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.
Friday, July 09, 2010
Friday, May 28, 2010
It is Not Working : Substance speaks louder than Falsh
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.
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.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
YOM YERUSHALYIM YOM HaYEHUDIMjERUSALEM DAY A DAY TO BE JEWISH
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.
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.
Monday, March 22, 2010
G-D'S ADVICE IS, STAND YOURSELF UP!
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.
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.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
LEFT OUT ??!?!?
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.
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.
Wednesday, December 02, 2009
INTEL OR PINTELE!
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
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
Sunday, November 22, 2009
PROTESTING THE POLICE AND PROTESTORS
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.
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.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
RABBINC RIGHTS JUDICAL WRONGS
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
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
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Hevron Matters
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.
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.
Monday, October 26, 2009
So Smart and yet so Clueless
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.
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.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)