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Thursday, February 20, 2025 | 22 Shevat, 5785

At a loss for words 💔🕯️

As we move past Tu B’Shevat, the festival of renewal, our tradition reminds us that growth often follows hardship. This week’s headlines reflect the enduring challenges facing Am Yisrael—from the heartbreaking return of hostages’ bodies to Israel, to rising antisemitism in North America and Australia, and diplomatic maneuvers shaping the future of Gaza.

The remains of four hostages—Shiri Bibas, her two young sons, Kfir and Ariel, and Oded Lifshitz—were returned to Israel, 503 days after they were abducted.

As families mourn, world leaders condemn the abhorrent propaganda display staged by Hamas. Meanwhile, the Knesset has passed legislation barring entry to Holocaust and October 7 deniers, as well as those who seek international prosecution of Israeli security personnel, reinforcing Israel’s stance on historical justice.

This week also marks the passing of two towering figures in Jewish history:

• Rabbi Menachem Mendel of Kotzk (1787-1859), known for his uncompromising pursuit of truth, left a legacy that shaped Chassidic thought.

• Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Schneerson (1901-1988), the deeply revered wife of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, whose influence continues through Chabad’s global network of women emissaries.

And history continues to speak.

On February 14, 1896, Theodor Herzl published Der Judenstaat, laying the foundation for modern Zionism. On this day in 1943, the Shanghai Ghetto was established, a haven for Jewish refugees fleeing Nazi persecution.

From moments of tragedy to triumph, the story of the Jewish people remains one of resilience.

Here’s what’s happening this week:

Daily Torah Study

Thursday, February 20, 2025 | 22 Shevat, 5785

May our prayers embrace all our hostages still held in Gaza, for Israel, and for all of Am Yisrael—may they be returned in safety and peace.

Chumash – Parshat Mishpatim, 5th Portion (Shemot / Exodus 23:6-23:19)
Psalms – Chapters 106-107
Tanya – Likutei Amarim, end of Chapter 26
Rambam – 3 Chapters, 1 Chapter, Sefer Hamitzvot
Hayom Yom – Today’s Hayom Yom

Slain Hostages Returned to Israel After 503 Days in Gaza

The bodies of four slain Israeli hostages—Shiri Bibas, her two young sons Ariel and Kfir, and Oded Lifshitz—were returned to Israel on Thursday, 503 days after they were abducted by Hamas on October 7, 2023. The handover took place in a Hamas-staged propaganda event, with the Red Cross transferring the caskets to IDF forces inside Gaza.

The coffins, draped in Israeli flags, were transported to the Abu Kabir forensic institute in Tel Aviv for identification, as Israelis lined the streets to mourn. Prime Minister Netanyahu vowed retaliation against Hamas, while international leaders condemned the grotesque display of the bodies in Gaza.

Read the full article here: Times of Israel

Multiple Buses Explode in Suspected Terror Attack in Central Israel

Several buses exploded in Bat Yam on Thursday evening in what authorities suspect to be a coordinated terror attack. No injuries were reported, but police have launched a manhunt for suspects and are scanning the area for additional explosive devices. Public transportation has been temporarily halted as security forces conduct sweeps. Defense Minister Israel Katz ordered intensified military operations, while Prime Minister Netanyahu is expected to hold a security assessment.

Read the full article here: Jerusalem Post

Jewish Diaspora Mourns Slain Hostages, Condemns Hamas’ Cruelty

Jewish communities worldwide mourned the deaths of four Israeli hostages while condemning Hamas' public display of their bodies in Gaza. World Jewish Congress President Ronald Lauder called Hamas a death cult, stating, "No deal can obscure this reality." Jewish organizations held vigils and rallies in Paris, London, and North America, demanding justice and the release of all remaining hostages. Tributes poured in for Oded Lifshitz, remembered as a peace activist who transported Palestinian children to Israeli hospitals. Calls for international action continue to grow.

Read the full article here: Jerusalem Post

‘Not a Single Gazan Saved a Hostage’: Global Outrage Over Hamas’ Treatment of Slain Hostages

World leaders condemned Hamas for parading the bodies of four Israeli hostages in a grotesque public display. UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk called it a violation of international law, while UK Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis labeled it “pure evil.” Former Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan stated, “Not a single Gazan saved a single hostage.” Tributes poured in for Oded Lifshitz, a journalist and peace advocate among the slain. Israeli officials vowed justice, as the nation mourns.

Read the full article here: Jerusalem Post

Trump: US Will ‘Back’ Israel in Any Decision on Hamas Hostages

Former President Donald Trump reaffirmed that the United States will support whatever action Israel takes in response to Hamas’ failure to release all remaining hostages. Prime Minister Netanyahu thanked Trump for his firm stance, crediting it with the release of three hostages. Meanwhile, IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Herzi Halevi confirmed that the IDF is preparing offensive plans while working to bring home those still in captivity. Israeli officials continue high-level discussions on how to proceed.

Read the full article here: Jerusalem Post

UAE Rejects Displacement of Palestinians, Calls for Two-State Solution

UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan told US Secretary of State Marco Rubio that Abu Dhabi firmly opposes the displacement of Palestinians from Gaza. The Emirati leader emphasized that Gaza’s reconstruction must be tied to a two-state solution, pushing back against Trump’s proposal to resettle Gazans in Jordan and Egypt. Arab leaders are set to discuss an alternative plan in Riyadh before presenting it to the Arab League. The UAE’s stance carries weight due to its ties with Israel and past involvement in Gaza’s rebuilding.

Read the full article here: Times of Israel

Arab Leaders to Discuss Egyptian Alternative to Trump’s Gaza Plan

Arab leaders will meet in Saudi Arabia to develop an alternative to Trump’s proposal for US control of Gaza and the displacement of its Palestinian residents. Egypt’s plan reportedly includes a three-phase reconstruction process while avoiding Hamas governance. Funding remains a key challenge, with Gulf states hesitant to commit financial support without guarantees on Hamas’ future role. The talks aim to pave the way for a two-state solution, but Israel has rejected any Palestinian Authority involvement in postwar Gaza.

Read the full article here: Times of Israel

Freed Hostage Liri Albag Struggles to Rebuild Her Life After Captivity

After 477 days in Hamas captivity, Liri Albag has returned home, but the trauma of her ordeal remains. Her mother, Shira Albag, describes the emotional rollercoaster of reunion, saying, “She’s here, but something has changed.” Liri learned to survive by outsmarting her captors, but she now faces a different battle—processing the horrors of October 7 and adjusting to life in the public eye. She remains adamant: "We must get everyone out." The road to healing is long, but the fight is far from over.

Read the full article here: Jerusalem Post

Sydney Men Charged in Antisemitic Arson and Vandalism Spree

Two men have been charged in connection with a series of antisemitic attacks in Sydney, including the firebombing of a home formerly owned by Jewish leader Alex Ryvchin. The suspects also attempted to set fire to a synagogue and vandalized multiple homes and vehicles with swastikas and antisemitic slurs. The NSW Jewish Board of Deputies welcomed the arrests but urged stronger court action. Authorities continue searching for additional perpetrators behind the attacks. Sydney police have now charged 13 people under an antisemitism task force.

Read the full article here: Jerusalem Post

Second Suspect Arrested in Montreal Jewish School Shooting

Montreal police arrested a 19-year-old suspect linked to the November 2023 shooting at Yeshiva Gedola, marking the second arrest in the case. Jewish organizations praised law enforcement but urged prosecutors to impose harsh sentencing to deter further antisemitic violence. The suspect allegedly fired at the school before fleeing in a getaway vehicle. A second suspect, arrested in May, faces multiple charges, including firearm offenses and vehicle theft. The attack was part of a broader wave of antisemitic incidents since October 7.

Read the full article here: Jerusalem Post

Knesset Passes Law Banning Entry for Holocaust and October 7 Deniers

Israel’s Knesset passed a new law barring entry to individuals who deny the Holocaust or the Hamas-led massacre on October 7, 2023. The legislation also prohibits entry for those who advocate prosecuting Israeli security personnel for actions taken in defense of the country. MK Mishel Buskila, who sponsored the bill, stated, "Those who attempt to undermine our existence have no place among us." The move follows growing international legal efforts against Israeli officials. Critics have raised concerns over potential free speech implications.

Read the full article here: Times of Israel

Families of Hostages Declared Dead Face Unbearable Psychological Toll

Families of hostages declared dead in absentia are experiencing severe psychological distress, trapped in an agonizing cycle of grief without closure. Many relatives, like the parents of Itay Chen, struggle to accept their loved ones’ fate, saying, “As long as we don’t have proof, we cannot start mourning.” A new report highlights widespread PTSD, physical illness, and emotional burnout among these families. Experts urge greater transparency from Israeli officials and continued efforts to recover all hostages, living or deceased.

Read the full article here: Jerusalem Post

Song of the Week: Older – Eden Golan

This week’s Parshat Mishpatim speaks of justice, responsibility, and resilience—themes that echo in Eden Golan’s haunting ballad, Older.

With lyrics reflecting loss, survival, and unexpected maturity, the song captures the weight of growing up too soon. Golan’s emotional vocals, paired with poignant instrumentation, create a deeply personal yet universally resonant anthem.

Released in 2024, Older was co-written by Golan, Victoria ‘Ryann’ Zaro, Sarah Solovay, Ido Zmishlany, and Stav Beger. The production blends contemporary pop with raw vulnerability, making it a powerful meditation on strength in the face of hardship.

🎧 Listen Here

Honoring Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Schneerson

Tonight marks 37 years since the passing of Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Schneerson, wife of the Lubavitcher Rebbe. In her memory, the Rebbe established Keren Hachomesh, a charitable fund supporting women’s social and educational needs, assisting brides, widows, orphans, and funding mikvahs worldwide. Over the past year alone, nearly $1 million has been distributed, continuing her legacy of kindness and impact.

Remembering Samuel Willenberg

On this day in 2016, the world lost Samuel Willenberg, the last known survivor of the Treblinka revolt. A Polish Holocaust survivor, he was sent to Treblinka in 1942 but escaped death by claiming to be a bricklayer. Forced into the Sonderkommando, he later joined the August 1943 uprising, fleeing with a wounded leg. After the war, he immigrated to Israel, became an artist, and dedicated his life to preserving the memory of Treblinka through his sculptures and testimony.

In Memory 💔🕯️

A mother and her two young children, taken from this world for the "crime" of being Jewish. A devoted grandfather, a founder of Nir Oz, who believed in coexistence—murdered by those he sought peace with. As the world turns a blind eye, we remember their smiles, their lives, and their legacy. May their memories be a blessing, and may we know no more pain.

museumjewishheritage

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On This Day: The Shanghai Ghetto (1943)

Eighty-two years ago, under pressure from Nazi Germany, the Japanese army established the Shanghai Ghetto—restricting 18,000 Jewish refugees to a one-square-mile zone in the Hongkou district. Once a rare haven for Jews fleeing Europe, Shanghai became a place of overcrowding, disease, and hardship. Despite Nazi attempts to push for mass extermination, the Japanese refused, though antisemitic policies shaped life in the ghetto. Survivors, like Jerry Lindenstraus, recall the harsh conditions they endured. A reminder of resilience in the face of darkness.

On This Day: The Trial of John Demjanjuk (1987)

On February 16, 1987, John Demjanjuk stood trial in Israel for crimes against humanity, accused of being “Ivan the Terrible,” the brutal Treblinka guard. Though initially sentenced to death, his conviction was overturned due to lack of definitive evidence. Later, documents confirmed his role as a guard at Sobibor, leading to a 2009 trial in Germany, where he was convicted as an accessory to 28,060 murders. His case set a precedent for holding Nazi collaborators accountable, even decades later.

On This Day: Theodor Herzl and the Birth of Zionism

On February 14, 1896, Theodor Herzl published Der Judenstaat (The Jewish State), laying the foundation for modern Zionism. Amid rising European antisemitism, Herzl argued that Jews needed a sovereign homeland for safety, dignity, and self-determination. His vision led to the First Zionist Congress in 1897 and, eventually, the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. Though he did not live to see it, his dream became reality—ensuring a future for the Jewish people in their ancestral land.

mizrahbox

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Tu B’Shevat: The New Year for Trees

The 15th of Shevat marks the Rosh Hashanah for trees, the time when the earliest-blooming trees in the Land of Israel awaken from their winter slumber and begin a new fruit-bearing cycle. Rooted in Jewish tradition, this day is a celebration of renewal, growth, and our deep connection to the land. 🌳

meaningfulminute

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Honoring Life with New Roots

In a powerful tribute on Tu B’Shevat, hundreds of trees were planted at the site of the Nova Massacre by @kkl_jnf. This act of renewal transforms pain into growth, ensuring that life continues to flourish where tragedy once struck.

sephardiceducationcenter

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Tu B’Shevat: A Mystical Celebration of Renewal

500 years ago, the Kabbalists of Safed introduced the Tu B’Shevat Seder—a spiritual practice connecting us to the Tree of Life through sacred kavanot, four cups of wine, and the fruits of Eretz Yisrael. Sephardi Jews embraced this tradition as “Las Frutus”, celebrating with the seven species.

Rabbi Ben Zion Meir Hai Uziel longed for the land’s renewal, seeing Israel’s growth as a holy mission. Today, as we celebrate Tu B’Shevat, we honor both the spiritual and physical blossoming of our homeland.

Exciting website updates are on the way—stay tuned!

מזון לנשמה

Mazon LaNeshama
Feed the Soul

Recipe of the Week: Omelette Juive – Algerian Potato & Spinach Omelette

This North African take on an omelette, known as Omelette Juive, is a rich and fluffy dish reminiscent of a Spanish tortilla or Italian frittata. Passed down from Elle Brosh’s great-grandmother Zahra Ben Hamou of Mascara, Algeria, this dish was a staple in her home, feeding her nine children with its hearty blend of potatoes, eggs, spinach, and peas. Enjoy it warm, straight from the oven, for a comforting and flavorful meal.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the omelette:

• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• ½ lb Yukon gold or new potatoes, sliced into ¼” rounds

• 2 tsp fine sea salt

• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tbsp butter

• 1 yellow onion, sliced

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• ½ tsp turmeric

• ½ lemon, juiced

• 10 large eggs

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella

• 2 cups fresh spinach

• ½ cup fresh or frozen peas

• ¼ cup parsley, chiffonade cut for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the pan:

• Preheat oven to 350°F. Crumple a large piece of parchment paper and line a 10” cast iron pan.

2. Fry the potatoes:

• Heat olive oil over medium heat. Season potatoes with salt and pepper and fry until golden brown and crispy (4-5 minutes). Set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

3. Cook the aromatics:

• In the same pan, melt butter and sauté onion, garlic, turmeric, salt, and pepper until caramelized (7-8 minutes). Add lemon juice, stir, and remove from heat.

4. Combine ingredients:

• Beat eggs with salt and pepper. Mix in fried potatoes, caramelized onions, and garlic. Pour into the lined cast iron pan. Sprinkle in cheese, spinach, and peas, ensuring even distribution.

5. Bake:

• Bake for 20 minutes until just set. The center should still be slightly soft as it will continue cooking while cooling.

6. Serve:

• Let cool for 5-10 minutes before transferring to a serving plate. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

👉 See the Full Recipe Here: Jewish Food Society

As we bear witness to the pain and resilience of Am Yisrael, we remain committed to sharing the stories that shape our collective reality. From the heartbreaking return of hostages to Israel to the rising wave of antisemitism in North America and Australia, these events remind us that remembrance and vigilance go hand in hand.

Through history and headlines, we continue to illuminate the challenges and triumphs of the Jewish people. Thank you for being part of Jewish Original Media—for staying informed, engaged, and connected.

May we see brighter days ahead.

B’ahava u’b’emunah (With love and faith),
Jewish Original Media