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Ceasefire Yields Fragile Hope: Hostages Return Amid Rising Antisemitism and Global Unrest
As Israel Navigates a Delicate Ceasefire, Hostage Releases Bring Relief, Australia Grapples with Antisemitic Attacks, and Global Leaders Take Center Stage
Jewish Original
January 22, 2025
Wednesday, January 22, 2025
22 Tevet, 5785
As Tevet continues, we reflect on the resilience of our nation, our history, and the miracles that have shaped our story.
This week, the world witnesses moments of both hope and uncertainty. In Tel Aviv, 2 terror attacks in 4 days leave Israelis injured, emphasizing the continued vigilance required to protect ourselves even amidst the current ceasefire.
In Gaza, the fragile ceasefire brings the release of three female hostages and the promise of more, even as tensions simmer beneath the surface. The Jewish nation stands at a delicate crossroads, oscillating between tears of joy for reunited families and concern for the broader implications of these events as over a thousand terrorists will be released in exchange for these Israeli civilian hostages.
Through it all, our resolve is unshaken. Before October 7, 2024, we were resilient; now, resilience is merely the beginning of our story. May this week bring light to our nation and strength to our people as we continue to write the next chapter of our collective history.
Daily Torah Study
Wednesday, 22 Tevet 5785 / January 22, 2025
Dedicate a day of study in honor or memory of a loved one.
Chumash with Rashi Parshat Va'eira, 4th Portion (Shemot (Exodus) 7:8-8:6) • Psalms / Tehillim Chapters 106-107 • Tanya Likutei Amarim, end of Chapter 14 • Hayom Yom • Rambam 3 Chapters: Malveh veLoveh - Chapters 22, 23, 24; 1 Chapter: Metamme'ey Mishkav uMoshav - Chapter 5 • Daily Mitzvah Day 302: Negative Commandment 237
The Mishneh Torah, written by Rabbi Moses ben Maimon (Rambam), remains a fundamental text detailing all of Jewish law. It spans hundreds of chapters, offering profound insights into the mitzvot and providing the spiritual tools necessary.
Top Stories
Three Israeli Hostages Released by Hamas
After 471 days in captivity, Romi Gonen, Doron Steinbrecher, and Emily Damari were freed by Hamas as part of a ceasefire agreement. The young women, reunited with their families in Israel, symbolize hope amidst ongoing efforts to secure the release of 94 remaining hostages.
Hamas to Release Four Female Hostages on Saturday
Hamas confirmed plans to release four Israeli female hostages on Saturday as part of the ongoing ceasefire agreement. While the names of the hostages have not yet been disclosed, this marks the next phase of the deal, which includes the release of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for Israeli captives.
US Green Card Holder Injures Four in Tel Aviv Stabbing Attack
A Moroccan national and US green card holder, Abdelaziz Kaddi, injured four people during a stabbing spree in Tel Aviv on January 21, 2025, before being shot dead by off-duty security personnel. The Shin Bet is investigating why Kaddi was allowed entry into Israel despite being flagged as a potential threat upon arrival.
Global Antisemitism Surges 340% in Two Years
A new report from the World Zionist Organization and the Jewish Agency reveals a 340% rise in global antisemitic incidents since 2022, with significant increases across the US, Europe, and online platforms. The report warns that this trend threatens democratic values and highlights the growing misuse of “Zionism” as a cover for antisemitism.
Trump Hails Gaza Hostage Deal in Second Inaugural Address
In his second inaugural address, US President Donald Trump celebrated the release of hostages in Gaza as part of a ceasefire deal. Declaring himself a “peacemaker,” Trump promised a “golden age” focused on ending wars and fostering unity, while vowing to strengthen the US military and tackle domestic challenges.
Trump Nominee Vows to Fight ‘Antisemitic Rot’ at the UN
Elise Stefanik, Trump’s nominee for UN ambassador, pledged to combat antisemitism at the UN and reform institutions like UNRWA, which she accused of having “terrorist ties.” She emphasized her support for Israel’s biblical claims to the West Bank while rejecting Palestinian self-determination.
Australia Probes Foreign Links to Antisemitic Surge After Daycare Attack
Australian authorities are investigating whether foreign actors coordinated a series of antisemitic incidents, including the arson of a daycare center in Sydney. Despite launching a counter-terrorism operation and establishing a national database, the Jewish community remains skeptical of the government’s response to the escalating crisis.
SA Chief Rabbi Invites Counter-Terror Task Force to South Africa
Chief Rabbi Warren Goldstein has invited an elite counter-terror task force to investigate a terror attack targeting a Cape Town Jewish community center. Led by international experts, the team aims to assess threats against Jews globally and provide recommendations for safeguarding Jewish institutions.
Freed Hostage’s Hand Becomes Symbol of Israeli Resilience
The unbandaged hand of freed hostage Emily Damari, who lost two fingers in the October 7 Hamas attack, has become a poignant symbol of Israeli defiance. Emily and her supporters use the "rock on" emoji to celebrate her return, transforming her injury into a national emblem of courage and survival.
Song of the Week
Song of the Week: "The Fathers Live" by Matisyahu & Remedy
Pioneering Jewish rappers Matisyahu and Remedy unite in "The Fathers Live," an empowering anthem released on the first day of Chanukah. Filmed in a Brooklyn synagogue, the track delivers a message of resilience, unity, and Jewish pride while standing firmly against the rise of antisemitism. Featuring striking visuals and heartfelt lyrics like "Am Yisrael Chai" (The people of Israel live), the song embodies their mission to inspire and uplift. As Matisyahu explains, “I wanted to bring together a bunch of strong Jews from different backgrounds in a Shul in Brooklyn, and just vibe out to the song in a Jewish setting.”
Let the music inspire and remind us of the power of unity!
Meme Break
On This Day in Jewish History
Instagram Highlights
Victor "Young" Perez (1911–1945)
Born in Tunis, Victor "Young" Perez rose to fame as the youngest world flyweight boxing champion in history at just 20 years old. A symbol of Jewish resilience, he was deported to Auschwitz during World War II, where he was forced into brutal boxing matches by Nazi guards. Perez tragically lost his life during a Death March on January 21, 1945, but his legacy endures as a testament to courage and compassion.
Wannsee Conference (1942)
On January 20, 1942, Nazi officials convened the Wannsee Conference, formalizing the “Final Solution”—a plan for the systematic genocide of 11 million Jews. This industrialized mass murder, executed through deportations, executions, and gas chambers, resulted in the deaths of 6 million Jews, including 1.5 million children.
Tevet 20: Rambam and Abir Yaakov
On this day, we commemorate the hilulot of two towering figures: Rabbi Moshe ben Maimon (Rambam) and Rabbi Yaakov Abuhatzeira (Abir Yaakov). The Rambam, a philosopher and halachic authority born in 1138, revolutionized Jewish thought with works like Mishneh Torah and Guide for the Perplexed. The Abir Yaakov, a Moroccan kabbalist and miracle worker, illuminated the mystical dimensions of Jewish life. Together, they embody the unity of intellect and spirit, law and mysticism.
Tevet 8: Birthday of Hannah G. Solomon
Today marks the birthday of Hannah G. Solomon (1858–1942), founder of the National Council of Jewish Women. A trailblazer for social justice and equality, she transformed Jewish values into action, empowering women and championing education.
"The work of today is the history of tomorrow, and we are its makers."
Tevet 5: Death Marches Begin
On this day in 1945, the harrowing death marches from the Auschwitz concentration camp system began. Tragically, an estimated 200,000-250,000 prisoners perished during these forced marches. 💔
Tevet 5: Convoy of 35 (Lamed Hei)
On this day in 1948, 35 brave young men set out on a mission to deliver supplies to the besieged Jewish communities of Gush Etzion. Known as the Convoy of 35, they fought heroically when ambushed but tragically perished. Their sacrifice became a symbol of devotion to the Jewish homeland.
Tevet 3: First Deportation from Łódź Ghetto
On this day in 1942, the first mass deportation of Jews from the Łódź Ghetto to the Chelmno extermination camp began. By year’s end, over 70,000 Jews were deported. Among them was Elka Jasinowski, whose daughter Fania desperately pleaded for her release. Only two of the Jasinowski siblings survived the Holocaust.
On This Day in Jewish History
Blog
Munich massacre at the 1972 Olympic Games A Palestinian terrorist appearing on a balcony in the Munich Olympic Village, where members of the Israeli team were being held hostage.
January 22, 1979: Mossad Assassination of Munich Massacre Mastermind
Ali Hassan Salameh, chief of operations for Black September and architect of the 1972 Munich Massacre, was assassinated by the Mossad in Beirut as part of "Operation Wrath of God." Salameh’s death marked a significant step in Israel’s mission to bring justice to those responsible for the tragic murder of 11 Israeli athletes.
January 17, 1928: Birthday of Vidal Sassoon
Vidal Sassoon, the legendary Jewish British hairdresser and philanthropist, was born on this day in 1928. Known for revolutionizing hairstyling with his iconic bob cut, Sassoon also fought fascism with the "43 Group" in post-WWII London and served in the Palmach during Israel’s fight for independence.
Lea Goldberg in 1958.
Courtesy of Grubner/Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
January 15, 1970: Passing of Leah Goldberg
Leah Goldberg, a towering figure in Hebrew literature, passed away on this day in Jerusalem. A poet, playwright, and translator, her works bridged modernist expression with deep reflections on love, nature, and survival. Her legacy includes mentoring future literary icons and shaping Israeli cultural history.
מזון לנשמה
Mazon LaNeshama
Feed the Soul
Recipe of the Week: Classic Tahini Sauce
A Creamy, Flavorful Middle Eastern Staple
This week’s recipe spotlights tahini, a versatile and creamy sauce that’s perfect for drizzling, dipping, or spreading. With its nutty sesame flavor, bright lemon notes, and smooth texture, this tahini recipe is a must-have for elevating your meals.
A Brief History of Tahini and Its Connection to Jews and Israel
Ingredients
1 cup pure tahini paste
3 garlic cloves, minced
¾ cup ice water (plus more if needed)
⅓ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (adjust to taste)
2 tsp kosher salt (plus more to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Blend the Base
Add the tahini paste and minced garlic to the bowl of a food processor.
Step 2: Add Water Gradually
With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the ice water.
Blend for about 1 minute, until the tahini becomes light, smooth, and fluffy.
Step 3: Incorporate Lemon & Salt
Add the lemon juice and salt, then process for an additional 30 seconds.
Stop the processor, taste, and adjust seasoning with more salt or lemon juice as desired.
Step 4: Store & Serve
Store the tahini sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Before serving, thin with a bit of water or lemon juice and adjust the seasoning to freshen it up.
Serving Ideas:
Drizzle over roasted vegetables, spread on sandwiches, or use as a dip for fresh pita and crudités. This creamy tahini sauce adds a burst of Middle Eastern flavor to any dish!
As Tevet unfolds, may we draw inspiration from the unwavering resilience and unity that define our people. The stories of triumph and tragedy, from the heroism of Gush Etzion to the haunting loss of the Auschwitz death marches, remind us of the profound strength found in community and faith.
In a time of both hope and uncertainty, let us hold onto the light that emerges even in the darkest moments. The reunions of hostages with their families offer a glimpse of healing, while the ongoing challenges remind us of the work still to be done. Each act of courage, every prayer, and every step forward contributes to the enduring legacy of our people.
May we face the days ahead with hope, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the values that have sustained us for generations. Together, we write the next chapter of our story with strength and purpose.
Shavua Tov!
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