewish children is tragically so distant from this sentiment, that even the frst 3 letters aleph, bet, gimmel are totally unknown to them. Te messages, the values, the deep foundational sense of Jewish life, of purpose, of connection to being part of the Jewish Nation are so obfuscated and beyond. Such a state of afairs is surely unforgivable.
Impacting change in order to inspire our younger Jewish generation remains the greatest challenge facing our generation and the personal responsibility of us all. Perhaps a generation fghting to rebuild a post war world was understandably distracted from ensuring a deeply rooted Jewish upbringing for its children. Tis is no longer the case.
Tere is no excuse for either personal or national self destruction. We must redouble our eforts and urgently invest in proven strategies and processes that will safeguard our Jewish future. Doing our utmost to guarantee staying Jewish was not the sole domain of pre war European Jewry; it is the driving and foundational motivation for every Jewish generation. It is ultimately why we support any Jewish charity or communal endeavour; in order to bolster our future.
screamed amidst the violated unison of the Kenesset Yisrael. Troughout her life Bobby dreaded hearing that which for her had tragically become a recurring nightmarish sound in shul. And yet, something so primary and fundamental inside her drove her to ensure that the First 3 Words transmitted to a family reborn would carry the primal sentiment- Torah Tziva Lanu! We are Jewish! We are proud! We are strong! We are here! We shall overcome!
I remember just after 9/11 asking people a similar question. When you saw those planes striking the Twin Towers; when you saw those mighty edifces to man’s creative power collapse like a pack of cards- what did you say? What did you do? Te common response was “Oh my G-d”. Not one of those who feared their end was nigh called their bank manger. Tey called their loved ones; they prayed; they afrmed their deepest sense of who they were.
We are approaching Pesach- the greatest annual opportunity devoted to home education. All contemporary research surveys reporting on efective means to
Our generation, our community and our families must recapture this deep seated commitment to Jewish survival and continuity with renewed vigour and passion in order to ensure that the upbringing of our children is worthy of our 3300 year old story and a Seder Night to remember!
Let’s not wait until the litmus test of our Last 3 Words…
Shabbat shalom
///What3Words is a geocoding system that divides the world into 57 trillion 3x3 squares, each identifed by a unique three-word address. Rabbi Naftali Schif refects on three words each week, relating to core issues of the day.
Feedback welcome! NSchif@JFutures. org
Rabbi Naftali Schif is the Founder and Chief Executive of Jewish Futures
BY RABBI SHAUL YONATAN TAWIL
Te Mishkan was an amazing edifce. It commanded awe, and Hashem’s presence dwelled amongst our nation.
Alas today we are without the Mishkan and without the Bet Hamikdash. Nevertheless our Sages have taught us that there are many hints throughout our Parasha as to how we can experience the Mishkan and its deeper efect, even in our generation.
Our Parasha deals with the fnal building of the Mishkan. After each item of the Mishkan was constructed the Torah repeatedly states that it was done “as G-d commanded Moshe”.
Te Ba’al HaTurim (40:33) explains that this was a reward for Moshe. When the Jewish people had sinned at the Golden Calf, Moshe pleaded with Hashem for forgiveness. He went as far as to say to Hashem that if you do not wish to forgive them, then “please erase me from your book”. Out of reward for Moshe’s selfessness and heroic defence of our nation, Hashem in this week’s Parasha constantly repeats Moshe’s name.
Te Ba’al HaTurim notes further that the phrase “as G-d commanded Moshe” appears eighteen times in this portion, corresponding to the eighteen blessings of the weekday Amidah. (Te phrase, “as G-d commanded, so they did” appears once and corresponds to the additional nineteenth blessing against heretics.)
How are these three ideas – Moshe’s pleading, the Amidah, and the construction of the Mishkan – related?
Te Gemara Berachot (28b) asks – what do the eighteen blessings of the Amidahh correspond to? Several answers are given: Rabbi Hillel son of Rabbi Shmuel says they correspond to the eighteen times G-d’s name is mentioned in Havu LaHashem B’nei Eilim (Tehilim 29). Rav Yosef says that they are in place of the eighteen times G-d’s name is mentioned in the Shema and Rav
Tanchum says in the name of Rabbi Yehoshua ben Levi that they correspond to the eighteen vertebrae in the spine.
Te Shema portrays the basis of our faith in One G-d. Mizmor Havu LaHashem, portrays G-d’s Might. Both mention Hashem’s Name 18 times, and we can understand why our Sages would wish us to replicate that in the 18 Berachot of the Amidah.
(We fnd a similar idea from the Chidushai HaRim who states that there were 100 Adanim used as the foundation blocks of the Mishkan. He states that these hint to the 100 Berachot that a person should say every day. Just like the Adanim were the foundation of the Mishkan, so too our Brachot are the foundation of Kedushat Yisrael.
Aden is from the Lashon of Adnut or Master, which is the way we refer to Hashem’s name. Our one hundred daily Brachot serve as a reminder that Hashem is our Master. Tat they serve as the foundation of the Mishkan that each Jew builds for Hashem’s Shechina in his heart.)
But what is the connection between the Amidah and the spine?
Te Gemara hints at the answer to this with another statement of Rav Tanchum in the name of Rabbi Yehoshua ben Levi; one should bow during the Amidah to the extent that the vertebrae stick out. Rav Tanchum explains that the essence of the Amidah is subjugation to G-d’s will, evidenced through bowing.
Tis self-nullifcation in the presence of G-d is what Moshe did on Har Sinai. After the sin of the Calf, Moshe was prepared to sacrifce himself in order to save the nation. Te Rashbam (32:32) explains that “erase me from Your book” refers to the book of life. Moshe was prepared to give up his role in this world and the next in order to save the nation. Tis is the ultimate in subjugation and humility. Moshe felt that he did not deserve any merit in his own right, but that his only value was as the leader of the people. Terefore if they were to be wiped out, he would forfeit his share of both worlds.
use their body, which is a gift from G-d, to fashion the materials which were created by G-d, according to a plan given by G-d – take any personal pride in their accomplishments?
Tis is similar to the statement in Pirkei Avot (2; 9), “If you have learnt much Torah, do not claim credit for yourself, since you were created for this very purpose”.
Te Hebrew word for command – Tsavot, is similar to the word Tsevet – connected, for through the commandments we connect to Hashem.
Te Torah repeats the phrase, “as G-d commanded Moshe” eighteen times, to show that the Mishkan was constructed with the same selfessness which Moshe embodied. Te only purpose was to fulfl the will of G-d.
Tat intention, together with the enthusiasm to fulfl Hashem’s Will, enabled the Shechina to dwell amongst our people.
Similarly, in prayer, we show our faith in Hashem (similar to Shema), our belief in His Might (similar to Mizmor Havu) and our commitment to serving Him, selfessly as Moshe did.
Te construction of the Mishkan involved months of skilled and difcult work. Tough everyone brought donations for the Mishkan, only a few people had the requisite skills to fashion the materials according to the Divine blueprints. Eventually, when Moshe assembled everything and the nation saw the beauty of the structure, with its gold silver and precious gems along with colourful woven tapestries, it would have been natural for those involved in the construction to take a certain satisfaction and pride in their work. However, this would have negated everything that the Mishkan represented. How can a human being
Today we might not have the Mishkan or Bet Hamikdash, but Hashem has promised us Bechol Makom – in any place that we mention His Name, He will come and bless us. When we pray with the right intention, in the right manner, the Shechina will dwell with us.
Shabbat Shalom!
Parshat Pekudei is the last of the fve Parshiot that discuss the Mishkan. The Parsha begins by giving us an accounting the gold, silver, and copper that were donated to the Mishkan. Then is described how Bezalel and Oholiab made the eight special garments that the Kohanim (priests) had to wear: The
shirt, pants, hat, sash, apron, breastplate, and crown.
Now that building of the Mishkan was complete, they set it up and put everything in its proper place. Then a cloud came down upon the Mishkan, and this showed everybody that G‑d’s presence had come to dwell within it.
This week’s Question:
Twin brothers are born from the same mother on the very same morning. Both are perfectly healthy. Yet, the proper day for one’s brit mila is 8 days later, while the proper day for the other one’s brit mila is not until the 9th day. Why?
The haftorah that would normally go with the Sedra, would it not be Parshat HaChodesh describes the dedication of Solomon’s Temple, following the theme of this week’s Torah reading: the dedication of the desert Tabernacle.
The construction of the Holy Temple was completed. King Solomon assembled
the leaders and elders of the tribes to Jerusalem, and amidst great fanfare the priests transported the Ark from its temporary location in the City of David and installed it in the Holy of Holies chamber in the Holy Temple. Immediately, G‑d’s presence appeared in the Temple, in the form of a smoky cloud.
Number of Lines 159
Number of Verses 92
Number of Words ‑ 1,182
Number of Letters ‑ 4,432
Last week’s Question:
During a certain period of the year, there is something we do three times a day, almost every day. We do it twice with one part of the body and once with another part of the body. What is it?
Last week’s Answer:
Neflat apaim (tachanun) during selichot. It is performed twice with the left arm and once with the right, as follows: Starting several days before Rosh Hashanah and continuing until Yom Kippur, we say penitential selichot prayers, part of which includes neflat apaim, the putting down of the head. Neflat apaim is performed by putting one’s head down upon one’s sleeve and saying a prayer. It is customarily performed by putting one’s head down upon one’s weaker arm (for most people, the left arm.)
Neflat apaim is repeated two more times as part of the normal daily prayers, once during the morning prayers (shacharit) and once during the afternoon prayers (mincha). During mincha, it is also performed as mentioned above, by putting the head on the left arm. During shacharit however, in deference to the tefllin which one wears on one’s left arm, one performs neflat apaim upon one’s right arm.
Well done Michael Bayer
Using all the shapes, can you make the shape on the right?
The goal of a word wheel puzzle is to create as many words possible with the letters in the word wheel. 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.
Here are some words you may have found from last week – you may have found more!
E A S Y N F R T I
Use the area below to write the words you have found.
Q: Why did the boy throw a bucket out the window? A: He wanted to see the waterfall.
Q: Why did the girl throw butter out the window? A: She wanted to see the butterfly.
Q: Why did the boy throw his watch out the window? A: He wanted to see time fly.
Q: What do you call a bee that can’t make up its mind? A: A Maybe
1. What does December have that other months don’t have?
2. If a red house is made of red bricks, has a red wood en door, and a red roof, and a yellow house is made of yellow bricks, has a yellow wooden door, and a yellow roof, then what is a green‑house made of?
3. What kind of coat is always wet when you put it on?
