DAATH YACHID

WELCOME ?

2011-12-13T00:43:00.001-05:00

Everyone focused on two gaffs during the White House Hanukkah event. First the event was some two weeks before the Holiday and the President refereed to the Maccabees as believers in the Temple not as persons of faith,

The early celebration may be only to accommodate scheduling for the White House and administration. However, and this comment not directed to President Obama specifically because early Hanukkah celebrations were held during the Bush Administration as well. Yet, it smacks of being a runner-up given a consolation prize that only reinforces a sense of second class status. True the December 25, observance is celebrated early by the White House so that individuals can celebrate with their families at home. Such celebrations are merely echos of the holiday and merely a cultural commemoration connected to the season and not necessarily to the holiday itself. Even so, acknowledging Hanukkah celebrates a miracle that happened" . . . [I]n those days [long ago] during this time. (liturgy). Consequently, a Hanukkah celebration outside of the eight day festival seems to completely miss the point.

Asserting the Maccabees were believers in the Temple is just so wrong. Maccabee is an acrostic for the Hebrew Who is like You among the[nations']deities O' L-rd. The Hasoneam priests and their followers were not freedom fighters seeking to oust the Greco-Syrians. Political freedom was not as important as restoring religious autonomy and freedom. Indeed after the Temple was retaken and rededicated fighting continued for years afterwards. The celebration is not just because the oil burned slowly or was not consumed. Rather Hanukkah commemorates what the light kindled from pure oil in the Temple dedicated to G-D's worship represents. The Menorah's light, the light of Torah, the light of the human soul both being a D-vine light that dispels all manner of darkness.

True, as ,Mr. Ezra Friedlander described that at the door he was asked if he was shomer negia(an observer of the practice to separate between men and women who are not immediate family members by not touching) a level of sensitivity to be lauded. However, there was another mistake made and that was the First Lady wearing a sleeveless dress. After all there is an office of engagement dedicated to the Jewish community. It makes sense someone who is tasked with outreach to the Jewish community would brief the First Lady as to what constitutes appropriate attire. Jewish Law requires women to dress modestly. Modest dress means covering till the knees, elbows collar bone and married women their hair. As a gentile Ms. Obama need not cover her hair but to expose her body when so many Orthodox Jews were in attendance displays a dramatic lack of sensitivity..

This event of course comes on the heels of the US ambassador to Belgium, Defense Sec. Peneta and Sec. Clinton all engaged in harsh talk to Israel. Sec. Peneta placed the blame for stalled peace talks exclusively at Israel's feet.Sec. Clinton decried her concern about the status of women since religious soldiers walked out on performances by female soldiers.The preface to these incidents is of course VP Biden emphatic opposition to releasing Johnathan Pollard. This is just recently,but let no one forget the President pushing for a return to the 1949 armistice lines or the abandoning of Prime Minister Netanyahu in the White House.

The question for 2010 is at the end of the day is are Jews and Judaism merely tolerated by the administration or are Jews and Judaism welcome?

THE WHITE HOUSE 'S FAILURE TO LEAD

2011-10-29T19:42:00.001-05:00

FROM WHITE HOUSE "WE THE PEOPLE"

Why We Can't Comment
Thank you for signing the petition "Call an Investigation into Allegations of Prosecutorial & Judicial Misconduct in the Case of Sholom Rubashkin." We appreciate your participation in the We the People platform on WhiteHouse.gov.
As explained in the We the People Terms of Participation, the White House may at times decline to comment on certain specific matters properly within the jurisdiction of federal departments or agencies, federal courts, or state and local governments in its response to a petition. For important policy reasons, this includes specific law enforcement and judicial ethics matters. With respect to law enforcement matters, the Department of Justice is charged with investigating crime and enforcing our laws. The Department also has mechanisms in place to investigate allegations of prosecutorial misconduct, including through its Office of Professional Responsibility. With respect to judicial ethics matters, the Judicial Conduct and Disability Act of 1980 vests primary responsibility for investigating and adjudicating claims of judicial misconduct with the Judicial Branch.
This petition calls for an investigation into allegations of prosecutorial and judicial misconduct in the case of Sholom Rubashkin and for action to correct the “gross injustice” in his case. For the reasons given above, the White House declines to comment on matters raised by this petition.

Yet, the reason the people turned to the White House if because asking the respective agencies to police their own has all the charm of asking the fox to guard the henhouse. It was because Attorney General Holder already turned a deaf ear despite 6 former US Attorneys General and several prominent Law Professors and Legislators and the Eighth Circuit’s bizarre ruling that the 27 year sentence is actually lenient call out for a truly independent investigation in to this truly disturbing perversion of the American justice system. It Shame on the White House for taking the coward’s way of silence. For Shame for ignoring 50, 000 citizens

TIME IS ABOUT UP

2011-09-07T22:33:00.003-05:00

Below is copied and pasted from LAZER BEAMS from Rav Lazer Brody Shlita in Jerusalem. This man is not given to hyperbole. The time has come for what is truly important.

Thursday, 08 September 2011
Is Israel on the Brink of War?
Back in Rosh Hashana eve of 1973, Moshe Dayan and Golda Meir reassured a complacent Israeli public still drunk from the miraculous 1967 Six-Day War victory, "We've never been stronger! The Arabs wouldn't dream of attacking." On Yom Kippur of 1973, Syria and Egypt launched a two-prong surprise attack that brought Israel to its knees. Moshe Dayan was the first one to have a panic attack. Hashem saved us by a bigger miracle than 1967. Those of us who fought in that war can testify first hand.

Exactly 38 years later, we are in the same exact position. Only this time, the Arab noose is umpteen times more dangerous. Iran will have an A-bomb any day now. Al Qaida has taken over Sinai and our once quiet border with Egypt is now a powder keg. Turkey, our newest (old) enemy, i moving ships into our side of the Mediterranean. Hamas in Gaza has dangerous new Iranian and Libyan weapons, including bunker busters. Syria and Hizbulla have the nastiest chemical warheads, something beyond Satan's imagination.

One honest IDF commander - Home Front Command chief Maj. Gen. Eyal Eisenberg - said we must prepare for imminent war. Defense Minister Barak and company say that Eisenberg is exaggerating. Minister Yaalon is now joining the bandwagon of complacency too, saying, "No war in sight." These politicians are spiritually deaf and blind, hearing none of Hashem's wakeup calls.

My beloved teacher and spiritual guide, Rav Shalom Arush shlit'a, called me urgently to come see him today - he rarely does that, for we usually meet at regular intervals. He told me that his spiritual guide - the holy hidden Kabbalist Rabbi Yehuda Zev Leibowitz of saintly memory - came to him in a dream last night and said that in Heaven, all-out war against Israel has been decreed, a war which is supposed to break out before Rosh Hashana, in other words, within the next 3 weeks.

But, don't be afraid. Hashem does love us and wants to be with us. But, we must be worthy of the Divine Presence. Rav Shalom told me that every single Jew must begin doing serious teshuva and self-assessment while begging Hashem to delay this harsh decree. I asked Rav Shalom, "Why pray for a delay? Why not pray for a total cancellation?" Rav Shalom said the delay is to allow more people to make teshuva. A cancellation is almost impossible, because it's part of Hashem's plan to bring Moshiach, in the nearest future. Once Moshiach comes, teshuva will be worthless. Today, teshuva is still worth it's weight in diamonds. But time is running out super-fast.

I know that this post may earn me the status of the village idiot. But it's worth it if even one family heeds me. There is little time left. Forget about the new furniture and the new jewelry. We must all raise our voices in such a manner that the Heavenly Throne shudders. This is Nineveh 2011. Please, if you love your spouse and your children, start speaking to Hashem for an hour a day. Personal prayer invokes phenomenal Divine compassion, because it's a strong expression of emuna. Rav Shalom says, if you believe in Hashem, you speak to Him. If you don't believe in Him, then you don't speak. Let's all start speaking before it's too late.

Absurdly Arrogant

2011-08-17T08:40:00.000-05:00

The article pretty much speaks for itself.Though the United States needs to pursue its national interests to the exclusion of any other consideration. Acting in self interest is critical a country's survival. However when acting in national self interest involves bullying allies not just to get on board with the larger ally's policies but to engage in acts that are simply humilating. Similarly it is unacceptable for the larger ally to deny its freind the dignity of its own soverginty.

It is ibad enough that Washington refuses to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital. Indeed there is opinion that U.S policy denies the notion of there being a conpect of Jewish peoplehood. Further US State Department personnel are regularly deployed throughout Judea Samaria and Jerusalem to monitor Jewish construction. Ut us dusheartening to think American diplomats are being assigned the duties of a suburban code enforcement officer within another country.

Now to ask Israel to apologize to Turkey for defending itself against the armed persons aboard the infamous flotila borders on the absurd and is akin to the German government billing the Jewish community for the clean up after the debris caused by Kristalnacht. Asking Israel to apologize under the circumstances is insulting, demeaning and an expression of unbriddled arrogance that is inappropriate in international relations.
Shame on Washington for making the request Shame on Israel if they aquiese.

Washington - US to Israel: Apologize to Turkey, or Else; But Netanyahu Says No -- VosIzNeias.com

SEEING MAN TO MAN

2011-04-21T13:37:00.004-05:00

The subtle often belies the fundamental. Paying attention to nuance leads to compelling differences that distinguish otherwise equally valid points of view. Concerning the Land of Israel many objective observers conclude the best approach to the problem is compromise, a two state solution, a state for the Jews and a State for the Arabs within the Land of Israel.
Recently there were two videos offering two Jewish perspectives on Arabs.

The first was an observation by Ms. Malkah Fleischer who acknowledged her admiration of Arabs and their culture. However she cannot be friends with Arabs because they intend violence to her and her family either through compelling her husband to once again don his uniform and go to war, because of a threat through rockets, missiles or personal violence to lives of those she loves or their designs on her home and community she cannot be friends with Arabs.

The other video came from the Israeli version of "What Would You Do?"observed what happened when an Arab woman was refused service at a coffee Sop in the Israeli city of Holon. The Arab lady, actress would order a coffee and the counterman also an actor would refuse her declaring " we do not serve Arabs here!" Nearly every Israeli was indignant how can you deny her humanity? What makes her any different that you or I?, She is as much a person as anyone!?

These videos complement each other. Those people who stepped up to defend an Arab woman's right to purchase coffee would not necessarily tolerate belligerent acts that place Israel's population at risk.

Passionately defending the right of Jews to return, reclaim,settle and populate the length and breath of The Land of Israel does not come at the price of dehumanizing the Arabs. Israel generally and faithful Jews in particular teach return and redemption and defense.

Those living under Fatah or Hamas or their fellow travelers make the same claim?

How can anyone doubt who occupies the Moral high ground? Can there be any doubt who is the the true heir of Abraham's legacy both spiritual and physical"

EVIL IS REAL , EVIL MUST NEVER BE EXCUSED

2011-03-15T13:01:00.004-05:00

The 6th of Adar II will remain seared in the conscience of all who possess a soul. During that Shabbat evening the community of Itamar became a murder scene so gruesome in its violence language is inadequate to fully convey its scope. Five members of the Fogel were murdered in their home some while they slept or in bed.

Glenn Beck whose style is to indulge in over the top hyperbole was indeed spot on when describing the carnage as being beyond the twisted visions of Charles Manson. The images Mr. Beck referenced to are truly too intense, too horrific, too chilling to be shown even to those well acquainted with death.

Mr. Aaron Klein during his March 6, 2011 WABC radio broadcast interviewed a Fatah spokesman who focused on the Jewish presence in Judea and Samaria as being an usurpation of Arab lands that “ . . . they didn’t even pay for . . . .” apparently as justification for the attack. The ordinarily reserved Mr. Klein could not contain himself at this callously absurd assertion.

Prime Minister Netanyahu has approved the building of some 500 new housing units in Judea and Samaria in response. Further the Prime Minister in a statement noted how quick world opinion condemns Jewish building projects and how slowly world opinion responds to the loss of five Jewish lives in manner that belies the murderers’ brutish, soullessness.

Mr. Abbas sort of expressed a condemnation of the murders in a Saturday night phone call to PM Netanyahu and made a further condemnation of the murders in Arabic during an interview carried by Israeli radio. However as reported in the March 14, 2011 edition The New York Times reported that despite these words by Mr. Abbas the attitude expressed through the actions of his administration towards anti Israel incitement and the esteem in which terrorist are held and from whose ranks terrorists emerge belie something quite the opposite.

Secretary of State Clinton and echoed by the Quartet condemned the murders as Ms. Clinton’s press statement concludes “The murderers must be found and brought to justice. Israeli security forces have launched a thorough investigation and we look to the Palestinian authorities to assist in every way possible.”

Ms. Clinton, in Gaza Arabs were celebrating by distributing candies. Mr. Abbas’ office issues a statement that ““ . . . stressed his rejection and condemnation of all violence directed against civilians, regardless of who was behind it or the reason for it.” Ms. Clinton, Mr. Abbas seems to equate the accidental death of civilians amid the fog of war or as the victims as terrorists’ human shields to a murder that lies beyond Helter Skelter. Madame Secretary, the notion that the perpetrators be treated like criminals and not like combatants engaged in an act of war exposes a worldview based on a worldview absent of absolutes where good and evil become relative terms and lose any serious meaning. Ms. Clinton, when engaging in negotiations a shared sense of good faith and fair dealing between the parties is essential how then can Mr. Abbas be seen as any type of peace partner let alone a serious and sincere one?

As to any criticism about Jewish settlement in places like Itamar understand if Jews have no business in Itamar the where do the Jews belong? Should the Jews return to Europe? to Poland? Hungry? France? Iraq? or Yemen?, as suggested by Ms. Helen Thomas. If one claims that Jews do not belong in Itamar then on what basis do Jews belong in Jerusalem, Paris, London, Brooklyn or Lakewood New Jersey?

The danger is the Itamar atrocity in its psychotic levels of violence may be lost as an aberration and not as symptomatic of an underlying evil that deserves no recognition or tolerance among civilized persons.
”
Maybe time for words has ended. Maybe time has come to call out evil for what it is and stop its advance.

Throwing Rocks in a Glass House

2011-02-20T23:48:00.002-05:00

Check out this link

http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/hillary-clinton-israeli-settlements-illegitimate/story?id=12952834

It is wonderful Obama/ Clinton vetoed the Security Council mption agaisnt Israel---But Sec. Clinton declaring the return of Jews to Biblical lands as Illegitimate slaps each of my ancestors and every Jew in the face. Madame Secretary before saying anything to Israel speak with the Sioux, Lakota and Cherokee about how legitimate are the settelments of Boston , New York, Detroit, Chicago, Denver and Los Angeles???????

WHEN IDEOLOGY OVERTAKES REALITY.

2011-02-10T10:02:00.002-05:00

From ISRAEL NATIONAL NEWS- ARUTZ 7

White House Fudges on Whether it Would Save Israel

by Gil Ronen
Follow Israel news on and .

White House Spokesman Robin Gibbs would not pledge to guarantee Israel's security if its existence is in danger, in a Wednesday press briefing. In reference to recent Middle East turmoil, he was asked: "If Israel is threatened by any of these new governments or Hamas and Hizbullah, if its existence is in danger, would the US come to its assistance?

Gibbs answered: "Regardless of the situation facing any government in the region, our friendship, our partnership and our alliance with Israel is unchanged."

Gibbs also said the Administration could not force a peace settlement on Israel and the PA. "The president has been involved from day one in seeking a lasting peace between Israel and the Palestinians," he said, but added that "We cannot force those two into steps that they are unwilling to take steps to do themselves."

Press Secratery Gibbs expressed a firm committment by the United States to Israel, yet there was no mention of doing anything more then sending good wishes. How reassuring!
Now what Mr. Gibbs said in conclusion;

"We cannot force those two into steps that they are unwilling to take steps to do themselves."

First, of all it is encouraging that the Administration is not going to impose a settlement upon Israel and Fatah/Hamas. However what is disturbing and what colors Mr. Gibbs' prior statement of support for Israel is how he equated both sides almost making it sound like the unwillingness to reach an agreement is mutual.

To review how Israel has made concession after concession either through Territory, or through prisoner release of terrorists et. al. is so well known that reciting the list would be unnecessary. The list of concessions made by the other side is what? Maybe for the time being, not to send suicide bombers? The balance sheet is completely sckewed yet in the eyes of the Obama Aministration the parties are equally responsible for the lack of agreement. Outrageous.

Yet, on the other hand is Israel's desire to reach an agreementin its best interest?
Not that any rational person would endorse a state of hostility over a state of peace. However a nation must act in their own best interest. A desire for peace cannot be a death wish.

Aside from any historic, religious or cultural considerations that make relinquishing any part of the Land of Israel, Eretz Yisrael offensive and repugnat there all more practical concerns.

First there is the issue of relocating the roughly quater of a million Jews who live in Judea and Sumaria. Even Five years plus after the Disengagement from Gaza not all the Eight and Half Thousand Jews who lived in Gaza have been fully restored. Indeed for the sake of peace tens if not hundreds of lives were irrepaily altered.
Further a new state within the borders of Eretz Yisrael would place potential enemies with ever closer range to essential aspects of Israeli infrastructure and security.

Additionally the situation in the surrounding countries is of concern. Many countires have aging despotic leadership and a dissatisfied, middle class along with a wink and nod from the United States create the conditions for a perfect storm for revolt. Though it is unclear who controls those in rebellion, what is clear an organization dedicated to creating an Islamic megastate, a caliphate is the best organized and best poised to fill a power vacum in the wake of regieme change. The Obama or any Aministration failing to understand this means either the public is clueless or the Administration is oblivious to the obvious.

Mr. Gibb's comments reflects a profound failure of perception ,to the extant that it belies what could be best described as an inability to grasp reality.

READ THIS AND BE VERY SCARED

2010-11-28T19:31:00.003-05:00

This is particularly scary not just because this is being directed against Jews but the IRS exists to collect taxes not to enforce political orthodoxy.

Sure because the story is Jewish/Zionist related I am posting the article below BUT consider how much of our liberties and constitutional rights have been bulldoized since January 2009? THIS cannot continue and America as we know it, as we were taught to believe in can continue. Please look past party affiliation and look to principle

In the meantime as Chanukah approaches one wonders if lighting the Menorah will be an unwelcome declaration of Judaizing the Holy Land and the Temple Mount.

http://www.politico.com/blogs/bensmith/1110/IRS_to_Jewish_group_Does_your_organization_support_the_existence_of_the_land_of_Israel.html

TIME TO BELIEVE

2010-11-07T11:24:00.002-05:00

Recently synod of Catholic Clergy from the middle East asserted that Israel[i.e. Jews] cannot cite Biblical texts confirming the D-vine promise of the Land of Israel to the Jewish people. Indeed the Jews should cease their occupation of lands claimed by Arabs..

OK, maybe these men needed to make such a statement because their position in their home countries is precarious, yet, the Vatican seemed to echo the synod’s opinion.

UNESCO has called upon the State of Israel to remove the Cave of the Patriarchs and Rachel’s Tomb from the list of Jewish Heritage Sites. UNESCO endorsed the notion both sites are claimed exclusively as Mosques. UNESCO’s action was so outrageous that is prompted Israel to formally declare it was suspending its cooperation with the UN agency.

One’s initial reaction would be somewhere between “ . . . . and where do the @#$%ing Vatican and UNSECO think Jews do belong? ” Or ’ This is so outrageous !!!! To @#$% with them.!!!!” However neither reaction is useful.

Yet ignoring these developments would be a missed opportunity. Why deny the legitimacy of using Jewish sacred texts as the basis of Jewish claim to the Promised Land? Implied in the admonition is an acknowledgement however begrudging in the enduring truth of the D-vine promises. Similarly, why claim the burial sites of the Patriarchs and Matriarchs as Mosques and beyond a legitimate Jewish claim also implies a need to shout down the truth that is stated in Scripture.

An obvious conclusion can be drawn. Those who are hostile to the Jewish people particularly the presence of Jews in the Land of Israel in fulfillment of prophecy and as part of the national history and heritage feel the need to de-legitimatize that connection. If they believe why shouldn’t the Jews? Maybe this is how G-D through Jewry’s opponents compels a spiritual awakening. An awakening to embrace Jewish history and Heritage as the exclusive basis to assert Jewish values and identity.

It is time to believe in the Jewish nation and narrative.

POLICY PARADOX

2010-10-05T23:40:00.004-05:00

It has been too long since the last posting but the story still has not changed all that much. It boggles the mind that State Department employees are deployed to Judea and Samaria to essentially act like suburban code enforcement officers checking to make sure there is no Jewish construction in Judea and Samaria and I guess Jerusalem as well.

Consider the arrogance such a policy entails. How does any sovereign country tolerate such paternalistic domination? Indeed the notion that in the Jewish state there is any place a Jew is not welcome is just wrong.

What is even more bewildering is the rights of an Imam to build a Mosque at 51 Park where wreckage from the airliners turned WMDs fell on 9/11/01. It does not seem consistent that rights of religious freedom and expression should trump the provocative aspect s of the venture. The rule is generally your rights end at the tip of my nose. Simply put, there are two aspects to balance regarding the Ground Zero Mosque; I s it merely a cultural and religious center standing for peace moderation and tolerance or as statement of triumph not unlike a Roman victory arch or a street gang marking its turf with graffiti ?

A hallmark of American democracy is the extent to which the majority will protect the civil rights of the minority even the ones who are unpopular. Even so if a few persons’ speech/expression offends Millions does it remain protected?

The general rule articulated by the US Supreme Court the treedom of speech/expression is limited to the right to put out the speech or expression to the public but there is no requirement that anyone listen to the message.The Court's reasoning make's sense when addressing a neo-nazi rally or seasonal displays reflecting religious themes. However something permenent like the Ground Zero Mosque is a message that cannot be ignored by the public and should be proscribed against as a form of fighting words which are not protected speech.

Yet both Mayor Bloomberg and President Obama endorsed the right to build an in your face monument celebrating terrorism- no matter how it may be sold to the public that project is just that in-your-face that its meaning is unmistakable.

But G-D forbid some Jew living in Efrat or Ma’aleh Adumim or Kiryat Araba wanted to build a deck or install a swing set in one’s backyard that right is not recognized and indeed such subversive behavior is an impediment to peace posing a threat greater than a nuclear device from Iran. That is just so wrong.

The paradox is stark maybe it is time to review and reacess so that the United States continue to champion freedom and human rights. Human Rights that build to make a bright future and not to celebrate conauest and death.
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SPARKS

2010-08-10T12:26:00.001-05:00

Occasionally, an otherwise irrelevant story carries on its back an element of significance. The discussions following Chelsea Clinton’s wedding to Marc Mezvinsky in of itself is newsworthy only because the bride is the daughter of a former President and the present Secretary of State. However in the Jewish world there is a strange dual image.

On the one hand the notion that the American version of royalty accepts a Jew in its midst represents a piercing of a glass ceiling. Especially as the groom came under the wedding canopy clad with a Kipa and Talit draped over his designer suit.

On the other hand a Jewish boy was marrying outside the faith. Not only was this an intermarriage, all the groom’s expressions of Jewish identity were made on Shabbat itself. Strictly speaking from the perspective of Jewish Law once one decides not to marry Jewish the Jewish elements employed in the ceremony including the participation of Jewish clergy is an affront before G-D, which is only magnified by the event occurring on Shabbat.

Others see amid the unarguably negative aspects of Clinton Mezvinsky nuptials there is a dim but bright light of the groom unabashed assertion of Jewish Identity.

Recently, two Orthodox Rabbis one a Black Hatter the other a Modern Orthodox Rav each essentially argued the positions outlined above. As the reader [thank you for stopping by] might have guessed there is another dimension under which this event can be analyzed.

The Jewish experience in the modern era especially in America is represented in microcosm by Marc Mezvinsky’s wedding. Many times the theme plays itself out in historically and in popular culture Jews wish to assimilate, participate, succeed and be accepted by the general society while believing one can remain fully engaged as Jews.

No matter what learned discourse emerges from Hebrew Union College or the Jewish Theological Seminary and the myriad University Jewish/Judaic Studies departments defending a variety of observance streams that depart from an allegiance to the centrality of the belief in G-D’s authority is revealed through the oral and written Torah. In all candor the acceptance by many Jews of contortions of Judaism rather than abandon all identity has nothing to do any learned treatise. Rather there is something in the Jewish psyche that resist complete assimilation. The cantor’s son in the Jazz Singer can no longer identify with his old world parents and their outmoded traditions is yet pulled back by both family and history to the synagogue to lead services on Yom Kippur.

Hollywood during WWII wanted to let everyone know Jews were doing their part, watch any number of era movies and see how often a couple lines of Yiddish are thrown in to convey the message Jews serve as well. Jewish identity by Hank Greenberg and Sandy Kofax not playing on High Holidays inspired pride An observation made during the 2000 American Presidential race that Democratic Vice –Presidential candidate Sen. Joseph Lieberman being an observant Jew was a non-issue underscored how well Jew were accepted in American society.. [Unlike President Kennedy’s Catholicism in 1960 or more recently Mitt Romney’s Mormonism or Mike Huckabee’s credentials as a minister]

The point is Jews are reluctant to completely estrange themselves from their identity and heritage. Unfortunately the expressions of Jewish Identity like Mr. Mezvinsky’s take a contradictory effect. Mr. Mezvinsky effort to identify with Jewish tradition and identity ignore the more far-reaching effect of precluding from his children a Jewish continuity and future. The conundrum’s absurdity is so stark that it drifts past parody to the pathetic.

However not to recognize a spark no matter how small that wishes to remain steadfastly part of the Jewish nation is even sadder. Failing to recognize a spark no matter how small that wishes to remain steadfastly part of the Jewish nation means to fail to recognize that the little spark can be fanned in to a full flame.

As the High Holidays Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur approach maybe the lesson for every Jew especially those who live and breathe the axiom that Torah is “ . . .our life and the measure of our days .. . .” is to not hesitate to speak honestly about Judaism and Jewish law and values and still finding the positive no matter how slight .

WHICH WAS THE REAL DEAL?

2010-07-09T17:33:00.002-05:00

Prime Minister Natanyahu met again with President Obama this time with all the bell snd wistles. So of course which reception truly reflects the Presidents' views this time or last time when PM Netanyahu was left alone while the President went to have diner with his daugthers?

However it is telling that there is an on going effort by the President to make nice after the earlier gaff. However this may be more in response to buyer's remorse on the part of American Jews who voted for the President but would reluctant to do so again as well as a nod to the Democratic Congress that has overwhelmingly pro-Israel.

Improoving relations with the Islamic world is a good thing and in American's interest. However the way to made new friends is not by abandoning the old ones nor by losing one's own identity and values to satisfy the other. Without saying more it is possible that the President's international background and out-of -the-mainstream mentors may have brought him to a place where he does not have an American identity or at least not one as strong as his predecessors in office.

Alack of national self esteem can be made for Mr, Netanyahu as well however before condeming totally one must account for whatever strongarm tactics were used on him, even so he too must step up to assert Jewish National interests against Mr. Obama and his minions. One must be who they are destined to be a Jew must be a Jew no matter how badly he may want otherwise. Faith and strength are what matter once one knows who one is then a worldview and desicions can be competently made.

It is Not Working : Substance speaks louder than Falsh

2010-05-28T14:51:00.004-05:00

Last night May 27, 2010 the White House celebrated Jewish Heritage Month by hosting a reception for a cross section of American Jewry. As the JTA stry relate one of those in attendence wasRabbi Alyssa Stanton of Greenville, N.C., the first black woman rabbi. The whatis wrong with this picture aspect of the description should go without saying. But in the President's view of Jewish America is this the view of Rabbinic Scholarship?

It seems the Oval office is trying too hard at winning Jews over and protesting how much they love Israel. .

Wooing American Jews just does not wash away the Administration's arrogant paternalistic treatment of Israel but demanding a building freeze in Judea Sameria and Jerusalem. Indeed there have been reports of American inspectors looking for new construction like a suburban code enforcement officer. The fact the Administration sees a swing set in an Efrat backyard is more of a threat to world security than an Iranian Nuke says more of what Washington believes than Having Sandy Kofax come to 1600 Pennslyvainia Avenue.

YOM YERUSHALYIM YOM HaYEHUDIMjERUSALEM DAY A DAY TO BE JEWISH

2010-05-12T17:57:00.003-05:00

Its been awhile the swril of events has made meaningful analysis difficult. As the 28th of Iyar 5770 ebbs and thoughts of a united Jerusalem come to the forefront it is a time to reflect.

43 years ago the words not uttered since the exile began Har Habayit B'Yadainu, "The Temple Mount is in Our Hands" Imagine the realization of every yearning spoken by generations of Jews at the end of Yom Kippur or The Passover Seder Next Year in Jerusalem became an almost reality.

The reality of return to Zion, to all of Biblical Israel, and especially the Temple Mount raised the spirits of Jews everywhere. As a 9 year old the lesson was the Jewish State was made whole.

Yet 43 years latter the future of the Holy City as a unified municipality is threatened. Not just Arab neighborhoods but even Meah Shearim are called in to question. The outrageous notion that the United States could act with paternalistic arrogance the American government at the Highest levels dares tell Jews where they build or not build . A restriction not imposed on the Arabs. Indeed Israels policies are blamed for American servicemembers being in harm's way in Afagnistan.

How did this happen?

Ultimately G-D has His reasons but one cannot help but wonder if the root of the world's hostility to Jewish claims to the Holy land may lie in Jewry's ambiguity to Eretz Yisrael being Jewry's inheritence. A reluctence to acknowledge the histortic connection as a moral basis for claiming the land as belonging exclusively to the Jewish People. Unfortunately al these claims become diluted when an Israeli Identity replaces a Jewish identity. By embracing an identity born in 5708 one cannot claim an eternal claim reaching back to Sinai on 6 Sivan 2448.

As the holiday of Jerusalem's restoration should be seen as a prelude to receiving the Torah on Shavout.

G-D'S ADVICE IS, STAND YOURSELF UP!

2010-03-22T23:51:00.004-05:00

There really may be not too much to say. It would seem the Obama administration’s arrogant and paternalistic approach to Israel has crossed the line when Jewish parts of Jerusalem are called "settlements".

Certainly the United States needs to act in its own interests even if they are contrary to Israel's. Certainly, it cannot be expected that any two countries agree bout everything. However, for one country to speak paternally to another, effectively one country to dictate the other's policies offends notions of democracy and sovereignty. Therefore the United State, EU the UN are within their rights to be comment on Israel's policies, even if the statements are wrong headed. Such comments are one side of a debate. However when the tone taken is one of "We know better what is in your interest" Friends can be critical but friends cannot dictate.

However being told what to do may arise from a perception of lost direction and principle. When the vision of a Jewish State was not merely a demographic one but the fulfillment albeit secular of the redemption. As long as the State is recognized as the long yearned for return of the Jews to their historic homeland, return to anything less than the whole of the Biblical borders of Israel would be inadequate. The willingness to live with Arab neighbors was rooted in generosity and tolerance and not surrender, acquiescence or retreat. Acknowledging anything other than an exclusive Jewish claim to the land constitutes wavering on the Jewish claim to the whole of the homeland. Maybe the equivocation that began at Camp David and continued in Madrid, Oslo, Wye and Annapolis has left Israel open to the rest of the world to do with it as the nations' please.

The most disturbing may well be the attempts by Jewish leaders to dance at two weddings. Such as Eric Yoffe of the Central Conference of American Rabbis by defending both Israel’s right to build while agreeing with the Obama Administration that building now may not be good idea. Such thinking is muddled and only emboldens an opponent who is laser focused to remain on message.

As the Holiday of Passover approaches may all Jews gathered at the Seder declare not just "Next Year In Jerusalem" But a Jerusalem fully rebuilt, whole and unabashedly as well as stridently Jewish. Kudos Mr. Netanyahu for speaking truth to power please sir act with that same moral grounding when dealing with President Obama or Ms. Clinton. Mr. Prime Minister G-D has placed you were you are for a purpose. Mr. Prime Minister do not fear the Nations side with G-D , His Torah His People and the promises, heritage and history of the Jewish People.

LEFT OUT ??!?!?

2010-02-21T23:52:00.009-05:00

It has been awahile,nothing much has taken place that raises my ire recently except for a recent Israel National News story that the Tomb of the Patriarchs as well as Rachel's Grave were included on a list of National Heritage Site the Prime Minister's office would promote . While today's 7 Adar 5770, 21 February 2010Israel National News reports the Prime Minister's office intends to correct the ommissions soon. Persoanlly the translation means wow we did not think anyone would notice!!Bust since you caught us we will correct the problem while never acknowledgeing there was an issue in the first place.

Subtle messages abound, from the new Israeli mind set that present day Jewish-Israelis have little connection to thier progenitors. The nostalgia of Hebron being one of the Four Lands of Life during the diaspora. Indeed the return of Jews to hevron after the six day was treated life McArthur upon his return to the Phillipines.

When Kiryat Arba celebrated its Tenth anniversaryamong the notable attendig was them Prime Minister Begin. As the Prime Minister is no stranger to the legacy of Tanach it is remote to think he does not appreciate the significance of these iconic site to the Jewish People. To speculate what the Prime Minister's inital thinking was would be exactly that speculation and without some facts to serve as a foundation suggesting a motive would be less than guessing.

Of Course there is a 'however' Reported 8 Adar 5770, 2/20/10 on Israel National Radio the PA responded that the Prime Minister's action would complicate the situation. It sounds absurd that in the county founded in part as haven, as a return to the ancestoral homeland the rights of Jews to go where and when they please could be challenged. Decency and good manners cannot be the basis for weakening or retreating from any place in Eretz Yisrael that is partJewish people's heritage and legacy.Failing to assert a strident unmovable Jewish claim that Rachel's Tomb and the Machpela belong to the Jewish People represents a fundamental suspension of self respect that all human beings enjoy. If one denies oneself identity what remains of the individual? What remains of the nation?

Possibly this fear of losing himself is what motivated Mordechai refused to acknowledge Haman. Bowing to Haman would mean retreat from the fullness of Jewish consciousness and sensibility.

Mr. Prime Minister may be these Holy Sites were simply left off your list as an oversight as the alternative is too painful to consider.

INTEL OR PINTELE!

2009-12-02T15:05:00.004-05:00

Then as now there is a battle over the Jewish character of Jerusalem. The end of next week just before the Shabbat candles are lit the First Chanukah light is kindled.

The Macacbes fought not only Greco-Syrian forces but had to contend with Hellenist Jews. Victory was defined by the restoration of Jewish sovereignty to the Temple Mount. Jewish sovereignty was not established by which flags flies over Mt. Moriah but the reinstitution of the Temple service even if it is limited to lighting the Menorah. Nere possession is not enough it is the demonstrative action, acting like an owner establishes title

Presently, there are internal as well as external threats to Jewish sovereignty over Jerusalem. The Nations lead by the United States cannot accept Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. Remarkably, in an era where the American President and foreign policy are laughed at Israel’s Prime Minister still feels the need to call the White House for a hall pass. After 61 years Israeli leadership still has a desperate need for the nations' acceptance. The on-going protests against public violation of Shabbat by Haraidi Jews are met with Secular protests that implore “ Get the Haraidim off our backs!”.Why challenge the public observance of Shabbat as an expression of fidelity to the Jewish heritage.

No attempt to make comparisons between the Chanukah story and the present day is intended except in the broadest terms as a struggle for the character of the Eternal Capital of the Jewish people. Certainly those who would find common cause with the PA whether they are Jewish people affiliated with the International Solidarity Movement or Neturei Karta belong to a category of individuals who deserve only condemnation and can simply be labeled a traitors.

But, for people to take to the streets to protest Jews seeking to enhance the public face of Shabbat is disturbing. It would seem silly to believe the average secular Israeli ascribes such a high value to have the freedom to go clubbing on Friday night or shopping on Shabbat. It may be naïve to believe but as the Tanya teaches the nature of a Jewish person left to themselves would not consciously choose to sin. Further some of the Haraidi Protests in defense of Shabbat may have triggered far more Shabbat desecration than what the protesters wished to prevent.

The apparent failure of Haraidi protests and the response elicited leaves one to wonder why? Simply asserting the seculars are ensnared in their own desires and indulgences misses the point. The answer lies in a subtle aspect of the Chanukah story. The First Rebbe of GER ZT’L ZY’A. Even though the forces lead by Yehudah HaMacabee began as a a group of dissenters their movement represents a groundswell of return to Judaism. The Menorah, because it belongs to the whole nation could not be an instrument for miracles as long as one of its owners was disconnected from his or her faith. Therefore there was something about the Maccabees’ campaign that lit the Pinteleh Yid within even a Helenized Jews. Why? Matityahu, Yehudah etc fought not to restore their Shabbat, or restore their Torah, but G-D‘s and Israel’s Shabbat and Torah. The message came across “This fight belongs to each of us!!”

Now it would be presumptuous to declare what the Haraidi motivations for protest are but the results speak for themselves. If Chas V’Shalom Haraidi protests are provincial in nature and seek merely to preserve their own comunity's way of life, their Shabbat, their worldview then there could be little wonder why their efforts are met with hostility.

Indeed the apparent divide between secular and religious sectors of the Israeli population reaches so deeply that a distinction can be made between Jews and Israelis, two distinct ethnic identities for a single people with a shared history and for the most part a shared ancestory.

As the Lights dance above our Menoroth this Chanukah maybe the message is to each Jewish Man Woman and Child the legacy of Judaism’s heritage belongs to them. THE choice is Intel or Pinteleh Yid

PROTESTING THE POLICE AND PROTESTORS

2009-11-22T02:00:00.004-05:00

PLEASE check out this story

http://www.vosizneias.com/43500/2009/11/21/israel-charedim-police-clash-at-fresh-jerusalem-rally-against-intel-plant

To be sure the seeing the violation of Shabbat not necessarily a matter of personal choice. The experience of Shabbath is an actual nearly tangible thing therefore witnessing the violation of Shabbath by other Jews is a painful experience.
The protests at the Intel plant and the carta parking lot are shameful because of how the holy is being damaged.

It escapes me why in a era of governments being stapped for cash and Mayor Barakat wishing to enhance the city's stature as a destination why squander resources on quelling Shabbath Protest when they could dealt with Sunday -friday? Wht is there no attempt at conversation? I may be well to wonder how much Chilull Shabbat was caused by the protest? Additionally the unwillingness of the municipality's unwilling atitude is profoundly disturbing as it seeks to nulify a significant percentage of Jerusalem's Jews.

Could anyone who care even a little about Jewish unity not be scared and somewhat sickened by these reports and that no respect was given to an elderly Rav one of the nation's leader's. Shame on a state and education system that fails its pupils and their parents by not imparting a sense of context,identity and heritage. How sad the Chariadimg appear unable to communicate meaningfully without violence.

RABBINC RIGHTS JUDICAL WRONGS

2009-11-19T11:04:00.002-05:00

Justice Benish’s recent ruling that wrested authority for Kashrut certification from the Rabbinate only serves to reaffirm my developing theory that those who embrace liberal –leftist ideology live in a reality parallel to our own..

The present has its roots in the past. American law has its origins in the common law of England which in turn has connections to the Roman civil law who in turn took legal principles from the Greeks who had contact with the Prophets, Scholars and scribes of Israel .

Similarly, Israeli Law is a patchwork of Ottoman, British and the sensibilities associated with generic values associated with liberal democracies. As necessary the courts will look at Jewish legal sources and in fairness probably more often than other jurisdiction though it does not enjoy the status it should have in the Jewish State. The Jewish Legal Heritage represents over three thousand years of scholarship and precedent

All jurisprudence has its origins in what came before. Though circumstances can and do change the variations are transient whereas the essentials of the human condition remain a constant. Therefore even though technology and standards of living can change ancient principles are still applicable in the present day. This is why a legal system needs a sense of fidelity to history as this adds authority and reliability to a particular society’s legal system.

The study of Mishpat HaIvrei, academic study of Jewish Law is a recognized discipline in Law Schools throughout the world. As an Attorney and Rabbi and even more so as a Jew it would be a source of pride and demonstration of the nation’s eternal nature that the Israel’s judiciary and Supreme Court embrace as well as respect the Jewish Legal Heritage.

Israel ’s Supreme Court and in particular under Justice Barak and now Justice Benish displays what comes across as a disdain to Jews and Judaism. When the Supreme Court recently ruled that Jews have a right of worship on the Temple Mount as well as some other positive rulings it was viewed as a cause for blessing He Who works miracles. The Court has long inserted itself in the Rabbinate’s jurisdiction in conversion,divorce and kosher certification. The present ruling reported by Israel National News .Arutz -7 The Ashdod Rabbinate withdrawing Kosher Supervision from an establishment operated by a Jew who claims belief in the object of Christian veneration. It was reported that the Court declared that;

. . . Halakhic [Jewish legal] standards that measure when one’s personal kashrut claims may be believed are not part of the “hard core” of kashrut laws to which the State of Israel is obligated. Therefore, the fact that the rabbinate does not "trust" the owner is not sufficient reason to withhold the kashrut certification (INN/A7 news story 11/18/2009)

Such a ruling further strips the rabbinate of authority and credibility. It is equally astonishing that the Chief Rabbis, Rabbis Amar and Metzger or other rabbinic associations have not pledged to protest/defy the Supreme Court’s ruling. Nor has legislation been proposed in the Knesset to fix this situation. Why ? Is there a lack of commitment or intimidation? Or does inaction to restoring the rabbinate’s honor stem from a sense of despair?

The frontiers of arrogance are apparently being mapped out by Justice Benish and her ilk. Ruling that Kosher certification has a secular definition that lie beyond the reach of rabbinic authority reads like a Purim satire. Again not just to those who already observe Torah and Mitzvoth but any proud Jew’s passions should enflamed. This issue is a further symptom of the worldview that cannot see the imperative to retain all of Jerusalem, how Mama Rachel weeps at her children having to encase her tomb under a bunker or how our grand parents in Hevron are surrounded by hostile neighbors and on and on. Those who subscribe to Justice Benish’s way of thinking see operation cast lead as collective punishment of Gazan Arabs or see a realistic option in engaging Iran in real diplomatic dialogue.

It seems necessary for the Rabbinate and all well meaning folks to rebuff the Supreme Court’s insult and to seek out the assertion of authority not in the spirit of arrogance but as an expression of self esteem. Now as the Jewish character of the state is openly challenged both from within and without. Now, is the time for Israeli government to embrace Judaism’s heritage in the state’s public life

Hevron Matters

2009-11-12T23:42:00.002-05:00

Normally this blog offers insight to political issues but the improtance of Hevron in the Jewish consciousness makes placing this Dvar Torah here. Each evening the declaration of faith contained in recitation of Shema is prefaced by stating that “ . . . they [the words of Torah] are our life and the measure of our days . . .” The Ba’al Haturim ZT’L ZY’A among his observations on Bereshith 1:1 notes Bereshith is an acrostic for From the beginning G-D saw that Israel will accept the Torah. Therefore, these and other sources imply a powerful connection between Israel’s connection to Torah and creation itself. Consequently, words of Torah on a particular matter have the effect of intensifying the concentration of D-vine energy associated with that particular thing. As Hillel taught (Avot 2:7) “ . . . the more Torah, the more life . . . .”

Therefore even though Chaye Sara touches on topics as fundamental as marriage or injecting spirituality in the midst of the workday, it is particularly important to dedicate words of Torah about Avraham Our Father A’H acquiring the Machpelah field and cave.

23:17-18,20 gives detail about the conveyance of Efron’s property to Avraham. The property is identified in detail, both the cave and field. Further the forum before which the land was purchased is also recorded. Rabbi Moshe Alshich ZT’L ZY’A commenting on 23:20 emphasizes that the transaction was not private between Avraham and Efron. Avraham was concerned the right to own burial property was restricted to residents and transients Therefore Avraham could have paid Efron the 400 shekels mentioned in 23:16 and the transfer could blocked by the Bene Chet council. Avraham wanted nothing to be left for chance this deal was to be unassailable. Additionally, Rabbi Meir Yechiel HaLevi of Ostrovitza ZT’L ZY’A in Ohr Torah calculates how the price paid by the progenitor of the Jewish people secured a place for each Jewish soul from the settling of Eretz Yisrael till the year 6000, by which Mashiach shall arrive.

Certainly, the notion that our father Avraham secured for each Jew a place in Eretz Yisrael is profound in of itself. However, the open question remains why Hevron?
Rashi ZT’L ZY’A (12:2) explains based on the Midrash Hevron was called karat Arba because four couples were buried there, Adam and Chava, Avraham and Sara, Yitzchak and Rivkah and Ya’akov and Leah . The original city was founded during the generation of dispersion according to Sefer Chibat Yerushalim (pg 194). The original city served as a Levite city and as a city of refuge, consequently the cave of the Machpelah was outside the city where the residents would observe the laws of ritual purity in a very carefully. However when the present city of Hevron was built it began with the cave of Machpelah as its center. The Ohr HaChaim ZT’L ZY’A comments on 23:2 contrast the two names Kiryat Arba and Hevron as how those buried there were truly unique. These righteous personages had departed a place made from the four primordial elements, fire, air , water and earth to join together (in Hebrew, Chibur) the physical and spiritual worlds first while alive in a body and then afterwards when the body is left behind but the soul connects between Heaven and Earth. Rabbi Nathan of Breslov ZT’L ZY’A observes concerning 23:17 that the property changed hands between Efron and Avraham. Both the Seller and Buyer are connected to dust, Earth. Efron is symbolic of the aspect of dust , dirt as a lifeless, lethargic indulgent clod whereas Avraham who declared himself as nothing more than “: . . Ashes and Dust . . . .” (18:27). Avraham emulated the aspect of humility present within dust and dirt Instead of indulgence Avraham’s dustiness left his heart open to others’ needs and to faith. Further Rabbi Nathan notes this was Kiryat Arba where the four couples represent both masculine and feminine aspects of spirituality. The person buried and to be buried in the Machpelah were tireless persons dedicated to seeking an ever closer relationship with G-D. Those persons interred were humble and open and actively seeking growth.

The example set by the founding families symbolizes the sea change made by Avaraham in the human condition. As Rabbi Avraham Yitzchak Kook ZT’L ZY’A declared just six months after the Arab riots and massacre of 5689/1929 why Hevron matters and must remain settled by Jews;

“The memory of the Patriarchs and Matriarchs as well as the cave of the Machpelah connects us, the present generation with Adam. Such a connection casts Jewish nationalism in an eternal context with strong ties to the roots of creation itself is all dependant on Hevron, ”

(R’YAH HaOriot, V’HaAvoth pg 104 )

Hevron and the Machpelah convey the fundamental notions of what Judaism’s core values this why Hevron Matters till today and throughout time.

So Smart and yet so Clueless

2009-10-26T22:20:00.003-05:00

Bill Moyers recently interviewed Judge Goldstone concenring the report on Operation Cast Lead. The Judge has a long CV of analyzing the conduct of nations in conflict. He has analyzed South Africa, Kosavo etc . . . . Judge Goldstone seemed to articulate the objective criteria he used to make fine distinctions in behavior between acts of legitimate warfare and war crimes.

Judge Goldstone is quite erudite, articulate and the his self assured air puts forward an honest presentation of his investigations’ findings. Listening to the Judge one clearly sees how he can claim his credentials as a Zionist. The Judge in his mind is quite fair and objective.

This is problem his finely hone academic standards seem to completely miss the fundamental notion of war as Patton said is make sure the other fellow dies for their country. Certainly Israel does not wish to harm anyone. However, if the prime purpose of a government is to protect its citizens Rockets and now missles were being launched without restraint into Israeli population centers render Judge Goldstone’s nice little protocols quite laughable.

How could massive attacks against Gaza be disproportionate or collective punishment? It should be obvious the only way to defeat Hamas is to deny them safe haven within Gaza .Hamas can only stay in Gaza as long as the civilian population tolerating Hamas in their midst. The most obvious way to uproot Hamas from Gaza is to make the price for harboring Hamas so great the Gazans would no longer be willing to do so.

Judge Goldstone’s failure to recognize this as well as the how Hamas as other terrorists use decency as a weapon against democracies belies a .how too much scholarship detaches even a brilliant person from reality. Judge Goldstone belittled Israel’s efforts at warning civilians because the Gazans had nowhere to go-i.e. Israel is responsible for Egypt not opening its border with Gaza?

Judge Goldstone is an exemplar of how brilliance and scholarship devoid of Torah and faith leaves one detached and seeming foolish in the light of truth and rationality.

THE SILVER LINING on the Eve of 5770

2009-09-15T11:58:00.002-05:00

A friend once asked “were times ever good?” Every year it seems when one looks back on the year that is drawing to a close the question becomes “could it get any worse? ” Year after year one concludes, this year it was really bad. Needless to say one eventually becomes reluctant to declare “this is as bad as it could get, things cannot become worse” out of fear things will spiral downwards.

Yet, to focus only the positive and there are indeed positives only ignores reality. With the winds of hope and change, which captured the national consciousness in January, has turned to horror and chagrin, as ostensibly high-minded initiatives to benefit society’s health and environment are actually attempts to stealthily reshape the national character.
America, is built on the notion of the autonomous individual choosing to participate in limited government. The design which has caused a ground swell of popular opposition. e Both prongs of the present regime’s agenda seek to create a society dependant on government for basic needs. If successful, the government will control the growth of businesses, especially in manufacturing and consequently controlling employment. If the national government gains control of health care the focus shifts from concern for an individual’s needs for those of society generally. Instead of valuing the individual and a model built on individual rights one’s duty to the community/country will become public policy’s North Star.

A shift away from acknowledging the value of the individual combined with an apparent adoption of the Arab/Islamic narrative that the creation of the modern State of Israel was no more than the intrusion of Jewish interlopers seeking a haven in the aftermath of the Holocaust, cannot be viewed as being good for the Jews. The administration’s efforts to create Middle East peace has resulted in a 4% approval for the American President by Israeli society. Similarly, Prime Minister Netanyahu has found the administration’s demands so beyond the pale he has more or less has withstood the pressure applied against him. True in the Bar Ilan University speech the Prime Minister accepted the notion of a two state solution and even if that acceptance is so qualified that acceptance is restricted to February 30, 2011 at 13:00 am. Even so the hypothetical change is an ideological breach which is enough to start down a slippery slope

The Rabbis in the Talmudic tractate Megila observe the threat posed by the Persian King Achashveirosh authorizing Haman to attack and slaughter the Jews aroused more repentance that all the rebuke given by all the Prophets. Maybe this is the time for those who are apathetic to step up and claim their identity and heritage. Maybe a powerful person’s hubris is so powerfully disdain by a free people that it can galvanize a population to say a resounding “NO!!!!” So too it is time for Israel’s place among the nations is as an equal, a people of history , culture and destiny all their own. It is time for Israel to champion it own values, mores and sensibilities and stop aping what others’ hold dear.

Maybe this is the sliver lining both for the American and Israeli peoples attempts to demand a people abandon their unique character, values, mores, heritage or destiny will not succeed. The human spirit, the soul does not abide falsehood.

Blessings for being signed and sealed for a year full of blessings

SUBTLE SNUB or Business as Usual

2009-08-07T04:30:00.002-05:00

Remarkable, An American Jew living in Jerusalem cannot have his child'S Passport list the place of Birth as Jerusalem,Israel,contrary to Fedral law nor will the Courts exercise jurisdiciton over the matter, As this touches on foregin policy which is exclusively part of the Executive Branch and may affect “peace” talks. Yet, from the Consulate's web site one would think the city is totally Arab as if like there are no Jews in the Holy City.

How much insult to the Jewish self esteem will it take untill we all call out "No More!!!!" ?

EYE ON ZION

2009-07-29T11:41:00.000-05:00

Check this out, this program is just excellent good Pre TISHA b
Av viewing

Eye on Zion 1

2009-07-29T11:40:00.001-05:00

Eye on Zion 1

Shared via AddThis

A TEACHABLE MOMENT

2009-07-24T15:37:00.001-05:00

Firstly, this latest incident (2 Menachem Av 5769) should be viewed in context with the Rubashkin/agriprocessors matter, the rioting and violence by elements of the Charedi community plus assorted child molestation charges against various individuals and institutions. Certainly regarding any one case no one should rush to judgment. Truly except for the participants and Hashem who really knows what happened and whether anyone intended to commit crimes.

Even if each and every religious looking person arrested Thursday 2 Menachem Av 5769 is 100% guilty G-D forbid temper one’s personal disdain by asking “If I were in these persons’ position would I reject the cooperating witness’ money?”
Would one be tempted by an offer of cash? Hopefully the temptation would be fleeting and one would not succumb. Therefore, strain one’s outrage through that thought and recall that one who judges others favorably s/he will judged favorably as well.

Further as far the public face of religious Jewry in the public mind innocence or guilt is all but irrelevant. Though it is pure speculation one cannot but wonder effect these shenanigans has on the public perception of religious Jews especial those interacting with societal institutions where impressions of integrity are key, such as lawyers or accountants. The Assistant US Attorney’s remarks at the press conference announcing the indictments and arrests could not contain his revulsion over religious leaders using their office and prestige to cover the alleged illegal activities. The AUSA’S remarks might have reflected animus but it seemed like a genuine sense of disgust against influential persons misusing their position calling them as those living in a “Ethics Free Zone”

How could any person who takes pride in their D-viely bestowed heritage not cringe at such statements.

What remains is what message is Hashem sending the Jewish nation? Analyzing what is the message is especially important for those who profess fidelity to His Torah both letter and spirit.

Without wagging a finger at any individual maybe the community’s priorities should be redirected. Instead of making internet or TV sins warranting rejection from an elementary of High School Yeshiva or Beit Yaakov maybe emphasize values of honesty, integrity and faithfulness instead.

Maybe all Torah based schools should incorporate ethics as part of the curriculum as well as introducing students to the basics of Jewish Law-Halacha regarding business, contract, torts lending etc…

Maybe all institutions before selecting honorees for their dinners or other function decide if they are personally worthy. Maybe to the extent possible only accept Kosher money.

Maybe this should be when a voice should rise up as a ground swell towards those who sit at the dais as leaders of those faithful to Torah that they behave beyond reproach as Rav Hench Liebowitz ZT’L ZY’A told his students “Never do anything on behalf of your institution or personally that you do not want on the front page of the New York Times”

True enough it is improper to rush to judgment about any media reportage about shortcomings within the community but that does not mean it should written off as anti-Semitism or it is a few bad eggs. There is a message from G-D Himself for the community to correct what is wrong and thereby behold the coming 5770 as a year crowned with Mashiach’s arrival.

WHO DID YOU THINK HE MEANT?

2009-07-01T10:39:00.004-05:00

The recent reformulation of US policy towards Israel especially regarding growth within its settlements is not directed just against the Jews of Beit EL, Hevron or Jerusalem’s post 5727 boundaries. Please ponder this, the. Demonstrators in Iran protest against Islamic tyranny receive from the White House a “we don’t meddle in another country’s internal affairs” response whereas if a young parent were to build a swing set or if this couple were to have additional children akin to a crime against humanity, the right to marry and procreate being fundamental human rights.

Now then, is the President Obama’s fatwa against natural expansion of Jewish settlements is applicable only to the current residents of Yehsa’s communities and greater Jerusalem or did he have more in mind? After all President Obama is most likely aware of the Israeli Law of return Therefore, maybe the President or Secretary Clinton wishes to include all who could possibly take up residence in Yehsa i.e. The decree applies not just Lea Bat Zion’s, parents, friends and neighbors but to Jews living in Antwerp, London, Buenos Ares , Sherman, TX, Wayne, NJ, The Five Towns, Willamsburg and even Lakewood!!!

Most likely Ms. Clinton has no immediate designs on including all Jews as potential settlement expanders but the possibility that this is indeed what the American Administration intended to communicate. Therefore, the requirement that an Israeli Prime Minister call the white House or State Department for a hall pass each time he or she needs the facilities is hardly anything new. What is new is that the administration wishes to hang a “NO JEWS ALLOWED ” sign on Yesha and Jerusalem.

This is not all, this policy of ethnic and religious discrimination applies not just to the Fleisher family but to myself as well, true the actual place where you live is in immediate danger but this is just the beginning if Jews do not belong in Beit EL why do Jews have any greater right to be in Tel Aviv or Los Angeles?

Recently a survey taken in the United States found that since January 20, 2009 public support for Israel has declined as well there having been several high profile Hate crimes/ terrorist activities directed against Jewish institutions and Jews

What adds insult to injury is the apparent atmosphere of hostility and bias against Judaism in general and Settlement activity particular that exists in the Israeli Judicial System especially President Benish and the Supreme Court lends a Hechsher to the positions articulated by those who advocate animus to Israel, Zionists and Zionism to mask bold face anti-Semitism.

Now before the national mourning of the three weeks between the breeching of Jerusalem’s walls on 17 Tamuz and the Temples’ destruction on 9 Av it is the time to overcome from within by Jews strengthening their identity and true national interest.

ICEBERG TIPS

2009-06-23T10:27:00.002-05:00

One of the Baal Shem Tov’s primary teachings is how G-D’s providence reaches to the smallest details; consequently there is no such thing as coincidence. Therefore, the internal challenges to Jerusalem’s character, the parade and Shabbat opening of parking lots are symptomatic of the long standing tension whether the national soul is best called Israeli or Jewish.

The impurade as Rav Lazer Brody Shlita calls it imposes on the city, viewed as uniquely spiritual and sacred to most of humanity and in particular to Jewry as an old Zionist saying goes “Tel Aviv plays, Haifa works and Jerusalem studies /prays” The parade should be banned as this is an activity which violates community standards for obscenity. However, it is the failure to recognize that advocacy on behalf of same gender intimacy is contrary to the essential character of Jerusalem is truly tragic.

Similarly under the guise of promoting tourism, Mayor Barakat seeks to arrange for Safra Square parking lot remain open during Shabbat. Even if this parking lot is owned and operated used exclusively by Non-Jews the Shabbat experience in Jerusalem is diluted to some extent. All the more when the parking facility in question is in the shadow of the Old City. To be sure Jerusalem is not yet a fully Shabbat observant city, yet Shabbat in Jerusalem stand apart from Shabbat any other place on the planet. As Friday afternoon drifts towards evening one can see the city winding down. Big city hustle and bustle is replaced with a different type of rushing about. Those attending the Mikva replace the heavy foot traffic moving in and out of stores and markets. The home though it may be hectic down to the last minute is brought to an otherworldly calm as the candles are lit ushering in the Shabbat. As the siren heralds Shabbat’s arrival in Jerusalem pierces the air, people scurry about filling local synagogues. An after dinner stroll along the quiet Jerusalem streets, chance meetings between friends and neighbors further enhance the relaxed nature of the day. Or, if one is so inclined, attend a Chassidic Rebbe’s Tisch, table one can see an amazing display of camaraderie and spirituality not to mention Yerushalmi kugel.

After Shabbat the city springs back to its weekday mode but during the day of rest Shabbat is not just a place in time. Shabbat in Jerusalem is a presence that is experienced with all of one’s faculties. Needless to say, the stray vehicle traveling on Shabbat through Jerusalem is like a razor ripping fabric apart. Opening up a parking lot to accommodate large numbers of visitors on Shabbat may increase the numbers of tourist but will cause those who do come to miss the point of coming to Jerusalem in the first place.

What is disturbing is that to miss what is wrong with both the impurade and the Shabbat parking one is missing fundamental Jewish sensibilities which are learnt at home or as part of what would be called for lack of a better term, the national culture. What would be an axiomatic expression of Jewish pride and consciousness becomes lost when there is conscious decision by parents to transmit a generic set of liberal western democratic values to their children instead of the national heritage. Certainly, to assert a claim to Eretz Yisrael, the Land of Israel as the national homeland of the Jewish people with Jerusalem as its Eternal capital there has to be substance in the national persona both on a de facto and de jure basis.

Several years ago when touring the Tower of London, George the Beefeater who was leading our tour took pride in describing the places reserved for beheading commoners and the more concealed area reserved for the nobility as well as some of the more notable guests imprisoned within. George took pride in these ghastly goings on not because of some macabre fascination with death but because it was part of English history. How many American families from all types of backgrounds take pride in their ancestors part in building and defending their country as well as their way of life? Pride in one’s heritage and its values are the basis for a national identity that cannot be undermined.

Therefore, opening Jerusalem to the impurade and opening the Safra Square parking lot on Shabbat are not as intended, acts of inclusion but instead serve to make the Jewish claim to the Land and to the City ring hollow.

However, maybe the answer is education and outreach. Shabbat does not belong only to Charidim nor is opposition to an impurade in Jerusalem limited to the narrow minded. It is telling the effect of the apolitical efforts of Chabad Lubavitch whose Rebbe’s 15th Yharzeit is on 3 Tamuz (June 25, 2009). Maybe each Jew who takes pride in his or her heritage must do what they can to reach out to family members, acquaintances, business associates and community generally to articulate what true Jewish values are and to convey the Heritage is truly the inheritance of all “Congregation of Jacob” .

CUTTING DOWN CAIRO

2009-06-05T11:08:00.001-05:00

President Obama’s speech at Cairo University on June 4, 2009 evoked this simple reaction “Today for the first time in my life I am ashamed to be an American”

Whatever the reasoning the President of the United States and thereby, the executive branch of the government and even the Democratic Party has adopted the Arab narrative. Israel’s establishment was not as the President asserts, a haven for Europe’s displaced Jews. Jews pray several times daily to return from exile home to Israel. Even the casual scholar would recognize the city’s residents during the Second Temple period lead a Torah /Jewish Law based lifestyle. David and son Solomon who ruled in Jerusalem were not Shia or Baptists, they were more than Jews they are either my ancestors or the Kings to whom my ancestors were loyal to. To ignore or even deny a connection going back to antiquity between Jewry and Eretz Yisrael denies truth and embraces a falsehood so harmful that it approaches holocaust denial.

When modern Israel’s roots are presented as being out of the ashes of Auschwitz and the other factories of death the Arab experience can be examined in comparison. After all if one relies primarily on a recent default connection to the land, how does that in a world that rejects racism create moral authority for a superior claim to the land?

Consequently, how can there be any moral authority to occupy lands not sanctioned by the international community especially those places with populations that claim prior residency? Therefore following this reasoning a Jewish presence in Yehudah, Shomron and Jerusalem would indeed be illegitimate.

The Arab claims of a distinct national identity or a connection with the Canaanites or Philistines , Temple denial and so become secondary arguments that merely provide a basis to justify rejection of even an ancient Jewish claim to the land and weaken a claim resting on the authority of British Home Office or the UN. Therefore, struggle to liberate the land from this third party allocation has moral justification that defies serious scrutiny.

Condemnation of Anti-Semitism, Holocaust denial and Terrorist violence can be articulated but does not dislodge the line of reasoning stated above. Righteous indignation over these Arab excesses justifies the silencing of strident assertion of Jewish claims to the land. Thus a comparison can be made between installing a swing set in a Beit El or Efrat backyard and grad missles being fired in to Ashdod or Sederot.

The logic apparently embraced by the President is painfully ignorant of history and fact. The logic apparently embraced by the President is painfully ignorant of how much of the Arabs’ present situation is self inflicted. If there were no security concerns regarding the Arab population would Arabs living under the PA have to endure check points or border closure? If were it not because of rampant corruption both under Hamas and Fatah spheres of influence would the PA area economy be in shambles or would there be wide spread poverty or unemployment?

Lastly, by embracing the Arab narrative leaves open the question “what compromise
would satisfy the Arabs? The question presumes there is a possible point of compromise. This is not a mere rhetorical straw man as each offer of territory for a 23rd Muslim state was rebuffed in 1947, 2000 or during the waning days of President Bush (43) Prime Minister Olmert’s terms of office, not to mention the inaction by Jordan and Egypt between 1948-1967 on behalf of their brethren in creating a State as contemplated presently. The concern that tolerance of a Jewish State within the borders of Eretz Yisrael maybe an act of heresy offensive to Islam is ignored . In which case can anything short of complete capitulation i.e. the removal of Israel and Jewish presence in the land be acceptable?

Frankly it is doubt Prime Minister Netanyahu has any greater fortitude or backbone than his predecessors including his own first go round as Prime Minister so rejecting Mr. Obama’s dictates underscores how totally absurd and how nationally suicidal accepting then would be. Denying settlement growth including natural growth taken literally would ban people from having children or keeping generations together, positions that offend any notions of human rights and calls upon the Jewish State to adopt a racially restrictive policy against its own population. Adopting the Zero tolerance to growth and declaring the settlements as illegitimate is more than discriminatory if creates the absurd result that America has endorsed a policy the excludes the Biblical people from Biblical lands.

Remember this analysis has not begun to include the nod to Iran’s right to develop nuclear power.

Any expectation that the President’s Hoiff Yidden (Court Jews) do not agree or fully support their boss is a redefinition of naïve.

Quite simply Israel’s survival and that of all Jewry rests with our faith and the nation’s embrace of its history and heritage. The call from Cairo can be turned to a mere footnote let Jewish Hearts and all who are devoted to G-D meet the Present ‘s call with prayer , principle and persistence.

REALITY CHECK

2009-06-01T18:11:00.005-05:00

National leaders privy to information from many more sources than the man or woman in the street or os it would seem. Therefore,if national policy defies logic one could believe the chices made are based on comprehensive intelegence and the promotion of national interest. Then again there is Israel.

If a Jewish resident in Yehudah and Shomron installs a awing set or baseketball hoop it is an obsticale to peace. Jewish Parents building housing for their married children is a hostile act. A group of scholar farmers more interested in meditation than munitions, genorah and granola over guns are viewed as an occupying military force.

These other worldly folks are villified not just by those who preach the virtues of violence as an element of policy but even by those who feel threatened by the settlers' belief in eternal principles and maintaining fidelity to their national heritage.

The willingness of those in charge to shed their heritage or minmize its influence in terms of pragmatic realities where red lines are penciled in pink and can be erassed with ease.

The Obama Administration recent assertion that Israel adopt a Zero Growth policy in Yesha including Jerusalem was so blatantly offensive to Israel that Prime Minister Netanyahu rebuffed, albeit for the time being Washington's demands.

Even if one is ideologically oopposed to the Settler enterprise there can be no justification to discriminate against where Jews may choose to male their lives. just on the basis of one's faith.

Maybe there is something far more worriesome than oopposition to Jews settling throughout their ancestral homeland. It is opposition to the underlying ideology that underlies the national return to Zion. There is hostility to Judaism, as its beliefs takes away power and position from those holding power and prestidge.
A Jew praying on a hilltop in serene conversation with G-D is precieved as the enbodiment of all the region's and world's problems, evils.

What is threatened is arrogance which abhorrs truth, like darkness cannot tolerate light. Rabbi Nachman of Breslev ZT'L taught that just before Mashiach's arrival there would be a generalized intolerance to faith. Faith requires humility, arrogance consequently rejects faith and the faithfull as well.

Moshe Feglin in the D

2009-03-18T23:11:00.001-05:00

Sorry for not post is so long but what happened since Chanukah anyway?Moshe Feglin spoke in Oak Park tonight. Most likely this was a canned speech for public relations. With dignity and tact Moshe explained his vision which at the end of the day is a common sense approach. As much as one may prize democracy and freedom these values cannot swallow up and overwhelm the G-D given values expressed in Tanach and expounded by the Rabbis..

After all no matter how much I like Sushi I will never be Japanese. Even if I have surgery to alter my appearance to look Asian and become proficient in Japanese language and culture, it will not change anything . For no matter how much I want, no matter how hard I try I cannot and will not be Japanese. To attempt to do so is to lie to myself and appear delusional to the rest of the world.

Similarly as much as Israel wants to escape its heritage and seek acceptance as a generic western style socialist democracy with a slight nod to Judaism it just does not work. The absurd nature of an Israeli state actively to shirk its historical connection to the nation’s Biblical roots and the rich resource of guidance and direction to be culled from the wealth of Torah /Rabbinic scholarship that is the source of Jewry’s values and beliefs.

The point that Mr. Feglin made that distinguishes his approach from others like Katzeleh or Effie Eitan is that Jewish Leadership is directed to the whole nation and not just a particular sector of nation. Mr. Feglin’s position may not be shared by these two other political figures but there is something that rings true about the Jewish Leadership approach.

Representing only a segment of the population then the message no matter how similar is limited to that constituently which would not be the case in a major party like Likud.
Though the purity of one’s soul is tainted by engaging in politics but with the fear of G-D can one remain true before the G-D of Israel and the Jewish People.

Happy and Kosher Pesach.

LESSONS CAST IN LEAD

2009-01-21T12:12:00.002-05:00

It would be so easy to write a post decrying how the Israeli leadership snatched defeat from the jaws of victory by aborting Operation Cast Lead before finishing off Hamas. If even after unleashing the full power of the IDF against Gaza for 3 weeks Hamas remained able to fire ordinance at Israel. This would imply that after making Gaza Jew free and a prolonged truce period Hamas had so militarized the region that Hamas’ military capacity remains a threat. So by failing to eliminate Hamas the threat to Israel not only remains but is increased.

However, to go off on how surreal the antics of Olmert, Livni and Barak et al are misses the reality of the situation. Unlike the Summer 2006 war the unity between Jews is very high. The Soldiers’ morale was strong there was a sense that they understood their mission and that effort was made to integrate events in the South with the whole of the nation so it was our fight and not just the South’s problem. The Israeli government and IDF speaking with a single voice waged the war of public opinion. Even new technology like You Tube was employed to make the case for Israel.

Together soldiers were joined on the battlefield with more that 100,000 others who volunteered to backup soldiers in the field and civilians in harm’s way with Torah and Prayer. All the positive factors for victory seemed to be in place.

Yet after all the effort both this and otherworldly, Hamas can still set off rockets and missiles and Gilad has not come home. The fact that the first articulation of a willingness by Israel to let up it’s attack should have seen Hamas offer the location and time a healthy, well fed Mr. Shalit would be delivered to the Israeli border and turned over, but that well as many common sense actions evaded the great minds of Israel’s leadership. Why?

To simply condemn the naïve or self serving liberal suicidal appeasement orientation of Mr. Olmert, Ms. Livni and the rest would mean the spiritual efforts of nation are not a powerful as the elected officials. Truly there were more than a few miraculous incidents during Cast Lead from the low casualty numbers to Mama Rachel personally going to Gaza to protect soldiers. So analysis of Cast Lead in geopolitical terms would clearly be misplaced.

The sudden start and stop of the campaign belies that the purpose, the goals to be achieved were not to be found in the Kiriya or any Earthly war room. The lessons learnt are the connection between national unity, exercising faith and success. Cast Lead succeeded not because of better training or supply lines. Clearly the lessons learnt are to communicate the value of faith to the whole of Israel wherever they are located, wherever they are situated.

It should be prayed for that the lessons of Cast Lead not be lost.

READY TO GO?

2008-12-25T05:16:00.003-05:00

Currently there are two high profile Jewish defendents in the US each receiving quite different treatment.

Bernard Madoff accused of bilking investors including several charities to the tune of $50, 000,000.00 awaits trial under house arrest with a ankle bracelet GPS.

Shalom Rubashkin who is accused of several crimes connected with the Agriprocessorskosher meat plant in Postville Iowa. Despite being willing to post several million $ in bail and agree to house arrest as well as an ankle GPS awaits trial in a Federal Jail Cell why? [The following was posted on www,vosizneias.com ]

"The judge, Jon Scoles, ruled that Rubashkin posed a risk of flight and declined to release him on bail, pointing to evidence that he had a travel bag with cash and travel documents on hand at the time of his arrest. He also noted that two others accused of crimes connected to their work at Agriprocessors are believed to have fled to Israel.

Scoles took note of Israel's Law of Return, which grants automatic citizenship to Jews."

While the Hon. Judge Scoles may embrace anti-Semitic stereotypes concerning where Jewish loyalties lie. The defense pointed out the Judge's line of reasoning would have the Attorney General of the United States and Two US Supreme Court Justices as unreliable flight risks ready at the drop of a hat go declare their fidelity and loyalty to the State of Israel. Needless to say the Judge upon reconsideration backpeddled a little by suggesting the Defendant’s Counsel was making too much of the issue.

However there may be a far deeper lesson here. Mr. Madoff despite his extensive connections throughout the Jewish community is not recognizable as an Orthodox Jew. His personal observance of ritual is up for debate whereas Rubashkin is. Maybe the unequal treatment translates in to a message simple and yet profound.

The secular Madoff is not seen as a flight risk but the Orthodox Rubashkin is.

It is almost as if Judge Scoles knows a visible Jew’s home is in Israel. Madoff may know this, his appearance does not indicate it but Rubashkin does.

Something to think about during the festival of asserting Jewish Identity in a hostile world.

/

2008-11-30T11:30:00.001-05:00

TO THE PRESIDENT ELECT RE: MUMBAI

2008-11-30T11:27:00.000-05:00

Statement of President-elect Barack Obama
Below is a statement by President-elect Barack Obama
"Michelle and I send our deepest condolences to the loved ones of the American citizens who lost their lives in the outrageous terrorist attacks in Mumbai. Our thoughts and prayers are with them, and with all who have been touched by this terrible tragedy.
"These terrorists who targeted innocent civilians will not defeat India's great democracy, nor shake the will of a global coalition to defeat them. The United States must stand with India and all nations and people who are committed to destroying terrorist networks, and defeating their hate-filled ideology.

"There is one president at a time. I will continue to closely monitor the situation on the ground in Mumbai, and am grateful for the cooperation of the Bush Administration in keeping me and my staff updated. We fully support the Bush Administration's efforts to protect American citizens and assist the government of India during this tragic time," said President-elect Obama.
From www.change.gov

There are three pionts to make ;

1 The outrage should extend to all the victims so brutaly and wantonly murdered, not just the American lives lost. Indeed this series of attacks, their brutality diminish our collective humanity as did the institutional mass murderers like the Nazis or Stalin’s forces ir The Communist Chinese (during their revolution.)
2 The President –elect deserves kudos for calling these murderers Terrorist and not militants or activists as appeared in some news reports.
3 That all terrorist networks need to be destroyed not just in the immedate sense through eliminating operational assests but in a lasting sense through casting their underlying philosophy to humanity’s garbage heap.

During the campagin during the Second debate the President –elect offered that negotiation and dialog being the means for the better results in dispute –resolution between peoples. Mr. President-elect it is my prayer that you and your team recognize that your rule of thumb simply does not apply to all time and certainly not in this incident nor with those who support these terrorists and their philosophy/ideology and methodology.

Just as 9/11 changed how America views the world. Mumbai should remind us who are truly the good guys and who are not. May those who cherish life collectively refuse to accept or tolerate this personification of evil.

OUT OF OPITIONS

2008-11-28T13:52:00.003-05:00

Words are unable to contain the combined sense of outrage and saddness in the aftermath of the Holtzbergs' murder. Indeed the whole devastation carried out against civillans in Mumbai India must shock the conscience.

It should serve to remind all those in power that looking at who issued which terrorist which decoder ring is not important. Failing to see those non state or quasi state actors as part of a unified ideology that uses terror as an intrument of policy can not be tolerated in the community of humanity. Any ideology of faith the can condone such behavior has lost its legitmacy.

Where is the Islamic outrage? Where are the declarations of outrage from the Gulf/ from the Saudis/ from Hamas, Fatah, Al Qeka Et Al. I doubt holding one's breath in anticipation would be wise.

To entertain the notion that such actors merit the dignity of discourse is outragous and misguided in its naivate. Maybe just maybe [and yes I enjoy the luxury of not fighting this war on the ground but there is no joy in this suggestion] in dealing such as those who attacked on 9/11, as send rockets to Sedrot and who attcked Mumbai as well as their fellow travelers, supporters and sympathizers on notice that diplomacy is no longer an option. Responsible persons cannot allow these beings who diminish the whole of humanity any refuge save that offered by the grave. To protect decency this pathology must exorcised as was done to Germany some 60+ years ago.

It must stressed no one with a sicntila of humanity wishes

NOWHERE MAN NO MORE !!!!!!!!!!!

2008-11-18T12:40:00.002-05:00

This time I hope &,pray I am wrong. Why is anyone asking what would satisfy the Arabs? Everything Israel tried after Yom Kippur 5734 has not worked. In fact instead of satisfying national aspirations every concession only leads to more and more demands each more outrageous than the one before.

The 1949 borders left Israel with a shadow of its ancestral homeland. The overwhelming sense I had in 1967 as a fourth grader was that we have come home-the state is whole. Who could ever imagine an argument could be made that it is in the national interest of the State of Israel to arm forces under Abu Mazen?

The rockets still come from Gaza--and money is transferred to PA coffers, Food and fuel are sent in to Gaza. The official Israeli responses are halfhearted military actions that do not create any deterrence or endless debates and discussion in the cabinet and Knesset with no clear resolve.

The options offered by Kadima , Labor or even Likud all seem to miss the point. The notion embodied by Ms. Livni and mostly echoed by Mr. Barak (Ehud not the President-Elect) to continue to compromise and acquiesce to the whims of Israel’s well meaning but misguided friends to win their approval, regardless whether such acceptance means the abandonment of the nation’s heritage. Similarly Mr. Natanyahu’s approach of coordinated political talks and development of joint economic opportunities shows promise but it underestimates who Israel is dealing with. It seems Bibi cannot understand that no matter how attractive the potential for profit no compromise is possible if agreement means heresy.

Where did the secular leadership of Israel get the idea that the articulation of principle predicated on professions of piety are translated as the parameters for an opening bid to effect a compromise? Some people have principles that are not for sale- even if they are in service of an evil end- the destruction of Israel.

The appeal to Zipi and Bibi is to decide who the Israel is what principles will it embody and champion? Will Israel simply mirror the values of Western Democracies of will Israel’s national persona embrace its history and heritage. Israel is the one slice of the globe allotted by G-D to the Jewish people the present day State of Israel must acknowledge its status the successor to the monarchy of David and Shlomo and commonwealth of Ezra and the Great Assembly. Israel and specifically Jerusalem , Hevron , Teveria and Zafat were the foci of Jewish prayer, charity and national aspiration throughout the nearly two millennium of exile. To face the world as the State of Israel oblivious to these sensibilities or worse yet with a willingness to chuck any or all principles as expedient leaves the leadership as standing for nothing.

The appeal to the nation is to educate your children, Jewry has a history that reaches back much further than 5708/1948. The Land of Israel as a whole has a cherished place the nation’s collective consciousness. Jewry and Israel stand for something.

These values do not ignore Arab sensibilities but rather creates a common language rooted in each community’s history and heritage. In the framework of history and heritage, principle and piety give way to fact over fantasy. When standing with the generations remaining faithful to them and their D-vinely stated values who could dare opposes Israel? Amalek? They never succeeded in the past so . . . Learn Judaism its letter and spirit this is the only solution.

VOTE , PRAY AND DO

2008-10-31T04:14:00.003-05:00

As the election cycle winds down in the US and is gearing up in Israel a single question looms large in both places,'What is good for the Jews?"

Both McCain and Obama favor a two state model for resolving the Arab -Israeli/Jewish issue. The national character of Israel is up for grabs its Jewish character to be either merely De Facto or De Jure in nature.

How any leader performs cannot be predicted who would think Mr. Sharon would expell Jews from their homes only to have Hamas swallow up the vacum?

The best advice is of course choose the candidate or party that till now has carried Israel's best interest or at least the one with the fewest Anti-Israel/Zionist/ Semitic advisors, friends, mentors et al.

However the far more important is for Jewry to step up and improove it self through improoving its observance of the Torah and its laws. T o avoid any unseemly behavior to promote morals, civility and decency among people. No, this not Kum By Ya speak but a call to live as Jews preserving the D-vine Image invested in humanity through the A-mighty's desig and humanity's vision as set forth in the Mitzvoth letter and spirit.

As stated during the recent High Holy Days Repentance, Prayer and Charity can anull and reverse a harsh decree.

NATIONAL SELF RESPECT

2008-09-16T17:36:00.004-05:00

"The notion of a Greater Israel no longer exists, and anyone who still believes in it is deluding themselves," . . .

I used to believe that everything from the Jordan Riverbank to the Mediterranean Sea was ours. After all, dig anywhere and you'll find Jewish history. But eventually, after great internal conflict, I've realized we have to share this land with the people who dwell here – that is if we don’t want to be a binational state,"

T
hese and other defeatist statements were made by Prime Minister Olmert before the September 14, 2008 cabinet meeting. Commenting on these statements it is important to recall that Moshe Rabbinu despite all Bene Yisrael experienced at the hands of Egypt at the direction of Pharaoh spoke with respect . As this was reported on Israel National News it would seem that the Prime Minister’s words were premised on the apparent erosion of international support for Israel and resulting pressure for a resolution of some type which would take the form of an Israel with an Arab majority and character.

While it is impossible to any person, community or nation to go it alone in isolation, yet at what price does inclusion cost? How can any leader responding to the reality of the moment sacrifice their national heritage?

“ . . .dig anywhere and you'll find Jewish history . . . .” Mr. Prime Minister visit the shrine of the Book and see the pair of Tefilin from Masada. These Tefilin look exactly like the ones worn by Jewry every weekday during the MorninVisit Second Temple era ruins and see the mikvaot used to fulfill the rigorous laws of purity as well as other examples that only emphasize the Jewish history/heritage within Eretz Yisrael, the Land of Israel.

Mr. Prime Minister certainly at least once in your life you were present at the conclusion of either Yom Kippur services or the Passover Seder when all present intoned “L’Shana HaBah B’Yerushalyim !!!” Next Year in Jerusalem. Even the secular anthem of the State speaks of the yearnings of Two Thousand Years “To be a free people in our land, Zion and Jerusalem”

Mr. Prime Minister how could any person of conscience abandon the national aspirations of the Jewish people? Imagine under what Mr. Olmert perceives as the only way the Zionist visions of the redemption are exchanged for the formation of a new Middle Eastern Pale of Settlement.

Mr. Prime Minister, maybe the concerns and fears expressed are based in a lack of national self respect. Maybe there would be no isolation for Israel if the national stands tall and proud. Not in an arrogant manner but with an aura of self assurance and purpMaybe the Arabs would not seek to encroach on Jewish rule over the land if the Jews treated the Holy Land as their D-vinely ordained inheritance

Mr. Prime Minister, you whoever follows after you must remember that Netzach Yisrael Lo YiShaker” The Destiny of Israel, the Jewish People cannot be denied. Israel lives, Greater Israel lives.

Mr. Prime Minster if one were to walk in the mind set of a scion of Zion the nations would not oppose Israel. If Israel were to conduct itself as G-D has designed in the Torah both written and oral Israel's place at the international table would never be denied nor would anyone challenge Israel's destiny

THE FUNDAMENTAL THINGS APPLY, AS TIME GOES BY

2008-06-17T09:57:00.004-05:00

Whether intended or not film has a unique quality to capture a snapshot of history. Part of this snapshot is capturing the philosophical/ ideological zeitgeist. Therefore periodic revisiting films especially those dealing with historical events is a significant whether tinseltown’s insights are enduring or part of the passing fancy that is pop culture. The semi-official Hollywood treatment of the Zionist struggle and birth of the modern State of Israel would be the 1960 movie EXODUS.

First the tension between Haganah, the military arm of the Jewish Agency/Zionist Committee, forerunners of Israeli governments until Menchem Begin A’H AND Likud were elected in 1977 and Irgun forerunner of Likud was quite real and persisted till the balance of political power shifted in 1977. Haganah was portrayed as responsible, progressive freedom fighters seeking to forge a new Jewish identity. Irgun were portrayed as part of the Old World steeped in ritual and ideology as well as an unwillingness to play by the nations’ rules.

Next throughout the film the only kipa wearer is a Rabbi supervising the Kitchen in Acre Prison, a far cry from today’s demographics.

The diffrence in attitudes between Pual Newman’s character Ari Ben Canan and John Derek’s Taha is telling. Newman the prototypical sabra straddles the paradox between the beliefs in Eretz Yisrael being Jewry’s ancestral home and post holocaust destiny, which can simultaneously be a democratic state offering equality to both Jews and Arabs. The Israeli it would seem would be willing to hollow the meaning of what exactly would be Jewish in a Jewish state in order to facilitate co0existence.

In fairness it should be noted that the originally proposed borders of Israel before Statehood was viewed by Ben-Gurion et. al. as only a half a loaf but by no means what was preferred or aspired to.

In contrast John Derek’s character Tha the Muktar of the nearby Arab village despite being raised along with Ari Ben Canan cannot align himself with the Jews fully even though he knows the forces opposing new born State of Israel embody evil. Even though he is killed for defying the Mufti’s Ex-Nazi trained thugs he still could not and would not fully sell out or betray his faith or heritage.

Though it is only Hollywood, the fact the two cultures secular and religious speak past each other without communicating without understanding each other remains to this day.

Maybe that is the key to cross cultural dialogue and understanding begins with Jews and Arabs side to believe in and be loyal to one’s own faith and heritage. The common language of faith may not solve the problems but offers a common language that acknowledges a higher authority all are answerable to.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE PRIZE

2008-05-21T21:44:00.004-05:00

Timing is everything. Prime Minister Olmert’s potential legal problems must be fairly serious. After all what better way to distract the public then to announce a diplomatic breakthrough [translation: I agreed without asking anyone to give away peoples’ homes, fields, orchards and businesses so that the folks who are pledged to your annihilation can be all that much closer so you can be more clearly in their crosshairs].

What is astonishing is how the nation’s representatives are more committed to remaining in office than acting in the national interest. Especially those MKs who profess their commitment to G-D, Torah, and Jewry are willing to allow a repeat of the Gush Katif disgrace. The continued dilution of the State’s commitment to Jewish education by the current Education Minister has the effect of estranging the State’s youth from their heritage, a legacy intimately connected to the Land of Israel.

Now as the time approaches to receive the Torah, it is time to call out the emperor class’ destructive and delusional behavior and put the brakes on the national slide in to the abyss.

HAPPY 3,280 Israel !!!!!

2008-05-05T18:59:00.004-05:00

Birthdays are a time to celebrate one's life, no doubt one should find joy in experiencing the privilege of life. There is a further dimension, birthdays are in the Jewish tradition a time to reflect, assess what can be done better in the future, how can growth be facilitated, how can one be better person within the family, community, country, world and most importantly, before G-D.

Over time circumstances, choices coupled with habits and aspiration may lead one to place never imagined or intended when setting out on life's journey. A Birthday is the day to ask "How did I get here? Is this where I am supposed to be? "

At 60 the State of Israel should collectively ask itself is it comfortable where it is?

Today the debate is over the public sale of Chametz on Pesach or apostate Jews participating in the Bible contest. These are not political /security / issues like aid to Yeshivoth, or the dismantling of settlements or checkpoints etc. Sec. Rice does not care about the Bible Contest or Bread on Pesach. Yet given the opportunity to make a Jewish choice or a democratic one, which one does the government make even when unfettered by foreign influence?

As the birthday of the modern state of Israel approaches maybe the country needs to take a collective look in the mirror. Maybe the first step is to disavow the notion of this being a 60th anniversary. This is the 60 anniversary of the reassertion of Jewish sovereignty over the land of Israel. Jews are in the land , not by the leave of the United Nations but as successors of Ezra and Nechemiah's commonwealth.

f the Zionist vision for a state is for the Jewish People to have a seat at the the international table then sit there, true to our identity, as Jews.

Witha prayer that at the end of this year's S'fira and even before then the nation stands together again united to hear Torah from Mashiach

FROM PIONEER TO PRIAH

2008-04-14T10:47:00.005-05:00

A recent article in the Detroit Jewish News spoke about the Land of Israel Faithful whose teenage foot soldiers spearhead the establishment of new Jewish settlement within Yehudah and Shomron, Judea and Samaria The article takes a one sided approach asserting that these settlers act with virtual impunity, the actions taken by the police against these settlements is no more than street theatre.

The author while noting growth of Jewish settlements, statistics provided by Yesh Din and Peace Now ignores the tens of thousands of Arab construction projects virtually all without government building permits and some built unchallenged upon land purchased by the Jewish National Fund/Keren Kaiyemet L’Yisrael. Think of it, land purchased through early 20th century and depression era donations of pennies, nickels and dimes to the JNF Blue Box to redeem the Land of Israel for the Jewish people, was appropriated through adverse possession by Arabs, with no protest. This is without mentioning the encroachment by Arabs against the Jewish populations of Yafo, Lod , Acre and in the Negev.

The article neglects that while Jewish settlements are being disarmed the PA is being armed with no real assurance these weapons would not find their way in to terrorist hands.

The Israeli government tolerates Knesset Members who actively act against the existence of the State and meet with belligerent entities. Segments of the Israeli Left have gone beyond advocacy to the destruction of property , uprooting crops, and other acts that drift across the line from sympathy to giving aid and comfort to an enemy.

However what stands out as the most disturbing is that had this article been written about pre state settlement activity the young lady interviewed would be celebrated as a Chaluza, pioneer defying the British to reclaim the ancestral Jewish Homeland. Israel as a Jewish State is not and cannot be an arbitrary or artificial concept . The most tragic and similarly most crucial lesson is without a sense of history and heritage to instill pride and purpose in a nation the resulting spiritual void is filled by self-loathing.

FREEDOM FIGHT

2008-04-03T10:45:00.002-05:00

The injustice experienced by the Halamish brothers should diquiet anyone who cheirshes personal liberity and freedom.

TO MOURN , TO HEAL, TO GO FOWARD

2008-03-12T12:50:00.004-05:00

Please Pray for the following Persons wounded in the Attack

Nadav Eliyahu ben Hadassah,

Naftali ben Gila Rachel,

Shimon Yechiel ben Tirza, bsoch sh’ar cholei Yisrael.

MAY THEY BE HEALED IN BODY AND KLAL YISRAEL IN SPIRIT BY THE SOURCE OF ALL HEALING AND BLESSING
MAY THE WORDS OF THE MEGILA BE REALIZED ONCE AGAIN THAT THE JEWS SHALL RULE OVER THEIR ENEMIES

A DEMAND FOR POSSESSION

2008-02-17T11:38:00.005-05:00

Just before Shabbat an Earthquake struck Eretz Yisrael. Evidently there were no injuries. However, there was property damage in Two places. A rather large hole opened up on top of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. Also there was damage in Shechem known as Nablus where the grave of Yossef which had been badly damaged just this past week is located.

Jewish tradition asserts that the Temple Mount is mostly situated within the tribal boundaries of Benjamin; The Burial Place of Joseph obviously is connected to its namesake. Joseph and his younger brother Benjamin were the sons of Rachel

When Essav encountered Yaakov upon his return form Lavan's house it was Joseph who put himself in front of his mother to protect her from his uncle. Benjamin was not yet born and therefore of the tribes was the one who relative to Essav remains unbowed.

Jewish tradition further teaches that the Messianic redemption will begin with the children of Rachel.

While all the foregoing are facts that fit current events to say this is definitely one way or the other would be arrogant and irresponsible, however it cannot be ignored either.

Indeed in a few very few days comes the little Purim. Today the ownership of Eretz Yisrael especially the Holy sites is under attack it would appear that the ultimate Landlord has weighed in.

Events of such importance if ignored represent an opportunity lost. The future, and apparently the End of Days is near let it be humanity’s prayer that the signs not be misread.

PULLING THE RUG OUT FROM UNDER ONESELF

2008-01-23T12:45:00.000-05:00

The announcement of the Government’s intention to evacuate Migron community within Six Months is disturbing.

Migron, from the news reports, is not a few tents and crude structures like Homesh or other recently established communities, but a functioning community.

Labeling Migron as an Illegal outpost based on Peace Now's claims alone is suspect. After Peace Now’s cover as a surrogate for Foreign powers was exposed what credibility do their claims hold? That the professed humanitarian concerns of Peace Now were antithetical to Judaism’s beliefs, aspirations and values regarding the national affinity and claim to all Eretz Yisrael which includes the principles of return and settlement of Diaspora Jewry within Eretz Yisrael. However, when Peace Now’s activities include aerial reconnaissance and other acts that approach espionage seriously call in to question whether the foreign contributors are more than mere expressions of support.

It sounds reasonable that a litigant’s motivation be called in to question Especially when the Plaintiff’s intentions appear to serve an agenda hostile to the very system within which claim is being pursued. Multiply, the erosion of credibility factor when the Plaintiff organization is serving an agenda bought and paid for by hostile foreign governments. After all, could one imagine France suing the US over the status of the Lakota or Cherokee nations? Or if the Japanese funded the tribes in their legal battles for independence as a means of advancing an element of foreign policy?

How could Peace Now enjoy any credibility in the circles of government or in the courts cast doubt on these sectors very commitment to the existence of the State. Especially when the Judges could have a way out by finding that Migron was founded before MARCH 21, 2001 thereby rendering the question moot

By deciding against Migron and in effect ruling against the Zionist and Jewish heritage the Court and government are doing the unthinkable, delegitimizing the ideological, moral and legal basis the State’s existence

IF YOU CAN'T SAY SOMETHING NICE

2008-01-13T21:47:00.000-05:00

A few days’ distance gives perspective. President Bush’s recent visit to Jerusalem deserves comment. The streets were empty, certainly in a post 9/11 world security demands departures from what was the norm on 9/10. Yet was security the only concern in emptying Jerusalem’s streets?

After all the government could have assigned civil servants, soldiers in civilian clothes to line the streets waving Israeli and American flags, that did not happen. Maybe Mr. Bush was being insulated from what people really think and little support Olmert really has.

The control of information went further when persons were situated near the foreign press’ lodgings to distribute Fatah as “Moderate”, A Hard Look Post-Annapolis by Arlene Kushner published by THE CENTER FOR NEAR EAST POLICY RESEARCH were taken in custody for a couple of hours and their copies of the report were seized as seditious.

As disturbing as this sounds Olmert’s apparent need to suppress alternative points of view or the depth of popular dissent against the ruling regime’s actions is amazingly positive. If Olmert fears the nationalist voice that means he knows its depth within the collective national consciousness. Olmert realizes the nation knows that any agreement will be solely between himself and Abu Mazen, each leader being detached from the citizenry they officially lead. Olmert realizes the nation knows land concessions means Gush Katif 2, 3, 4 etc. . . . with the accompanying social displacement and with withdrawal comes the announcement ZEVA ADOM, ZEVA ADOM. Olmert knows the dividing of Jerusalem is beyond a painfull concession but strikes at the focal point of Jewish consciousness spanning generations Olmert knows the people know and he is running scared.

That Bush is endorsing the 23 Arab state is inexcusable as it represents the rewarding of Terrorists. As to the rest of the President’s remarks can any American President be more a Zionist than Israel’s Prime Minister?

The eternal nature of the Jewish People cannot be denyed Netzach Yisrael Lo Yishaker

WE WILL SURVIVE . . .EVEN THIS

2007-12-27T22:03:00.000-05:00

A student's paper critical of the lack of Military rapes by IDF personal won a Hebrew University Teachers' Committee prize. The author asserts the lack of military rape is politically motivated. The lack of such behavior is not rooted in the soliders' sense of morality, humanity or decency, rather to reinforce a dehumanized image of Arabs. True media has a way of distorting a story but academics granting a prize for a paper that takes the ostensible position sexual violence is a good thing? The student may have come to certain conclusions based on raw data and the like but the implication of self loathing overrides the outrage a crime of gender based violence should kindle. Now it is unclear whether the faculty who granted the prize are of high enough rank to be on strike of not either way if this is what passes as serious scholarship maybe the professors should all stay out on strike.

Further this week it was reported that a job applicant was turned down because the prospective hire was Shabbat observant. A shameful episode of discrimination no doubt, but that is only half the story. The job is located in Eretz Yisrael and the position was with the Jewish National Fund. Which Jewish person of a certain age cannot recall the JNF blue box charity box being every Jewish except Shabbat services.To think that not only did the JNF turn down an observant person the hiring executive could not understand what all the fuss was about.

The insensitivity to Jewish values is so profound one almost gets the sense that values and sensibilities have been replaced an absense of common sense and moral vision.

The comfort to take is even if there are real deep divisions within Jewry the nation survives inspite of itself, AMYISRAEL CHAI

History Lesson

2007-12-05T11:15:00.001-05:00

Hoping you and your family are having a most enlighting Hanukah

Prime Minister Olmert recently declared that Ben Gurion was correct to accept partition. But the question is was the acceptance of partition done as an affirmative act acquiescing to and acknowledging an Arab right within Eretz Yirael. Or was the acceptance of partiton the best deal available at the time but without relinquishing the vision of a whole Eretz Yisrael.

This most amazing story about the beginings of the post 67' return to Hevron may shed some light on Ben Gurion’s thinking. Rav Levinger Shlita, may he be returned to full health soon wrote in honor of Kiryat Arba's 10TH anniversary. (this was a commererative book published for the celebration during Chol Hamoed Pesach 5738)

Eliyakim Haezni told Rav Levinger that during Succot 5728 Rav Yechezkel Sarna ZT'L was asked whether he was willing to return his Yeshiva-the Hevron Yeshiva back to Hevron after having to leave in the wake of the 1929/5689 riots. Rav Sarna said he had this conversation with Ben Gurion just before the holiday Ben Gurion was surprised nothing had been done to date to renew the Jewish presence in Hevron.

Ben Gurion who accepted the partition in 1947-49 wanted Jews back in Hevron-that would lead one to believe Ben Gurioon's acceptance of the partition was a default and not an affirmative endorsement of a two state configuration.

Does Mr. Olmert know this story? Or did he forget while losing any shard of dignity while going through side entrances, staying outdoors in the rain and otherwise having himself and the Israeli delegation being treated like sug bet by the other participants at Annapolis?

Wasn't establishing a state supposed to create a Jew the world would respect as a peer?

Chag Sameach

A PRAYER FOR EHUD OLMERT

2007-11-29T10:29:00.001-05:00

May Hashem grant you the blessing of sleep

May Hashem grant the blessing to sleep deeply

May Hashem allow you the blessing to dream

As you dream Mr. Prime Minister May Hashem bless you to see a vision of your Savta and Saba.

As you dream Mr. Prime Minister May Hashem bless you to see a vision of your Savta and Saba’s all the Sabaim and Savtot, Bubbies and Zaydehs of the entire Olmert family as far back as it goes.

As you dream Mr. Prime Minister May Hashem bless you to see a vision of your Grand mothers putting coins in the Rabbi Meir Baal Hanes charity box to support the Yishuv Shabbat Eve.

As you dream Mr. Prime Minister May Hashem bless you to see a vision of your Grandfathers praying to rebuild the Jerusalem, Beit HaMikdash, the ingathering of the exiles and arrival of Mashiach. The declaration “Next Year in Jerusalem” the punctuates the observance of the Seder and Yom Kippur observances.

As you dream Mr. Prime Minister May Hashem bless you to hear these sounds and see these images night after night until they consume your waking hours as well.

May Hahsem bless you Mr. Prime Minister to see your place in the context of Jewish history and heir of a legacy that no human has a right to relinquish.

May Hahsem bless you Mr. Prime Minister to fulfill destiny and embrace G-D’s gift of the land and emerge from the isolation that is faithlessness to join with generations past and yet to welcome the rule to David’s scion Mashiach

FAIRNESS

2007-11-18T13:26:00.000-05:00

Prime Minister Olmert insisted on the Arab side accept Israel as a Jewish State. FM Livni stated further that a new Arab state would be a solution not just for Arabs living in Judea and Samaria but even Israeli Arabs could call the new State home. Arab MK Ahmed Tbibi termed this Chutzpa PA negotiator Yasser Abed Rabbo refused this as well as that would frustrate Arab demands to flood Israel with Arabs claiming a right to return to Israel.

The refusal of Arab negotiators to acknowledge Israel as a Jewish State only underscores the absurd nature of the Annapolis conference.

If the Arabs want a Jew free Palestine then why should Arabs be allowed to remain within Israel?

Certain things are not the subject of negotiation. Just as civility precedes Torah (Drech Eretz Kadma L'Torah)a certain degree of comity must exist to facilitate any type of dialogue .

Failing to recognize Israel as the national homeland of Jewry would be as absurd as insisting the United States was still rightfully a British colony or merely usurped Native American lands with no rightful sovereignty of its own.

Demanding the establishment of yet another Arab State in the region Along with demanding the right to populate Israel with Arabs and deny The State of Israel its National character as a Jewish State -that sets a bold new frontier for Chutzpah.

However positive FM LIVNI's words are positive suggesting that a new state would serve as a solution for Arab Israelis, MK Eldad has it 100% correct. Why create an additional state, Jordon already exists as a state with a majority identifying itself as Palestine?

If the State of Israel is indeed the Jewish people's national home it must without equivocation occupy all of the Historic -Biblical borders.That is Jewry's heritage and no one person or cabal have a right to give it away.

NOT YOUR PARENTS' ISRAEL

2007-11-05T20:39:00.000-05:00

,

The Prime Minister’s remarks at the Saban Conference call to memory Rav Chaim Zanzer’s pre Passover appeal. As tradition dictates the Rav gave his major pre-Pesach address focusing on the laws requiring residents of a city to contribute for supplying the holiday needs of the less fortunate.
When he returned home the Rebbe’s wife asked how did it go?
The Holy Zanzer said he was only half successful.
What? Asked the Rebbitzen
“Yes”, replied the Rav I convinced the poor to accept charity.

Two States for two peoples sounds good, even makes some sense in some hypothetical construct but if only Israel acknowledges compromise and not the Arabs why go forward? Olmert’s position becomes delusional and Secretary Rice if she believes Mr. Abbas is a real partner for peace such naïveté calls in to question whether her distinguished list of accomplishments was earned or merely a function of promoting diversity.

As if it needs saying, but agreeing not to try to kill you today is not a compromise!! Aside from being a territorial retreat to return to the 1949 boundaries, relinquishing Yehudah Shomron and any part of Jerusalem is a retreat from national identity.

Creating two states out of one Eretz Yisrael estranges the State from its status as the national home for the Jewish people in the national homeland. The State becomes little more than a Uganda, a state with a Jewish majority but without the history or heritage.

In this type of Zeitgeist does the recent call by Minister Shetrit to do away with the law of return seem so strange? Israel as haven means, the State of Israel is indeed the national homeland of Jewry and how could that exist independent of a Medinat Yisrael completely occupying Eretz Yisrael?

Similarly, anyone with the ideological basis of faith, belief, a sense of personal and national history become the antithesis of current government’s agenda. This why Nefesh B’ Nefesh, Shuvai Yisrael, and each child born to a religious family are seen as public enemies. A child born to a religious family is more of a threat to the Olmerts, Livnis, Pereses than Iran and even Hamas and Fatah

Rav Lazer Brody Shilita observed that Lot preferred to live in a cave than live in civilization with Avraham. Because living with Avraham means one must abandon materialism and hedonism.

A choice to be who we really are, is the pre-condition for any conference One can only be a participant when one is genuine and not a compromised lie.

UNITED WE STAND, DIVIDED WE'RE DYSFUNCTIONAL

2007-10-21T11:25:00.000-05:00

Last week something happened that only underscores the fractious nature of Israeli politics. The proposed Israeli budget for 2008 contains dramatic budget cuts for Torah study in Yeshivoth and Kolellim{advanced institutions of Torah study leading to ordination }. Whether this is necessary or not is not what is interesting, how Torah political parties reacted.

The newspaper affiliated with Degel HaTorah depicted Shas as a willing partner with the secular parties in the coalition in making these cuts which ostensibly targets Degel HaTorah supporters drowning them in poverty. Shas the Sephardim Torah party denounced the cartoon as an ethnic slur by European Jews to Jews of Middle Eastern and North African origin.

The cartoon is not ethnic but political, however unlike the US, political affiliation elsewhere is ideological and includes youth groups social benefits etc. The ideological diversity in Israel’s society made parliamentary representation based on party affiliation through the population seem like a good idea to protect the points of view representing a cross-section of the country.

Maybe the system worked as long as there was an overall agreement to the State’s survival and security. Instead, the breakdown of nationalism in favor of individualism has lead each party and its Keenest Members in particular. Instead of being part of a national body with specific interests, advancing its interests to the exclusion of others’ is the guiding principle. How to serve the nation is replaced by how to retain power as well as how to keep the prestige and privilege that come with being in office.

Budgets then become nothing more than gathering of vultures fighting over a carcass. Therefore, taking money from the UTJ sphere when it is perceived that Shas has kindred values is seen as betrayal.

One of the Chassidic greats pointed out when holding even a small coin against one’s eye so that is all one can see it can even blot out the Sun . . . .

If the nation needs to come together to survive it must start with those who lives revolve around Torah and its values unite under Torah and fraternal love [Ahavas Yisrael

Be True to Yourself

2007-10-02T14:25:00.000-05:00

FM Livni made some excellent points when speaking before the UN.
However, is there a real partner for peace with the stature to fulfill the obligations outlined in an agreement or treaty? Why are Jews who chose to do so are prohibited from living in and under a PA government yet Israel will not require a similar treatment of Arabs/Gentiles living within Israeli territory?

The late Nineteenth and Early Twentieth Centuries saw Zionism as a secular Messianism. The return to Zion, the reclaiming of the land, the emergence of a full Jewish society as a participant among the community of nations as equals. The call still echos for Jews to leave the Exile and return to their Homeland, Eretz Yisrael. Eretz Yisrael is an undivided Jerusalem. Eretz Yisrael is Bethlehem and where Mother Rachel waits for her children to return, as is Hevron , Sechem, Zefat, Teveria, Beit EL,Efrat, Tel Aviv, Petach Tikva,Sederot, Bersheva, Lod, or Bene Brak etc. . . .

The present proposal made between two weak leaders forced together by a lame duck administration retreats from more than territory, it abandons core values. Instead of a Messianic fulfillment if Olmert, Abbas, Bush/Rice have their way the Jewish State becomes nothing more than a new Pale of Settlement. May a D-vine spark kindle the yearning for Zion and have the people of Israel proclaim "The Land of Israel is Jewry's and Judaism's natural habitat, accept no substitutes!!!
Anything else means to live a lie denying who the Jews are and their legacy as well as their destiny

Embarrassed or Emboldened

2007-09-25T12:58:00.000-05:00

Yesterday’s (September 24, 2007) appearance at Columbia University by Iran’s President Ahmadinejad and the introduction by University President Bollinger expose in microcosm America’s fundamental naiveté.

President Bollinger to his credit excoriated the tyrant of Teheran in no uncertain terms. President Bollinger did what would be ordinarily unthinkable. What type of host lambastes a guess? Certainly, if anyone deserved a verbal dressing down it would be Ahmadinejad.

Yet prefacing Ahmadinejad’s speech with the litany of his twisted evil-inspired world view may have mollified irate Donors, Faculty, Students and Alumni but totally misses the point. President Bollinger’s rebuke was wasted on Ahmadinejad. President Ahmadinejad knows but one thing ‘My message is so valued by Americans, I was invited to speak at the most prominent university in New York’

Ahmadinejad only sees that he is center stage and nothing else. Ahmadinejad can boast how he stood up to his detractors that he is strong, proud and fearless.

Americans, raised in liberty and cherishing a robust diversity of opinion were given the opportunity to see Ahmadinejad for the twisted debasement of humanity that defines who he and his fellow travelers are. Ahmadinejad’s sympathizers only see the appearance at Columbia University as a victory and reason to be emboldened. This twisted point of view is why Columbia University should never have allowed Ahmadinejad a venue to spew his ignorant and belligerent diatribe against civility, decency and humanity

Academic Freedom or Feebilness?

2007-09-23T09:41:00.000-05:00

The visit of Iran's president for the United Nations General Assembly should cause the United States rethink its relationship with the world body. A treaty called the Headquarters agreement supersedes domestic law. Yet, it is disturbing to consider mass murders and unstable heads of states can be shielded by Diplomatic Immunity.

Yet, the outrage of an evil emperor traveling to the US under the auspices of the UN is paled by Columbia University giving a forum to promote hate. How is human knowledge served by hearing an Anti America-West, Anti Semitic-Anti-Israel tirade? One can only surmise Columbia is beholden to certain donors sympathetic to Iran;s support of Islamic Terror. Otherwise is this simply academic freedom run amok?

Though Columbia is a private entity, free to do as it wishes. However, it is suggested that Alimni,Students and Tenured faculty protest and withhold donnations.

2007-09-11T14:34:00.000-05:00

Six years ago when I spoke with the Admur of Falticheim Shlita about the destruction and death visited on the USA the Rebbe asked me what about feeling of rage and a sense of lose for the Beis HaMikdash?

About visiting the Har Habayit. Certainly, there are venerable Torah Scholars like Rav Richman shlita from the Temple Institute and others who have determined as a matter of Halacha one may ascend to the Temple Mount. There are others who follow what is a more traditional approach to prohibit Jews from going atop the Holy Mountain.

Personally, I could not ascend to the Temple Mount. How could anyone with even a drop of Jewish sensitivity go on top the Temple Mount and not tear one's clothes in mourning? Or breaking down in uncontrollable river of tears at seeing other than the Beit HaMikdash resting the Holy place.

It took 6 years but the Rebbe's words echoed in my ears. Now does the surreal feelings I had at the Kotel in 1977, 1996 and 2005 how could I be at this holy site, [and that was the Kotel Plaza] it seemed so unreal.

While the attacks of 9/11 were horrible and should serve as a rallying point for at decent people against evil. However the loss of the Temple transcends time and endures as a symbol of more profound loss. The loss of G-D'S honor and Jewry's stature perpetuating discord throughout creation. Maybe as Rosh HaShana comes our thoughts and prayers be towards correcting ourselves so that harmony can reign throughout creation and Temple be rebuilt in our lifetime.

AN UNAVOIDABLE TRUTH

2007-09-04T14:18:00.000-05:00

The discovery of walls belonging to the actual Second Temple should be cause of excitement. However, this was an unintended result of the Waqf’s laying of electric cables atop the Temple Mount. Any assertion of inadvertence by the Islamic trust is refuted by the fact that most profound link to Jewry’s as well as humanity’s heritage treated as just so much rubbish. Please keep in mind this is coming from the folks accused Israel of attempting a conquest of the Temple Mount by reinforcing the Mugrabi bridge earlier this year.

Of course, this is only the most recent outrage out of many concerning the Temple Mount that should make any Islamic, Arab or international assurances of religious plurality, tolerance , access or sensitivity to other faith communities unreliable, at best to all but the most naïve.

How to react? First after Gush Katif, Amona, Hevron, Sederot and statement by the Israeli government there is little room for outrage. How many times can one’s sensibilities remain intact when constantly being assailed before one become completely numb?

Maybe there is a positive spin to put on this event. It is well known that a competition exists between Israeli/Jewish and Arab Archeologists for artifacts verifying each group’s version of history. An impressive pseudo scholarship denying the Temple’s existence let alone its being located on the Temple Mount itself. How providential is this? The architects of Temple denial become the agency for Temple affirmation!

Verifying the existence of the Temple of course implies an ancient Jewish presence and most likely Kingdom in the location. The embarrassing consequences to the Arabs as well as to the “there is nothing to learn from history” crowd occupying positions of power and influence within Israel. Hence the need for official silence. However among those whose world view revolves around G-D and His Torah there is a basis for rejoicing the plans of evildoers are frustrated.

Further, consider the timing of this remarkable find. Just at the close of the year leading in to a Sabbatical (Shemitah) the Temple’s walls become exposed maybe, just maybe by the end of 5768 the Temple itself will reappear?

OVENS OR WHY HISTORY MATTERS

2007-08-24T14:46:00.000-05:00

Recently a religious newpaper disclosed the location of a Jewish owned cremation facility in Israel. The crematorium was burnt down. However MKs have lined seeking legislation on either side of matter.

The presence of or even a debate over cremation in Eretz Yisrael should shock the conscience. An oven for dead Jews has no place in the Jewish State. It is amazing that some survivors’ organization has not yet found an advocate and filed a petition with the Supreme Court to close down and collect damages from the Crematorium’s owners.

With all due respect to the MKs from both Meretz and Shas this is not merely a religious or civil rights issue, not in Israel. Being contrary to Jewish Law only makes cremation a new frontier in Israel’s on going Secular/Religious kulturkampf. However, failure to recognize this facility as evoking the specter of the Shoah speaks volumes on even a more fundamental plane. Tolerance of cremation in Israel lessens the sense of outrage the depraved cruelty of the Final Solution should arouse. A public sentiment that Putting people in ovens is OK is a foreseeable result especially with the ever decreasing numbers of eye witnesses to these crimes against humanity. Imagine the irony the image of a Jewish operated crematorium in the Jewish homeland! Similarly, only addressing cremation to a civil right should be a warning sign of what happens when a people’s educational and philosophical orientation promotes estrangement from its history and heritage. President Peres this why history matters.

POWERFUL WORDS

2007-08-16T18:48:00.000-05:00

Dr. Wiess' response to the commander and his statements were a cry of pain in the face of an intolerable scene. However, what the Professor said was personal, and merely speech.How an expression of an opinion with nothing more, not even encouraging others to do more be actionable in a country that values free speech? If the general is offended by Dr Weiss's words but why not the Arab MK who declared Jews have no right to Jerusalem?
Any retaliation against the Dr. Weiss offends any concept of free speach which is sacred to a democracy. Even though Prof. Weiss should not have said such horrible things to another Jew the consequences of Prof. Weiss' actions are for G-D to deal with and man/

However, the positive spin is the voices raised in protest display an acknowledgement of the statements' potency and the G-D of Israel who invested those words of scripture with their power. Even an errant Jew cannot deny who they are believers the sons believers.

May the spark of sincere Jewish connection with G-D grow from a flicker to a full flame of Torah's eternal message.

If I were an Open Minded Leftist,

2007-08-08T10:52:00.000-05:00

Out of the gate Jews belong in Hebron even moreso than other places in Judea and Samaria. The oldest recorded real estate transaction is Avraham Avinu’s purchase of the Machpaleh cave and field (Bereshith 23:17). The continued presence of Jews within Hebron gives the city the status along with Jerusalem, Safed and Tiberius as one the “Four lands of Life” [Arba Artzut Hachaim].

However, what if one was ignorant of all that? True, the city at present is mostly Arab and it seems the Jews living there are inserting themselves where they are not wanted. Therefore, the settlers’ dedication and determination and those of their sympathizers to risk arrest and violence is at best a riddle.

Yet, when the Government can’t pay holocaust survivors more than 83 NIS a month but can finance 3,000 soldiers, police, vehicles and other supports materials to remove some one hundred persons from the Hebron marketplace?

Mr. Olmert cannot get rid of the missiles sent to Sederot nor is he able to fund shielding even only for Sederot’s public buildings but can finance 3,000 soldiers, police, vehicles and other supports materials to remove some one hundred persons from the Hebron marketplace?

The Health Ministry does not have the funds for a comprehensive basket of childhood vaccines claim Israeli Doctors can finance 3,000 soldiers, police, vehicles and other supports materials to remove some one hundred persons from the Hebron marketplace?

During the 2006 election campaign it was asserted that one out of three Israeli children lived below the poverty line, this problem remains but the funds are available for 3,000 soldiers, police, vehicles and other supports materials to remove some one hundred persons from the Hebron marketplace?

The former residents of Gush Katif for the most part have not been reintegrated within Israel’s society or economy but the government can finance 3,000 soldiers, police, vehicles and other supports materials to remove some one hundred persons from the Hebron marketplace? This exercise is being touted as the beginning of relocating the majority of 250,000 Jews of Judea and Samaria !!

What are the government’s priorities?
As it is so often the Question contains the Answer. Clearly, Jews who assert the Jewish nature of the land, its connection with its Biblical roots threaten Olmert, Barak, Tamir et al more than any arab could. An orange nationalist Jew stands in the way of a secular Israel as a country of it s citizens.

Why are Israel’s leaders pre-occupied with securing a “right to exist”? Why does there seem to be no concession too painful to PM Olmert or President Peres agree to? Why should anyone care where anyone else lives? Why is a leader without any significant public support charting the course for the state’s future?

The sycophantic need of Israel’s leadership/far left /peace now et al for others’ approval for a sense of self worth is reminiscent of those pathetic Jews of the 1930’s, 40’s, 50’s who gladly jettisoned any vestige of Jewish identity either religious or ethnic in pursuit of acceptance in general society. Their sad conclusion would be very often remorse that they or their children were estranged from their heritage and not fully welcomed by the Von Shaygetzes at the Country Club.

Even if one came from a non-nationalist point of view these questions should take center stage. Similarly, what motivates the settlers and their supporters to risk arrest, prison a criminal record and possible injury?

Additionally, while a soldier’s duty to follow orders is of paramount importance. A soldier’s second guessing commanders may have disastrous results since the soldier on the ground may not have the big picture intelligence available to command. However, when soldiers’ conduct even under combat conditions carry the potential for personal liability blindly following orders is a luxury that is no longer viable. So to set troops even police against civilians would imply either these troops actually agree with the policy being carried out or have been psychologically manipulated to loose whatever part of the brain that makes moral judgments.

All in all the evacuation from Hebron’s marketplace should be turning point, for morality, real self esteem, national pride and purpose.

WHO DEFINES WHO YOU ARE?

2007-08-06T12:04:00.000-05:00

Mr. Olmert with his mandate of 3% support is negotiating a declaration of principles for final status issues in the Israel-Arab conflict with Abu Mazen,who has lost control over Gaza and remains in power only through the support of Washington and to a lesser degree Olmert himself.The Final status of borders, Jerusalem, resettlement of Jews from Yesha(after all Israel did so well relocating the 8,500 folks from Gush Katif imagine how well it will do with 250,000!)and the contiguity between Gaza and Yehuda/Shomron etc . . .is going to be left to these two?

Is there anything that would motivate Arab compromise or concession to Israel? Please understand not engaging in and policing against terrorism, struggleism or jihad is not a concession or compromise, this is the minimal behavior expected from a responsible government.

Is there a demand to which Olmert will not acquiesce? Is there price for peace that the people of Israel will be unwilling to allow their government to pay on their behalf?

To consider the present as a Historic Opportunity for Peace is so profoundly out of touch as to call in to question Secretary Rice's grasp of reality. Dr. Rice to proclaim Israel's future lies in the Galil and Negev and not Yehudah and Shomron demonstrates at best embracing the leftist Post-Zionist/Post-Nationalist philosophy espoused by PM Olmert and President Peres. Or at worst a slap in the face of all the generations of Jews who wept for Temple's destruction and exile on Tisha B'Av or punctuated Yom Kippur or Passover Seder with the desire/prayer that "NEXT YEAR IN JERUSALEM". Jerusalem,Judea and Shomron as well as Gaza are part of my legacy as a Jew. These places connect me to both the past and future. Heritage offers context for where one has come and offers direction where to go from here.

Olmert's Israel (3%)needs Abu Mazen and Washington's blessing to claim a right to exist. The Other Israel(97%)exists because of their Heritage, because of the Mothers and Fathers buried in Hevron, for Mother Rachel in Beit Lechem, because of generations of ancestors who looked three times daily in prayer towards Zion. These are not mere ghosts but the wellspring of Jewry's identity,pride, self esteem and
D-vinely ordained mandate. Even if one is not personally observant where does one's sense of self? from within or without?

To paraphrase Hillel in Pirkei Avot "If I,myself do not define who I am than who will? And if others define me than who am I? . . . ." How fascinating one's arrogance can obscure such a simple fact. Can the ship of state remain in such hands unless as a D-vine message to illustrate there is no logic outside faith in Hashem and His Torah.

NO MORE OUTRAGE

2007-07-25T11:11:00.000-05:00

It is time to stop being outraged. The recent headlines notwithstanding. As if the Education Ministry endorsing the Israeli Arab community being taught the establishment of the State was a tragedy.

As if not enough hate was being broadcast through the mosques and other media that the establishment of the Jewish state was indeed illegitimate and the Jews are nothing more than usurpers occupiers and conquerors this point of view must be promoted by the Jewish State itself.

Also in response to the Knesset law requiring the sale of JNF lands be exclusively to Jews Prime Minister Olmert has proposed some 400,000 acres of JNF land to the Israel Lands Authority to facilitate building projects serving both Jewish and Arab communities. Despite the Knesset vote garnering some 64 votes the Prime Minister cynically seeks to circumvent the will of the population. So reports Aaron Klein on World Net Daily, www.worldnetdaily.com. What is even more outrageous is some of these lands were purchased by JNF with the nickels and dimes put in to the ubiquitous
Blue box by generations of Jews from the modern return to Zion in the late nineteenth century.

The nature of these stories are surreal to say the least but there is no room for outrage. Devarim 4:25 –28 describes Israel’s descent in to decadence. The national free fall is characterized by an apparent exchange of Jewish Identity for the ill-fitting mores and values of other nations. Yet, as 4:29-30 explains it will be then when return would began.
Just as an addict’s recovery begins with hitting bottom so too does Israel’s return begin when continuing as something one is not is no longer tenable. There will come a point that adapting foreign behaviors will no longer work for Jewry. Following the nations will only compound bad situations, making them continuously worse.

Has following the lead of the European Union or United Nations or United States regarding the future and security of Israel done anything but embolden terrorists?

Maybe this is why as Rabbi Lazer Brody Shlita told Israel National Radio’s Tamar Yonah that some 50,000 copies of the Hebrew version of B’Gan HaEmuna, The Garden of Emunah (Faith) have been already sold /distributed in Israel. The only truth that explains everything [earlier post not withstanding] is G-D and only G-D is control and nothing else matters or can be relied on. The absurd nature of Israeli government conduct is actually G-D's wake up call, hopefully He is being heard.

A PRESIDENT NETUREI KARTA COULD LOVE

2007-07-16T04:36:00.000-05:00

President Peres' remarks before taking office, that we must get rid of the territories (Yehudah, Shomron, the Golan, Jerusalem?) are reprehensible. A country's president should be a patriot, a believer in his country's founding principles. Believing the Medina is separate from Eretz Yisrael displays disdain for every person who ever loved Zion or sacrificed to realize Jewry's hope nurtured over two thousand years. Mr. Peres seems detached from his own heritage and history.

How can such a person be placed in a position of national trust

Olmert's Point of View

2007-07-10T10:28:00.000-05:00

When a conversation turns to the machinations of global elites seeking to reshape humanity in to a new world order etc… the eyes would glaze over and frankly the message was reaching a dismissive audience. The notion of a conspiracy being directed through the likes of The Council of Foreign Relations, Tri-Lateral Commission, Free Masons, Illuminati, other secret society or cabal conjures the images and intrigue of secret communications, regular meetings with all the trappings and apparatus a transnational corporate –government partnership would entail. Something so big and all encompassing simply could not hide in the shadows or merely be fodder for the next Dan Brown novel. Additionally, the threads that connect known facts are often woven together in so tenuous a manner that taking them seriously is challenging to one’s sense of logic.

However, maybe the conception of conspiracy as a formal agenda agreed upon by overlord ruling elites may be mistaken. Rather consider the conspiracy of a New World Order (NWO) is more a shared philosophy than anything else.

The demise of the communist economic model resulted in increased international commercial dependence. The growth of capitalist model economies discourages conflict as war would disrupt the flow of materials, goods and services between people and be against everyone’s self interest. The preservation of transnational commerce becomes humanity’s most cherished value as it promotes peace and at least for some, prosperity.

Emergence of a NOW implies there was an Old World Order. OWO apparently one built on nation states’ and their historical and cultural heritage. Such entities are built around individuals with a shared location, culture, mores and interests.

The result is two views of society. are two views what could be called nationalism and globalism. Nationalists see distinctions and differences between people not necessarily in a racist sense but in terms of championing the distinct identities of nations, communities and individuals. Globalists perceive all differences and distinctions between people are artificial and should be sacrificed in favor of transnational cooperation/commerce, the collective benefit of humanity at best, or in reality a general absence of conflict for most and unlimited potential profit for a few.

The conflict between the points of view is irreconcilable as one affirms the value of the individual in context of a society and history. The Nationalist perspective comes from a sense of heritage, tradition and history that all contribute in formulating values, morals and ethics that govern both personal and public behavior.

The Globalist/ NOW perspective values only whatever keeps commerce flowing between nations matters. Transnational cooperation is achieved optimally by mutual self interest or imposed by external control (think the US and Mainland China) Consequently, the elements of identity, individual conscience and free will, those things that make it impossible for a person to control another are the globalists’ greatest threat.

NOW in light of the above Mr. Olmert and his minions make sense. Thinking in terms of history, heritage and narrow national interest is contrary to achieving a utopian society. What does it matter missles land in Sederot ? Or that Israel have a Jewish character? These provincial concerns get in the way of unifying mankind in trade and commerce. {Not that the West cares for a minute about the Human rights of peoples living in Islamic lands as long as petroleum flows unfettered and cheaply} Therefore, to Mr. Olmert and his Global thinking buddies the greatest threat facing the nation is the over 50% of first graders entering Jewish religious schools and not Iran.

Remember the last atempt at unifying humanity was by Nimrod and the tower of Babel and look how that turned out.

Similarly, in other countries the general disdain for religion reflects this nationalist globalist dichotomy. So Olmert is not crazy just embracing a crazy ideology that threatens the value of individual and Humanity’s historical legacy. This shared philosophy of the NOW may not be a classic conspiracy but the pervasive inroads of Globalism within liberal governments sure make it look like one.

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Be Scared be very scared

2007-07-02T14:36:00.000-05:00

Recently President Bush visited a Washington D.C. Mosque in an attempt to reach out to moderate Muslims. The President decried the multiple atrocities committed by Muslims against Muslims.

While it may not have been the right place or the right time but from reading excerpts from the New York Post it would seem Radical Muslims hate everyone who are not them and moderates only hate Jews.

Similarly, according to Secretary Rice Hamas is now a resistance group and not terrorist. The fact that Hamas is fighting recent inroads being made by Al-Queda in Gaza is what brought the image makeover is chilling. To embrace the enemy of my enemy might be prudent advice. But,it calls in to question the whole Global War on Terror. Trans national actors as well as state sponsored terror groups must all be opposed there is no room for strange and expedient bedfellows because today's friend could G-D forbid be tomorrow's shahid.

Fundamentals, Leadership 101

2007-07-01T00:46:00.000-05:00

"A country cannot protect itself ad infinitum, because there would be no end to it." -- Prime Minister Ehud Olmert

Imagine what this statement does to rally troops, bolster the populace and of course preserve real estate values? Imagine a head of state declaring the citizen's safety is just not government's problem.Imagine what Sederot mayor Eli Moyal must be thinking, hearing this declaration of indifference? That Mayor Moyal is still behaving rationally is remarkable. How could anyone in his position not be beside himself? Mayor Moyal deserves praise for doing what he can for his city. Even so, the numbing callous nature of Prime Minister Olmert's statement goes beyond all comprehention.

Certainly people cannot and should not be wholly dependent on the government for safety and security. But being told by the government a flat out "NO!", the state will not do everything or much of anything to protect a home,a business a community or its people.

Mr. Olmert,it would be an exercise in simple human nature and logic to conclude that this why countries go on the offensive and commit to D*E*F*E*A*T an enemy. Anything short of decisive victory is defeat. What kind of leader can expect to retain power thinking otherwise ? What type of populace allows this type of leadership?

Pharaoh is not a Role Model-

2007-06-17T10:29:00.000-05:00

Fatah over Hamas? Has anyone noticed who are fighting each other? Neither side is worthy of support. The choice is akin to choosing between warring crime families in prohibition era Chicago.

To prop up Fatah’s Abu Mazen by having Israel turn over funds, remove checkpoints or turn over tax revenue is throwing more good money after bad. The arms and equipment given the PA in Gaza by the US with safeguards that the weapons not wind up in Hamas hands and directed towards Israel are in Hamas hands more or less.

For anyone to suggest that a two state solution is viable or that either Hamas or Fatah is worthy of leadership and that any peace is possible with either is like encouraging Pharaoh to chase after the escaped slaves. Can following the road map end any differently?

THE SIGNS OF OUR TIMES

2007-06-14T20:16:00.000-05:00

Rav Lazer Brody Shlita commented on his blog http://lazerbrody.typepad.com/ that the prospect of war is not within the individual’s choice and therefore war is exclusively in G-D’s hands. Consequently, if something is beyond one’s ability to control it is likewise beyond the things G-D wants us to worry about. The Rabbi suggested a cease fire with G-D to return to Him in repentance.
Now consider the most recent events in Gaza. Hamas has taken control of Gaza pushing out Fatah. The significance is Hamas are believers as they conquered, they prayed, they viewed each murderous blood soaked step as an opportunity for praise. True theirs is a worship of death, of evil of discord but it does impose burden upon Jewry.

When a tractate of Talmud is concluded the prayers recited in celebration declares “we rise early and they rise early , we rise to learn Torah and they rise to pursue falsehood. . . . we run and they run we run to eternity to world to come and they run into the abyss of destruction . . . ” If those who champion death call out to G-D how can a Jew whose heritage is Torah that is the elixir of life remain silent before G-D?

Rabbi Eliezer Twersky of Falticheim ZY’A quoted Rabbi Nachman of Breslov’s uncle, Rabbi Baruch of Mezibosh ZTVK’L ZY’A the liturgy proclaims “For You[G-D] hear each mouth calling out in prayer ” Hebrew for mouth is Peh. The Rabbi observed Peh can be pronounced PHEH of Feh an expression of disgust. Therefore the text could read that Hashem hears the prayer of each Jew even those who can be called Feh --even the lowest of the lowest can be heard if the first step is made to call out in prayer.

The other events of the week within the Israeli government further make looking to human leadership for security and protection seem at best foolish is not insane and turning to G-D the only logical option. Who knows where these events will fit in the course of history? There are two paths open one leading to the fantasy world where the country’s political echelon lives or the world of prayer of refuge with Hashem. The choice of prayer is in each person’s hands, that choice something one can worry about. Choosing wisely, because the selection can reshape the whole world .

SURVIVING THE SURRAEL

2007-06-03T09:52:00.000-05:00

The news coming out of Israel almost daily shows a dramatic dichotomy that perhaps highlights the strength of societies that cherish freedom and champion liberty.

The reports of arrogance, ineptitude, incompetence, indifference, pursuit of self destructive self serving corruption seems to engulf the whole of Israeli governmental institutions including the Courts and military to the point which in other places would throw that society in to civil disarray. Yet despite the governmental meltdown Israel's economy is growing steadily and the media is not fully muzzled by the government.

Indeed the seeming disconnect and apparant disdain between the government and the people is so dramatic that it is as though two alternative realities exist in Israel, which colors each segment's perceptions and priorities.

Maybe this is how power corrupts by insulating its members from reality and replacing it with an alternative version that at is so skewed thereby, distorting government's world view to that of a hall of mirrors.

A civil society's survival under such circumstances can only be the product of D-VINE providence.

SEDROT GATEWAY TO . . . .

2007-05-28T10:44:00.000-05:00

Concerning Sedrot as believers we know there is a D-VINE reason behind why Sedrot?, which House? And Who? As we say daily “He creates all existence anew daily . . . . ” “[G-D is ] the master of war . . . the source of salvation’s flowering ” (Shacharit, Birchat HaYotzer). Therefore, to write off the campaign against Sedrot as random is to completely miss the point.

However, to glibly declare it is a sign of G-D’s wrath is insensitive, arrogant and inaccurate. If the attacks were intended merely as punishment there would be an opportunity to absorb the experience and discern what needs to change and improve. However, being in a state of emergency hardly affords Sedrot’s residents’ time to reflect and cull needed lessons. So to declare a blanket D-vine punishment upon Sedrot is hard to say. Now it is possible than individuals who suffered property loss of injury are being sent a specific message to atone, repent or improve but that is between the individual and Hashem and certainly not anyone’s place to speculate except for the true Zaddikim who are both keenly aware of Hashem’s ways and deeply attached to the Jewish people.

It is equally possible the people of Sedrot collectively need this experience as a soul repair for a previous life. Or the people a Sedrot need this experience as a source of merit for keeping the faith in extreme circumstances. Consider the original prophecy was that Bene Yisrael be slave for 400 years yet they were in Egypt only 210 years and out that time the actual time as slaves may have been as little as 86 years. Yet the intensity of the servitude was multiplied exponentially to achieve the necessary effect that qualified Bene Yisrael for an earlier redemption and revelation at Sinai. Maybe Sedrot’s experience is a preparation for something greater. Who except a Zaddik can say?

Rabbi Nachman teaches in several places that a major task in life is to look for G-D’s presence everywhere and in everything especially behind the corners and out of view. What can be stated with some confidence is that Sedrot’s residents are being presented these attacks as a means for their spiritual fulfillment. Additionally for the rest of us it is an opportunity to increase the world’s foundations of Torah Prayer and Kindness in which case Sedrot is not being punished but the bulb of salvation’s flowering that blossoms in to Mashiach’s arrival in the immediate future.

Sorry for not fully documenting this post

RUNING ON EMPTY

2007-05-27T22:25:00.000-05:00

Sderot is under attack and there are fatalities. To think the IDF cannot remove the threat is silly there are no PA Air Force or tank units or artillery. A lack of ability is not an explanation.

Simultaneously Sderot residents were relocated to army run rest centers. This simple humanitarian gesture too exposed the fundamental problem. Hared Jewish families were placed with secular families and had the serenity of the Shabbat marred by blaring TV’s mixed male and female choral programs and inattention to accommodate the haredi standards of Kashruth. When people complained they were told they could go back to Sderot.

A city's mayor has to be reduced to tears pleading in vain for the national government to fulfill its minimal mission to protect the country and its population from external enemies.

Further, MK Orlev proposed a law that would introduce an American style Sunday and weaken the public face of the Jewish Shabbath. This proposed legislation is a cultural retreat of Jewish sovereignty akin to a land give back.

There is a parade planed yet again for Jerusalem to celebrate life styles prohibited by Torah despite the nearly unanimous opposition to such activities.

There is a common thread. Like the government appears to be devoid of any ability to connect with the populace. Maybe even a sense of disdain for the cultural ethnic and historic societal norms of the people.

It would seem Israel's central enemy is its own government. The apparent unwillingness to be itself and embrace Jewry's national G-D given context and heritage. Failing to do so leaves leadership empty and without direction.

ULTIMATE DEFENSIVE SHEILD

2007-05-16T10:19:00.000-05:00

There is no way anyone can truly appreciate what it means to survive a missile attack.. Shlomo Wallins’ of www.israelreporter.com video showed the calm of his backyard violated by a missile slamming in to the house next door can only convey a sense of what it must be like but . . . .

The Sedrot video took the writer back to when in 1978 as a Yeshiva student in Jerusalem’s Sanhedria Murchevet neighborhood. Sanhedria Murchevet was the city’s northern border at the time. Just after Passover on a Sunday night the evening’s quiet was ripped by a katusha launched from behind a nearby hill. Fortunately, the projectile was a dud harmlessly landing in a vacant lot. However, the sound of the rocket’s launch and flight still reverberates in my mind to point that I refuse to attend fireworks displays. Only this personal experience made Mr. Wallins’ film all the more shocking.

With great humility the following thoughts are offered. The citizens of Sedrot realize their government will not defend them, the I.D.F. hamstrung by the civilian echelons will not act. Rockets land en masse, throughout the city and there are no fatalities. Now, there is no intention to trivialize the significance of people’s injuries or property losses. However, the fact no one was murdered defies logic. Maybe just maybe the lesson Sedrot is teaching the rest of the world, one’s trust cannot lie with an army and its weapons or that government will act in the interests of its citizens’ still there is a defensive shield upon all can rely, A-mighty G-D. As King David said in Tehilim 121 “The Guardian of Israel neither sleeps nor slumbers ” Please do not despair Sedrot your arsenal is as deep as the faith of Israel that is Jewry's heritage which no one can destroy.

With prayers of comfort and for Redemption

SEEK OUT THE WELFARE OF JERUSALEM W

2007-05-13T21:43:00.000-05:00

This week marks the 40th anniversary of Jerusalem's reunification. The usual suspects will not be in attendance. No one is disappointed about Jordan and Egypt will not come. Nor, in the current climate is the absence of the European Union is expected. However, when a man of strong moral character has his government despite overwhelming public opinion to the contrary boycotts the celebrations that are news. The United States will stay away from the Jerusalem day celebrations.

A unified Jerusalem is a city where it is possible all can live and pray something that did not happen under British or Jordanian rule. The connection of Jewry to Jerusalem colors the whole of Jewish life. Three times daily Jews pray for the rebuilding of the city as well as Grace After Meals. This is at a minimum for the religious Jews but even popular rituals observed by most Jews like Yom Kippur and the Passover Seder conclude "Next Year in Jerusalem" Similarly Chanukah is connected with the conquest of The Temple Mount and Jewish Control over the Temple Mount.
The sense of belonging to this place among Jews is high especially back in 1967 as a 9 year old the overwhelming sense was we've come home Israel is now complete and not a shell.
To acknowledge anyone else's claim to this city is to insult all Jewry who lived, live and look to Jerusalem since the reign of King David OBM,
To acknowledge the rights of anyone other than the Jewish people to ANYWHERE within the Biblical borders of Israel defies G-D, His teachings within scripture the history culture and faith of Israel.

This simple approach of self respect, of self pride of self awareness can never silence the truth nor dislodge it from its place. Shame on you Mr. President for not understanding this Shame on you Mr. Olmert et al for demanding the respect your country deserves as part of the world community.

Ever closer ever clearer the world needs to come to its senses and recognize what and who embrace evil and who oppose its advance. Some well meaning outrage is in order as a Jew I am offended as an American I am disappointed my President would appease Arab States hostile to the Jewish State and not be support a greater Israel, in all Israel.

Leadership is Taking Responsibility

2007-05-10T08:43:00.000-05:00

"I think the army disappointed itself to a large degree,"

"Something in the command and control concept did not meet expectations and undoubtedly led to a disparity between what we were capable of achieving and what we actually achieved,"

Prime Minister Olmert's statements before the Winograd Commission may be an adult version of the small child next a broken vase and claiming "not me " when Mom or Dad ask who broke the vase.

Or a more unnerving version a person in occupying a position of public trust whose choices could affect the lives of an entire country including the choices concerning the waging of war. Choosing costs lives, choosing wrongly or indecision unnecessarily puts people at risk.

Or even more disquieting is when the failure to accept personal responsibility arises from an indifference to others.

None of these options are comforting, at the least such a person may act in his or her own self interest may express itself in a fear of public disgrace and arrogance works for the public good. However like a stopped clock is only correct but for two minutes a day. A regular occurrence but too infrequent to be relied on. Any other option opens the country to hands of one who may treat power as a personal plaything or worse a tool of oppression.

Soldier’s follow the orders of the civil authorities in whose hands are vested the life and death decisions. Such people have no business as leaders and shame on anyone who would prop them up.

Eternal Lessons, Moral GPS

2007-05-02T17:56:00.000-05:00

As the handwriting is on the wall and the obituaries for the Olmert government are being contemplated the most important question is not who is the next Prime Minister? Rather, the better question is what should the public look for in their next set of leaders?

To form an opinion one needs to look inward to what our heritage has to say about government. The Torah warns Devarim 17:14-20 that a king keep a Torah scroll with him to learn the fear of G-D and prevent the king thinking himself above G-D and his law.

Shemuel the Prophet warns the nation, Shemuel I 8:11-18 that maintaining the apparatus of a central government will be costly. A monarchy has an insatiable appetite, invading one’s money, produce, property and even person for its service.

Similarly, the Mishna in Perkei Avoth, Ethics of the Fathers 2:3 to be wary of government officials as they are opportunists currying the people’s favor when it is to their personal advantage but will abandon them when it is not in their self-interest.

Further, in Avoth 3:3 the role government is to maintain a civil society. Otherwise one would swallow their neighbor alive.

Additionally, Rabbi Shimshon Raphael Hirsch ZT'L commenting on Nimord's agenda behind building the Tower of Babel lambasts the state's promoting personal fulfillment through national service. Similarly, Korach,it becomes clear from Rashi Z'L as an exemplar of when a personal agenda is marketed as a movement for social justice and equality.

While this seems overly pessimistic it is realistic. Temptation to abuse power and to think only about oneself are so seductive that their destructive effects are all but inescapable.

Only with the overlay of a constant fear of Heaven can there be any chance of competent governance and societal civility. Does this mean only an observant Jew can rule? It would be insincere for someone like the writer to say otherwise but at a minimum the next government should recognize Jewry has a heritage that spans millennia and not just 59 years. Jewry has a heritage of values which has endured and thrives to this day and not a passing fad of Western pop culture and conventional wisdom.

The Jewish heritage is not of the moment but of eternity. The Jewish Heritage is from G-D and not man. Even if one is not yet mitzvah observant without these fundamental values what fills the resulting moral void? Unfortunately, recent history shows what can result.

Torah lessons from Pinball

2007-04-15T21:27:00.000-05:00

How is Torah like Pinball?

That question was posed by Israel National News's Yishai Fliesher and here are some thoughts on the topic demmonstrating how everything can teach valuable lessons..

1 When you start there are a lot of loud noises and flashing lights.
2 However, eventually to succeed one cannot be distracted by the bells and whistles.

3 With concentration, dedication and mazal one can continue forever and continuously score points.

4 If the ball falls through the cracks one gets another chance to score that is not prejudiced by the earlier ball’s failure.

5 No matter how many times the ball hits the same bumper one still scores new points.

6 One can continue until GAME OVER which is different for each player and not known to any player.

7 Remember and this is key,the ball must keep on moving, it cannot stay in any one place too long otherwise it will be out of play. In Torah one must grow and advance otherwise one goes downr

Conquest and Ownership

2007-04-15T01:23:00.000-05:00

Monday, the 28 Nisan is the date when Yehoshua Ben Nun (Joshua) conquered Yericho the gateway to Eretz Yisrael. It is telling that the Aleinu paryer said at the end of three daily services was composed by Yehoshua at that time. The kabbalists (Sha’ar HaKvanot) associate the prayer that proclaims Jewry’s gratitude for being selected from among the nations because it is G-D who has created all existence is ensure that nothing negative affect the D-vine energy accessed through prayer.
In light of the above consider the first the Rashi on Chumash that the sole basis to a Jewish claim to Eretz Yisrael lies in G-D’s allocation of land and nothing else.
As Yehoshua opened up the land militarily he know only G-D, the Ribono Shel Olam (Master of Existense) could deed the land to His people. A point for today's leaders to ponder

HOMESH and HOPE

2007-03-28T22:46:00.001-05:00

The return of some 3,000 Jews to the Samarian community of Homesh on 7 and 5 Nissan 5767 (March 26 and 27 2007)is very significant . Homesh was one the communities from which Jews were expelled along with the Jewish residents of Gush Katif in 2005.

Originally when Ms. Nadia Matar described the action it seemed to be just so much symbolism lacking any substance. This was a mistaken impression. Why the Army allowed some 3,000 plus came and once there some began building makeshift structures. One correspondent for Israel National News called these structures as Succoth. Additionally on Tuesday a Brit Mila, circumcision took place in Homesh. These two events offer a profound lesson which offers hope for a brighter future.

The Succa, the makeshift huts Jews live in during the Festival of Succoth in Hebrew the numerical value of the letters that spell succa equal 91 the combination of the four letter D-vine name and A*D^O*N*A****I, names that represent G-D as He fills and surrounds all existence. A Brit Mila the entry of a young man in to the Jewish faith is a symbol of hope in a future, a Jewish future.

The classic leaders of Historic Zionism all saw the then future Jewish state as a conduit for establishing a Jewish state embracing the values of Western Europe and abandoning the Jewish Heritage. Even Jabotinsky called for treating those who would not remove their beards and side curls, outward symbols of Jewishness are to be treated as second class citizens. The vision of the future Jewish state was one without G-D.

This is maybe why the vision of a new Israeli Jew would be, strong and defiant, the antithesis of the stereotypical exile Diaspora based Jew. A state could be located in Uganda, a state could be located in Uganda etc.

The fact is the Jewish masses who were raised on Next Year in Jerusalem could not conceive of return to anywhere but Eretz Yisrael or outside of the context of Messianic redemption as taught throughout the generation since the days of Moses and the prophets.

The present government behave with little or no consciousness of Jewry’s heritage or destiny. Or strangely enough in utter fear of Jewry's destiny being fulfilled.It seems the perception of the State as being merely a state of its citizens and embracing enlightened Western Liberal values. The Homesh returnees showed all the nation of Israel will not abandon its destiny or heritage. Those who dwell in Succoth, the shadow of faith or perform the brit, covenant that binds Jewry to G-D are linked to the Eternal and will not and cannot be denied by any earthly force.

The eternity of the Jewish people cannot be denied, Netzach Yisrael Lo Yishaker.

A PRE PASSOVER THOUGHT

2007-03-25T02:33:00.000-05:00

Recently a Google video search under Zionism yield a film from www,shofar.org concerning Judaism and Zionism. The film was disquieting and inspiring at the same time. The film took quotes from Hetzel, Nordau, Jabotinsky as well as others in the Zionist Pantheon.

Each of these leaders the film quotes had either said or written things hostile not just Judaism but to the validity of a distinct Jewish Identity. The Jewish state was envisioned as a conduit for Jewry embracing values and mores of Western Civilization. The Jewish state was envisioned as being devoid of its own heritage and values. The new Jew to be forged in the new state was envisioned as one unshackled by the baggage of the past whether imposed by hostile host countries or by G-D Himself through Torah.

What these visionaries envisioned was indeed shortsighted. The concept of Zionism did not take hold until it was marketed as a redemption movement. As a Professor interviewed in the film put it The Zionist Leaders believed There is no G-D, but presented Zionism as fulfilment His promise. The flag has two blue stripes reminiscent of a prayer cape’s stripes. Blue was selected as it is symbolic of the tehelet, the blue dye applied to Zitzit fringes during Temple times and while now lost will be restored in the Messianic era. Zionism was to be the herald of a Messianic era.
A return to the land absent the yearned for redemption would not nor could not be accepted by the Jewish nation.

This contains a fantastic lesson. A perception of a Jewish future, a Jewish fulfillment and a Jewish utopia stripped of Jewry’s identity, stripped of the Jewish Heritage and Jewry’s worldview is a non starter.

Certainly, there are Jews who consciously run away from who and what they are, but these are the exceptions. Rank and File Jews may or may not be particularly observant, that is a function of education, but to abandon Jewish identity and heritage or destiny is unthinkable. Netzach Yisrael Lo Yishaker-The Eternity of the Jewish people will not be rendered false.

As Passover approaches this comes in to focus. Departure from the Exile is not for Israel to takes its place in the family of nations. Rather redemption is the freedom to be who one was meant to be to fulfill one's destiny to realize G-D's promise in totality with Mashiach in our lifetime.

BORATESQUE REPORTAGE

2007-03-15T12:23:00.000-05:00

During the Soviet era the notion arose that a viable means of communicating and garnering support for the Communist way of life in the Capitalist- free world the was the use of dupes called, useful idiots. Useful Idiots, are very often the same folks who the Communists would first round up as enemies of the state. Currently, the individuals who cluelessly join groups like the International Solidarity Movement,B'tselem and similar organizations to promote Arab claims to within the land of Israel are the latest example of the useful idiot.

The naive belief that Israel alone is the problem, holding back Arab residents of Judea, Samaria and Gaza or those people who abandoned their property in 1948 at the behest of Arab leadership in anticipation of a swift Israeli defeat, from successful prosperous lives motivates volunteers to video settlers’ violent behavior.

A Google video search under Israel Jews yielded several videos each is quite disturbing. The films are introduced by lurid descriptions of stone throwing or hate speech and the IDF's apparent indifference to these injustices. While the film is rolling there is narration to make sure the intended message is not looked over.These picture are not worth a thousand words.The fact that Jews and and Arabs both wish to occupy Hevron exclusively and two objects cannot occupy the same place at the same time therefore tension exists. The possibility that there are subtle and overt Arab acts of harassment is ignored. The camera only captures a snapshot not what happened before and not after.

One film had an English film crew http://video.google.com/url?docid=1810499180473273268&esrc=sr4&ev=v&q=jews+settlers&vidurl=http://www.youtube.com/watch%3Fv%3DGSAvaYY-y7Q&usg=AL29H20dd61F8Jm6Rt1Rkrd_c3NVCw49CQ confront two teenage boys. One boy yells and curses at the internationals but if you listen, one hears more anguish than anger, one hears more “Why the heck are you bothering me, my family and community? I don’t bother you in your home why invade mine?”

The second film, http://video.google.com/url?docid=-2623241895341609634&esrc=sr27&ev=v&q=israel+jews&vidurl=http://www.youtube.com/watch%3Fv%3D25hfZQw9rV4&usg=AL29H22ccCTkMaNsw4TtU8yg13RXDWldzQ has an older woman as the main International confronting a group of children specifically a girl who may be 13 or 14 at the most (and she seemed to be the oldest in the group) debating whether Arabs ever hurt or killed Jews. She goes away a significant distance cursing at the lady telling to go home. Tones are thrown when one hits the International the thrower actually apologizes! Soldiers on patrol attempt to diffuse the situation by having both groups disburse The Internationals do not move and take offense at having their camcorder blocked. Even more disturbing is how vividly the incident is introduced. One would imagine the Internationals were attacked and pursued by a crazed mob of bloodthirsty Jewish settlers. It may be a bit of comfort to think the Internationals are that afraid of Jewish children

The third film http://video.google.com/url?docid=-2862466386052558422&esrc=sr20&ev=v&q=jews+settlers&vidurl=http://www.youtube.com/watch%3Fv%3D2EZ5_OXXUao&usg=AL29H22qBHzUd-1ueFUjYJbN4ZPdV5m0dA features two cherubic boys, no older than maybe 7 or 8 throwing stones and squirting water at an international. However, to more accurately, a child goes up throws a stone goes back a few feet to a doorway, goes back throws another stone then squirts the International with a liquid (as she did not express pain I will assume the liquid was not lethal like bleach or acid etc.), All the while the International entreats an off camera voice, identified as an IDF soldier to intervene, the off camera voice responds by being dismissive and punctuates his answers with profanity. The probability of a soldier behaving that way, to ignore an International’s request for assistance peppered with bad language is so low that the failure to capture the actual soldier on film is remarkable.

The conduct of the Internationals it can be inferred from the films themselves (without the benefit what happened just before) documents they are not mere silent chroniclers of events. These Internationals are at the very least provocative and quite frankly it would seem they attempt to create or manufacture and otherwise stage conflict. Even if one wished to take these three videos at face value comparison with Arab on Jew violence makes the events recorded by the Internationals trivial by comparison. True, the writer of these lines a an admitted right wing Jew who believes that Jews enjoy an exclusive right to the whole of Biblical Israel as promised by G-D to the Children of Israel yet it is doubtful any fair minded person would conclude differently . It is doubtful any fair-minded person would conclude differently, that the only criticism that can be leveled at the Settler community is that parents and schools make more of an effort at curbing profane speech.

It is shocking that these videos are accepted as evidence of Jewish settler violence this can only happen in a psyche already poisoned with Anti-Semitic delusions. Then again some folks believed Borat was a real journalist.

JEWISH STRENGTH

2007-02-28T20:17:00.000-05:00

A copule of days ago Erez Levanon HY'D was murdered while praying in a forest a short distance from his home in Bat Eiyan. Reaction over this outrage has varried. Some noting how Dr. Goldstien HY'D attacked Moslems at prayer in the Cave of Machpalah in Hevron. The fact that Dr. Goldstein's actions may have averted a devasting attack against Hevron's Jews being lost amid the wastland of editorial discretion. R' Erez was without question a person of peace, priase and prayer. How does a Jew respond?

Some suggested that Jewish lack of outrage and rage over Erez Levanon HY'D murder is a sign of national weakness . Erez Levanon H'YD ZY'A was not weak his murders YM'S are weak. To paraphrase the Hadran paryer said at the conclusion of a volume of Talmud "We run and they run etc" We are selfless and they are selfless We are selfless to build and bind heaven and Earth and they are selfless to destroy and create chaos in creation .
As our zayde Yitzchak proclaimed there is the Voice of Yaakov and the Hand of Esaiv. Our memorial to Erez ZY'A is to live Torah as he did, live in defiance of Jihad either the Islamic or the lefist jihadesque assault on Jewish identity, destiny, heritage and values in Eretz Yisrael and Torat Yisrael . Instead of violent rage let our defiance be Evil will not move us , Evil will not taint our faith. The Nazis YM'S feared the Talmud Jude more than any other enemy. The Rebbe Reb Elimelich ZT'L, ZY'A taught saying shema should as a proclamation of Faith before all of Jewry's enemies. Draw strength from Hashem and His Torah, we need paitiant yearing for the time will come soon that the day of Mashiach is at hand.

Please do not think Torah is pacifist or fatalistic certainly in a place were an enemy only understands brute froce and anything less than dramatic and decisive action that vanquishes the enemy is preceived as weakness and surrender. Hesitation or restraint places the nation in danger and only those realities necessitate a firm unwaviering hand but not revenge, nor rage. Jews build and unite and not destroy.

Just say no bullies

2007-02-12T22:23:00.000-05:00

The work on the Rambam Bridge linking the Western Wall to the Temple was put on hold by the Mayor of Jerusalem, a Hared, and devoutly observant Jew. Even though the bridge is not part of Temple Mount,is a repair to allow better access for all and was coordinated with Muslim authorities. However the violent protests of the Islamic community is only half heartedly responded to by the Police and their concerns are headed. This is the latest chapter in a situation that has recently begun festering.

A young Jew blew the Ram’s Horn,Shofar on the Jewish New Year at the small Western Wall was subjected to severe treatment by the police. Arabs are encroaching on Jewish presence throughout the land. Arab construction throughout the land of Israel is often without the required approvals and permits. Or Arab neighbors encroach and adversely possess common areas and create circumstances that amount to constructive eviction. Farmers in the Negev cannot defend themselves from Bedouin home invaders without fearing legal repercussions. Or Arab members of the government actively support enemy regime's or challenge the legitimacy of the national entity. Not to mix purely criminal and purely political action but, tolerating both types of activities only emboldens these folks to use the universal values of decency and tolerance which are the characteristics of democracy as means to engage in intimidation and terror.

Also the Arab call to change Israel’s flag and anthem to accommodate Israel’s non-Jewish population all flow from the source. The apparent reluctance of the State of Israel and part of the population to assert itself. The leadership is afraid to declare the State an s a Jewish state, a state were Jews would rule and exercise sovereignty.To alter these symbols of the state dilutes the Jewish claim of connection to the Land from national ideology to cultural and ethnic memory. This opens the door to justify the acquiesce to Arab bullying.

Instead Islamic Arab bullies carry the day The Jewish soul’s embers still burn, albeit dimly to ignite the future with light, with Torah and knowledge of G-D.Log ago Moredechai when confronted by an Persian/Iranian bully named Haman neither bowed or prostrated because he was a Jew (see Esther 3:2,4) Like Mordechai,it is time to just say no the Bullies that stand in the way of Jewry being where they belong.

Tu B'Shvat Aktion

2007-02-04T02:39:00.000-05:00

The 15Th day in the Jewish Calendar month Shevat is when sap begins to flow anew in the Land of Israel's trees. This has significance in Jewish Law determine to which year of a sabbatical cycle produce belongs among other things.

Tu B'Shevat is a day of longing and connection to the land of Israel Many eat fruits connected with the land.

Sadly, those who wish to oppose and oppress Jews often do commit their acts of hate fueled violence on Jewish celebration days.
Therefore as Arutz Sheva, Israel National News reported that leftists, Arabs,American and other volunteers under the aegis of the Ta’ayush organization came to a Jewish community Sde Boaz, in the Gush Etzion region to plant olive trees on what they believed to be Arab land despite the existing community presence. However more distressing was the damage and destruction carried out in a community orchard. Additionally the Police/Authorities response was lackluster at best.
Call this an Aktion, a term used to describe organized intensification of prosecution of Jews by the Nazis YM'S may be harsh but it should evoke the same powerful images.
To consider this matter it should be clear that the failure by the State of Israel to have Jewish values and awareness serve as the fulcrum upon which policy and law enforcement turns leads to shameful results. To engage in acts of violence that fly in the face of the sacred character of a date in the Jewish calendar goes beyond political protest and touches on ethnic. Religious animus which cannot be tolerated in a civil society.
This incident should be seen for what it is - a provocation not just against the State of Israel or even the Jews of Yesha but Judaism itself.
Failing to act here is not restraint but self loathing. Nebach!

FIRST THINGS FIRST

2007-01-26T11:04:00.000-05:00

There has to be a suicide crisis hotline for government ministers who wish to disassemble their own country to a hostile population. The lastest example has to be Ministers Livni and Peres joining Mr. Abbas for the formation of a two state soloution to the Israel PA conflict.
FM Livni compared the PA giving up terror to the expulsion from Gush Katif is as being hard choices for each side is nothing short of absurd.

Abandoning terror is not a hard choice it is expected.
The disengagement from Gaza and the subsequent treatment of the Jewish population speaks for itself as how an elected government breached the fundamental covenant between a people and their government.

Maybe the comparison is that both sides abandon policy as well as behavior that is contrary to the conduct of responsible governments

C'MON

2007-01-19T11:20:00.000-05:00

Secretary Rice claimed Mr. Abbas gave his word that American weapons would not be used against Israel. This is the fellow who at a political rally called for Arabs stop raising arms against each other and oppose the occupation.

Does Dr. Rice think Mr. Abbas meant a mass letter writing and lobbying campaign to pressure Israel? One hopes someone so accomplished and powerful would not be easily fooled.

On the other hand the ideologically vacant Israeli government lacks the the fundamental self respect to recognize the State Exists evidence exists there was a Jewish presence in the land Mikvaoth (ritual baths), other items that conform to Jewish religious law and practice. The Modern state of Israel is the re-established state founded in the days of EZRA the Scribe.The Arab claim of being Canaanites does not survive the observation Jews came from Judea, Arabs should be called Canaanites, which they are not.

Even though it is a secular anthem HaTikvah expresses the Jewish yearning for the Land not just a slice but Zion and Jerusalem, Hevron, Tiveria, Zsfat, Aco, Bersheva Rosh HaNikra and Tel Aviv, you get the idea.

As new elections loom large it is time to push and push hard for Jewish Identity as the issue as this self image will dictate the direction of the State's future policy.

There is No One to Talk To !

2007-01-15T00:12:00.000-05:00

Secretary Rice is currently visiting the Middle East. Dr. Rice is promoting the fabled Road Map as the only workable model for peace. Madame Secretary further assured that American controls would prevent the US arms transfered to Mr. Abbas would not be used against Israel.

A short reality check, a split government among the Arabs is on the verge of civil war.Neither Fatah or Hamas has clear cut control to give any agreement they might sign meaning futle from the outset, this should be painfully obvious to all but the diplomats and Ministers. This theatre of the absurd should offend any sober, saine and sensible individual observing the situation.

Additonally unless there are American personnel training the Arabs and keeping the weapons in their custody this assertion is shamelessly naive.

BEING SOMEBODY OR A NOBODY

2007-01-01T11:06:00.000-05:00

Olmert’s behavior is hard to comprehend. The confused leadership during the Lebanon war. Supplying funds and arms to Mr. Abbas despite the continued captivity of Gilad Shalit and unabated Kassam attacks. While at the same time there seems to be an indifference bordering on contempt for the Israeli populace. Compensation and resettlement for the former Jewish residents of Gush Katiff and defense of Siderot are half hearted if at all. Why the overall impression Mr. Olmert is prepared to do whatever he can to receive approval from others even if contrary to national self interest?

Mr. Olmert is not stupid, he is an attorney, a former mayor of Jerusalem he is academically accomplished.

Mr. Olmert is not evil, Evil is not confused, evil is focused and committed to its convictions things Mr. Olmert is not.

Mr. Olmert does not appear to be motivated by Jewish values, what moves him?

Mr. Olmert is simply vacant, the absence of his own values is filled by a need for others’ acceptance. In other words, others’ define Mr. Olmert. Once others define oneself , one’s own identity is lost.
One needs values, one needs faith it is the difference between being someone or a nobody.

Update and Comment

2006-12-25T21:34:00.000-05:00

An update to the 11/27/2006 post.
indeed Agudath Israel of America is named as a Defendant along with Yeshivath Torah Temimah for $20,000,000.00 ($10M apeice ). The Rebbe himself was aressted on December 7, 2006.

Though a rush to judgment is not prudent. An accussation may not have any basis in fact. Rash action could needlessly harm innocent people and unravel families.

However far worse and more far reaching is an exercise of caution that rises to the appearance of institutional tolerance. Instead of a family, institutions, their staffs, students their families and the integrity of institutional / establishment Torah Judaism is tainted. The moral authority which is invested with the generation's leadership is comprimised and diminished, as it appears the indefensible is being defended by those who deemed this behavior is indefensible in the first place.

WHY JEWISH MATTERS IN ISRAEL

2006-12-07T10:58:00.000-05:00

This was in the December 6, 2006 Israel National News email

Official recognition of the Palestinian Arabs in Israel as a national, native minority, including its special connection to its homeland and its historic rights to it.
Arabic, already recognized as an official language, must be granted equal status to Hebrew in every aspect of public life, just as English and French are recognized in Canada. As a truly bilingual country, Israel must grant appropriate expression to the Arab-Palestinian culture in the public sphere, including noting the Arabic names of various places and giving Arabic names to public buildings, streets, etc.
Total autonomy in the spheres of education, religion and culture. At the root of this right lies the recognition of the nativity of the Arab population in Israel and its right to self-definition in these areas.
Proportionate representation in decision-making and policy-setting bodies, including all government offices and ministries, planning and construction authorities, government companies, public councils, the Civil Service, ad-hoc committees, and the like.
Extra allotments of resources such as budget allocations, land and housing, to compensate for past discrimination.
Changes to national symbols, including the flag and anthem, as emotionally-charged public resources that have a special impact on minority sectors. The State must grant appropriate expression to the presence of Israeli-Arab citizens and to their historic ties to the land. Israel's array of symbols must reflect an equal approach to both its Jewish and Arab citizens.
Equality in immigration and citizenship rights. The allocation of quotas in these areas is an expression of the country's strength, and the country must apportion them fairly, justly and equally.
Protection of the special ties of the Palestinian people with the greater Arab nation. The Palestinian population in Israel must be enabled to freely maintain and develop special ties - family, cultural, economic and the like - with the other members of the Palestinian people and the Arab nation.
Historic rights. Corrective justice demands that Israel must officially apologize and recognize the Nakba - national Arab-Palestinian catastrophe - of 1948 when the Arabs were removed from their lands. Among the issues addressed in this point are the uprooted Palestinians - 25% of the current Arab population in Israel - and their return to their original villages, such as Ikrit, Al-Ghabasaya, Al-Lajun, and others, as well as assets of the Moslem Waqf that must be administered by the Moslems
(Arutz Sheva, Hillel Fendel, Israeli-Arabs Demand National Recognition Dec 05, '06 / 14 Kislev 5767)

Commentary
These Arab demands listed in the article are just, if viewed in the context of a diverse democracy. A mere Jewish majority does not justify an exclusively Jewish anthem or national emblem reflecting the common history of the country. Similarly, except for extreme circumstances a hallmark of democracy is the equal protection doctrine. Laws, legislated rights and obligations need to apply to al people under a government’s jurisdiction equally. Therefore to treat Jewish return differently than Arab return is little more than institutional racism.

However, in the context of Jewish identity does this list of demands morph from a reasonable call for equality to a cynical denial not just of a Jewish State but of a Jewish identity as well. Regardless of what anyone else thinks Israel is the eternal homeland of the Jewish people. My Mother often quoted this old pre state slogan:

For some it is Palestine
For others holy land
For us it is Eretz Yisrael
On that we make our stand.

By the way mother may she live and be belonged to HaShomer HaZair a leftist movement not the rightist Betar or Herut. If Zionism means anything anymore to the general public it is time to step up and as a matter of policy legislate the Jewish character desired in the state TODAY. Yesterday was already too late

Gedolei Yisrael

2006-11-27T22:40:00.000-05:00

The Charedi world is abuzz about last Thursday'ss Agudath Israel convention. The opening session was dedicated to the blogosphereee. Recently information is circulating through the community of Charedi bloggers about a situation which could only have arisen with the complicity of rabbinic leadership. A rebbe at a prominent Brooklyn Yeshiva was acaccused of molesting students over a period of decades. Suit was filed against the school for $20,000,000.00 (the details are readily available elsewhere and not necessary to repeat ). The situation has received the major part of its publicity through the work of bloggers.

Now for the punch line, the accused rebbe worked summers for Camp Agudah, a division of Agudath Israel of America. Therefore, if a former camper came forward the Agudah is squarely in the crosshairs. Thus, the speeches given at the opening session were an attempt to deflect potential liability. Torah Nobility behaving like tobacco Industry executives denying the carcinogenic properties of tobacco is an inescapable conclusion. Or is it?

These types of situations are so repugnant and contrary to aTorah centered way of life that this would not be the topic of everyday conversation. Additionally, an acaccusation is not a fact and not every pointing finger is an ensign of truth. Therefore, in the interest of protecting all involved, when serious charges made against an educator, or an institution an investigation is called for. In fact a through background check should be conducted prior any new hire at a synagogue or Yeshiva or Beth Jacob school. Unfortunately, it has come to this but better an ounce of prevention. An attempt to act with discretion evidently has the effect of allowing an intolerable situation to fester and an impression is created that the chinuch professional's conduct is condoned by his/her employer(s). This last result not only causes a chillul Hashem but magnifies the chillul Hashem exponentially.

It would be irresponsible to assert Gedolei Torah were actively aware about this or other similarly deplorable situations. However, Gedolei Yisrael's behavior must be above reproach. A Rav or Rosh Yeshiva or Admor may not be not exemplars of perfection but as leaders these people are role models. Persons who influence young people whose skills of critical thought are still developing have an especially great responsibility.

No sheker, falsehood is tolerated throughout the community of Torah study from Talmudic times to an opinion expressed in a contemporary yeshiva. Any statement made by sage or student is subjected to extensive review. Every yeshiva student knows any opinion or observation he may offer is open to question. The transmission of Torah both scripture and oral law was not limited to any scholarly caste but to the whole nation. The trtransparencyf Torah knowledge's transmission is often cited as the basis for its validity. The greatest are not just the smartest but must be the best all around. Anyone who presents his position as borne of a G-D/Torah based consciousness, Daath Torah demands obedience because it strikes a chord of truth not because of is a proclamation or promulgation by persons who occupy positions of leadership.

It is precisely because a leader pepersonifies the Torah's truth do his words and actions carry weight. True stories are legion of behavior may not be readily understood{a leader may have deeper perception of Torah than a layperson] however there exists a fine line between dedeferring to a greater person's perception and the exploitation and manipulation of the community through the aegis of religious authority and the laity's sincere belief.

G-D forbid, to think that there is no leadership in our generation in our country or this lapse disqualifies Gedolei Yisrael from being heeded. On the other hand the community must demand the best and unassailable behavior from those who teach, transmit and bear testimony through their lives to Torah's D-vine character.

Threats

2006-11-02T11:11:00.001-05:00

Arutz Sheva reported the Geulat Yisrael Synagogue had its windows broken out with the Graffiti "If we can't march in Jerusalem, You will not walk in Tel Aviv"

If there is any doubt that the arrogance pride parade is not a bid for tolerance or acceptance but a militant threat. This is not a group of folks expressing a point of view.

Reasonable people can disagree but threats must be defeated without compromise.

ARROGANCE OF AUTHORITY,SHAME AS PRIDE

2006-11-01T22:20:00.000-05:00

There are rules allowing for mutiny.
1 If commanders give conflicting/ confusing orders
2 Or soldiers are commanded to carry out orders that spell near certain death and that this will serve no military purpose.
3 When in the field a commander emotionally/mentally falls apart and cannot coherently lead.
4 If orders are given that go against all decency or morality, - killing unarmed prisoners, an order to rape enemy females etc . . . . Orders that reduce soldiers beyond the role of warriors to amoral thugs and sadists.

Violence as a response to the arrogance parade scares. It would be unfortunate for violence to break out. However, despite how distasteful it may be violence may be the only appropriate response to this parade. The paraders are not participating in mere advocacy but in an in your face challenge, calculated to offend and provoke. The paraders' agenda is not the assertion of civil rights but to rewrite the moral foundations of Torah (see what Rabbi Fienstein ZZVK'L wrote in the Igrot Moshe Orach Chaim IV:115 ) and the standard adopted by most of the civilized world.
Those who seek to decivilize society and make it less holy (Rashi beginning of Parashat Kedoshim) have to be stopped even with some force as necessary

Who will the police protect? Where does duty lie, both the police and the government? In protecting those who believe in civility and morality or with those who seek to destroy.

Similarly, soldiers have their job to do, their commanders and civilian leaders must lead in a manner that builds a united force bound by Jewish history and Jewish values the same as the government by guided by Torah based values.

TAKE AWAY THE POWER, NO MORE FEAR

2006-10-25T12:25:00.000-05:00

During Rosh HaShanah services this year a Jew blowing the Shofer at the Kotel Katan (the small wall, a portion of the Western Wall located to the north of the main Western Wall plaza.) Whatever version of events one wishes to accept the fact is the police disrupted peaceful Jewish worship, in Jerusalem on the Jewish New Year. Arutz Sheva reported that the matter came to debate in the Knesset on October 25, 2006

Police Minister Avi Dichter's response to MKs concerns arising from the Rosh HaShanah Shofar incident should leave one as uneasy at the very least..

OK, in fairness Minister Dichter has to support his people. But . . . there is a disturbing undercurrent. Policy is not being dictated by acceptance or tolerance. Rather it is the fear of perceived Islamic volatility that encourages the Israeli police to treat otherwise peaceful Jewish behavior as a threat to public safety. Instead Israel chooses to indulge Islamic bullying like other Western democracies. Preserving public safety cannot be motivated by fear or by appeasing potential violent actors. The police should be there to protect and serve. The Police should protect the law abiding and act against law breakers. It is shocking that the same Law Enforcement infrastructure that acted aggressively against the protestors in Amona could not be used to quell Islamic protesters or rioters?

Maybe it is time for Israel and the non Islamic world to say, enough! If Islam wishes to live among the diverse community of humanity, fine. If not then the right of Islam to stand as among equals should be deemed as forfeit. The non Islamic world should say simply Âwe are tired of being afraid Â Take away their power, one cannot threaten those who one does not control and fear is a powerful tool of control.

Mr. Dichter policy should promote tolerance but not at the expense of oneÂs own self respect.

Whom to Talk To?

2006-10-20T09:40:00.000-05:00

It is likely Yesha Council believes like Rabbi Yochanan Ben Zacki that all they can save is Yavne and its scholars even though the reality is much more is possible.
Also it seems this government operates based on what can be termed an alternative reality. Unfortunately the people living in Yesha and even pre-1967 Israel do not have the luxury of blissful oblivion.
Recent history should at the very least teach that this government's sole interest is self -preservation, not serving the public. How could the actions of the Sharon /Olmert/ Kadima government come about without Knesset Members selling out principal for a few shekel? The culture of quid pro quo reduces government to a fee for service basis instead of a public interest/ service basis.

The other by product of this present this government’s culture is their belief in their abilities despite an unavoidable lack of experience to comprehend and respond to crises, as was the case in Gaza, Armona and most recently Lebanon.

Yesha Council, how can these people currently in power be trusted with the future of the Land of Israel?

Jewish Rights in Jersualem

2006-09-26T09:06:00.000-05:00

Israel National News, Arutz Sheva reported that on Sunday 24 September a Jew was hauled away from the Kotel Katan area (the Kotel Katan is a small section of the Western Wall running North of the main area.)The News report described police conduct as less than sensitive to the cultural sensibilities of Jewish worshippers.
If it was not true one would be certain it was parody. Someone complained about Shofar at 7:30am already daytime with all the noise associated with a weekday and she was not encouraged to embrace tolerance. Gay advocates are being allowed their parties and parade despite broad based opposition. The Jerusalem police on duty who most likely were not Jewish did not receive the appropriate sensitivity training. Or sadly this is yet another example how the Holy city of Jerusalem in the Jewish State, has sacrificed Jewish values and heritage on the altar of democracy.

2006-09-19T14:29:00.000-05:00

Civil Rights belong to the whole population. The concept protects minority groups from discrimination and bias through society's institutions. A part of civil rights may well include a right of hasbara, advocacy. However, allowing a voice in the marketplace of ideas is not carte blanche to assault a community's sensibilities and moral standards. It is absurb to declare Jerusalem must submit itself to a message that goes beyond merely communicating a point of view but ridicules the community's values. Advocacy is not a license for incitement nor obscenity.

This is why the agreement to allow the World Pride event to take place in Jerusalem is misplaced tolerance at best and at worst the latest assault on Judaism and Jewish sensibilities by the Israeli government. For years the gap between the population and their governemnt has widened steadily the recent war in the North and this nearly universally condemed activity showed the gap has grown to abyssmal proportions.

May G-D have still more compassion on His People and land and send MSHIACH THERE IS NO OTHER VIABLE OPTION FOR THE FUTURE

KNOWLEDGE AND FAITH IS STRENGTH

2006-09-04T23:09:00.000-05:00

Someone I know had visited Eretz Yisrael recently. During the hostilities in the North against Hezbullah. He visited Hevron and was disturbed by the conditions. How could families live surrounded by hostile neighbors, some of whom want nothing better than to murder their Jewish neighbors? It seemed that the threat which is real and palpable was enough of a reason for the Jews to leave. Despite this fellow being a sincerely devout Jew he could not understand why live in Hevron?

Without a doubt those who live and learn in the holy city of Hevron are persons blessed with a profound faith that most people can only aspire to achieve. Yet is seems axiomatic the notion of a Jewish State without a Jewish Hevron is as alien as a re-divided Jerusalem. As a nine year old child in June 1967 the sense was we have come home, the rise of modern state of Israel must be connected to the redemption, yearned for over nearly two thousand years.

Jews living in Hevron is the natural state of affairs. Arab control of the Temple Mount is the aberration. Any Governmental hesitation or restraint on the observance of Judaism or the Jewish character of the State should seem antithetical and offend the subliminal bedrock of reason that articulates itself as logic.

The thought that Jews belong in the land is maybe hypocritical coming from someone sitting in the United States who has no real plans for Aliya in the near future. However even so as a Jew who believes in G-D and His Torah as taught through Prophets and sages, as one ordained as a Rav silence is not an option. Again the fellow Spoken of earlier is a wonderful sensitive soul who has no love for the Arabs but misplaced compassion. Truly, though the land is Jewry’s, without a doubt it is not a valuable as a single soul committed to follow G-D whether 7 for the nations or the 613 of the Torah and 7 Rabbinic commandments. How does one face threats?

As the world saw Hezbullah, Fatah and Hamas all members of hell spawned troika bravely swagger and boast their prowess while shielded by children. Their threat is real so is their cowardice. The greatest threat the Arabs face are Jews who know who they are, what they are and why they are. A purposeful Jew is the threat the evil ones cannot abide.

Maybe it is this self-understanding that motivated so much of the people during the recent conflict. The Government seemed prepared to abandon whole cities in the North and their people, the captive solders or serious will to prosecute the campaign to its conclusion.

Unlike Gush Katif where the government through the sela authority acted with an attitude that indifference would be hailed as a 110% improvement. People on their own or through local institutions made sure everyone was sheltered and fed.

Soldiers denied proper training is wrong but denying troop’s food and water even one platoon is inconceivable and cannot be tolerated.

People saw their strength and unity and the same qualities their leaders lack. Prime Minister Olmert and his government are deeply disconnected from the man or woman in the street to the point the government’s leadership and judgment can no longer be regarded as trustworthy.

As a New Year approaches one’s hope and prayer is for Mashiach, messiah’s arrival soon and if not at least leaders who lead without fear of anyone except G-D A-mighty.