On This Day: Your Weekly Jewish Connection

Sunday, November 17, 2024

16 Cheshvan, 5785

Shavua tov,

Israel's northern border remains under daily rocket fire, with tensions escalating as Hezbollah continues its attacks and Israel retaliates. This week, as we remember the walls of the Warsaw Ghetto going up, we also reflect on the continued struggles of the Jewish people, from the painful past to the challenges we face today. The recent events, including the anniversary of Kristallnacht and the Amsterdam pogrom, bring us to pause and reflect on the enduring fight against antisemitism and the resilience of our people.

This week’s Daily Thought from Torat Menachem explores the concept of the part, the whole, and the essence. Space, time, and consciousness can each be understood at their surface, but true understanding comes from grasping the essence—where there is no distinction between the whole and its parts. Torah speaks to this essence, where all things are connected. May we be inspired to reflect on how each of us is part of a greater whole, finding meaning and purpose in our actions, especially in these challenging times.

Daily Torah Study

Sunday, 16 Cheshvan 5785 / November 17, 2024

Dedicate a day of study in honor or memory of a loved one.

Chumash with Rashi • Tehillim • Tanya • Hayom Yom • Rambam • Daily Mitzvah

Chumash: Parshat Chayei Sarah, 1st Portion (Bereshit (Genesis) 23:1-23:16) • Psalms: Chapters 79-82 • Tanya: Iggeret HaKodesh, beginning of Epistle 28 • Rambam (3 Chapters): Keilim - Chapters 21, 22, 23 • 1 Chapter: Mechussarey Kapparah - Chapter 4 • Daily Mitzvah: Day 236: Positive Commandment 104

The Mishneh Torah was the Rambam's magnum opus, detailing all Jewish observance. Studying daily is a way to contribute to our collective מורשת (moreshét).

Top Stories

'Ongoing Tensions at Israel’s Northern Border': Hezbollah Strikes and IDF Retaliation

Violence at Israel's Northern Border
On November 17, 2024, the Israel Air Force (IAF) launched airstrikes targeting Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon, including weapons depots and military command centers. The strikes follow a wave of Hezbollah rocket attacks on northern Israel, including direct hits in Nahariya and Haifa. Tragically, Sergeant Ori Nisanovich, 21, was killed in combat in southern Lebanon, while the IDF continues to dismantle Hezbollah's offensive capabilities. Despite efforts for a ceasefire, tensions in the region remain high.

In response, the IDF has warned Lebanese civilians to evacuate areas near Hezbollah infrastructure while continuing operations to neutralize the terror group's military assets. For more details on the situation and ongoing operations, read the full article here.

Who is Elise Stefanik, Trump's pick for UN Ambassador?

Trump’s UN Ambassador Nominee
President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Republican Congresswoman Elise Stefanik to serve as the US ambassador to the United Nations. A staunch supporter of Israel, Stefanik has criticized the UN for not sufficiently backing Israel in its war against Hamas. If confirmed, she would replace Linda Thomas-Greenfield as the UN Ambassador. Despite limited foreign policy experience, Stefanik has become a vocal advocate for Israel in Congress, especially after the October 7 Hamas attack.

Stefanik, a rising star in House Republican leadership, has questioned US funding for the UN and has expressed her commitment to fighting antisemitism. She is expected to tackle the spread of anti-Israel rhetoric at the UN. For more details about her nomination and potential role, read the full article here.

Mike Huckabee, Trump’s Pick for Ambassador to Israel, Has Long Called Himself a Zionist

Trump’s UN Ambassador Pick: Mike Huckabee
Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee has been nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as the US ambassador to Israel. A staunch Zionist, Huckabee has long rejected a Palestinian state in territory previously seized by Israel and has expressed unwavering support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He has visited Israel frequently and has publicly declared the West Bank as part of Israel, dismissing a two-state solution. Huckabee’s appointment aligns with Trump’s pro-Israel stance, especially amid the ongoing conflict with Hamas.

Huckabee has also garnered attention for his controversial remarks, including likening the Iran nuclear deal to the Holocaust and questioning the legitimacy of Palestinians as a distinct group. His strong rhetoric on Israel and opposition to the two-state solution make him a polarizing figure. To learn more about Huckabee’s background and his views on Israel, read the full article here.

Warsaw Ghetto Sealed

November 16, 1940: The Walls of the Warsaw Ghetto are Sealed
On November 16, 1940, the walls of the Warsaw Ghetto were sealed off from the outside world. For the more than 400,000 Jews trapped inside, what followed were two years of unimaginable hardship, hunger, disease, and brutality, but also extraordinary resistance. Meanwhile, outside the wall, life in Warsaw continued as usual. The ghetto's tragic story remains one of the most poignant and horrifying chapters of the Holocaust.

The ghetto was a product of the Nazis’ broader plan to isolate and ultimately exterminate the Jewish population. Over the course of the next two years, the situation inside the ghetto became increasingly dire, with many Jews being deported to death camps. But it also became a symbol of courage and resistance, as some Jews fought back in the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, despite being vastly outnumbered.

For more about the sealing of the ghetto and the bravery of those inside, read the full article here.

30 Years Since the Passing of Reb Shlomo Carlebach

In Memory of the Singing Rabbi
On this day, 30 years ago, Reb Shlomo Carlebach z”l, a figure of great influence in the Jewish world, passed away. Born in Berlin in 1925, Carlebach became known as “The Singing Rabbi” for blending his deep Torah scholarship with soul-stirring melodies that connected Jews of all backgrounds. His music and teachings, filled with love and warmth, continue to resonate across generations.

Carlebach’s message of unconditional love and his famous words, “God is closest to those with broken hearts,” offer comfort and hope. His legacy as both a rabbi and a musician continues to inspire spiritual connection and healing.

May his memory be a blessing and an inspiration.
For more, read the full post here.

Song of the Week

Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach - "Shifchi Kamayim (Pour Out Your Heart)"

This Week's Music: A Prayer for Connection and Healing
This week, we feature Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach’s *Shifchi Kamayim (Pour Out Your Heart)*, a powerful and emotional prayer that invites us to open our hearts in vulnerability and seek connection with the Divine. Carlebach’s soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics offer comfort in times of struggle, reminding us of the power of prayer and the strength found in our most honest moments.

Watch Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach's performance of "Shifchi Kamayim" here

Instagram Feed

Hey Jew, It's Time to Double Down on Your Judaism

This Week's Inspiration: A Call for Strength and Unity
This week, we share an empowering message: time after time, enemies have tried to erase us, but we rise unshaken, stronger with each challenge. We are Am Israel—unstoppable. @jewishhistoryguy shows us the path to thrive as a nation. Together, we continue to build, defend, and stand strong in our Jewish identity. Let’s double down on our Judaism and keep thriving.

Watch the full message here

#OnThisDay: Louis Brandeis, First Jewish U.S. Supreme Court Justice

Honoring a Legacy of Justice and Zionism
On this day in 1856, Louis Brandeis, the first Jewish Justice in the United States, was born. His legacy continues as a pioneer for social justice, Jewish rights, education, and equality in America. Brandeis was also a committed Zionist who reconnected with his Jewish roots and promoted the Jewish cause. His contributions remain vital to both American law and Jewish history.

Learn more about his legacy here

On This Day In Jewish History

Founding of the Alabama Jewish Community

12 German-Jewish Immigrants Establish a Legacy
On this day in 1846, 12 German-Jewish immigrants laid the foundation for the Alabama Jewish community by creating the Chevra Mevaker Cholim (Society for Relieving the Sick) in Montgomery, Alabama. This pioneering group began what would become a thriving Jewish community in the region.

Read more about the history of Alabama’s Jewish community

Birthday of Aaron Copland, 1900

A Jewish-American Classical Music Legend
On this day in 1900, Aaron Copland was born. Widely regarded as one of the greatest American composers, Copland’s music helped shape the sound of the nation, blending classical traditions with uniquely American themes. His iconic works, like *Appalachian Spring* and *Fanfare for the Common Man*, have become synonymous with American patriotism and resilience.

Read more about Aaron Copland's legacy

Birthday of Caroline Klein Simon, 1900

A Pioneer for Women in Law and Public Service
On this day in 1900, Caroline Klein Simon was born in NYC. A trailblazer for women in law and public office, Simon dedicated much of her life to Jewish philanthropy and social justice. From pioneering the inclusion of women on jury benches to becoming New York’s first female Secretary of State, Simon’s legacy continues to inspire.

Learn more about Caroline Klein Simon

Birthday of Amador Bendayan, 1920

Celebrating a Venezuelan TV Icon
On this day in 1920, Amador Bendayan was born. The son of Moroccan Jewish immigrants to Venezuela, Bendayan became a beloved TV personality across Latin America. From his early days as a radio announcer to his fame as "El Pequeño Gigante de America," his legacy in comedy and television remains a testament to the thriving Jewish community in Venezuela.

Learn more about Amador Bendayan

מזון לנשמה

Mazon LaNeshama (Feed the Soul)

Winter Couscous with Dried Cranberries, Cashews, and Orange

This Week’s Recipe: A Refreshing and Comforting Winter Side Dish
This Winter Couscous dish is the perfect addition to any winter meal. The citrus adds a warm, tangy flavor, while the dried cranberries offer a hint of sweetness. The roasted cashews provide crunch and depth, making this couscous both comforting and satisfying. It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or any winter entrée. This easy-to-make side dish is sure to please and can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.

Ingredients:
¾ cup couscous, 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth/water), Kosher salt to taste, Grated zest of ½ orange, 2 tablespoons orange juice, 1 teaspoon maple syrup, 1 tablespoon olive oil, ⅓ cup dried cranberries, ⅓ cup roasted cashews (coarsely chopped), 2 scallions (sliced thin)

Preparation:
1. Place couscous in a medium bowl and set aside.
2. In a small saucepan, bring the broth to a boil. Pour it over the couscous, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and let it sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes until tender.
3. Fluff the couscous with a fork.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange zest, juice, maple syrup, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Pour the dressing over the warm couscous, then add cranberries, cashews, and scallions. Toss to combine. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Get the full recipe and instructions here.