Suicide Bombings in Uzbekestan

Suicide bombers attacked the Israeli and US embassys in Tashkent (Uzbek’s capital) today. As I write this, the news is just starting to come through, so try news sources for the latest. Here is a report from Haaretz.
May the casualties be few.

Weekly Torah Portion - Vaetchanan

This week’s commentary is from Rabbi Naomi Levey on the prayer of Moses early in the portion. She connects his prayer with how we might ourselves pray, espcially what we can do when we, like Moses, do not feel that our prayers are answered.
Please note that I will be away from internet acces for [...]

The Meaning of Judaism

Shavuah tov. While doing some work on my personal library today, I came across a poem on Jewish identity. Written by a 16-year-old young woman, it’s gentle words have a message which I’d like to share with you:
Judaism is like a flower
One among millions
I never noticed how bright its colors
or its uniqueness
Until [...]

Murder of a Judge

Today was another sad day in Israel. Judge Adi Azar was shot dead outside his home in Tel Aviv. As of my last check of the news coverage (like at the Jerusalem Post), little is known about who killed him outside his home or why.
May his family find some strength in one another [...]

New Israel Peace Blog

Israel/Peace/Shalom/Salaam is a new blog focusing on peace and co-existence. Here is a quote from the first post:
he focus of this Blog is to share thoughts about peace and coexistence in Israel, as well as to report about my participation in various peace events, conferences and informal get-togethers. This blog is not politically slanted, [...]

Shavuah Tov

Shavuah tov. A good new week to you and yours. I hope that this will be a week of peace, learning and joy for everyone. I specifically pray for all those who live in fear or sadness or pain.

Weekly Torah Portion - Mattot/Masei

This week’s Torah portion is a double portion which comprise the last two portions of the book of Nunbers, Matot/Ma’asei. This week’s linked commentary is by a rabbinical school colleague of mine, Rabbi Andrea Lerner and is titled “My Word: The Laws of vows teach that our words have the power to create holiness between [...]

More death at the hand of terrorists

Today terrorists from Arafat’s Al-Aqsa Martyrs brigade set off a bomb near the central bus station in Tel Aviv, killing one woman, Ma’ayan Na’im, and injuring many more. You can read coverage from Ha’aretzor the Jerusalem Post or Ma’ariv. May all those injured have a speedy and complete recovery. May Ma’ayan’s family find comfort [...]

A Bit of Old but Important, News

Yes, I have been out of the blogging (and news reading & relaying) loop. I just learned today that NATO has invited Israel to join 6 other Middle Eastern countries in a “NATO Partnership.” You can read more about this on Ha’artez. Hopefully, this will help Israel’s place on the world stage. [...]

A Miracle in Jerusalem

Leah at Jerusalem Wanderings and her family survived what could have been a deadly gas poisoning. They were saved by her daughter’s arrival home and quick actions. Read all about it.
May all our family and friends live in safety and in the presence of G-d’s miracles.