The most recent of the never ending spats centered around Jerusalem was the destruction of the Shepherd’s Hotel. For some commentary on the issue see this post by Yaacov Lozowick and this one by the Magnes Zionist. I happen to think that both of them are partially right, Yaacov Lozowick in the larger political picture, [...]
From an article in the Jewish Week. Here are a few snippits. He said he is trying to reclaim the Sephardic heart within Shas, “so the world is watching me.” He began to speak out, he noted, because “Israel is in big trouble and it is time to go back to the tradition” of tolerance [...]
Tonight I heard Rabbi Hayyim Amsalem speak at the Magen David of Union Square/Sixteenth Street Synagogue. Among the sympathetic crowd was another blogger whom I was glad to get to meet in person. Rabbi Amsalem outlined his already well-known approach towards conversion and integrating ultra-orthodox Jews into the work force. He emphasized that he is [...]
Here is a long interview with Rabbi Haim Amsalam that was broadcast on Galei Tzahal. Thanks to Yehudah M. for the heads up.
Danny Rubinstein has published an article in Dissent One State/Two States: Rethinking Israel and Palestine. (hat tip) Rubinstein has been writing about the Palestinians for decades, and his article is worth reading. Along with Rubinstein’s article, read Alex Yakobson’s response, Two States or One (Arab) State.
Haaretz has an interview (hat tip) with Rabbi Haim Amsalem. The interview is interesting, both for the discussion about Amsalem’s background and his comments on the events of the last few weeks. A major problem is that the English version (Hebrew version here) includes a horrible translation error. This is what is written in the [...]
NRG has an article about the potential scenarios for successors to Rabbi Ovadiah Yosef (may he live until 120). It is long and in Hebrew, but worth it for anyone who wants to get to know the figures who are gearing up for a fight and the potential impact on Israeli Judaism and society.
Kikar ha-Shabbat is reporting (Hebrew) that Rabbi Chaim Amselem may well be on his way to starting a new political party. (hat tip) According to this news report, his party will support yeshiva students serving in the army and teaching the basic school curriculum in ultra-orthodox schools (תוכנית הליב”ה). In an interview with a reporter [...]
In reaction to the Chief Rabbinate questioning the validity of conversion done by the IDF Rabbinate, Rabbi Yehudah Gilad has written the following. עם כל החשיבות לנושאים כמו כשרות, שבת ושרותי דת, אין כיום בארץ שום עניין יהודי ציבורי המתקרב בחשיבותו לאתגר חשוב זה, שההתמודדות עימו קריטית לעתידנו כאן כמדינה יהודית. צריך להודות ולומר בהגינות, [...]
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