The Jewish Weekly Issue 323 - 9th May

IDF targets Hamas battalions in Rafah

BY DAVID SAFFER

Israel Defence Forces is continuing a counterterrorism operation against Hamas battalions in Rafah whilst an Israeli delegation is evaluating Hamas’ hostage deal in Cairo.

Negotiators from the United States, Qatar and Hamas are also in Egypt.

The IDF began its operation on Monday despite domestic and international pressures from world leaders. The war cabinet approved the action three days after

Thank you Chai. Ari, 13 “ ”

The IDF controls all crossings into Gaza. Humanitarian aid is taking place.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Hamas of attempting to “torpedo” the entry of forces into Rafah with a last-ditch ceasefire proposal.

Confirming the counterterrorism operation, he issued a statement. He said: “The entry into Rafah serves two of the main objectives of the war, returning our hostages and eliminating Hamas.

Continued on page 2

It was last February that I was diagnosed with high risk Neuroblastoma. The diagnosis was a real shock as I had no symptoms apart from a tummy ache. I knew about Chai because they’d helped us when my grandpa was unwell, so it felt really good to know that they would be able to help us all again. For Dad it was counselling, for Mum it was therapeutic massage and for me and my siblings, a combination of talking, music, art and play therapy.

Defence Minister Gallant at the northern border

PHOTO: IMOD

Continued from page 1

“We have already proven, in the previous release of hostages, that military pressure on Hamas is an essential condition for the return of our hostages. The Hamas proposal yesterday was designed to torpedo the entry of our forces into Rafah. That did not happen.”

Defence Minister Yoav Gallant noted: “The operation in Rafah will not stop until Hamas is eliminated, or until the first hostage returns to Israel.” War Minister Benny Gantz added: “At any stage where we can reach a plan for the return of our hostages, we will do so.”

The operation followed the US delaying a shipment of bombs to Israel because of its opposition to a ground operation in Rafah. Hamas, according to reports, will only guarantee 20 living hostages among the first 33 in a three-phase proposal. There are

issues over security prisoners to be freed by Israel, Gazans returning north without security checks and withdrawal specifics of Israeli troops. Regarding Hamas’ ceasefire details, Netanyahu said: “The Hamas proposal was very far from Israel’s core demands. Israel will not allow Hamas to restore its regime of evil in the Strip. Israel will not allow it to rebuild its military capabilities in order to continue striving for our destruction. Israel cannot accept a proposal that endangers the security of our citizens and the future of our state.”

Netanyahu said Israeli negotiators would insist on conditions for the release of hostages and demands essential for the security of Israel.

He added: “We are continuing the war on Hamas. The taking of the Rafah Crossing is a very important step, an important step on the way to destroying Hamas’s remaining

military capabilities, including the elimination of the four terrorist battalions in Rafah, and an important step to damaging Hamas’s governing capabilities, because as of this morning, we have denied Hamas the crossing that was vital to establishing its terrorist regime in the Strip.”

Gallant visited IDF troops operating in the Rafah area on Tuesday.

He said. “We are willing to make compromises in order to bring back hostages, but if that option is removed, we will go on and ‘deepen’ the operation. This will happen all over the Strip. Hamas only responds to force, so we will intensify our actions, and the military pressure will result in us crushing the Hamas organisation.”

A joint statement from the IDF and Shin Bet yesterday confirmed that Ahmed Ali, commander of Hamas’ naval unit in Gaza City, had been eliminated in an Israeli airstrike.

Ali was responsible for attacks on Israeli territory and had led terrorist activities against IDF troops in central Gaza in the past week.

The IDF also confirmed it had eliminated 30 terrorists and struck 100 terror targets on the Gazan side of the Rafah border since the ground offensive.

IDF fighter jets, meantime, carried out airstrikes on Hezbollah terror targets in southern Lebanon yesterday.

Around 20 military bases and terror infrastructures in the Ramiyah area were struck.

Gallant visited the IDF’s Division 91 on the northern border with the Division’s commander Lt.-Col. Shay Klaper and senior IDF officers.

Gallant discussed IDF activities to halt Hezbollah terrorists and terror infrastructure on Lebanese territory.

Gallant spoke with troops serving in reserve duty in the IDF’s artillery corps. He said: “The defensive battle is a complex one, it is a battle in which you are constantly anticipating the enemy’s actions, while remaining alert and active. The Division is carrying out its missions in an excellent fashion we have pushed Hezbollah to significant distances.

“In order to safely return the residents of Israel’s northern communities, we require either a process that will lead to an agreement or an operational process. It is the military’s duty to prepare the operational process, which also serves as an anchor for additional processes. I am determined to return these communities to their homes and to rebuild that which was destroyed.”

Gallant added: “We strive to make achievements without war yet we have an obligation to our citizens. We have very heavy fire mechanisms and will activate these should there be a need.”

The IDF announced that two reserve soldiers were killed in a Hezbollah-drone attack in northern Israel on Monday afternoon.

Master Sgt. (res.) Dan Kamkagi HY’D, 31, from Kfar Oranim, and Master Sgt. (res) Nahman Natan Hertz HY’D, 31, from Elazar, both served in the 551st Brigade’s 6551st Battalion.

Their deaths took the number of IDF soldiers killed since October 7 to 614.

Israel “will not rest” until hostages home vows Herzog

BY DAVID SAFFER

President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the Yom Hashoah opening ceremony at Yad Vashem, Jerusalem on Sunday night.

Both spoke of the 133 hostages held by Hamas since the October 7 terror attack that has rocked the nation.

“This is not a regular Memorial Day,” said Herzog. “This year, the State of Israel is at war. We will not rest and we will not be silent until our sons and daughters are returned home.”

He added: “Since the Holocaust, we assured time after time ‘Never Again’, we swore the Jewish people would never again stand defenceless and unprotected and yet, despite all that, the horrors of the Holocaust shook us all during the October massacres.

“October 7 was not a Holocaust because today we have the State of Israel and the Israel Defence Forces. Although the results of the tragedy and the shock still haunt us, we don’t forget what our brothers and sisters who perished in the Holocaust could only dream of, only imagine, a country and an army of our own. An army that even now fights in a battle that has not yet ended for our national home. The home of national independence. Despite the disaster and mourning that still afflicts us nothing can destroy this home. This people, our people, who endured the most terrible Holocaust of all, and built for themselves sovereignty in their homeland two millennia after being exiled from it by force, nothing can erase them.

“People ask me with deep concern, what will happen? I believe in the people of Israel, in the State of Israel, and in our duty to protect them at all costs. For this reason, on this holy day, we must commit together to return and rebuild ourselves, relying on three foundations, weakened before the October massacre.”

Regarding ‘self defence,’ he noted: “As

Iran and its terrorist proxies attack us, the State of Israel must continue to develop the capabilities to defend itself against any threat and attack with a strong and advanced defence force, and diplomatic alliances global and regional. Integration will ensure us a proven qualitative advantage and fortify our existence as a Jewish and democratic state.”

Noting global Jewish communities, Herzog said: “We stand with you shoulder to shoulder against the onslaught of antisemitism, terrorism and hatred directed at you. The State of Israel is with you.”

Speaking about ‘partnership and unity’, Herzog observed: “Our historical claim to statehood is a claim fully backed and endorsed by the family of nations and its institutions.”

Herzog said Israel’s enemies would not hesitate if there was “divisiveness and factionalism”.

Addressing Holocaust survivors, Herzog added: “You are our eternal heroes. Your legacy is a legacy of resilience, of pride, of hope. You are the source of my unwavering belief that our people can overcome anything. We will continue to plant, to build and to rebuild, we will keep the eternal flame, we will continue to produce new generations in the name of the past and for the sake of the future.”

Netahyahu told Holocaust survivors: “You are living proof of the resurrection of the Jewish people after the destruction of our communities. You are true heroes.”

Addressing the war against Hamas, he said: “The horrific terrorist attack of October 7 was not a Holocaust. Not because they lacked the intent of genocide, but because they lack the ability to carry it out… The intention is the same, the Nazis acted in order to completely destroy the Jewish people.

The Hamas murderers are instructed to do the exact same thing. They do so without batting an eye. They kidnapped our brothers and sisters, and half of them are still held hostage, underground, in the dark. We are determined to release them all from this dark inferno, those who are still alive and the dead. We are obligated to bring them home, to their families, and end this ongoing nightmare.”

Netanyahu added: “We will fight the monsters of Hamas

and destroy them for good. I say ‘monsters’ not only because of the horrors they committed, but because of the fact that they take pride in them.”

IDF soldiers, Netanyahu said, had found Hitler’s book, Mein Kampf, translated into Arabic, at a nursery in Gaza, which was used as a terror base by Hamas.

In another house, a girl’s tablet had a picture of Adolf Hitler as wallpaper.

“A straight line, as sinister as can be, connects the murderers of old to the murderers of today,” Netanyahu said: “Unlike the Holocaust, when we were helpless against our enemies, today we have our own defensive might. After the October 7 massacre, we initiated a war against our assailants. A war that will end in our absolute victory. Our enemies made a big mistake. They thought we were weak, divided, devoid of roots and perseverance. They were wrong. In the moment of truth, we stood together, shoulder to shoulder, full of resilience, determination and strength.”

He added: “Our test is to continue to stand together, all the way to victory in the crucial days ahead of us. This is the only way to ensure our existence and our future.”

Netanyahu addressed Iran and its terror proxies, intent on destroying Israel, and an “antisemitic volcano” that had erupted around the world accusing Israel of committing genocide and causing famine in Gaza.

“This could not be further from the truth,” fumed Netanyahu. “What genocide are they talking about? We do everything we can to avoid harming citizens. We take precautions that no army in history ever took. What starvation? From the beginning of this war, we let into the Gaza Strip countless trucks filled with food and medicine, to prevent exactly

that. To prevent a humanitarian crisis.

“Just as they were in the past, these false accusations are not levelled against us because of the things we do, but because we exist. Sadly, many people believe these blatant lies, they believe them for one reason, because we are Jews.”

Noting how antisemitism had reached the prestigious campuses in the West, Netanyahu observed: “Jewish students, supporters of Israel, are facing threats, slander and harassment. They are scared to be seen with any Jewish symbols. Jewish professors and academics are beaten up and humiliated. Brainwashed bullies break into classrooms and break the windows. This is reminiscent of things that happened in German universities in the 1930s. Only this time, it is happening in America in 2024.

“Our brothers and sisters in the Diaspora, we stand with you against the hatred.”

Netanyahu concluded: “If Israel is forced to stand alone, we will stand alone, and will continue to smite our enemies until we achieve victory. No resolutions from any international forum will prevent us from defending ourselves from those who want to destroy us... During the Holocaust, we had no voice, we had no protection. Our cries were not heard, our torment ignored. We will not return to those dark days. The State of Israel will not kowtow to the murderers and instigators of antisemitism. Our voice will be heard. We will protect our country.”

The live broadcast was translated into numerous languages. Holocaust survivors Pnina Hefer, Allegra Gutta, Arie Eitani, Raisa Brodsky, Michael Bar-On and Izi Kabilio lit torches.

The ceremony featured Chief Rabbi of Israel Rabbi David Lau, Chief Rabbi of Israel Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef, Yad Vashem chairman Dani Dayan, singers Nofia Yedidya and Raviv Kaner.

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Borehamwood Finchley South Hampstead

Hamas’ atrocities awaken past traumas

BY DAVID SAFFER

Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely told 2,000 people commemorating Yom Hashoah UK at Victoria Tower Gardens by the Houses of Parliament in Westminster that Hamas’ atrocities awaken past traumas.

The event last Sunday, ‘Remember Together: We Are One’, watched by 20,000 online, remembered the six million Jews murdered during the Holocaust and offered tributes to survivors and refugees for contributing to the Jewish community and wider society.

Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely, Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis, Lord Eric Pickles and Board of Deputies President Marie van der Zyl gave addresses during a moving ceremony on the 85th anniversary of the Kindertransport and Kitchener Camp.

Kindertransportee Bronia Snow, 95, told her life story, Maurice Helfgott, World Jewish Relief chair, paid tribute to his father, Holocaust survivor Sir Ben

“Throughout the years, the Jewish people have continued to resist those who have resolved to destroy us. The Jewish people endured the darkest hours, we find ourselves again in dark times as 133 of our hostages continue to suffer in Gaza. Today we stand together to recommit ourselves to the promise of ‘Never Again’.”

Outgoing Board of Deputies President Marie van de Zyl, told attendees: “Our resolve has truly been tested in ways not experienced in our community in generations. We stand united, proud, resilient, defiant and unshakeable as British Jews.”

Lord Pickles, UK Special Envoy for Post Holocaust Issues, added: “We are here to remember the murdered, the survivors and what happens when governments go bad, what happens when society goes bad. Since October 7, we have had to listen to many people in authority, on the media, various excuses to avoid confronting antisemitism and Holocaust denial. History tells us that you cannot sidestep antisemitism.”

Helfgott who passed away last year.

Ruby Frankel, 18, from JLGB, shared the Kitchener Camp rescue.

Holocaust survivors lit candles as part of the Yellow Candle project.

The commemoration came as Jewish communities around the world face unprecedented antisemitism.

Each speaker noted a rising tide of anti-Jewish hate since the October 7 terror attack by Hamas in Israel.

Hotovely said: “After the Holocaust the world made a promise to the Jewish people… ‘Never Again’. ‘Never Again’ would anti-Jewish hatred be tolerated. ‘Never Again’ would we face persecution just for being Jewish but this promise feels hollow after October 7.

“Hamas’ atrocities have awakened traumas of the past but they also remind us that Jewish bravery and spirit of self-defence is a long and proud tradition of our people.”

Recalling Holocaust and October 7 heroes, she added:

He added: “In these uncertain times it is wonderful that the government and opposition are united to ensure there will be a fitting memorial to the Holocaust in this park… The Jewish community will be able to commemorate Yom Hashoah as a right.”

Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis concluded proceedings, stating: “Hateful sentiments led to hate speech which in turn inspired hate crime. Hate crimes of the Holocaust brought all of humankind to new lows.

“Before October 7, we blissfully could have imagined that horrific Jewish suffering is something that belonged to other people in other places and times. But since then we know it is possible here. In the UK and so many other countries in the world we are witnessing a worrying rise in antisemitism. It is here week after week on the streets of London. We are witnessing unacceptable levels of outpourings of Jew hatred. But we know that we are

not alone. The vast majority of citizens recognise a threat to the Jews is a threat to all of society.”

The Chief Rabbi welcomed a Holocaust Centre that would be a world class learning centre and sign that Parliament cares about Jew suffering.

“We will learn the lessons of the Holocaust to shape our present, inform and inspire a better, healthier, more secure Britain for all,” he said. “We will never be silent. We guarantee that the memories of the past will remain present in our minds forever. We will ensure that the horrors of the past will continue to be known, discussed and internalised for a better future.”

Neil Martin, Yom HaShoah UK chair, said: “Our message of hope, defiance and community spirit aims to resonate not just across the UK but worldwide. We reaffirm our commitment to standing together against all forms of hatred and our strong desire for peace throughout the world.”

Faith and political leaders attended.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan was unexpectedly unable to attend the event. Speakers committed to combat antisemitism and promote peace.

Jewish communities across the UK held events.

In Manchester, over 1200 people including local dignitaries and a broad cross-section of the Jewish community packed into the Bridgewater Hall last night to honour our few remaining survivors on what was an extremely emotional and informative evening.

After a welcome from Mark Adlestone OBE and an introduction by Jackie Field (founder member of Yom Hashoah committee Manchester), six candles were lit by six survivors whilst the soulful melody of Schindler’s list was beautifully performed by accomplished pianist and violinist Elena Samuel and Elizabet McConnell respectively.

Rob Kanter introduced the theme of Escape for the evening and child survivor Anne Super read a powerful extract from her My Voice book describing how she was pushed a-way and told to run for her life by her mother at the tender age of 3. Her testimony and clear example of a life well-lived is a tribute to her survival.

This was followed by the remarkable story of how Janusz Korczak turned down numerous offers of escape in order to stay with the orphans in his charge, and a musical interlude of Vehisheamda by the talented Serge Fagelman and pianist Josh Nesbitt.

Arron Ferster then introduced a pre-recorded interview with journalist and

author Jonathan Freedland, discussing the subject of his excellent book, The Escape Artist: The Man who broke out from Auschwitz to Warn the World. The book tells the true story of two young Slovakian Jews Rudolf Vrba and Alfred Wexler, who risked their lives in an ingenious escape which ultimately informed the Allied powers of exactly what was going on at the infamous camp.

A memorial candle was lit by Robbie Gontarz, son of the late Sam Gontarz, along with his own children. Arek Hersh recited The Survivor’s Legacy with the responsive Pledge to Remember given by his daughter Michelle Tamam. Trevor Avery, director of the Lake District Holocaust Project gave the Community Pledge. This was followed by Kaddish, movingly recited by Ike Alterman BEM, and a powerful rendition of Kel Male Rachamim by Charlie Chait accompanied by the Ruach Choir.

Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden OBE gave an inspiring speech honouring the survivors, showing respect for the unique nature of the Shoah and confirming the government’s support for the Jewish community and its fight against anti-Semitism.

In conclusion Arron Ferster summed up the evening and spoke on why the Holocaust didn’t prove to be the final act of anti-semitism. Sadly we cannot be complacent during these troubling times and have to stand up for our religion in a manner befitting our Jewish heritage.

A beautiful rendition of Adon Olam was performed by Charlie Chait and the Ruach choir leading onto The National Anthem and Hatikvah.

Before leaving, the audience was encouraged to attend this Sunday’s Yom Hazikaron ceremony to honour our fallen soldiers and those who continue to risk their lives in service to our beloved State of Israel.

The evening was put together by the Yom Hashoah Manchester committee, chaired by Hannah Goldstone.

Kindertransportee Bronia Snow PHOTO: MERON PERSEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely PHOTO: MERON PERSEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Lord Pickles

PHOTO: MERON PERSEY PHOTOGRAPHY

THE COURAGE TO TALK SAVE THE DATE

Now, more than ever

In conjunction with the launching of Mayanei Hayeshua's new English Speaking Mental Wellness Clinic for students in Gap Year Programs British Friends of Mayanei Hayeshua and Noa Girls

Present:

an evening of lectures focusing on depression, eating disorders and other mental health issues affecting our children.

Wednesday 22nd May, 2024, 8:00pm prompt Venue: NW London

registration compulsory

The courage to talk with parents

The courage to talk with a therapist

The courage to talk whilst away from home

To register and submit your questions in advance, email: info@mayaneihayeshua.org

Featured Speakers

Dr Bella Schanzer

Director of Mayanei Hayeshua’s English speaking Gap Year Clinic

Rabbi Dr Samuel Landau Clinical Psychologist

Mrs Naomi Lerer

Child and Family Psychotherapist and Director and Founder of Noa

Rebbetzen Esther Pearlman

Head of Menorah High School for Girls

Panel Q&A session

Moderator

Prof Rael Strous

Medical Director, Mayanei Hayeshua’s Mental Health Centre

CAA & BoD blast Green Party councillor

BY ADAM MOSES

Jewish organisations have called for the suspension of Green Party councillor Mothin Ali after his Leeds City Council local election victory speech for the Gipton and Harehills ward last Friday.

Ali has apologised for “any upset” caused over his Gaza conflict comments.

Standing in front of a Palestinian flag, Ali exclaims euphorically on his TikTok channel: ‘We will not be silenced. We will raise the voice of Gaza. We will raise the voice of Palestine… Allahu Akbar.’

A Campaign Against Antisemitism spokesperson described Ali’s attempts to justify October 7 as “obscene”.

“The idea that such a person is now an elected councillor is horrifying,” they said. “It is just astonishing that the Greens would select someone like Mothin Ali and campaign for him and go on to celebrate his victory and defend him. It is

as if the EHRC report into antisemitism in our politics never happened.

“Now the Greens claim that he has apologised. But his record of outrageous rhetoric and justifying violence clearly make him unsuited to be in any self-respecting political party. The Green Party may care about our planet, but it has a lot of work to do to show that it cares about the Jews who also live on it.”

The Board of Deputies said they were “appalled” by Ali’s comments where he appears to “celebrate and attempt to justify the October 7 terror attack.

“The Green Party has serious questions to answer over its utter failure of due diligence, which includes nominating Mr Ali for the role of Leeds Deputy Mayor for Police and Crime,” the BoD noted.

Leeds Jewish Representative Council chair Simon Myerson has written to the Green Party leadership calling for Ali to be suspended.

He stated: “It is wholly wrong that your party should seek to benefit from his views and his behaviour. It is antithetical to the ethics of which you boast. It is nothing more than hypocrisy.”

Myerson added that Ali had a “substantial history of views” of concern to the Jewish community.

Ali won Gipton and Harehills with 3,070 votes to Labour’s 747.

The Green Party is investigating the matter but has yet to make an official statement.

On social media, the Green Party shared Ali’s statement and confirmed they were “fully investigating” the matter but had “nothing further to add” at this moment.”

Ali issued a statement

Al Jazeera shut down

BY ADAM MOSES

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi have defended the government’s action in shutting down Al Jazeera

broadcasts in Israel.

The decision last Sunday was unanimously approved by ministers and effective immediately.

Netanyahu said the cabinet agreed to the proposal whilst the war against Hamas in Gaza continues.

Human Rights groups criticised the ruling as a ‘cause for concern’ for free press. Netanyahu and Karhi, however, are convinced the media channel

through the Leeds Green Party.

In a statement issued Tuesday, Ali said: ‘I am sorry for any upset my comments caused about the Gaza conflict. That was not my intention. Like many across the world I have been deeply impacted by the dreadful conflict currently underway in Gaza… I have consistently called for an immediate ceasefire and a release of all hostages. I hope to be working with a broad coalition including both the Jewish and Muslim Greens soon to discuss sensible ways for us to work on communicating our shared passion of bringing the conflict to an end.’

Ali claimed there had been inaccurate reporting and misrepresentation of his acceptance speech.

The controversial councillor on October 7 reportedly wrote on X: “White supremacist European settler colonialism must end!”

In videos posted online following the attack, Ali reportedly said people should ‘support the right of indigenous people to fight back’, adding, ‘They are not victims,

they are occupiers, they are colonialists, they are European colonialists… It’s one of the last European colonies in the world, and that’s why the European people don’t want to let it go. They use the weapon of antisemitism so effectively that anyone who criticises Israel is labelled as antisemitic.’

In a separate incident, Ali reportedly accused university chaplain Rabbi Zecharia Deutsch of ‘war crimes’ for volunteering for the IDF. Ali described Rabbi Deutsch a ‘creep’.

Rabbi Deutsch, chaplain at the University of Leeds, and his family wer forced into hiding after death threats online. Hillel House in Leeds was defaced with “Free Palestine” graffitied on its walls.

Over 12,000 students backed a campaign against Rabbi Deutsch last November demanding his dismissal from Leeds, Sheffield, York, Bradford and Leeds Beckett universities for leaving the UK to ‘participate in a foreign war with the Israeli army’.

Rabbi re-elected

was harming the state

Netanyahu said: “Al Jazeera correspondents have harmed the security of Israel and incited against IDF soldiers. The time has come to eject Hamas’s mouthpiece from our country.”

Karhi added: “We will take immediate action against those who use freedom of the press to harm the security of Israel and IDF soldiers, and incite to terrorism in time of war. There will be no freedom of expression for Hamas’s mouthpieces in Israel. Al Jazeera will be closed immediately and its equipment will be confiscated.”

He added: “Too much time has passed while we have dealt with too many of the legal pitfalls in order to reach this moment but it is good that it has come. The decision has been made and it will be

implemented.”

A government statement confirmed legislation: ‘Closure of the channel’s offices in Israel, confiscation of its broadcast equipment, preventing broadcasts by the channel’s journalists, removing the channel from cable and satellite companies and blocking its website.’

Karhi confirmed equipment had been taken in a police raid of the broadcaster’s office at the Ambassador Hotel in Jerusalem.

The Foreign Press Association called on the Israeli government to reconsider its decision. The UN’s Human Rights office called for accountability.

Al Jazeera is considering legal options. The channel is still accessible online in Israel.

Rabbi Arnold Saunders was re-elected on Sunday as Councillor in the Broughton Park and Kersal ward in Salford, beating the nearest Labour rival by several hundred votes.

JNF UK STANDS WITH ISRAEL NOW AND ALWAYS

After seven months of immense pain and suffering, JNF UK is committed to helping Israelis rebuild their homes and lives.

Your support could provide:

MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

For orphaned children, survivors of the Nova festival, and victims of rape and sexual harassment who have all suffered unimaginable trauma.

ASSISTANCE FOR DISPLACED GAZA ENVELOPE COMMUNITIES

Helping communities evacuated from the Gaza border to relocate as well as those who are returning to their homes to rebuild what has been lost.

Therapy is also being provided to promote both individual and community healing.

REHABILITATION FOR CHILDREN IN ASHKELON

Ashkelon is the most targeted city in Israel and its residents suffer unimaginably. Donations will help to run activities and workshops for schoolchildren designed to strengthen their emotional wellbeing and resilience.

SUPPORTING NORTHERN COMMUNITIES

Activities designed to help evacuees regain a sense of normality after months of disruption and stress. Emergency arrangements are also being made in case the conflict in the North intensifies.

Development Company for Israel (International)

This

No. 01415853.

Immanuel Prep School Choir Sing for Yom HaShoah

Members of the ICPS Choir were honoured to participate in the Combined Jewish Primary Schools Choir at the National Yom HaShoah UK Commemoration, held in Victoria Tower Gardens, in the shadow of the Houses of Parliament in Westminster. In front of an audience of 2,000 people, including Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, Her Excellency Tzipi Hotovely, the Israel Ambassador to the UK and Lord Eric Pickles, the Conservative

peer and UK’s Special Envoy for Post-Holocaust Issues, the children listened as Mrs Bronia Snow recounted her experiences as a child on the Kindertransport and settling in England and her recollection of her farewell to her parents. They took part in a beautiful rendition of Never Again, written by Stephen Melzack, a tribute to those we have lost and a commitment to remember them as we live for the future

Joseph’s story of survival

A moving Yom HaShoah tribute was held at Northwood United Synagogue. Holocaust Survivor Joseph Szlezinger, from Belgium, was in conversation with Henry Grunwald on his book Shattered Dreams to new Beginnings.

Grunwald’s conversation was insightful, delving into harrowing and inspiring aspects of Joe’s life during the Holocaust. Joe recalled with great emotion the profound debt of gratitude he felt toward a Catholic Priest, Father Clement, and local nuns who risked their lives to hide him and his mother from the Nazis. This selfless courage of the Catholic

clergy was a testament to the enduring power of human kindness in the face of overwhelming darkness.

The audience was visibly moved by Joe’s story and his reflections on his mother’s unwavering bravery and strength during his time in hiding. His account was a stark reminder of the extraordinary resilience and determination of those who endured the horrors of the Holocaust.

Organiser Ingrid Segal shared a quote that resonated with the evening’s themes.

“However, things may feel impossible today, tomorrow can bring that ‘silver lining’,” she said.

“Henry’s empathetic approach allowed Joseph to share his story in a way that was both personal and universal, serving as a poignant tribute to all those who suffered and persevered during those tragic years.

Through Joe’s words, the audience was offered a glimpse into the depths of the human spirit, a testament to the enduring power of hope and love in the face of adversity,” said Aviva Wilford, Northwood Vice Chair.

Candles from the Yelllow Candle project were lit by Joe, his family and members of the community including Holocuast Survivor, Carry Sherman.

To buy Joe’s book, Shattered Dreams to New Beginning, email jkslez@gmail.com

Penny Mordaunt MP visits Stamford Hill

Penny Mordaunt was invited to Stamford Hill by Councillor Simche Steinberger deputy leader of Hackney Conservatives. She came to Campaign for London Mayoral candidate Susan Hall. Penny attended a meeting with the Conservative

councillors and important members of the kehilla, before meeting Shomrim and Hatzolah. Penny was shown the latest ambulance and even got a taste of driving it!

Hostages Challah event raises £4.5k

Two hundred women raised £4,500 at a shlissel challah bake organised by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum UK.

Attendees called for the release of hostages held in Gaza.

The event was spearheaded by Nivi Feldman who emphasised the importance of the initiative.

“We wanted to bring 133 women together to do the mitzvah of hafrashat challah (separating the challah), blessing for the return of each and every hostage. We hope the shlissel challah is a key to our success in bringing everyone home safely.”

Tami Isaacs Pearce, known as ‘The Challah Queen’ from Karma Bread offered guidance on how to braid the challah.

She said: “The gathering of all these women, with one intent, to see the hostages freed was incredibly powerful and emotional. It was an honour to share my love of challah and the profound meaning it has in my life. I am blown away by the organisation and the absolute commitment from Nivi. They moved

mountains to make the event happen.”

Shira Jackson from the United Synagogue’s Ma’ayan program noted: “We’re the living proof of an ancient promise that G-d made to Abraham, that his descendants will miraculously survive everything the world throws at them, and not only survive but thrive! The energy and the warmth of the shared emotions in the room was palpable; there’s an intrinsic connection between us all and we feel it when we come together.”

Shlissel Chala Committee member, Natasha Goodman. of GoodmanPR, said: “We are so grateful to everyone who supported and attended the event. The unity and generosity shown by our community is a testament to the strength of our shared hope to bring our loved ones home.”

Attendees received a key with yellow ribbon. Removing the ribbon and placing the key in the challah, they were encouraged to place the ribbon somewhere as part of the #Tieayellowribbon campaign. Aprons are available from ‘Bitz of Glitz’ in Golders Green. Proceeds go to the charity.

JNF UK hosts Solidarity Day Trip to Sderot over Pesach

JNF UK, the leading UK charity supporting Israel led a special day trip to Sderot on Thursday 25th April 2024. Those visiting Israel over Pesach who joined this day trip were able to show their solidarity with the Sderot community.

Sderot, a city in southern Israel under constant rocket fire for decades, was infiltrated by scores of terrorists on October 7. The city faced a harrowing situation with residents being murdered on the streets and the police station had been totally destroyed. Due to its proximity to the Gaza border, almost all of its 30,000 residents were evacuated shortly after October 7. Despite the challenges they face, the municipality of Sderot remain committed to providing support for its displaced residents spread across the length of Israel, a real testament to their resilience and community spirit during these difficult times.

JNF UK’s day trip to the city was a meaningful way to show support for Sderot and its residents as they slowly recover from the October 7 attacks. Participants on the trip visited Beit Ha’Chessed soup kitchen, a crucial organisation supported by JNF UK, which provides food for the needy. They heard from Rabbi Avichay, CEO of the soup kitchen about the vital work they do. The participants heard from a ZAKA volunteer, Israel’s leading non-governmental rescue organisation, who shared his experiences of the tragic attacks and the

horrific sights he witnessed. They heard the stories of heroism from survivors of October 7 and about the attack on the police station and synagogue in Sderot. The group visited Nir Am, a kibbutz situated just 2km from Gaza, where they met volunteers working to strengthen the community. The day ended at Nova Re’im Park, now a memorial site for the victims of the Nova Festival massacre.

“We were honoured to offer this meaningful opportunity for people to connect with the town and the people of Sderot and show their support for a community that has faced significant challenges with remarkable resilience. JNF UK’s commitment to supporting the town stretches over decades and as in the past we will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with the city to help it return to the bustling vibrant success story of the Negev,” said Elan Gorji, CEO of JNF UK.

Dan Shapira, JNF UK’s Head of Partnerships in Israel, called the day extremely emotional. He said that participants were profoundly grateful for the chance to visit key sites, meet inspiring individuals, and demonstrate their support for the citizens of Sderot.

Joseph Szlezinger (L) with Henry Grunwald (R)

OPINION

Is this the perfect storm we have been dreading?

OPINION PIECE

BY ROBERT FESTENSTEIN

When making a decision about anything, we usually have a gauge as to whether we make the decision or not. The simple ones are easy to recognise, am I still a little hungry so want a dessert after the main course, or a bit thirsty so would like another cup of coffee? As the decisions accumulate greater significance the process gets more complicated. Moving job, or house or even a divorce are all very substantial choices not to be taken likely. Think then about moving country, and not because you want to, but feel that the time has come when at the very least you need to think about it. Here in the UK, until the 7th October last year, for Jews to consider leaving and moving to Israel has usually been based on a desire to go, a sense that the land is calling them and that is where they feel they should be. Now though, the story has changed. Making a move to Israel is no longer the preserve of the Zionist idealists, it is now becoming the decision of the Jewish realists. For me, the belief that I need to look seriously about setting up base in Israel has not been something that has been germinating for some time. Rather, it has

been a sudden realisation that now is the time to take action. When Jeremy Corbyn was head of the Labour Party, there were many of my friends who were serious about leaving such was their concern about what a Corbyn government might do to marginalise the Jews. Fortunately he did not come to power and the plans were put on hold or just faded away.

All this changed last week with the local council elections. Suddenly there is a Muslim vote. Or perhaps not suddenly since this has been around for years now, but historically the Muslim vote has largely been a Labour vote. Not last week. There has been a perfect storm of the war in Gaza, the willingness of so many Islamist figures and supporters to tell lies about genocide and the consequent massive increase in anti-Semitism in the UK. Add in the refusal of Labour leader Sir Kier Starmer to vote for a ceasefire in a Parliamentary vote last year and in areas of high Muslim populations, council seats have become an achievable reality for the Jew-haters. Their cry is of course that they ‘just’ hate Israel and ‘only’ want a ceasefire. The truth is that they are not that keen on Jews either, want to see the destruction of the State of Israel, and by demanding a ceasefire now, want to see Hamas continue in charge in Gaza. There is another, dangerous factor.

George Galloway. Mr Galloway for years

has been a vocal opponent of Israel and a frequent supporter of determined anti-Semites. He hasn’t though had a means of promoting his disgusting views. Until February 29 this year, he didn’t have a base from which to operate. According to the BBC news, Galloway became the MP for Rochdale after a victorious by-election on that day that was centred around the Gaza war. He polled 12,335 votes, nearly 6,000 more than any other candidate after Labour withdrew their support for candidate Azhar Ali over remarks widely alleged to be antisemitic, which he later apologised for.

Galloway was lucky. The proposed candidate for Labour had to stand down, too late for there to be a replacement and Galloway stepped into the breach. And won. He was able to promote his Workers Party, encourage candidates to stand for the local council last week, and work alongside Muslim organisations keen to push their agenda on Gaza and Israel. It went pretty well for them. There are now a number of Workers Party councillors no doubt spreading lies about Israel and contributing to a marginalisation of Jews in society. So many places, previously known to be routine places for Jews to work, have now become difficult. Universities are a hotbed of anti-Semitism, particularly now with the copy-cat sit-ins, mirroring those from the USA.

Jews are hiding their identity. I have a tag on a necklace supporting the hostages which I wear most of the time. I went to the gym last week and left it at the office, rather than run the risk of being asked about and getting into an argument about Israel.

The writing on the wall is that the conservatives will lose at the next general election which will take place within the next 8 months. How badly remains to be seen, but it is looking like there will be a Labour Government in power this time next year. The anti-Israel rhetoric now from so many within Labour will only increase when they get into power. Put that together with the elected councillors (and one MP) from the Workers Party who will continue their campaign against the Jewish community, it’s not going to be nice to be a Jew in the UK.

I didn’t think it would come to this, and I don’t believe it would have done but for the perfect storm which started in October last year and shows no signs at all of abating. I for one, am now making plans.

Robert Festenstein is a practising solicitor and has been the principal of his Salford based firm for over 20 years. He has fought BDS motions to the Court of Appeal and is President of the Zionist Central Council in Manchester which serves to protect and defend the democratic State of Israel.

ASK THE RABBI

IT’S TIME TO GIVE ISRAEL BACK

Dear Rabbi

Will you not acknowledge that the Jewish people stole the land of Israel from others before them? Don’t quote me that the Bible and G-d say the land belongs to the Jews. Let’s take religion out of the equation. It was once called the Land of Canaan, was it not? I think it is time to give it back.

Sulami

Dear Sulami

OK, I admit it. Israel stole the land. And I have some good news for you. We will gladly give the land back! No, seriously. But - only on condition that the world gives all land back to the native people it stole from.

When the Australians give the island back to the Aborigines and the New Zealanders give it back to the Maori. When the Americans and the Canadians and the Spanish give the whole continent back to the Natives; Alaska to the Eskimos; Hawaii to Hawaiians. When China frees Tibet. When South Africa returns to the original Africans. When Egypt return Sinai to the Bedouin and Pakistan will be India again. When the Swedes and Norwegians give the land to the Sami. When

the English frees Ireland and Scotland. When France returns to the Gauls and Iraq to Babylonians. And Persia is Sumer again. Then and only then will we gladly give our land back.

But - not to the Palestinian people.

As you noted, only to those who were there before us. To the Canaanites, the Amorites, the Moabites, the Girgashites, the Hittites etc. Only problem is they no longer exist. So we will stay there. But you can happily go back to wherever you came from.

UNI - SPOILED BRATS

Dear Rabbi

Can you explain what is going on at university campuses around the world? Why is all this suddenly happening now?

Grant

Dear Grant

I can’t believe I have to explain what’s happening, but here goes. Elite students of Ivy League schools have glamourised oppression so much that they have now reached role play status to satisfy their fantasies. Here, the students have appropriated the suffering of Gazans and are cosplaying as living through humanitarian crisis. In their Western make-believe

story where Ivy League infrastructure sets the scene, the students play Gazans and the school administration plays Israel.

Israel (the school) is blocking their “basic humanitarian aid” in this play, and if they don’t receive it soon, they will “die of thirst and starvation” (appropriating exact experiences of Gazans). They also destroy upper class buildings and claim them as “liberated” while the students repeat chants in zombie-like chorus, playing the roll of “freedom fighters” destroying Israeli infrastructure and claiming them freed. If I’m alive in a world where people don’t see the levels of perversion in this, I give up.

You don’t see this in lower tier schools from kids of lower socio-economic standing because they aren’t plagued with the guilt of privilege that they’re seeking to launder through Middle East role plays of feigned suffering. This is as first world dystopia as it gets.

Meanwhile, these Ivy League students who can have much more than a glass of water and as much food as their stomachs can take are commanding the attention of the media and the entire American audience, while actual Gazans who need humanitarian aid are ignored. I still have to pinch myself that people don’t see this.

WEIGHT WATCHING JEWS

Dear Rabbi

This may sound like a flippant question but do you not think that the excessive eating on Pesach is a little overdone? It’s like because we are limited in what we can eat we all overeat whatever is acceptable. Perhaps our religion should introduce a mass diet ritual post Pesach.

Shalom

Dear Shalom

What is it with religion and food, right? I’m reminded of the following anecdote: Mrs. Kohn asks her kindergarten students what religious objects they have in their homes. John the Christian boy answers, “We have a picture of a woman with a halo holding a baby and every day my mother kneels in front of it.” Robert the Asian boy says, “We have a brass statue of a man seated with crossed legs and a Chinese face, and every day my parents burn an incense stick next to it.” Jacob the Jewish boy pipes up, “In the bathroom, we have a flat, square box with numbers on it. Each year after Passover day, first thing my mother stands on it and screams, ‘OH MY G-D!’”

THE MAGIC KEY CHALLAH

Dear Rabbi

I was made aware for the first time of a custom to bake the “shlisel challah right after Pesach. I am told this is an omen for good fortune. I am also told that some consider this idolatrous superstition. Which one is it?

Adrian

Dear Adrian

“Shlisel Challah,” or “key challah,” in English, for the benefit of those who don’t know, is the idea of baking challah in the shape of a key on the first Shabbat after Pesach. First, it is the idea of baking challah right after Pesach and being able to fulfil the mitzvah of removing challah from the dough.

The earliest reference is in the works of Rabbi Pinchas Shapiro of Koritz (born 1726), a descendent of the Megaleh Amukos and a student of the Baal Shem Tov. In his work called Imrei Pinchas (#298) he explains that the reason to bake Schlissel Challah on the Shabbos following Pesach is that during Pesach, the gates to Heaven were opened and remain open until Pesach Sheni. The key alludes to the fact that these gates are now open and that we should focus our prayers ever more on that account, and that it is an auspicious time to ask for one’s needs, be it financial or otherwise.

So those who consider the ritual idolatrous are ignorant. Those who think that just baking the bread is going to make them rich are also ignorant. It is a good omen and good omens are always a good thing (segulah) but you still have to go out there and get a job.

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The Qualities of Great Leadership

BY RABBI SHMUEL REICHMAN

In an ideal society, everyone is devoted toward achieving their own unique greatness while simultaneously devoting that individual greatness toward the larger collective greatness of the nation. A leader’s role is to enable each individual to embark on their own journey of self-discovery and achievement while also helping them devote their lives to a greater whole — to that which transcends themselves, to Hashem, the Jewish People, and the world as a whole.

This explains a seemingly strange halachah of the eglah arufah (Devarim 21:1–9). If a man is found dead outside a city, the elders of the city must decapitate a calf and proclaim that they did not kill this person. Why, though, would this even cross our minds? It appears obvious that the elders — the leaders of the city — did not murder an innocent Jew! What then is the deeper meaning of this strange halachah?

The Gemara elaborates on the procedure of the eglah arufah and explains that the elders of the city must promise that they did not turn the man away without food and an escort. On a practical level, this means that, as the elders of the city, they did not refuse this man adequate sustenance and protection. But do the leaders really have to escort every single guest out of their city? Rav Michael Rosensweig suggests a deeper understanding, one that carries with it a profound lesson. The elders of the city are the leaders of the city. They influence the atmosphere and set the standards for the city; it is their job to inspire greatness in the people. If they achieve this, nobody in the city would ever murder an innocent man. The elders are therefore required to swear that this death was not due to a lack in their leadership; they assure us that they set up the proper standards of behavior to make something as abhorrent as murder unthinkable.

With this foundation, let us now study the key characteristics of a great leader.

QUALITIES OF LEADERSHIP

Everyone is a leader in some capacity. Some will lead their families, while others will lead the world. The scale is irrelevant; the principles remain the same. A leader must begin by leading their own life, devoting themselves toward their own personal greatness. In addition to self-development, a leader must have a strong moral conviction, a genuine love of others, and a sensitivity to their needs. Most important of all is the desire to lead lishmah (for a higher purpose), without any selfish or ulterior motives. Let us develop this topic in greater depth.

SELF-DEVELOPMENT AS THE PREREQUISITE

The crucial prerequisite of effective leadership is first developing oneself. Before you can lead anyone else, you

must lead yourself toward a greater state of existence. This requires a relentless desire to better yourself, to improve every aspect of your life, to become more selfaware, and to maximize your full potential. Developing a deep awareness and connection with Hashem is fundamental to this process. It is therefore no surprise that many Jewish leaders in the Torah were shepherds. (See Kli Yakar, Shemos 3:1) The Avos, the Shevatim, Moshe Rabbeinu, and David HaMelech were all shepherds, which provided them the time and setting to contemplate the nature of existence and connect with Hashem on the deepest levels. They walked around in nature, admiring the awe-inspiring world Hashem created — a lifestyle conducive to a spiritually rich existence. They had the peace of mind to gain deeper levels of self-awareness and weren’t caught up in the unimportant and tedious elements of life. In addition to developing empathy and leading a flock, a shepherd’s life is one that enables a spiritually flourishing existence.

THE LONE PATH

A leader must also be willing to commit to the right path, even if he is the only one doing so. Avraham was called the “ish ivri” because all the masses walked on one side of the river, and he walked on the other. (Ivri comes from the Hebrew word “ever” (the other side), as in “the other side of the river.” Ideologically, Avraham walked on “the other side.”) He walked alone, choosing to live a life of truth rather than a life of social acceptance. Sometimes one can see most clearly once they have distanced themselves from their current surroundings, as this gives them the ability to rethink, redirect, and then return with newfound purpose and meaning. Avraham completely removed himself from his culture. Moshe spent many decades alone in the desert and on the run from Pharaoh, building his clarity and understanding of life before returning to lead the Jewish People. David HaMelech grew up as an outcast before being appointed as king by Shmuel. This is not always necessary, but often, a step back leads to a giant step forward. This is why teenagers who leave their homes in chutz la’aretz and spend time learning Torah in Eretz Yisrael often find it immensely transformative for their spiritual development.

EXPANDING OUTWARDS

After one has properly developed his or her own inner self and connection with Hashem, a true leader must then learn to properly expand outwards, devoting his life to that which transcends himself, i.e., his people. This requires one to become a giver, a lover of others, someone who focuses on the well-being of his nation. Avraham was an “ish chessed” (man of kindness). Moshe’s first sign of leadership was his empathy, feeling the pain of those outside of himself: He intervened when a Mitzri was beating a Jew, when Dasan and Aviram were fighting, and when Yisro’s daughters were being harassed.

(It’s fascinating to note the unique progression of Moshe’s empathy. First, he stops a non-Jew from hurting a Jew. Then he stops a Jew from hurting a Jew. Finally, he prevents a non-Jew from hurting a non-Jew. This reflects an ideal whereby we care about all of humanity, not only people who we are related to, feel close to, or relate to ideologically. While there may be a hierarchy, the fact remains all of humanity is interconnected, and all are deserving of respect, dignity, and empathy.)

A leader’s empathy must extend so far that he is willing to sacrifice and endure pain for his people, putting the needs of his people before himself. The seventy Zekeinim (elders) in the midbar were the taskmasters in Mitzrayim. They were beaten mercilessly by the Mitzrim because they refused to hurt their brethren when the Jews failed to meet their quotas. Their leadership was granted to them as reward for the pain and sacrifice they were willing to endure for their people. But in a deeper sense, they weren’t awarded positions of leadership because of their sacrifice; their sacrifice itself is what transformed them into leaders. (True leaders do not sacrifice their people for their own well-being. Israeli officers are known to lead their soldiers into battle and not remain behind in the safety of their army’s protection.)

Truly empathetic leaders care as much about the individual as the masses. While inspiring the masses is critical, if a leader cannot lower himself to help an individual, there is something essential missing from his leadership abilities. He must

see the infinite value within every single individual. When a single sheep ran away from his flock, Moshe ran after it to retrieve it. It was at this exact moment that Hashem revealed Himself to Moshe at the burning bush, appointing him as leader of the Jewish People.

Perhaps most important of all, a true leader never desires power for himself. His goal is solely to fulfill his unique purpose and to help others do the same. He leads by directing his people toward something far greater than himself: He leads them toward Hashem, toward their purpose, and toward their destiny.

WE ARE ALL LEADERS

Some leaders are the face of a nation, the ones who stand in front of large crowds and deliver extraordinary and inspiring speeches. But that is not the only type of leader. A leader is anyone who is on a mission, who empowers others, and who always looks for ways to contribute to the greater good. Leaders are great parents, great teachers, and great friends. We are all potential leaders; we are all potential revolutionaries. We can all create change in the world. But to create any external change, we must first learn to develop ourselves and live with higher ideals. Let us all be inspired to become the greatest version of ourselves with the hopes that our own journey of growth will inspire others to become the greatest version of themselves as well.

Rabbi Shmuel Reichman is a bestselling author and international speaker.

Department KLBD - Kashrut Division of the London Beth Din

Job Title Trainee Researcher

Working Hours 35 Hours per week

Salary Dependent on experience

A vacancy has arisen for a full-time Trainee Researcher to join the Food Technology Team at the KLBD, Europe’s Largest Kashrut Authority.

The job involves investigating products for listing in the Isitkosher search and The Really Jewish Food Guide. This entails contacting food manufacturers to ask them for information about the ingredients and manufacture of their products, processing the responses received to request further or missing information, inputting the details to the KLBD food database and submitting products for Rabbinical approval once the information is complete. Some of the time will be spent dealing with product enquiries from members of the public and KLBD licensees, and on occasion there may be a requirement to help with other areas of work at the KLBD.

The ideal candidate will be a quick learner who has good analytical and writing skills and is computer literate. They will be flexible and able to work as part of a team. They will be well organised, with a good eye for detail and will work to a high standard of accuracy.

It would be an advantage, although not essential, if the applicant had spent time learning in a Seminary or Yeshiva. A rabbinical or food technology qualification is not required for this post. Full training will be provided in all aspects of the work.

For further information and to download an application form, visit www.theus.org.uk/vacancies. Closing date for completed applications is 14th May 2024.

If you have any questions, contact the KLBD on 020 8343 6255 or email rcoten@kosher.org.uk

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible. Previous applicants need not reapply.

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ERETZ YISRAEL

The Blue, White and Beautiful Land Weekly Dvar Torah FROM

BY RABBANIT SHANI TARAGIN

Five months after the establishment of Israel, we adopted the flag we know today. A blue Magen David on a white background, between two horizontal blue stripes symbolizing the stripes on a tallit and the blue dye, the techeilet, of the tzitzit. We are commanded to look at these tzitzit “and remember all the commandments of the L-rd, and do them” (Bamidbar 15:39). Chazal explain that the techeilet corresponds to the color of the Divine Revelation (Sifri, Bamidbar 115) and deters us from sin.

The context of the mitzvah of tzitzit reveals added significance to the colors, and hence the Israeli flag. The mitzvah appears with other mitzvot connected to the Land of Israel, after the Sin of the Spies, who dissuaded the nation from entering the Land (Bamidbar 15:37–41). Ibn Ezra (ibid. 15:2) explains this juxtaposition as indicative of consolation and assurance for the people that they will indeed enter the Land. And the tzitzit in particular will remind them not to rebel against G-d.

How do the tzitzit remind us not to rebel? In addition to several expressions in the parasha of tzitzit that hint at the spies’ sin – e.g. “to explore (latur) the land”… “You shall not explore after (lo taturu acharei) your hearts”… “You shall see the Land” (13:18)… “We were in our

eyes like grasshoppers, and so we were in their eyes” (13:33)… “after which you stray” (15:39)… “Your children will wander in the desert for 40 years and will bear [the consequences of] your straying” (14:33), and more, we also find parallels in the garment itself. The garment upon which the tzitzit are placed reminds us of the garments torn by Calev and Yehoshua upon hearing Bnei Yisrael’s pleas to

return to Egypt. The tzitzit remind us that we should stay focused on our national destiny of living in Eretz Yisrael! That is why the term kanaf (lit. corner), generally a word connoting direction, is used (Bamidbar 15:38 and Devarim 22:12). It reminds us of the four directions the spies took in the Land of Israel. A thread of techeilet among the white threads at each of these corners reminds

Parashat Kedoshim

1ST

ALIYA (KOHEN) – VAYIKRA 19:1-14

Kedoshim contains many mitzvot, a selection of which has been included here. We are commanded to revere our parents and to observe Shabbat. It is prohibited to worship and make idols. Temple offerings need to be eaten within their designated time. When harvesting one’s field or vineyard, certain produce

needs to be left over for paupers to take free of charge. Stealing, making false oaths and lying are all prohibited. Hired workers must be paid on time. One may not place a stumbling block in front of a blind person.

Point to Consider: Why is revering parents juxtaposed to keeping Shabbat?

(see Rashi to 19:3)

2ND ALIYA (LEVI) – 19:15-22

A judge is not allowed to favour any litigant. It is forbidden to harbour hatred or to seek revenge. You shall “love your fellow as yourself”. One is not allowed to plant a field with mixed seeds, nor wear clothes with a mixture of wool and linen.

3RD ALIYA (SHLISHI) – 19:23-32

Eating the fruit of a tree during the first

three years of its growth is forbidden. In the tree’s fourth year, the fruit has to be eaten in Jerusalem. It is forbidden to cut one’s skin in mourning. There is a mitzvah to stand up in the presence of a Torah scholar and an elderly person.

4TH ALIYA (REVI’I) – 19:33-37

One must treat converts to Judaism with love and sensitivity. It is imperative to have accurate scales, weights and measures.

5TH ALIYA (CHAMISHI) – 20:1-7

There was a severe prohibition against giving one’s children over to an ancient cult called ‘Molech’. It was also forbidden to turn to sorcerers, two types of which are mentioned specifically by name – ov and yideoni.

6TH ALIYA (SHISHI) – 20:8-22

us of the colors of the Land of Israel, particularly those of Nachalat Yehuda, in which Moshe had commanded the spies to tour (Bamidbar 13:17). These are the colors with which Ya’akov blesses Yehuda and his land: “His eyes shall be ‘red’ with wine, and his teeth white with milk” (Bereishit 49:11–12). The Ramban explains that the eyes will not be red, but rather colored blue (kachol) with the oxidized wine that grows in the mountains of Yehuda, as the teeth will be whitened by the milk of the flock in the deserts of Yehuda.

The tzitzit and our flag remind us not to rebel nor lose sight of G-d’s commandments, particularly not to lose sight of the beauty of Eretz Yisrael. The tzitzit remind us of the majesty and love relationship with G-d in the Land of Israel and console us after years of wandering. And the Israeli flag waves in the Land of Yehuda as a constant reminder not only not to explore elsewhere – velo taturu, but that there is nowhere else to explore.

Rabbanit Shani Taragin is Educational Director of World Mizrachi and teaches at Matan and other educational institutions in Israel. She is a member of the Mizrachi Speakers Bureau (www.mizrachi.org/ speakers). She will be in Hendon and Mill Hill East for the Weekend of InspirationShabbat 17/18 May.

Cursing one’s parents is forbidden. The punishments for the forbidden relationships detailed in the 6th aliyah (Shishi) of Acharei Mot are listed.

7TH ALIYA (SHEVI’I) – 20:23-27

The nation is warned not to follow in the ways of the nations who occupied the Land before its conquest. The Land of Israel is referred to as “flowing with milk and honey”. Keeping the laws of kashrut will enable us to remain a distinct and distinguished nation.

HAFTARAH (AMOS 9:7-15)

The prophet Amos rebukes Israel for being no better than the Pelishtim (Philistine) nation. Those who were particularly sinful will suffer the harshest punishment. But once they have died by the sword, the Davidic kingdom will return and the Land will be rebuilt.

Daf Topics

Ownership of Corporations: Bava Metzia 68a

BY RABBI YAKOV SCHONBERG ANIMAL RIGHTS AND WRONGS

As we proceed through the sugya of ribbis and iska, we need to consider how these halachos impact on modern life. As trading and investment activities are nowadays generally operated through corporate structures which by their nature separate management from ownership, what religious responsibilities do Jewish shareholders have regarding their company’s activities? In particular, how do we view transactions which would be prohibited if undertaken by Jews personally, such as charging and paying ribbis, trading in forbidden foods, owning chametz on Pesach, paying employees late, and trading on Shabbos?

WHAT IS A CORPORATION?

The corporate entity was developed over the last 200 years to promote commerce by providing a stable vehicle which would garner confidence in investors. Three features were necessary - limited liability, division of ownership from management, and separate legal personality. To create entities that benefit from economies of scale, large amounts of capital must be raised, so multiple partners are needed. It is not viable for so many people to be involved in operational management, and that needs to be separated from the investors. Investors who have no say in the running of the business may be scared to leave themselves exposed to funding substantial losses; this is avoided by making their liability limited. In a partnership, if a partner retires the partnership needs to be reconstituted, but with participators constantly changing, a company needs the permanence of a separate legal personality. These three features are reflected in the different abbreviations appended to company names. American practice adds ‘Inc.’ reflecting that it is a ‘corpus’ – a legal personality. The Israeli מ”עב stands for לבגומ ןוברעב, limited liability, following UK’s Ltd or Plc, public limited company. The French S.A. (Société Anonyme - anonymous association) reflects the earlier practice of shareholder anonymity with bearer shares and is indicative of the separation between ownership and control, making shareholders invisible. We need to understand how halacha treats this new legal creature – can non-humans have any religious obligations? Some mitzvos are connected to ownership, but who owns the assets of a corporation? With other mitzvos the criterion is control – do shareholders control the corporation’s activities?

TWO APPROACHES

The first of the poskim to write about this issue was Rabbi Shlomo Ganzfried in his Kitzur Shulchan Aruch (65:28) where he rules against borrowing from or depositing with the Sparkasse in which Jews held ‘aktien’ (shares). The Sparkasse, or Savings Bank operated like co-operative banking systems, which are owned by their customers. Each depositor becomes a member with voting rights, and they were promoted as philanthropic institutions to encourage saving by poorer people, as banks serviced wealthier clients. Controlled by local authorities, they were public non-profit associations, often headed by voluntary trustees, which later developed banking facilities including lending, comparable to UK building societies or mutual societies in US, subsequently converting into jointstock banks. Thus, members participated in loans to Jewish borrowers as part-owners. Interestingly, this paragraph is not included in the Kitzur’s first edition of 1864 but appears in the eighth edition of 1875. It must have caused a big stir in the community and Shoel U’Meishiv (1:3:31) wrote to Rabbi Ganzfried requesting that he delete this prohibition in his next print, but he refused. Shoel U’Meishiv advanced two heterim; that there is no ribbis with loans through agents and breira may allow matching loans to non-Jewish deposits, both contestable arguments. He appears to have understood the problem to be that Jewish deposits were being lent to other Jews, perhaps based on some different banking structure, but Kitzur specifically mentions the issue of Jewish share ownership as being the problem. Maharam Shik (YD158) disagreed with Shoel U’meishiv’s arguments, but advanced other reasons to support his heter. The halachic debate about Jewish shareholdings in public companies continues today, but the historical commercial structure which concerned previous poskim is often uncertain or misunderstood. This is a complex subject where every question requires one’s personal Rav’s adjudication, and our intention is only to provide background to the issues.

RELATIONSHIP ON STOCKHOLDER

Essentially, the first view holds that any degree of Jewish ownership is problematic if the company engages in forbidden transactions. The corporate legal entity created by secular law has no halachic personality and the participators in a company venture are regarded as partners with the company governing the terms of the partnership. The second approach treats a company as an independent entity into which capital has been injected by the shareholders, so Maharam Shik considers that shareholders have the halachic status of lenders. If the shareholder is a creditor, who is the

owner of the company enterprise? Beis Yitzchak (YD-2KA:32) suggests that the Board of Directors may be considered the real owners who owe the shareholders a share of the profits. It is difficult to visualise the corporate structure that he was referring to since managers have no ownership rights. Rabbi Asher Weiss (Minchas Asher 1:105/6) adopts a novel approach in asserting that halacha recognises that a company can own itself. He does not find his precedent for this in tzibbur funds, because he considers the constituent members to be owners but without identifiable personal rights. However, he sees a precedent in the tribe of kohanim, where individual kohanim have no ownership in tribe assets and the tribe is an entity itself. A similar situation is found in assets of hekdesh. Once one establishes that a non-personal entity can exist in halacha, it follows that this entity is not bound by any religious obligations, and therefore a company with Jewish shareholders would not be precluded from lending to Jews with interest or owning chametz on Pesach. He does not distinguish between a close private company which is completely controlled by Jews and a public company, because he was convinced of his separate legal entity concept. He concedes that since most poskim did not view companies in this way, one should lechatchila follow the stricter view. His conceptual detachment of shareholders from the company as owners may be challenged by the introduction of money-laundering regulations which require registration of beneficial owners of a company.

CONTROLLING SHAREHOLDERS

R’ Moshe Feinstein (IM-EH1:7) and many other poskim assert that if there is a controlling interest, then the controlling shareholders may be considered the real owners, leaving minority shareholders as creditors. They regard a small shareholder as having no influence on company policy and his only interest is dividend income and gains from selling shares. Rav Eliashev held control depends on ability to influence decisions of the company, possibly with even less than a 10% holding, by joining with others or by having a seat on the board. In recent years there has been a growth of corporate democracy where activists with a comparatively small shareholding can rally millions of shareholders to influence directors on specific issues. Dayan Yitzchak Weiss (Minchas Yitzchak-3:1) points out that even secular law does not view the corporate personality as completely independent of its owners. The law views directors as having a fiduciary responsibility as trustees to the shareholders. Shareholders can completely control a company by their power of appointment or to force resignation of directors, and he considered shareholders with voting

rights as being involved in decision-making. Rabbi Moshe Sternbuch (Moadim U’Zemanim-3:269) views all shareholders as having a partnership subject to the terms of the governing document. In practice, most authorities outside Eretz Yisrael follow the controlling interest and influence principle. There are no exact thresholds for control, as circumstances may allow smaller holdings to act in concert, so each situation needs to be assessed.

NON-RECOURSE LOADS

Rabbi Moshe Feinstein (YD2:62) has another heter regarding non-recourse loans. He holds that since a corporation restricts claims against it to its assets, there is an incomplete commitment of

on behalf of a corporate borrower and the loan constitutes a type that is not subject to ribbis regulations. However, if the loan is subject to any form of personal guarantee, then there is full commitment. In practice, most non-recourse loans nowadays have standard conditions in the fine-print which allow carve-outs triggered by stated ‘bad-boy’ contingencies, such as credit rating falling below a specified level or misrepresentations of the property. With interest replenishment reserves, springing recourse and other carve-outs, many socalled non-recourse loans contain such guarantees and must be classed halachically as recourse loans.

KOSHER INVESTMENTS

In Eretz Yisrael, the prevailing minhag is to follow the partnership approach even in the case of small shareholdings in public companies. Their standard mechiras chametz sale agreement will include any shares in public companies which will probably own chametz. As public companies operate on Shabbos, may trade in forbidden foods and engage in ribbis transactions, any investment in such companies would be prohibited as a participator in the forbidden activity. This is a major problem for someone wanting to invest his pension funds. Thus, the concept of certified kosher investments has been developed. Kosher pension funds invest in share options, which reflect share prices by trading in options, or ETF (Exchange Traded Fund – funds that trade on exchanges) and S&P-500 Index Funds that acquire a basket of securities which tracks stocks, avoiding actual ownership of the shares.

Rabbi Schonberg was born in London in 1948 and attended Hasmonean School. He attended Manchester, Chaye Olam and Gateshead Yeshivos. He qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 1972 becoming a partner at Cohen Arnold.

To find out more, you can sign up at mercazdafyomi.com and receive a free gemoroh.

Family FunKedoshim

Buckle up, we’ve got 51 mitzvot to cover this week if you wanna holy. Wanna be BFFs with Hashem? Well, here goes; respect your parents. Don’t do idols.Leave parts of your field for the poor. Leave

anything you dropped or forgot in your field for the poor. Be honest, don’t lie, make false promises or do mean sneaky or unfair things. Don’t steal. Pay on time. Don’t trick people. If you’re a judge, be fair.

G M Z R O Q X W H D C R

M I H S O D E K O O T U

L L U O T E G B N X V R

W K T U P N N V E U E E

Z L Y W A D E S Y I O D

E T Y F O R V R X T B M

F S H A T N E Z A V T F

T C I I D G R B L P S C

G C D Y O Z B F K D G Q

A A Y T H A T M G Q J T

G I O U H O M A N D V E

X W D S W G S H T U S N

• HONEY • KEDOSHIM • MILK • PARENTS • REVENGE • SHABBAT • SHATNEZ

Don’t say not nice things about others. Don’t stand by when you can help. Don’t hate anyone. Love all Jews, don’t do revenge or bear grudge (holding on only hurts you). Don’t believe in superstitions, Hashem is in

total control and He loves you more than you love yourself – and that’s a lot. No magic, no tatoos but keep the peyois. Don’t do shatnez, mix seeds when planting and keep honest weights.

Parasha Stats

Facts about Parashat Kedoshim

Number of Lines - 109

Number of Verses - 64

Number of Words - 868

Number of Letters - 3,229

Jewish Riddle

This week’s Question:

Which Tractate of the Talmud fits the following description: The Aramaic translation of the name of this Tractate is the name of a different Tractate?

Last week’s Answer: One day every year, a Halacha of Shabbat is different than the rest of the year. What day is it?

The Shabbat during Sukkot. On Shabbat it is forbidden to carry from a “private domain” to a “public domain.” Usually, a private domain must have at least three walls. On the Shabbat of Sukkot, however, a private domain can have less. Why? A Sukka is valid with as few as two walls, plus a post as the third wall. Since such a structure is a valid Sukka, therefore, it’s also considered a private domain.

SPECIAL HAPPY BIRTHDAY FOR ONE OF OUR ‘FAMILY FUN’ FANS!!! MAZAL TOV IAN C!!!

Tangram Challenge!

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

Word Wheel

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

Last edition’s words

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

Y P L L U F Y L A

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

con cot ion nor not one ore roe rot toe ton tor coin cone core corn cote icon into iron note once oner riot rote tone tore torn torr trio conic corer crone intro oncer recto retro tenor toner tonic citron coiner corner cornet ironer notice orient rector rioter conceit concert cornice cornier correct concerti incorrect

Jokes

Q: What do you call a funny mountain?

A: Hill-arious!

Q: What did the big flower say to the little flower?

A: Hey bud!

Q: Why was the picture sent to prison?

A: It was framed!

Q: Where do rabbits go after they get married?

A: On a bunny-moon!

Riddles

1. Until I am measured I am not known, yet how you miss me when I have flown. What am I?

2. What has a neck and no head, two arms but no hands? 3. Alive without breath, as cold as death, dressed in mail never clinking, never thirsty, ever drinking. What am I?

EXPERT ADVICE

Hi Jacob,

I am seeking to open a new mortgage brokerage and have heard that it can take 12 months to obtain FCA Authorisation. Is there any quicker route to begin trading sooner?

Gillian

Hi Gillian,

If a new firm wishes to begin trading quickly, the fastest route is usually to apply to become an appointed representative (AR) of another authorised firm, known as the ‘Principal.’ The Principal firm bears the responsibility of ensuring the AR is fit and proper, and that they act in compliance with the FCA’s regulations.

Should you wish to pursue the route of becoming an AR, apart from providing the Principal with all documentation and information they require for their due diligence checks, you’ll also need to provide details of the nature of your intended regulated activities, as well as information on any non-regulated activities you perform, specifying whether they are financial or non-financial. Additionally, you must disclose the nature of your client base, and whether you were previously affiliated with another principal firm and the reasons for the change.

Your principal firm may request any further information they feel necessary to help complete their AR notification requirements with the FCA, in which case it should be readily provided.

Becoming an AR of a principal firm has many merits, especially for start-ups and small broker firms. At Richdale, we offer guidance and oversight to firms to ensure they remain fully compliant with the FCA’s regulations, thereby providing a potential stepping stone to direct FCA authorisation.

BUTCHERS

KOSHER DELI

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

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

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

ESTATE AGENT

MARTIN FRYDENSON - ROUNDTREE REAL ESTATE

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

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

FINANCIAL SERVICES (FCA) COMPLIANCE

JACOB BERNSTEIN

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

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

ADVISORS - GARY BROWN - PRACTICAL ALIYAH ADVICE

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

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

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

CARE

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

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

CHARITY

JEWISH

ALIYAH ADVISORS

ALIYAH

WEALTH MANAGMENT

MARC OVITS – BA (HONS) APFS CERT PFS (DM)

Over 25 years of successful experience in financial services including 11 years of investment banking experience.

Offering expert independent financial advice to individuals, businesses, charities and trusts. Individual services:- Wealth Management, Investment, Retirement, Estate/IHT, protection planning, Tax Mitigation and Cash Management Solutions

Business & Charity services:- Investment Planning, Business Succession & Business Exit Planning, Business Protection, Corporate Pensions, Employee Benefits, Cash Management Solutions, Profit extraction strategies

Alpha Wealth Management

Contact: 020 8203 6920 info@alphawm.co.uk www.alphawm.co.uk

BUILDING AND PARTY WALL SURVEYING

MATRIX SURVEYORS LIMITED

Offering a range of building surveying services and specialising in party wall matters, nationwide, for both consumers and businesses, including; -

• Pre-acquisition Surveys

• Party Wall Matters

• Defect Inspections

• Schedules of Condition

• Insurance Reinstatement Costs Assessments

Contact:

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

SHIPPING

STEPHEN MORRIS SHIPPING

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

MARTIN HEIMAN – SMARTINET

We’ve been providing businesses with all of their communication needs since 2010. We specialise in supplying businesses with VoIP Packages, Mobile Plans, Broadband, Card Merchant Services, Leased Lines, On-Hold Marketing, and Call Centre Services. Smartinet, your reliable and efficient business communications provider.

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

MANAGED I.T. SERVICES PROVIDER (MSP)

SIMON MOSCOVITZ BSC (HONS) – EUROTEK UK LIMITED

• Planned Preventative Maintenance Schedules

• Construction Project Management

• Licence for Alterations

• Insurance claims

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

We construct our own Tri-Wall and wooden packing cases on site and employ full-time art installers and handymen for those ‘extra’ jobs that always need doing on a move or installation. And size is no limitation – we have moved trains, boats and planes across the world and even bridges and a 5,000 seater tent!

Contact: 020 8832 2222 info@shipsms.co.uk www.shipsms.co.uk

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

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