SHABBAT: BEGINS ENDS
London 15:38 16:46
Manchester 15:36 16:49
Leeds 15:28 16:49
Liverpool 15:36 16:56
Birmingham 15:37 16:50
Antwerp 16:17 17:33
Bournemouth 15:45 17:00
Gateshead 15:22 16:45
Jerusalem 15:59 17:15
Justice Ministry evaluates Bibi’s pardon request
BY DAVID SAFFER
Israel’s Ministry of Justice is evaluating Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s request for a pardon.
Netanyahu’s legal team approached President Isaac Herzog to begin the process to quash three ongoing fraud and breach of trust cases.
The legal advisor in Herzog’s Office will offer an additional opinion to the Ministry.
The issue has divided Israeli society. Kan News reported 38 per cent support a pardon, 43 per cent oppose it.
Herzog issued a statement, noting he would consider the best interests of the State of Israel and Israeli society but the request carried “significant implications”. Herzog
acknowledged the matter had provoked debate and was unsettling for Israelis across the country.
Requesting a pardon before sentencing without admitting guilt is unprecedented in Israel.
Netanyahu’s lawyer, Amit Hadad submitted a 100-plus page document to Herzog’s Office noting the years since his case began.
“My trial has been ongoing for nearly six years and is expected to continue for many more years,” Netanyahu said in a video address to Israelis. “As more exonerating testimony and evidence which have completely refuted the false allegations against me have come to light in court, and as it has become clearer that the evidentiary foundation against me was built amid the commission of serious crimes, my personal interest was and has remained to continue with this process until its end, until my full acquittal on all counts. But the security and political reality, the national interest, demand otherwise. The State of Israel faces tremendous challenges alongside tremendous opportunities. To repel the threats (and) to seize the opportunities, national unity is essential.”
Continued on page 4
Protesters mock Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s request for a pardon from President Isaac Herzog PHOTO: EFRAT SAFRAN
Continued from page 1
He added: “The ongoing trial has torn us apart from within, has inspired fierce disagreements (and) has deepened divisions… the immediate end of the trial will greatly help lower the flames and promote the broad reconciliation that our country so badly needs. I deliberated extensively on this issue, but recent events have tipped the scales. Due to a decision made by the judicial panel that presides over the case, I am obliged to testify three times a week… That is an impossible demand that isn’t made of any other Israeli citizen. Furthermore, I also considered President Trump’s repeated requests to Israel’s president. President Trump called for an immediate end to the trial so that I might be able, alongside him, to advance with redoubled efforts the vital interests shared by Israel and the United States in a time window that is unlikely ever to reappear.”
Netanyahu concluded: “Time after time, I have been elected in democratic elections and have received your confidence to continue to serve as the prime minister of Israel, first and foremost so as to achieve these historic goals. For these reasons, my attorneys submitted a request for a pardon today to the president. I expect everyone who has the country’s best interests at heart to support this step.”
Netanyahu’s detractors, including opposition leader Yair Lapid and Democrats leader Yair Golan, called for an admission of guilt, remorse and a step down from
front-line politics.
“This is the only way for unity for the nation,” Golan noted.
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett commented: “To rescue Israel from the chaos, I will support a binding arrangement that includes a respectful retirement from political life alongside an end of the trial. That way, we can let it go, unite, and rebuild the country together.”
Yisrael Beiteinu leader Avigdor Lieberman added: “Five minutes ago there was a war here, the draft-dodging bill and two hostages who aren’t back and the economy is collapsing, food prices are sky-high. What about the whitewash commission of inquiry they’re setting up? Everything has fallen apart. We mustn’t allow him (Netanyahu) to control the public conversation. We have to keep our eye on the ball.”
Coalition Chairman MK Ofir Katz (Likud) backed Netanyahu’s request for a pardon as an act of “great magnanimity”.
“It’s clear to everyone that the most political trial is collapsing and the prime minister could easily have proven his innocence in this corrupt witch hunt,” he explained. “For the sake of healing the country and reconciliation, he is choosing this path. (He is) a true leader who always puts the good of the country before his personal interests.”
There was also support from coalition partners.
Bicom reported that Herzog could
present pardon conditions to Netanayhu including stepping down as prime minister with an option of being re-elected in new elections and a call to end legislation around judicial reform.
There have also been discussions of a plea bargain with bribery charges dropped, an
admission of guilt on lesser charges and retiring from politics.
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Herzog Park name change outrage
BY DAVID SAFFER
Dublin City Council have shelved changing the name of Herzog Park in Rathgar.
Reports surfaced that the small park named after Chaim Herzog, Israel’s sixth president, who was born in Belfast and raised in Dublin, in 1995, was set to become ‘Free Palestine’ Park.
Israeli and US politicians condemned the possibility. In the midst of global headlines, the Irish government called on the council to reconsider the contentious proposal.
Councillors passed the appeal 35-25 votes with one abstention. It is unclear however if the proposal will be discussed by the Commemorating and Naming Committee on December 15.
Herzog’s son, President Isaac Herzog, said the planned proposal was “shameful and disgraceful”.
The move, he noted, would harm the “historical connection between the Irish and Jewish peoples”.
Herzog said his father had helped liberate Europe from the Nazis and dedicated his life to establishing the values of freedom, tolerance, a pursuit of peace and fight against antisemitism.
Regarding his grandfather, Rabbi Isaac HaLevi Herzog, who served as Ireland’s first chief rabbi, Herzog said he had left a “significant mark” on the life of the Irish nation.
Ireland’s Chief Rabbi Yoni Weider said Herzog Park was more than a just a name.
“For the neighbouring Jewish families and schools, it is a place filled with memory, and a quiet reminder that our community has deep roots in Dublin,” he said.
“Chaim Herzog was shaped by this city and he loved it in return. Dubliners loved him too. When he returned here as President of Israel, he was welcomed with warmth. The country took great pride in the fact that he was the only visiting head of state who spoke fluent Irish.”
Martin, leader of Fianna Fáil, said the proposal was antisemitic and would erase decades of Jewish community life that included participation in the Irish War of Independence and Irish State.
“The proposal is a denial of our history and will without any doubt be seen as antisemitic,” he said.
“Our Irish Jewish community’s contribution to our country’s evolution in its many forms should always be cherished and generously acknowledged.”
Irish Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris called on party leaders to join him in opposition.
appalling actions of the current Israeli government.”
Reaction from Jewish bodies in the UK to the name change furore was swift.
Steve Winston, NJA, said: “Efforts to strip Herzog Park of its name and replace it with ‘Free Palestine Park’ were a blatant provocation, a political stunt dressed up as compassion, and a transparent attempt to erase Jewish history in Ireland. We all know what that slogan is routinely used to signal in this context, and it has nothing to do with coexistence or peace. Keeping the Herzog name is the only responsible decision, a reminder that Jewish heritage cannot be discarded to satisfy ideological grandstanding.”
The Jewish Representative Council of Ireland described the move as “deeply concerning”.
Dublin City CEO Richard Shakespeare apologised for an “administrative oversight”, noting the council had “failed miserably” on the issue.
Lord Mayor of Dublin Cllr Ray McAdam described the proposal as “not legally sound”.
Whilst a number of Irish politicians were in favour of a name change, Micheál
Foreign Affairs Minister, Helen McEntee, called on councillors to vote against the name change, but noted the government was “openly critical” of the Israeli government policies and actions in Gaza.
Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan said the park was named after Herzog to acknowledge the role played by Jewish people in Dublin’s history, adding: “Renaming the park because of the slaughter in Gaza is unfair to him and unfairly suggests Irish Jews are responsible for the
Jonathan Metliss Chairman, Action Against Discrimination, added: “This is an absolute disgrace. The contribution, both religious and civil, of the Jewish community and the Herzog family to Ireland, its history and culture has been immense.”
Last year, Israel closed its Dublin Embassy over extreme anti-Israel policies of the Irish government.
Harris said the decision was deeply regrettable and rejected that Ireland was anti-Israel.
In 2014, a blue plaque marking Herzog’s birthplace was taken down over concern for staff and residents. There has been attempts to remove the plaque, which had been vandalised.
FJL Students Share a Memorable Shabbat in Oxford
BY RABBI YAAKOV KLEIN
More than eighty students gathered in Oxford for a Friday night dinner sponsored by the Forum for Jewish Leadership (FJL) at the Oxford Jewish Community Centre. The atmosphere was warm and engaging, with many keen to hear how the programme blends professional development, leadership and Jewish connection. Students were given an overview of the summer programmes, including internships, immersive Shabbatons and leadership sessions with high
profile speakers from across the Jewish world. There was also an opportunity to hear from alumni from this past summer’s programme, who shared their experience and the impact it had on their lives. By the end of the night, a number of students expressed interest in finding out more and applying for the summer programmes in New York and Tel Aviv.
The next day, FJL alumni currently at Bristol, Durham, Imperial and UCL Universities, who had come to Oxford for the Shabbaton joined Oxford students for Shabbat lunch, enjoying delicious food
and meaningful conversation together. One discussion reflected on the irony of Black Friday’s consumerism coming immediately after Thanksgiving, leading to a wider conversation about gratitude as a core element of the Jewish outlook. Another topic during the meal was that of Jewish continuity throughout the ages, prompted by recent archaeological findings from Oxford’s medieval Jewish quarter that revealed most of the animal bones uncovered were from kosher species, while chemical testing of pottery showed vessels had been used exclusively
for either meat or milk. The discussion offered a powerful reminder of how Jews have held fast to their values and faith across time and geography.
Rabbi Jonny and Elisheva Newman, the FJL Educators and UK directors, were thrilled to be in Oxford with their family for this Shabbat and continue to develop alumni programming which transforms a summer experience into a lasting network of community, learning and Jewish responsibility.
Matthew Lachs matthew@theroundtree com
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ISRAEL LEGACY MISSION
9TH-16TH
Historic Budapest trip for Euro teens
BY DAVID SAFFER
Over 500 Jewish teenagers from 28 European countries attended a record breaking European Jewish Teen Congress in Budapest.
The world’s largest network of Jewish teens displayed pride and resilience at a rally at Madách Imre tér Square, the former site of Budapest’s Jewish ghetto. At a time of rising antisemitism, the event, organised by the Hungarian Jewish Association (EMIH) and CTeen International, was a boost for European Jewry and saw emotional scenes.
From Madách Imre tér Square to the banks of the Danube, teens remembered ancestors who were murdered. Sites of tragedy had become symbols of Jewish continuity.
“This gathering sends a powerful message of hope,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky of Chabad World Headquarters. “European Jewish teens are standing strong and growing stronger. We see how moments like this have a ripple effect. Every teen here will bring that strength home and uplift their friends and their communities.”
Chief Rabbi Shlomo Kovesh opened the program followed by Israel’s Ambassador Maya Kadosh. Teens led Torah passages, illustrating European Jewry’s next
generation.
IDF reservist Noam Buskilla inspired the group with a prayer for Jews globally.
For many teens, some of the only Jewish students in their school, the gathering was a connection to their Jewish identity.
Over the weekend, they participated in workshops addressing daily challenges, explored their heritage, shared stories and celebrated Shabbat as a united community.
The event concluded with a group photograph alongside a Torah flag, demonstrating an unbreakable Jewish future.
A Chabad spokesman noted: “Throughout the weekend, teen leaders ran workshops and shared their experiences with peers, preparing to return home as ambassadors for their communities. The goal is that these teens return home strengthened, proud and informed, ready to be ambassadors of the Jewish people in their schools and communities.”
On the choice of venue, Chabad said: “Hungary has become Europe’s most peaceful place for Jewish life, with a thriving community of 100,000 and remarkable growth.”
Chabad has opened 10 synagogues in Budapest in 20 years with 28 Shluchim, two schools, a yeshiva and university. They also host an annual international CTeen Camp with over 300 Jewish teens
joining from across the globe.
Last year, Chabad opened the world’s first standalone CTeen ClubHouse as a permanent home for the city’s Jewish youth.
Yad Vashem records that the Jewish community of Budapest was 200,000 strong when subjected to anti-Jewish legislation in 1938 and 1939, as was all Hungarian Jewry.
Despite this, from the outbreak of World War II to Nazi occupation of Hungary on March 19, 1944, the Jews of Budapest were shielded from Nazi atrocities.
Thousands of refugees from Austria, Poland, and Slovakia had arrived into Budapest for refuge.
After the Nazis took over Budapest, by October 1944, Horthy’s government had been overthrown and the Arrow Cross Party embarked on a reign of terror.
On November 8, deportations resumed
and within five days the notorious ghetto was established with 70,000 Jews. Foreign diplomats set up an ‘international ghetto’ as a safe haven for Jews who held protective documents.
From November 8 to December 24, 80,000 Jews were sent on a death march toward the Austrian border. During December 1944 and January 1945, Arrow Cross violence increased, 20,000 Jews were shot and thrown into the Danube river.
The Nazis planned to liquidate the ghetto, but the Soviets conquered Pest in mid-January then Buda a month later. Around 120,000 Budapest Jews survived the Nazi regime.
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Thank you for generously partnering with us, to exceed our campaign goal. Thank you for supporting Hatzola, and ensuring we can continue our life-saving work. Thank you for answering your call, so that we can continue answering ours.
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Building a better future begins today
BY DANIEL BURGER, CEO MDA UK
Everyone in the Jewish Community knows the brilliant work that MDA carries out, supporting and saving lives across Israel. Its staff and volunteers provide the emergency first response to anyone in Israel with an urgent medical need. Its stations and volunteers serve everyone in Israel all the time; not least over the past two years when every life in Israel has been touched by the tragic events of 7th October and the subsequent conflict.
But, as we enter a time of fragile peace, it is clear that the physical and mental scarring will not heal overnight. We all know that tomorrow will be extremely difficult with no immediate healing, calm or closure on what everyone has been through. Life in Israel remains unstable, uncertain and hard. But there must always be hope and healing for the future.
This week, I have had the privilege of launching MDA UK’s campaign for a better future. We’ve called it Machratayim – the Hebrew word for the day after tomorrow – signifying the need for time, energy and work to properly address the scale and impact of the situation and trauma felt across Israel.
For all of us who believe in hope, in healing, and in a future worth living for, Machratayim, must be our focus. MDA will celebrate its centenary in 2030 and we want that to be a time when we can
confidently look back and say we were able to heal, to give hope and help Israel thrive because we started working towards this in 2025.
There are several facets of Machratayim; not least continuing to support MDA’s brilliant volunteers through their day-to-day work. For generations, people have identified MDA as ‘the ambulance people’ and have generously donated towards their provision. It has become a badge of honour for many families across our community as a commemoration or celebration of life to have an ambulance named in the memory of a loved one.
But our work is about so much more in supporting MDA, and one of the greatest aspects of the UK Jewish Community’s giving has been the building and sustaining of links between communities here and MDA communities in Israel. So, at a time when many in Israel feel isolated we want to demonstrate our support and celebrate our links by twinning 30 MDA stations with 30 communities in the UK. This is an opportunity to demonstrate our love, support and belief in Israel in a non-contentious, humanitarian way through the life-giving services of MDA and by building and reestablishing links with communities across Israel to help them mend, recover and heal.
So we are looking for Shuls, JSocs, friendship groups, businesses and communities across the country to come forward and partner MDA stations in Israel. We are extremely pleased that already we have numerous communities very keen
to be twinned so please do come forward and get involved.
After several years of feeling helpless, here is something we can all do to help
build a better future.
Readers can get involved and donate at mdauk.org/
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Jewish Family Centre marks 25 years
The Jewish Family Centre celebrated its 25th anniversary with an evening of thanks and appreciation, marking a significant milestone for an organisation that began as a place for Jewish families to enjoy everyday activities in a Jewish environment and has since grown into one of the community’s most essential social support services.
The evening reflected on the Centre’s evolution and included powerful testimonies from service users who shared how the Centre became their lifeline in times of crisis. One described it as “a small speck of light” during a period of profound despair, adding that without its unwavering support, “I would not be here today.” Another spoke of seeking help from several charities before finding the Jewish Family Centre, saying “For the first time I felt seen, safe and held.”
Guests also heard from trainee counsellor Malky Cutler, who spoke about the significant changes she witnesses in clients who arrive overwhelmed and hopeless yet, through the Centre’s therapeutic services, begin to feel supported and able to move forward. She highlighted the growing rise in referrals each month, reflecting the growing need for accessible and culturally sensitive support.
A tribute was paid to founder Sandy Weinbaum, whose vision and dedication have guided the Centre from its early days of ballet and martial arts classes into a respected hub for Jewish social services. Under her leadership, and with the expertise of her team, the Centre now supports families facing abuse, marital breakdown, financial hardship, SEND needs and isolation. Sandy was also instrumental in establishing England’s only Jewish NACCC-accredited child contact centre, praised for its thoughtful design and strong child-centred focus. Special acknowledgement was given to her husband Bunim, whose unwavering support has been integral to the Centre’s journey.
Speaking at the event, Sandy said: “It has been my honour and privilege to watch the Jewish Family Centre grow and evolve into the incredible organisation it is today. When we first opened our doors 25 years ago, our vision was
simple: to create a space where Jewish families could enjoy activities in a Jewish environment. Over time our focus shifted to the issues too often brushed under the carpet, abuse, marital breakdown, financial hardship, unmet educational needs
and the isolation faced by new mothers. We have built a service that is recognised across the community and beyond, and tonight is a celebration of what we have achieved together and of the vital work still ahead.”
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Pinner Synagogue Welcomes New Rabbi and Rebbetzen at Induction Ceremony
Pinner Synagogue proudly celebrated the formal induction of Rabbi Jason and Rebbetzen Elise Kleiman at a packed ceremony attended by 320 members of the community, distinguished guests and local dignitaries. The event marked a significant milestone for the shul as it enters a new chapter of leadership and growth. The ceremony was honoured by the presence of the Chief Rabbi, who
delivered warm words of encouragement and blessing to the Kleimans and to the Pinner community. Also in attendance were Harrow East MP Bob Blackman, local councillors, and faith leaders from across the Pinner community, reflecting the strong interfaith relationships and communal spirit that define the area.
Musical participation was led by Chazan Jonny Turgel (accompanied by Josh Nesbitt), whose stirring renditions added depth and inspiration to the occasion. A particularly memorable contribution came from 14-year-old Sammy Bloom, who offered clear and engaging explanations of key parts of the service. His thoughtful presentation ensured that all attendees—regardless of background or familiarity—felt welcomed, included, and connected to the ceremony.
In his address, Rabbi Kleiman spoke about his vision for Pinner Synagogue as a centre of Torah, community warmth, and spiritual
growth. Following the ceremony Rabbi & Rebbetzen Kleiman said:
“We could not have wished for a more meaningful and uplifting occasion to formally celebrate our induction as Pinner Synagogue’s Rabbinic couple. Thank you to everyone who had a part to play in making the day so special. To all who attended or watched online, your support and good wishes are so appreciated. We
were provided with the most memorable and perfect celebration to launch a bright future for us and the Pinner community. May we grow together with blessing and success.”
The induction concluded with a communal tea, where members and guests joined together to celebrate and extend their personal brachot to the new rabbinic couple.
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JFC Founder Sandy Weinbaum and Dr Bunim Weinbaum, JFC Chair of Trustees PHOTO: DINA TANGI PHOTOGRAPHY
Chief Rabbi Mirvis, together with Rabbi Jason and Rebbetzen Elise Kleiman
Black Friday and Cyber Monday: Don’t Let the Deals Sweep You Away
BY BEN ROBINS
Each year, as November draws to an end, inboxes overflow with messages shouting about unmissable discounts and countdown clocks urging us to act fast. Black Friday, once linked to financial crisis, was rebranded into a day of panicked spending. Initially focused on electronics, it now spans every sectorincluding travel. Airlines, hotels, booking platforms and tour operators all join the frenzy, boasting unbelievable prices.
Behind the glossy banners lies a truth: not every promotion is as good as it looks. Many rush to book only to realise later they paid more, lost flexibility, or accepted terms that didn’t suit their holiday. Genuine value exists, but before clicking in a panic, it’s worth asking if a weekend built on urgency is the best way to plan something meant to be enjoyable.
A common misconception is that Black Friday and Cyber Monday offer the lowest travel prices. Suppliers often raise prices beforehand, then reduce them to create the illusion of savings. Others push packages with blackout dates, strict rules or rigid cancellation terms all of which are easy to miss when racing a
countdown clock.
Take EasyJet: this Black Friday they’ve advertised up to 20 percent off flights and holidays, but finding routes and dates that qualify is nearly impossible. And in travel, price is only one part of the equation. A £1,000 holiday with flexibility, quality accommodation and smooth transfers is far better value than a £799 deal riddled with delays, hidden charges and non-refundable problems.
The psychology of Black Friday encourages rushed decisions. Countdown clocks and loud banners trigger urgency and ‘FOMO’, yet travel involves complex factors; flights, room categories, transfers, insurance, family needs all of which that rarely benefit from haste. Prices fluctuate all year due to demand, events, currency shifts and occupancy. It’s very common to see better deals after the hype fades and Black Friday and Cyber Monday are
Chanukah
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Private partners often collaborate with trusted travel agents and tour operators year-round to unlock real value - think room upgrades, dining credits, flexible terms and tailored perks you’ll never see in public promotions. True smart travel planning isn’t about chasing marketing hype; it’s about building a holiday around your needs, your timing and the experiences that matter most to you.
This is where a bespoke tour operator makes all the difference. They understand pricing patterns, compare suppliers, and use relationships to secure genuine value. They know when a deal is strong and when it’s just dressed up, with access to trade-only promotions and private rates. Instead of panicking during a 48-hour sale, you benefit from long-view planning: clarity, not stress.
Booking cheap can mean paying twice if service fails. A bespoke tour operator
works only with trusted partners, ensuring reliability. Online platforms leave you with call centres and generic scripts, while a bespoke tour operator provides real support if plans change.
Black Friday promotions are one-sizefits-all; a bespoke tour operator builds holidays that fit you. Saving £200 in a rush may cost far more in stress later. If a deal is genuinely strong, your tour operator will secure it. But if waiting means a better hotel, safer supplier or smoother itinerary, don’t let a countdown dictate your choice.
Holidays aren’t impulse purchases. They involve many moving parts, and a rushed click may cost less today but much more later. A bespoke tour operator offers real value, helping you decide based on what matters, not pressure; and that reassurance is worth far more than a discount code.
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Eilecha: A Movement for the Soul of Judaism
BY RABBI YAAKOV KLEIN
When my wife and I received a message from Rabbi Naftali Schiff, CEO of Jewish Futures one sunny day in August of 2021, moving to the UK was the farthest thing from our minds. I am a New Yorker, my wife Shira is from Chicago, and we were living in Jerusalem, the global epicenter of spirituality, universes away from (what we then thought were certainly) the rainy, cold, and very foggy streets of London.
I had recently started an organisation focused on fanning the flames of an already existent and ever-growing global movement toward an old/new approach to Jewish living – an approach filled with soulfulness, depth, passion, and authenticity. This project was a response to a nagging sensation so many of us feel that while our communities may have all the outward trappings of institutional success, somehow, we have lost touch with the very essence of the religious experience – the development of faith-consciousness, the forging of a true relationship with our Creator. With this message as the foundation, the Lost Princess Initiative offered courses, publications, and virtual classes in the hope of helping Jews around the world
access a Torah approach centered around mindfulness, intention, and joy.
After getting to know Rabbi Schiff and his remarkable organisational platform, it became clear that this was an amazing opportunity to bring this perspective to a new audience in a country where this approach was not yet as accessible as in other parts of the international Jewish community. Here we had the chance to join a multi-faceted educational juggernaut, a unique constellation of organisations servicing the entire demographic spectrum of UK Jewry, staffed by the most amazing educators and led by a true visionary with a proven record of fostering success. It was an offer we couldn’t refuse. We soon decided on the name “Eilecha”, which literally means “toward you”, a reference to the way our relational approach to Jewish living enables a person to journey toward the Creator, toward other Jews, and to oneself – fostering a rich inner world of depth, faith, and equanimity.
We hit the ground running in September 2022, and immediately launched numerous classes, events, and programs. As the weeks turned to months, a rainy, cold, and foggy London (though far less so than us Americans had assumed!) began to thaw, to warm, to flicker with the flames of an impassioned Jewish
experience. For the many men, women, and teens whose souls had been thirsting for this approach to their Jewish identity and experience, exposure to these life-giving perspectives has been utterly life changing. Whether in London, Manchester, or Gateshead, the general sentiment people express to us is that this is everything they’ve been waiting for, a true “breath of fresh air.”
When I think back over the last 3 years, I feel incredibly grateful to have been able to help create shining moments of genuine growth, discovery, and connection. They rise gently in my mind’s eye, vibrant splashes of colour and emotion. I can see them now: the standing-room-only crowds at our innovative musical selichos experiences, our 5-day “Kavanah Tour”, our hundreds of classes in various shuls, homes, and schools attended by the widest and most diverse group of Jews imaginable, various events in partnership with over 45 local organisations, our musical hallels on Rosh Chodesh, Chanukah, and Chol HaMoed… the list goes on and on. 2025 has been particularly impactful, seeing the launch of Eilecha’s brand-new curriculum, “Judaism Rediscovered”, currently being piloted to great acclaim with over 100 students a week.
The feedback we receive keeps us going through thick and thin:
“Thank you for your amazing night of inspiration light night in Gateshead. I loved your Torah last night. The singing was amazing. Your openness and honesty to speak about things which are hardly spoken about and need to be spoken about was rare and really special. I want to connect more to Torah like this...”
“When it comes to Jewish studies, I usually forget the lesson the minute the bell rings. But I have not stopped thinking about your session on ‘Rediscovering Hashem’ all week long. It has genuinely changed my life.”
“What a mind-blowing event last night in Manchester! A feast for the heart, soul, mind and body. Every word, song was a game changer. This chag is the first one I will be going into with excitement, with connection, joy and also peace.”
This Sunday and Monday, we are holding a fundraiser to enable the work of Eilecha to continue in the coming year. Whether you have personally benefitted from Eilecha or whether you appreciate just how important this cause is, for our youth, for our adults, for the state of our nation as a whole, please consider partnering with us as we continue igniting the spark of Jewish connection.
Candle Lighting
BY ALIZA SINCLAIR
As the days grow shorter and the nights stretch on, many of us find ourselves craving a little more sunshine. With natural light in short supply, we turn instead to whatever brightness we can create - turning on streetlamps, garden lights, and perhaps even a few scented candles on our tables. The green and red glow of December already fills the streets of central London, but in just a short time we will gather around a very different kind of light: the modest yet powerful glow of the Menorah.
Still, there is another source of light that graces our homes - not once a year, but every single week. As we usher in Shabbat, we pause to kindle the Shabbat candles. Many of us have been lighting them for years, even decades, often without
taking a moment to reflect on what they represent and the atmosphere they bring into our homes week after week.
The mitzvah of lighting Shabbat candles was established by our Sages. But why candles? Why begin Shabbat specifically with light? One well-known explanation is shalom bayit - to cultivate peace in the home as we spend the next 25 hours together. On the simplest level, light keeps us from bumping into furniture or each other, preventing the kinds of small frustrations that can easily escalate from stepping on each other’s’ toes.
But South African Chief Rabbi Warren Goldstein offers a deeper reading. Light allows us to fully see one another. When our homes are illuminated, we see faces, expressions, and the subtle details that reveal what someone is carrying inside. Only when we truly see another person can we begin to understand them - and only with understanding can peace grow. If I see my spouse’s worry, my child’s
exhaustion, or even my own struggles reflected back at me, my heart softens. Suddenly, a sharp comment or an impatient gesture is easier to interpret compassionately. Light helps us see not just bodies in a room, but full human beings - people with a past they carry, a present they are navigating, and a future they hope for or worry about.
Hillel teaches in Pirkei Avot (2:4), “Do not judge another until you reach his place.” When we reflect on this, we realise that we can never fully “reach” another person’s place. Even those closest to us, those with whom we share a home, a life, or even a child - carry experiences, emotions, and inner worlds we cannot fully access. Hillel’s point is simple: because we can never truly stand in someone else’s place, we should avoid judging them altogether.
And this is where the light of Shabbat becomes so meaningful. Since full understanding is beyond our reach, our task
is not to judge, but to look at others with warmth, compassion, and an open heart. The glow of the candles helps us do exactly that. It allows us to notice more - subtle expressions, moods, and the unspoken hints of what someone might be carrying. The light bridges some of the natural gaps between us, gently reminding us to relate to one another generously and to let peace grow within our homes.
If we want our homes to be havens of shalom, we must fill them with lightlight that softens edges, reveals beauty, and helps us see one another as we truly are.
After spending some years in Israel, teaching in both high school and various seminaries, Aliza has recently relocated to London with her husband and joined Jewish Futures as an educator. She holds a B.Ed. in English and Tanach, as well as an M.A. in History.
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driven environment.
Understanding the Israeli Housing Market in 2025: A Clear Analysis for Overseas Buyers
BY DEBBIE GOLDFISCHER
The Israeli housing market is currently facing one of its most complex periods in history. A combination of geopolitical shocks, economic uncertainty, labor shortages, and rising financing costs has reshaped activity across the industry. While the recent 0.25% rate cut is widely viewed as an important signal, the immediate financial impact is expected to be limited. Yet, despite a slowdown in transactions, underlying demand remains structurally strong, and several trends emerging beneath the surface indicate that the market is entering a transitional phase rather than a long-term contraction. For international buyers considering a purchase, whether for a future home, a long-term investment, or diversification, understanding these dynamics is essential.
This article provides an overview of the current environment, explains the forces driving it, and outlines the factors likely to influence the market’s direction over the next two to three years.
slower progress across active sites. At the same time, the Gaza war, tensions in the north, and the political turbulence of 2023 weakened consumer confidence, prompting many families to postpone major financial commitments. In parallel, significant capital shifted out of the Israeli real estate sector as institutional and private investors increased allocations abroad—partly for diversification, partly due to uncertainty in the local macroeconomic environment. These combined forces reduced transaction volumes and strained developer liquidity, though they did not fundamentally alter the long-term drivers of housing demand in Israel, which remain strong.
2. UNDERNEATH THE SLOWDOWN: LONGTERM DEMAND IS INTACT
Despite the recent decline in transactions, the fundamental drivers of Israel’s housing demand remain unusually strong by international standards. Israel’s population continues to grow at one of the fastest rates in the OECD, and household formation consistently adds pressure to
3. SIGNS OF STABILIZATION AND REAWAKENING
While local demand has softened, international interest in Israeli real estate is stronger than ever. Both private buyers and global investors increasingly view property in Israel as a form of security, both financial and emotional. Even among those not planning Aliyah, there is a growing desire to hold a home in Israel, as a haven for capital and as an anchor of identity.
and targeted development incentives in the north and south have strengthened the economic foundations of areas once considered remote.
1. THE MULTI-YEAR SLOWDOWN: CAUSES AND CONTEXT
The slowdown that began in 2022 stemmed from several simultaneous shocks. Israel experienced one of its steepest interest-rate hikes in decades, sharply increasing mortgage and financing costs. For many households, higher repayments made homebuying unattainable, leading to fewer new-home sales, delayed project launches, and increased pressure on developers who depend on early sales to secure funding. While a recent 0.25% interest-rate cut, which goes into effect tomorrow (Thursday), signals the beginning of a potential shift in monetary policy and offers a psychological boost, the practical financial effect remains modest.
On October 7, the construction sector lost an estimated 100,000 workers due to security restrictions, particularly among Palestinian laborers. This caused widespread delays, higher building costs, and
the market, particularly in metropolitan areas where employment, universities, and infrastructure are concentrated. This demographic trajectory ensures a steady flow of demand independent of shortterm economic cycles.
Although a substantial volume of new construction, especially large multi-stage developments and urban renewal projects, has reached the market at a moment of weakened purchasing power, this surge reflects timing rather than structural oversupply. Put differently, while activity may fluctuate with economic conditions, the structural demand for housing in Israel remains firmly in place, and the current slowdown reflects a temporary reduction in purchasing capacity—not a reduction in need. Over the medium term, approvals and completions still lag the number of new households formed each year, maintaining long-term pressure on available inventory even if specific areas currently show a temporary surplus.
On the domestic front, several indicators point to early signs of stabilization. Developers report a rise in visits to sales offices and increased inquiries from prospective buyers. Although these engagements have not yet led to a broad increase in signed contracts, they generally mark the first stage of renewed market activity, as households often gather information well before committing to a purchase. While the single rate cut is not expected to fully release demand, households that hesitated during the rate-hike cycle are likely to reassess timing, and developers are preparing for the possibility of a gradual return of domestic buyers if further reductions materialize. In the areas where sales have slowed most significantly, developers have become more flexible. Many are now open to negotiated pricing, alternative payment structures, multi-unit purchases, and terms designed specifically for foreign buyers. While this flexibility varies by region, it reflects a wider shift toward more pragmatic, market-responsive commercial strategies.
Finally, Israel’s capital markets offer additional signs of confidence. Corporate bond issuance by real estate companies has risen since early 2025, indicating renewed institutional appetite and providing developers with liquidity that was less accessible in previous quarters. This increased financing capacity has supported ongoing construction and reduced the risk of project delays.
4. GEOGRAPHIC REBALANCING: THE PERIPHERY GAINS STRENGTH
A significant trend in recent years has been the rising appeal of Israel’s peripheral regions, driven largely by major government investment in infrastructure, transportation, employment zones, and public services. Upgrades to the national rail network, new highways and interchanges, and strategic initiatives such as the expansion of Intel in Kiryat Gat
Improved connectivity has made many peripheral cities far more accessible. Faster links to central employment hubs mean that locations such as Ashkelon, Kiryat Malachi, Be’er Sheva, Afula, and Karmiel are now practical options for working families seeking space and affordability. With housing prices in high-demand areas remaining well above national averages, these shifts are prompting a gradual rebalancing of demand. The periphery is becoming an increasingly viable alternative for residents and a meaningful focus for longterm investment. For international buyers evaluating fundamentals, this geographic diversification is an important trend to watch.
5. PRICE OUTLOOK: STABILITY, NOT A REVERSAL
Current data points to price stability through 2025. While transaction volumes have declined, prices in most regions have not fallen sharply. Construction costs remain elevated, land values have not decreased, and many developers prefer to slow their sales pace rather than offer distressed discounts. At the same time, the national inventory of new units, though higher than in previous years, is not large enough to trigger broad downward pressure across the market.
Upward movement is also limited. High interest rates continue to weigh on mortgage affordability, and although the recent rate cut is expected to improve sentiment among buyers, developers, and lenders, it will take time for this to translate into a meaningful shift in purchasing power. Buyer confidence, while gradually strengthening, remains cautious, and government policies continue to prioritize affordability over rapid price growth. Competition among developers in slower markets has also helped temper price increases, even as early signs of renewed demand begin to re-emerge.
The result is a landscape defined by regional dynamics rather than a uniform trend. Some peripheral areas, supported by infrastructure investment and improved connectivity, may see modest upward pressure. Conversely, segments of the market, particularly where large volumes of new construction are completing simultaneously, may continue to soften. Overall, the most likely scenario for 2025 is moderate stability rather than significant movement in either direction.
6. WHAT THIS MEANS FOR FOREIGN BUYERS
For international buyers, the current environment brings together several conditions that rarely coincide in the Israeli housing market. Domestic activity is subdued, developers are more open to negotiation, and a wide range of supply, including many early-stage
opportunities, is available. These features make the process more flexible and accessible than in more active periods, while the underlying long-term demand fundamentals remain stable.
A huge advantage for foreign buyers is the ability to enter projects at an early stage with gradual payment schedules. This allows purchasers to secure a home in Israel while spreading commitments over the construction period—giving time to sell a property abroad, arrange financing, or manage cross-border liquidity. These terms, combined with broader inventory and more measured market dynamics, create a window of opportunity that is not typical of Israel’s more competitive phases and unlikely to persist once domestic buyers re-enter the market in larger numbers.
Although every market carries risk, the combination of strong long-term fundamentals and temporary cyclical constraints in the Israeli market creates a window that merits careful attention. As conditions evolve, the dynamics shaping today’s environment may not remain in place for long, making this an important moment to evaluate opportunities with clarity and context.
Debbie Goldfischer is the founder and CEO of Buyitinisrael and host of the Israel
Real Estate Podcast: On The House. A prominent figure in Israeli real estate since 2004, Debbie has spent the past two decades helping foreign buyers successfully navigate the property market in Israel.
In 2020, recognizing the lack of reliable English-language resources, she launched Buyitinisrael.com, which has quickly become the leading platform for English speakers looking to buy property in Israel.
In addition to leading the platform, Debbie personally assists buyers in finding the right property, whether new or resale, anywhere in Israel.
To get in touch, please email debbie@ buyitinisrael.com.
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Beyond Destinations: The Meaningful Path of Am Yisrael
BY RABBI JONATHAN TAWIL
A man once came to see a psychiatrist. “Why are you here?” asked the doctor.
“I don’t really know,” replied the man. “My family insists that I have a problem.”
“So, what’s the problem?”
“I love pancakes,” explained the patient.
“But what’s wrong with that? I also like pancakes a great deal!”
“Really, doc? Then you must come to visit! I have 4,000 pancakes in my attic!” How badly do you love pancakes?
Sometimes, our priorities stray. We immerse ourselves in the pursuit of wealth, neglecting our connections and straying from serving G-d toward self-service. This distraction leads to fleeting gains instead of seeking lasting peace for the soul. We need to grasp our true values and follow our faith.
In our Parasha, Eisav and Yaakov finally meet up after many years of animosity; Eisav surprisingly hugs Yaakov and then there is an exchange of conversation. Eisav acknowledges all the gifts that Yaakov had sent him and says, “what is your relationship to this camp that I encountered?’ And [Yaakov] said, ‘[I sent it] in order to find favour in the eyes of my master.’ And Eisav said, ‘I have plenty, my brother; let what you have remain yours.’ … [but Yaakov replied] ‘G-d has been kind to me, and I have everything,’ and he persisted and [Eisav] took.” [33:8-9, 11]
Rashi explains that “I have everything” means that Yaakov claimed to have all that he needed. He was content. Eisav, on the other hand, said “I have plenty” – bragging that he had far more than his real needs.
The Chafetz Chaim, notes that we can also read in these expressions two entirely different outlooks on life and money. Eisav said “I have plenty,” but even a very rich person still desires more: “one who has 100, desires 200.” Yaakov, on the other hand, said “I have everything,” meaning that he did not feel any need to acquire more. Eisav wanted more and more money, while Yaakov was satisfied with what he had. His priority was ensuring that everything he possessed could be utilized in the service of G-d.
Those who set their sights on spiritual growth and accomplishment understand that, in terms of their materialistic standing, Hashem has sent them exactly what they need. Yesh li Kol! As we say in our daily morning blessings: “She’asah Lee Kol Tzarchee” – You have given me all of my needs. Happiness and satisfaction result not from what we have but rather, from how we deal with and view that which we have.
Looking back at all the Avot we can see how they approached life. Not only was their focus on serving G-d, but whenever they were faced with challenges, they understood that they had been equipped with all the necessary tools to deal with
the challenge – they had Kol – everything they needed. The only determining factor after acknowledging that they had everything was to put in the effort to succeed and rise above the challenge.
There were times when it seemed that despite their effort, they did not achieve what they wanted, but nevertheless the Torah commends them.
Our Avot understood, that G-d is interested in the effort; the result of the effort is in the hands of G-d not the person.
On the third day after Avraham had his Brit Milah, he lifted up his eyes and saw three men standing in the distance. These three men were actually angels. He ran to invite them in and went through so much effort to prepare them a lavish meal, but he was in fact serving angels. The mitsvah of Hachnasat Orchim – welcoming guests is performed by inviting humans not angels!
So all that effort could be considered to be in vain. Yet G-d nevertheless considers the effort, and the intention and Avraham was rewarded.
Similarly, at the Akeida, Avraham went through extraneous pain and effort to offer up his son Yitzchak, only to be told not to go ahead with it in the end. One might think that since he didn’t do it, there is no merit in his deeds, yet we mention the Zechut of the Akeida on Rosh Hashanah and in our daily prayers, as we are still enjoying the merit of his actions done thousands of years ago. It’s the effort that counts, the ability to try and go for it even against the odds.
This principle extends to Yitzchak’s servants battling for wells that they had dug. The local shepherds heard about this and claimed ownership over them (Bereishit 26:20-21). The quarrel was so big, they named one well קשע , and the other one ,הנטש representing the hardships and the fights that they had over the wells.
But the Torah doesn’t tell us who won the argument and ultimately received the wells.
This implies an ongoing battle against our innate desire for immediate worldly pleasure, redirecting our focus toward serving G-d and attaining truth and eternal rewards. When confronting the evil inclination (yetzer hara), the objective isn’t always outright victory; it’s about standing resolutely and making the effort.
We are known as Am Yisrael - the people of Israel. Our name Yisrael comes from our third forefather – Yaakov. After battling the angel of Eisav, he persisted and asked the angel for a blessing. The angel tried to get out, but Yaakov persisted, eventually the angel revealed to Yaakov that G-d would change his name to Yisrael - (32:29)
, “Because you have battled with an angel and with people and
you have prevailed.”
Our sages ask, if G-d is going to change his name to something that word should be Tuchal (לכות)–you prevailed and won the battle. Why was he named Yisrael?
The answer is that Yisrael represents the battle, and that is what counts in the eyes of G-d. The ability to choose good over evil, even when it’s easier to be evil, the ability to serve G-d in a mundane physical world even when it’s tough.
Yisrael imparts the importance of directing our attention properly. In fact, the word “Yisrael” can be rearranged to spell “Li Rosh” – “my head is mine.” It signifies that I have mastery over my mind, having confronted and triumphed over the Yetzer Hara. Yaakov and the Avot imparted a vital lesson: the pursuit of purpose and fulfilment hinges on three truths—to maintain focus, derive joy and content from our possessions along the journey, and recognize that genuine significance emerges from the effort invested, transcending the mere attainment of destinations, crafting the essence of a truly meaningful life.
Am Yisrael Chai!
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WHAT3WORDS/// GRACE THROUGH GRIT!
BY RABBI NAFTALI SCHIFF
I can still hear the voices of older reservists echoing through the dusty parade ground of my early days in basic training for IDF Givati Brigade. We were raw recruits, still blinking from the shock of being thrown into a world where nothing was gentle and no one pretended otherwise. As they strode past us, utterly unimpressed, they’d invariably call out lines that have stayed with me ever since:
“They didn’t tell you at the recruitment office- life isn’t a picnic?!”
Or the classic:
“!
“Don’t worry- this too will pass.”
At the time we laughed, half-cried, and kept marching. Only later did I appreciate just how profound those lines were. They carried a truth etched deep into the Jewish worldview, a truth captured in Pirkei Avot captured in another 3 wordsארגא
- according to the pain is the reward.
Rabbi Noach Weinberg, of blessed memory, used to challenge us with a mischievous gleam:
“What’s the opposite of pleasure?” We’d dutifully answer: “Pain.”
And he’d erupt “wrong! Tell me: what gives your parents their greatest pleasure? You! And what causes them their greatest pain? You! The opposite of pleasure isn’t pain. Pain and effort are the price we pay for pleasure. No pain, no gain.”
He lamented that some modern cool aid has convinced us that pain is an evil, an intrusion, a malfunction to be avoided at all costs. As a result, people dream of pleasure without effort, meaning without sacrifice, fulfilment without investment , and then often wonder why life feels void and flat.
The more meaningful the pleasure, he said, the more we should be willing to shoulder the effort and discomfort required to attain it. One does not achieve greatness from the velvet sofa.
This week I was speaking with a group of our Aish on Campus educators truly extraordinary young men and women who pour their hearts into building Jewish life across universities in the UK. Our conversation turned to the name Yisrael , the
eternal name of our people, bestowed on Yaakov as a seemingly macabre blessing after wrestling the angel of Eisav.
“Your name shall no longer be Yaakov,” the angel tells him, “but Yisrael, for you have struggled with G-d and with man and prevailed.”
(Bereshit 32:29)
What a strange “blessing.”
The reward for vanquishing the evil Eisav is… being renamed Mr. Struggle? Why is this our crowning identity, the word we carry through exile and homecoming, through prayer and history, through the most searing and most soaring chapters of our story?
Because struggle is not a curse. Struggle is dignity. Struggle is noble. Struggle is regal. Struggle is purpose. Struggle is indeed - blessing.
Yaakov becomes Yisrael not because he avoided conflict, but because he confronted it, head-on, with courage, endurance, and refusal to surrender. And the angel, in effect, tells him: This is who you are. This is who your children will be. A nation that rises through struggle and turns challenge into triumph.
Decadence, comfort-worship, escape and disengagement are not blessings.
They are the kiss of death, spiritually, morally, and generationally. A life insulated from challenge is a life divorced from purpose.
The greatness of Yisrael is the nobility of the struggle, the willingness to engage with the hard questions, the difficult responsibilities, the moral demands, the calling to bring light into a confused world. To wrestle for meaning. To strive for justice. To fight for goodness. To bring sanctity to the mundane. To rise above laziness, selfishness, apathy, distraction.
This is the regal spirit of Yisrael- the noble struggle.
One of our Aish campus directors approached me after the conversation, a young leader far from home, far from the
easy comforts of familiar community, yet radiating purpose.
“Naftali,” he said, “it’s no struggle. I may be hundreds of miles from family and from the Jewish infrastructure I grew up with, but figuring out how to attract, to educate and to empower hundreds of Jewish students each week , giving them warmth, connection, meaning, purposethis has become a deeper pleasure than we could ever have imagined…
That sentiment really hit me.
It captured the entire blessing of Yisrael in a few simple words.
When one knows why they are struggling, the burdens and the challenges become a lot lighter.
They becomes a source of joy.
They become fuel on life’s journey.
They become the essence of our Jewish identity.
The embrace of struggle itself becomes a source of sublime pleasure, the quality of which the velvet sofa cannot imagine.
Our world conditions us to crave ease of the comfort zone- faster, simpler, softer, more convenient. But a life emptied of struggle is a life emptied of soul. Judaism insists on a different equation: invest deeply, fight nobly, strive relentlessly, and you will discover pleasures that comfort alone can never deliver.
There is a reason our sages say, “םופל
Reward is not compensation for pain; reward flows from embracing the difficult, from choosing mission over comfort, from living as Yisrael.
We live in times when the Jewish people
are once again tested, in the arenas of identity, security, education, and moral clarity. It is tempting to withdraw, to hope someone else will carry the burden. But the Torah reminds us: our very name calls us to lean in, to step forward, to wrestle for true blessing.
To be Yisrael is to live nobly- to shoulder responsibility, to build, to teach, to contribute, to defend, to share light, to care.
And perhaps those gruff reservists on the Givati training field were giving us a deeper teaching than they realised. Life is not a picnic.
A life of challenge can be magnificent, If, we choose to wrestle for it.
Because we are Yisrael, the people who struggle, and prevail.
Shabbat Shalom
///What3Words is a geocoding system.
In this column, Rabbi Schiff reflects upon 3 key words each week, relating to issues of the day.
All feedback is welcome. Nschiff@ jfutures.org
Rabbi Schiff is the Founder and CEO of the Family of Jewish Futures educational organisations
ASK THE RABBI
Looking for answers? Send your question to Rabbi@RabbiSchochet.com
Dear Rabbi
I’m writing this with trepidation. I know it probably sounds silly, but I’m genuinely scared. For months now I’ve felt like I’ve had nothing but bad luck. My car broke down twice, my job is unstable, and I’ve had a series of strange arguments with people I normally get along with. Friends keep telling me it’s the “evil eye.” One person even said someone must have “put something on me.” I’m losing sleep over this. I keep checking my wrist to make sure my red string hasn’t fallen off. I don’t know what to believe anymore, but I’m concerned, and I need a straight answer. Is the evil eye real? And if so, how do I protect myself? Is the red string enough?
Winston
Dear Winston
First, let me say this plainly: your fear is real, your experiences are real, and you are not “silly” for asking. When life piles on challenge after challenge, it’s human to look for causes or culprits. Judaism acknowledges the concept of ayin hara, the “evil eye.” But the Jewish understanding of it is quite different from the
trevor.gee@patienthealth.co.uk THE EVIL EYE – HOW WORRIED SHOULD I BE?
folklore swirling around social media and street-corner superstition.
Let’s start with what the evil eye is not. It is not a random curse floating in the air waiting to strike the unlucky. It is not someone “putting something on you.” And it certainly isn’t dependent on whether a red string stays on your wrist or falls off on the Northern Line.
In Jewish thought, the evil eye is connected to exposure, comparison, and vulnerability. It thrives when a person lives in a state of being overly visible, overly anxious, or overly convinced that they are unprotected. Our sages said, “Blessing only rests on what is hidden from the eye.” That means that privacy, modesty, and boundaries create spiritual protection. Flaunting one’s life, or constantly comparing it to others, does the opposite.
But there’s a deeper layer - and this is the part people rarely talk about. The evil eye feeds on fear. The Baal Shem Tov taught, “A person is where their thoughts
are.” If your thoughts dwell in fear, the fear itself becomes the crack in the armour. But if your thoughts are grounded and trusting, you are properly shielded.
This is why the Lubavitcher Rebbe famously said, “If you don’t believe in ayin hara, it will not affect you.” Not because it doesn’t exist, but because your belief shapes the degree of vulnerability. When you feel spiritually vulnerable, you are. When you feel spiritually safe, you are.
And what about the red string? There is no classical Jewish source giving it mystical protective powers. But if wearing it helps you feel calmer, that sense of calm becomes the real protection. It’s not really the string, rather your mindset.
So, stop telling yourself you’re cursed. Our sages taught, “There is no vessel that secures blessing other than peace.” Cultivate your peace of mind.
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FamilyVayishlachFun -
The Parshah is called Vayishlach, which means “And he sent” (Genesis 32:4).
After living in Charan for 20 years, Jacob is finally returning to the Land of Israel. He’s worried about meeting his brother Esau, so he sends messengers ahead, hoping Esau will be friendly. But the messengers return with bad news—Esau is coming toward him with 400 armed men!
Jacob gets ready for the worst. He prays to G-d for protection and sends Esau a huge gift of hundreds
of animals, hoping to calm him down.
That night, Jacob crosses the Jabbok River with his family and possessions. But Jacob stays behind alone, and something incredible happens—he wrestles with an angel all night! The angel is very strong, and Jacob even gets hurt, but he refuses to give up. At sunrise, the angel blesses Jacob and gives him a new name: Israel, which means “he who prevails with G-d.”
The next day, Jacob meets Esau. To Jacob’s relief, Esau hugs him and forgives him, and they go their
separate ways peacefully.
Jacob buys some land near a town called Shechem, but trouble follows. The prince of Shechem, also named Shechem, hurts Jacob’s daughter Dinah. Dinah’s brothers, Simeon and Levi, are very angry and take revenge by defeating the men of the city after tricking them into being circumcised.
As Jacob travels on, sad news strikes—Rachel dies while giving birth to her second son, Benjamin, and she is buried near Bethlehem. Back at home, Reuben, Jacob’s
oldest son, does something wrong with one of Jacob’s wives.
Eventually, Jacob returns to Hebron, where his father Isaac lives. Isaac dies at the age of 180, and Jacob now leads the family. Rebecca, his mother, had already passed away before he returned.
The Parshah ends with lists: Esau’s wives, children, and grandchildren, the people of Seir where Esau settled, and the eight kings who ruled Edom, the land of Esau’s descendants.
ParashaStats Jewish Riddle
Number of Verses - 153
Number of Lines - 237
Number of Words - 1,976
Number of Letters - 7,458
Last week’s question: What is the longest Birkat HaMazon? What can make it even longer?
Q: Why did the menorah go to school?
A: It wanted to be a little brighter!
Q: How do you know a candle is a good friend?
A: It always sticks with you and melts your heart!
Q: Why was the menorah so good at maths? A: It knew how to light up the numbers!
The answer is:
When Rosh Chodesh Tevet falls on Shabbat, the Birkat HaMazon contains additions for Rosh Chodesh, Shabbat and Chanukah. It is even longer after a meal celebrating a Brit Milah, in which case there is an addition to the Zimun (introduction) and extra ‘Harachamans’ (special supplications).
Well done Jake Lewis!
If you know this weeks answer, email design@thejewishweekly to get a shout out next week!
This week’s Question:
If a tree falls in a forest and there’s nobody around to hear it, does it make a noise?
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N E T A N Y A
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N E T A N Y A
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4 b e d r o o m s P r i v a t e p o o l T u r n K e y
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,
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