Category Archives: The Jewish Lens

Seeing the world through a Jewish lens

Addressing Antisemitism: Insights from Jerusalem Amidst the Israel-Hamas Conflict

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“Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose”
The more things change, the more they stay the same.
— Jean-Baptiste Alphonse Karr, from his 1849 journal Les Guêpes

This reflection captures a profound truth about the persistence of antisemitism. Despite rapid technological advancements and evolving social norms, the challenge of antisemitism remains as pressing as ever. Living in Jerusalem, a city steeped in history and conflict, I am reminded daily of this enduring struggle. The same prejudices that plagued past generations continue to influence our world today.

Navigating the Complexities of Criticism and Hate

Living in this historic city offers a unique vantage point. Every day, I witness the complexities of the Israel-Hamas conflict firsthand. A recent incident involving Israeli singer Yishai Rebo’s performance at Harvard brought these issues into sharp focus. His concert, intended to celebrate culture and unity, sparked protests from pro-Palestinian groups. While I understand the passion behind these protests, it was disheartening to see how swiftly they veered into antisemitic rhetoric.

Rabbi Yitzchak Schochet’s insight about how criticism of Israel can sometimes hide antisemitism resonates with my own experiences. It’s a delicate balance—distinguishing between valid critique and harmful bias is crucial. Conversations about the Israel-Hamas conflict often show how discussions can quickly turn from constructive dialogue to hostility.

Understanding Antisemitism’s Long Shadow

Antisemitism’s shadow is long and persistent. Growing up, I learned about the horrors faced by Jews throughout history—from the expulsions in Spain to the tragedies of the Holocaust. I often reflect on whether we are advancing or recycling the same old prejudices. The myths have evolved, but the animosity remains. Modern antisemitism, with its unfounded accusations and stereotypes, mirrors the ancient hatred that fueled past atrocities.

The Thin Line Between Activism and Antisemitism

In Jerusalem, where emotions run high, it’s easy to see how the line between activism and outright hatred can become dangerously blurred. Pro-Palestinian rhetoric, while often rooted in genuine concerns, sometimes includes misinformation that exacerbates tensions and fosters intolerance. This reality underscores the importance of carefully scrutinizing sources and questioning narratives that might perpetuate biases.

Nonie Darwish’s story offers a powerful illustration of how deeply held beliefs can be challenged and transformed. Growing up in Cairo and Gaza with strong anti-Israel sentiments, Darwish’s journey toward rejecting these views demonstrates that change is possible, even when it seems improbable. Her personal transformation and her daughter, Shireen Said’s efforts in promoting reconciliation highlight the profound impact of confronting and overcoming entrenched biases.

The Battle of College Campuses

The rise of antisemitism on college campuses, often disguised as pro-Palestinian activism, is particularly alarming. Universities, which should be bastions of learning and growth, are increasingly becoming sites of hostility. The video, The Jewish Voices on Campus, underscores the need for unity among different faiths and communities to combat radical ideologies.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

Statistics from the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) reflect a troubling rise in antisemitic incidents, especially during Middle Eastern conflicts. These numbers are not just statistics—they represent real pain and suffering.

Finding Guidance in Sacred Texts

During these challenging times, I seek guidance and comfort in sacred texts. Judith Klitzner’s work, “In Your Brother’s Blood is Crying: Biblical Origins of Our Divided Society,” provides deep insights. Her examination of biblical conflicts among ‘siblings’ resonates with today’s challenges. Klitzner’s reflections bridge ancient wisdom with contemporary struggles, offering valuable perspectives for navigating our modern world.

A Path Forward: Combating Antisemitism

Addressing antisemitism requires a thoughtful approach:

  • Education: Advocate for accurate representations of Jewish history and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Knowledge can dispel myths and reduce prejudice.
  • Interfaith Dialogue: Engage in meaningful conversations with people of different faiths to build mutual understanding and respect. Dialogue fosters a more harmonious society.
  • Supporting Organizations: Support groups like the ADL that work tirelessly against antisemitism and protect our communities.

My journey has deepened my understanding of the complexities of antisemitism and reinforced my commitment to fighting it with both knowledge and empathy.

What steps can you take in your community to challenge and combat antisemitism? I invite you to reflect on this question and consider how you might contribute to fostering understanding and tolerance in your daily interactions. We can work towards a more compassionate world by taking these steps and embracing diverse perspectives.

Footnotes:

  1. Judith Klitzner, “Your Brother’s Blood is Calling Out,” Ikar, YouTube, April 29, 2023, based on Genesis 37:3-4 and Genesis 45:3-15.
  2. The Holy Bible: The Jewish Publication Society Tanakh Translation. Jewish Publication Society, 1999. Genesis 37:3-4: “And Israel loved Joseph more than all his sons, because he was a son of his old age; and he made him a fine woolen coat. And his brothers saw that their father loved him more than all his brothers, so they hated him.”
  3. The Holy Bible: The Jewish Publication Society Tanakh Translation. Jewish Publication Society, 1999. Genesis 45:3-9: “And Joseph said to his brothers, ‘I am Joseph. Is my father still alive?’ … God sent me before you to make for you a remnant in the land, and to preserve [it] for you for a great deliverance. Hasten and go up to my father, and say to him, ‘God has made me a lord over all the Egyptians.’”

Unveiling Intellectual Blinders: A Critical Analysis of Karim Khan’s ICC Stance

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In her latest article, “Brothers-in-Harms,” Melanie Phillips challenges the stance of Karim Khan, the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC). Known for her sharp commentary on culture, politics, and the Middle East, Phillips raises pivotal questions about Khan’s recent statements, which have stirred considerable debate.

The ICC’s Role in Global Justice

The ICC is tasked with addressing the world’s gravest crimes—genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity—when national courts fall short. Its mission to deliver justice and deter future atrocities is crucial. Phillips’ critique of Khan highlights a pressing issue: how bias and misleading comparisons can cloud our understanding of justice.

Phillips’ Critique of Karim Khan

Phillips takes issue with Khan’s comparison of Hamas to the IRA. In a recent interview with Christina Lamb for The Sunday Times, Khan drew a parallel between Hamas’s attacks on Israel and the IRA’s campaign against Britain:

“He compares the Hamas onslaught against Israel with the IRA’s terrorist campaign against Britain… You can’t do that.”

This comparison is problematic. The IRA sought Irish reunification, targeting British authorities and military personnel with politically motivated violence. Hamas, however, aims to eliminate Israel and its civilian population. By equating Hamas’s systematic targeting of civilians with the IRA’s actions, Khan oversimplifies and distorts the reality. Such comparisons risk muddying the clear lines needed for fair international judgment.

Phillips argues that justice requires precise distinctions between right and wrong. Khan’s comparison blurs these lines, creating confusion rather than clarity. Simplifying Hamas’s genocidal aims as merely political grievances undermines the severity of its actions and the pursuit of justice.

Concerns About Bias

Khan’s reliance on advisors like Theodor Meron, who has faced criticism for perceived biases in his decisions related to Israel, further complicates the issue. Khan’s defence of Meron, claiming that “He can’t be antisemitic because he’s Jewish,” raises valid concerns. The problem of bias transcends identity; it concerns actions and viewpoints. For the ICC to maintain its credibility, it must ensure all advisors act impartially.

Challenges in International Justice

While structured to be impartial, the ICC is not immune to criticism. The presence of potentially biased advisors highlights the court’s need to uphold its standards rigorously. Any perception of bias can undermine its legitimacy and the international community’s trust.

Phillips also critiques a recent International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling on Gaza. Some judges noted that the ruling’s ambiguity added to the confusion rather than providing clear answers. Joshua Rozenberg observed, “Several ICJ judges criticized the paragraph as ambiguous—and some of their comments merely added to the confusion.” This demonstrates the challenges in interpreting international legal decisions, especially on complex issues like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Striving for Clarity and Integrity

Phillips’s call for honesty and clarity in international justice is more important than ever. Pursuing transparent and unbiased understanding is essential in a world with conflicting narratives and complex issues. We all share the responsibilities of engaging in informed discussions, supporting impartial institutions, and upholding true justice.

Footnote:

  1. Melanie Phillips, “Brothers-in-harms,” Substack, May 27, 2024, melaniephillips.substack.com

Living and Learning in Jerusalem: Embracing Torah and Unity During Challenging Times

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Since moving to Jerusalem in early April, I’ve been struck by how every day here feels like a gift despite the challenges of living in a place under constant threat. Whether it’s news of battles in Gaza or missiles from Syria and Lebanon, the reality of living in a land so often at war is always present. Yet, life here is so much more than these headlines.

One of the things that has enriched my time here is the incredible opportunity to study Torah in person, nearly every day, with some truly exceptional teachers. There’s a deep sense of community in these learning spaces, where men, women, children, and mixed groups come together, bonded by our shared heritage and the pursuit of wisdom. It’s hard to describe how much the Torah and halacha—Jewish law—shape our lives here. They guide everything, from how we interact with one another to how we care for the land and even how we understand the concept of war.

With Shavuot just around the corner, I’ve found myself reflecting on this particular time when, according to our tradition, the Jewish people stood at the base of Mount Sinai and received the Torah over 3,300 years ago. This isn’t just an ancient story; it’s a living, breathing part of who we are today.

Counting of the Omer

The forty-nine days between Passover and Shavuot are marked by a practice called “Counting the Omer.” Initially tied to sacrificial offerings in the ancient Temples of Jerusalem, today, it is a period for personal growth, a time to prepare ourselves spiritually to receive the Torah anew. Here in Jerusalem, spring is in full bloom, and as I walk the streets lined with fruit trees, there’s a sense of renewal and anticipation in the air. (*1)

Pursuing Spiritual Fulfillment

During these weeks, many of us dive into the teachings of Pirkei Avot, or the Ethics of the Fathers, which is filled with wisdom on how to live a meaningful life. One teaching that has particularly resonated with me this year is from Chapter 1, verse 3:

“Do not be like slaves who serve their master for the sake of reward, but be like slaves who serve their master not for the sake of reward.” (*2)

This idea, as Rabbi Moshe Snow of the OU Teaching Center in Jerusalem explained, reminds us that the valid reward of Torah study isn’t material but spiritual—a deep, abiding connection to something greater than ourselves. (*3)

Weekly Torah Study

One of the resources that has been invaluable to me is the weekly Torah Tidbits magazine, published by the OU here in Jerusalem. It’s a free publication filled with insights on the weekly Torah portion, and it’s become a regular part of my Shabbat preparations. (*4)

All-Night Torah Study

As we approach Shavuot, I’m particularly looking forward to the all-night Torah study sessions held in communities worldwide. These sessions culminate in a sunrise prayer service, where we read the Torah portion recounting the Ten Commandments. There’s something profoundly moving about being part of a community committed to learning and growing together, especially in these challenging times.

Unity and Strength

In a place like Israel, where the threat of war is never far from our minds, it’s easy to see our military strength as the backbone of our security. But living here has shown me that our true strength comes from our unity, faith, and unwavering commitment to the Torah’s values. We are commanded to stand up for one another, to redeem hostages, and never stand idly by when we see our brothers and sisters in danger.

Israeli influencer Sivan Rahav-Meir captured this sentiment beautifully in her Shavuot message:

“The festival of Shavuot calls upon us to rise to the next level — that of authentic unity, unity for its own sake… We simply gathered joyfully at Mount Sinai, and there, we received our identity.” (*5)

In many ways, this message feels more urgent than ever. The unity we find through our shared history and values sustains us and will carry us forward, no matter our challenges.

A Night of Learning with Rav Kook’s Wisdom

Recently, I attended a class with Rabbi Goldscheider (*6), who shared some of Rav Kook‘s ideas about learning on Shavuot night. What struck me most was his advice to study what truly speaks to your heart and to remember the importance of taking care of your physical health as a foundation for spiritual growth. It was a refreshing reminder that Torah study isn’t just an intellectual exercise but a holistic journey involving the mind, body, and soul.

As I prepare for Shavuot this year, I’m filled with gratitude—for the learning, the community, and the opportunity to be part of this incredible tradition. I wish everyone a hag sameach, a joyous holiday filled with the kind of unity and peace that Shavuot represents. May we all find ourselves under the Divine Umbrella of Peace and Justice, living in harmony with one another and the world.

Wishing you a holiday filled with learning, growth, and unity.

Footnotes:

  1. Chabad.org. “What Is the Counting of the Omer?” Chabad.org, www.chabad.org/holidays/passover/pesach_cdo/aid/87150/jewish/What-Is-the-Counting-of-the-Omer.htm.
  2. Chabad.org. “Pirkei Avot: The Translated Text, Selected Insights, Audio Classes, and Stories for the Children.” Chabad.org, www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/282399/jewish/Pirkei-Avot-Ethics-of-the-Fathers.htm.
  3. Rabbi Moshe Snow. “Author Bio.” Otzar HaTorah, https://outorah.org/author/138548/.
  4. Faculty of the OU. “Torah Tidbits: Parshat Bechukotai – Issue 1566 – Individual Articles.” Torah Tidbits, www.torahtidbits.com/parshat-bechukotai-issue-1566-individual-articles.
  5. Rahav-Meir, Sivan. Daily WhatsApp. Translated by Yehoshua Siskin, tiny.cc/DailyPortion.
  6. OU Israel. “Video Library.” OU Israel, Orthodox Union, https://www.ouisrael.org/video-library/.

Unmasking the Truth: Navigating Media Bias and Misinformation about Israel

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Ever heard the saying, “You can fool some of the people some of the time, but you can’t fool all of the people all of the time”? It’s a fitting mantra for anyone navigating today’s tangled web of media and misinformation.

Think about it: how much of what we believe is shaped by the media rather than our own experiences? Francisco Gil-White’s research reveals that throughout history, people have been swayed more by media narratives than by what they witness firsthand.*¹ Look back at the early 20th century—Western media was saturated with antisemitic propaganda, portraying Jews in a horrifyingly negative light. This wasn’t just an unfortunate misrepresentation; it laid the groundwork for the unspeakable atrocities of WWII.*² These misleading stories and exaggerated portrayals made Jews seem both terrifying and detestable, echoing the ancient demonization found in texts like the Book of Exodus.*³ This isn’t just dusty history—it’s a chilling reminder of how media manipulation can fuel unimaginable horrors.

So, here’s the question: if Jews were painted as all-powerful, how could six million of them be systematically murdered without significant global resistance? This stark contradiction reveals the insidious power of media-driven misinformation.

Media Misinformation Today

Fast forward to today’s media landscape—claims about Israel dominate headlines, from accusations of genocide to discussions of humanitarian crises and civilian casualties. But how do we sift through all this noise? Can we trust mainstream outlets like CNN, CBC, and BBC to give us an unbiased view of the Israel-Hamas conflict? And what about the endless scroll of social media or the millions of Wikipedia entries?

Mainstream Media

Major media outlets are often accused of bias, mainly when reporting on Israel. Reports from CBC whistleblowers and discussions on the Commentary Magazine podcast “Stopping the Presses” highlight long-standing biases and attempted reforms in American media.⁴ It makes you wonder—how much do these biases shape our understanding of conflicts?

NGO Bias

Human rights organizations, like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, also face scrutiny. Accusations of biased reporting on Israel abound, with groups like NGO Monitor pointing out how some NGOs downplay Hamas’s actions, framing them as resistance against alleged Israeli oppression. This isn’t just about skewed perspectives—it’s about how these biases can fuel antisemitism and distort our grasp of global issues.⁵

The Influence of Social Media: Bots and AI

Social media platforms amplify public opinion, often spreading misinformation at lightning speed. Algorithms create echo chambers, and the situation worsens with the interference of foreign bots. Taiwan, for instance, has been combating Chinese bots and even shared strategies with Israel.⁶ This underscores the importance of Western governments taking a stand against foreign interference online.

Wikipedia’s Role

Even Wikipedia, often considered a neutral resource, isn’t immune to bias. Investigative journalist Aaron Bandler has reported on how some editors have manipulated content to support anti-Israel narratives.⁷ This is a stark reminder to remain cautious and avoid relying solely on any single source for information.

Campus Protests and Hidden Agendas

On college campuses, protests supporting Palestinian causes are frequently organized by groups like Students for Justice in Palestine and Jewish Voice for Peace. These groups often use loaded language like “apartheid” and “ethnic cleansing,” terms that organizations like ISGAP and SPME challenge. The funding behind these campaigns, such as the Rockefeller Brothers Fund’s support of USCPR, adds another layer of complexity and controversy.⁸

The Importance of Media Integrity in Democratic Societies

The media is crucial in shaping public opinion and upholding democracy, but its integrity is constantly under threat, especially under authoritarian regimes. The media’s role in places like North Korea, Russia, and Iran shows how geopolitical agendas can use media manipulation to further their goals. For Israel, the struggle isn’t just about local issues—it’s about broader existential threats with global implications.

Media Watchdogs

Organizations like Honest Reporting work tirelessly to monitor media bias related to Israel, offering essential briefings and updates. Informed citizens who understand media biases are vital to maintaining the integrity of our democracy.

Tools for Critical Media Consumption

Navigating today’s media landscape requires critical thinking. Here are some tips:

  • Acknowledge your biases and seek out diverse perspectives.
  • Check the backgrounds of authors and their affiliations.
  • Be wary of sensationalist language and focus on facts.
  • Continuously sharpen your media literacy skills.

Trusted Sources for Accurate News

Over the years, I’ve found a few sources that consistently provide reliable information:

  • Associated Press (AP) for comprehensive news aggregation.
  • WIN World Israel News for focused Israeli news.
  • Israeli English-language TV channels like I-24 and TOI – Times of Israel for direct perspectives.
  • Commentators such as Dennis Prager, Douglas Murray, Melanie Phillips, Francisco Gil-White, and Hassan Youssef offer informed views on the Middle East.
  • NGOs and organizations like the Defense of Democracies, Hoover Institute, EMET, ISGAP, CIJR, and IDSF provide invaluable insights.

I invite you to visit my YouTube channel, where I’ve recorded many of ISGAP’s lectures.

History teaches us that misinformation can have devastating effects. By staying vigilant and informed, we can uphold truth and justice in our media and democratic processes.

FOOTNOTEs:

  1. Gil-White, Francisco. “Geopolitical and Historic Insights on Jews, Israel, and the Battle Against Antisemitism.” Ask Abigail Productions, www.askabigailproductions.com/francisco-gil-white-geopolitical-and-historic-insights-on-jews-israel-and-the-battle-against-antisemitism.
  2. “Der Stürmer (Antisemitic Newspaper).” Montreal Holocaust Museum, www.museeholocauste.ca/en/objects/der-sturmer-antisemitic-newspaper.
  3. Klitzner, Judith. Torah from Israel with Judy Klitsner. YouTube, https://youtube.com.
  4. Kinsella, Warren. “Covert Internal Group Oversees CBC’s Coverage of Israel.” Toronto Sun, 27 Nov. 2020, torontosun.com/opinion/columnists/kinsella-covert-internal-group-oversees-cbcs-coverage-of-israel.
  5. NGO Monitor. “Blaming the Victim: NGOs, the Apartheid Libel, and the Hamas Massacre.” NGO Monitor, www.ngo-monitor.org/reports/blaming-the-victim-ngos-the-apartheid-libel-and-the-hamas-massacre.
  6. Bob, Yonah Jeremy. “How Israel Can Defend Itself from Iran by Using Taiwan’s Anti-China Playbook.” The Jerusalem Post, 7 June 2024, https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-805291.
  7. “7 Tactics Wikipedia Editors Used to Spread Anti-Israel Bias Since Oct. 7.” Jewish Journal, 7 Oct. 2021, https://jewishjournal.com/cover_story/371545/7-tactics-wikipedia-editors-used-to-spread-anti-israel-bias-since-oct-7.
  8. NGO Monitor. “NGO Network Orchestrating Antisemitic Incitement on American Campuses.” NGO Monitor, www.ngo-monitor.org/reports/ngo-network-orchestrating-antisemitic-incitement-on-american-campuses.

Francisco Gil-White: Geopolitical and Historic Insights on Jews, Israel, and the Battle Against Antisemitism in the Media

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When I first encountered Francisco Gil-White’s work, I was struck by how deeply it resonated with the questions and concerns I’ve had about portraying Jews and Israel in both historical and contemporary contexts. His insights have challenged me to think more critically about the narratives we often take for granted and have deepened my understanding of the complex forces at play.

Contributions of Jews to Western Civilization

As someone who’s always been fascinated by history, Gil-White’s discussion on the Jewish contribution to Western civilization really hit home. He talks about how Jewish thought transformed the harsh Roman system into something more just and humane. Reflecting on this, I can’t help but think about how these ancient values—justice, equality, compassion—still influence the world today and how they’ve shaped the moral fabric many of us hold dear.

Shaping Our Models of Reality

Gil-White emphasizes that the media often shapes how we perceive the world, something I’ve become increasingly aware of over the years. His exploration of how false scientific theories like eugenics influenced Nazi ideology is a reminder of how easily dangerous ideas can take root when they’re presented as ‘truth.’ It made me question how often we might unknowingly be influenced by outdated or biased perspectives.

 

The Impact of Russian Propaganda

Learning about the origins of The Protocols of the Elders of Zion in my younger years and its role in spreading antisemitism worldwide was eye-opening. I hadn’t fully grasped how much harm this fabricated document has caused over the years. It’s a stark reminder of how powerful—and destructive—propaganda can be, and it has made me more vigilant about questioning the sources of the information I consume.

 

Historical Ties and Propaganda

Gil-White’s exploration of the ties between the Nazis and the Arab world shed light on a part of history that’s not often discussed. I found his insights on propaganda particularly relevant today, as we continue to see stereotypes and myths about Jewish control of the media and big business persist. His arguments underscore the importance of being informed and critical, especially in a world where misinformation can spread like wildfire.

 

Challenging Authoritarianism and Divisive Ideologies

For me, one of the most impactful parts of the interview was Gil-White’s call to challenge authoritarian regimes that use antisemitic rhetoric. His critique of the support for Hamas and the Palestinian cause made me think about how often we, as a society, might unwittingly support ideologies that are at odds with our values. It’s a powerful reminder that critical thinking isn’t just an intellectual exercise—it’s essential for promoting social harmony.

The Repercussions of Antisemitism

Gil-White’s passionate argument that fighting antisemitism is crucial for protecting the fabric of Western society made me reflect on the countless contributions Jews have made to civilization and how much we stand to lose if we don’t confront antisemitism head-on. It also made me consider the younger generation and the importance of fostering critical thinking skills in a world bombarded with conflicting messages.

Challenging Authoritarianism and Radicalism for Social Harmony

When I consider confronting authoritarianism, radicalism, and divisive ideologies, I realize that these aren’t just abstract concepts—they’re real issues that impact people’s lives. Gil-White’s analysis resonates because it shows how authoritarian regimes have long used anti-Semitic rhetoric to stifle democratic ideals and push their own totalitarian agendas. This isn’t just history repeating itself; it’s a reminder of how important it is to challenge harmful stereotypes whenever they arise.

Gil-White also stresses the need to critically examine the growing support for Hamas and the Palestinian cause, especially in light of the values that countries like the United States and Israel stand for. He believes this trend has been fueled by divisive ideologies that have taken root in academic circles over the years, as well as the influence of radical Muslim immigration.

What I take away from Gil-White’s perspective is the importance of not taking these issues at face value. We must dig deeper, ask hard questions, and strive for social harmony rather than letting these ideologies drive us apart. This isn’t just about politics; it’s about the kind of world we want to live in and the values we want to uphold.

Dismantling Stereotypes

Gil-White’s efforts to dismantle negative stereotypes about Jews and advocate for their protection resonated with me on a personal level. His work is a powerful reminder that prejudice, in any form, threatens all of us. It inspired me to be more vocal in my support for Jewish communities and Israel, especially in the face of ongoing threats from groups like Hamas, Iran, and Hezbollah.

And why is this powerfully important for all of us?

A compelling video from the Shine A Light Organization drives home the importance of this fight against antisemitism. After watching it, I felt even more motivated to continue learning and advocating for understanding and empathy across all communities.

Francisco Gil-White’s expertise is not just academic—it’s a call to action. I encourage you to follow his work, explore these issues, and share your thoughts in the comments below. We all have a role to play in combating prejudice and promoting a more just and fair world.