Jewish American Heritage Month

Posted By admin on October 10, 2022

Tarf (distortion) is an Arabic term used by most Muslim Scholars to refer to the alterations they believe have been made to the previous revelations of God in Tawrat (Torah), Zabur (Psalms) and the Injil (Gospel). It is sometimes also used to describe Biblical metaphors.

For example, Professor Rabbi Andrea L. Weiss reminds us that in the poem at the heart of Deuteronomy 32 (often referred to as the Song of Moses), God established a special covenantal relationship with the People of Israel.

One of the remarkable things about this poetic passage is the many different metaphors used for God. In just fifteen verses (vv. 4-18), we find metaphors of God as a rock, father, eyelid, eagle, and mother. Exploring these metaphors teaches us about the poems perception of Gods nature and Gods relationship to Israel, and about the way metaphor works in the Bible.

After an introductory invocation (vv. 1-3), the poem looks back on Gods early relationship with Israel (vv. 4-14). The first few verses of this pericope establish a stark contrast between God and Israel: God is upright (v. 4), but Israel is crooked (v. 5); Gods deeds are perfect (v. 4), but Israel is blemished (v. 5); God is Israels Father (v. 6), but Israel is Gods non-children (v. 5). The poet sets up this contrast, and the poems key word, by calling God, the Rock () in v. 4.

The word rock recurs eight times in the Song: five times to depict the God of Israel (vv. 4, 15, 18, 30, 31), twice as an ironic reference to foreign gods (vv. 31, 37), and once in connection to oil produced from a flinty rock (v. 13). But the rock metaphor does not operate the same way in each of these citations. Context makes the metaphor mean different things in different verses.

In an influential 1954-1955 essay, the philosopher Max Black introduced the notion of associated commonplaces into the study of metaphors. What do God and a large rock formation have in common? In v. 4, the Rock appears in conjunction with descriptions of God as steadfasttrue and upright.

These words highlight the solid, almost immovable aspect of a bolder rock, which the poet compares to Gods unwavering loyalty and righteousness. Yet, rocks have many other features, and the poet picks up on different associated commonplaces as the metaphor appears later in the poem.

For instance, v. 15 returns to the metaphor of God as rock, recounting how Israel spurned the Rock of his rescue. This verse makes reference to the way a large rock can provide protection, a characteristic frequently invoked by the many manifestations of this metaphor in the Psalms, as in the depictions of God as my rock and my redeemer (Psalm 19:15) or my strengthmy fortress, my rescuer, my God, my rock in whom I seek refuge (Psalm 18:2-3).

A military meaning of the metaphor of God as rock in v. 15 contrasts with its meaning in v. 4, where the analogy implies divine loyalty and righteousness in a broad, non-military context.

As the first main pericope (vv. 4-14) paints a positive image of God and the early relationship between God and Israel, the poem uses of a number of different metaphors to depict Gods loving and protective care of Israel.

God as a Father: After comparing God to a rock in v. 4, the poem introduces a different divine metaphor in v. 6 when it asks: Is He not your father, who created you, He made you and established you?The three verbs in this verse focus our attention on Gods role as Israels creator (also see Malachi 2:10). In contrast, other biblical passages utilize the metaphor of God as father in order to call attention to different associated commonplaces and different facets of the divine-human relationship.

For example, some texts speak of God as a father in order to portray Gods love and compassion (Psalm 103:13; Isaiah 63:16) or Gods disciplinary role (Proverbs 3:12), or to emphasize that the special bond between God and Israel sometimes brings with it unmet expectations (see Jeremiah 3:4, 19; 31:9).

God as an Eyelid: The poem goes on to recall how God found and cared for Israel in the wilderness: God watched over him, guarded him like the pupil of Gods eye (v. 10).This simileaims to illustrate how God protected Israel like an eyelid, which instinctively blinks to safeguard the vulnerable pupil (as in Psalm 17:8).

God as an Eagle: Verse 11 introduces another divine metaphor, describing God as an eagle watching over its young: Like an eagle who rouses its nest, over his young he hovers; he spread his wings, he took him, he carried him on his pinion.

This further strengthens the connection between the seemingly different metaphors juxtaposed in vv. 10-11, for the eyelid and eagle analogies both emphasize Gods protection and care for Israel during the early phase of their relationship.

God as a Nursing Mother: The poem goes on to recount how God brought Israel to the Promised Land and provided food for them: He set them atop the heights of the land, and he ate the produce of the field. He nursed him with honey from the crag and oil from the flinty rock (v. 13).

Some translations mask the maternal metaphor by rendering the last verb in this verse as fed instead of nursed.

But, the Hebrew verb -- clearly establishes an image of God as a nursing mother who lovingly, attentively, and generously nourishes her newborn child (also see Numbers 11:12 and Isaiah 43:3-4; 49:15).This metaphor further enhances the picture of Gods devoted care for Israel communicated by the previous two metaphors, which makes Israels later defiance all the more astonishing.

God as Israels Spurned Mother: In subsequent verses the tone and message of the poem change, as Gods graciousness gives way to Israels ingratitude. After describing how Israel worshiped foreign deities, the poet charges: You neglected the Rock who begot you; you forgot the God who labored to bring you forth (v. 18). This verse contains another comparison between God and a mother, but the associated commonplaces differ.

Whereas v. 13 focuses on the way the mother feeds her young baby, v. 18 moves back in time and calls attention to the birthing process. Like the image of God as a father in v. 6, this metaphor centers on Gods role as Israels creator.

However, by depicting God as a mother who endured the pain and effort of labor to give birth to her child, the poet casts Israels rejection of God in an even more negative light. The metaphor thus enhances the stark contrast between Gods treatment of Israel and Israels subsequent treatment of God.

Why So Many Metaphors: In the span of just fifteen verses,the verses imagine God as a solid, stable rock, a father, an eyelid, an eagle, a nursing mother, a mother who has gone through labor, and a protective rock. Why not choose one or two metaphors to depict the one God in a consistent fashion?

Thispassageteaches us that we need multiple metaphors, in the Bible and in our own lives, because no single comparison can encapsulate all there is to say about the one God and the complexity of divine-human connections.

While the 99 names of Allah are more abstract than the many anthropomorphisms and metaphors used in the Hebrew Bible and by the rabbis in the post Biblical age, they are each just two different styles and one is as informative as the other.

Anthropomorphisms and metaphors are not Tahrif. The Quran has a much more restrictive iconic style of the one Gods revelation; because after the Roman and Eastern Churches permitted statues of Jesus and Mary to be used in worship, their iconic error needed to be strongly opposed.

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Islamic Tahrif, Jewish Metaphors And The 99 Names Of Allah OpEd - Eurasia Review

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Posted By admin on October 10, 2022

BYOBs galore, great Middle Eastern food, and happy hour spots where you can bring a group.

Beef suya platter with jollof and plantains at Suya Suya / Photograph by Ted Nghiem

In recent years, Northern Liberties has become home to a ton of younger Philadelphians who want to have a great time. And that great time takes many forms from a whole lot of neighborhood bars to the variety of BYOBs. This guide is for the folks who live or work in the area (or are just visiting from another neighborhood for the night), and are looking to get to know the best Northern Liberties has to offer.

Were defining the Northern Liberties neighborhood as 6th Street to the Delaware River, between Spring Garden and Girard Avenue.

Suya Suya West African GrillSuya Suya is the most exciting restaurant in Northern Liberties right now. Its named for its signature dish, suya, a staple street food in Nigerias capital city of Abuja, where owner Dera Nd-Ezuma is from. Simply, the dish is comprised of skewered meat rubbed with peanuts, paprika, chilies and bouillon and then grilled. At Suya Suya, youll find both chicken and beef suya, built into a fast-casual model where you can customize a platter with jollof rice, plantains, and cornbread. Its the kind of convenient and incredible spot we wish existed in every neighborhood. 400 Fairmount Avenue.

Spuntino Wood Fired PizzaEvery neighborhood in Philly has to have a spot for gathering over Neapolitan pizza and salad with a little wine and beer. Spuntino is that place for NoLibs. Order at the counter, then take your food to one of the tables and enjoy the bubbly char that comes from the large wood-fired oven in the center of the kitchen. Also good to know if you live in the neighborhood: theyre open for lunch. 701 North 2nd Street.

Love & Honey Fried ChickenLearning to make perfect fried chicken is easy: all it takes is a decade of practice and a willingness to spend the rest of your life in pursuit of one thing. Lucky for us, Todd Lyons made that sacrifice, and he and his wife Laura showcase the results in this little takeaway spot, serving excellent plates of chicken drizzled with a kiss of honey to an ever-growing legion of fans.1100 North Front Street

The Kettle BlackThe Kettle Black does both bakery classics (bagels, croissants, soft pretzels) and creative baked goods with equal excellence. At a lesser bakery, a (vegan) funfetti croissant might seem gimmicky and gross, but at the Kettle Black, theyve dialed in the rainbow sprinkles so theyre elegant rather than over-the-top (and it tastes totally delicious). Weekend mornings often bring lines, but these typically move quickly, and the wait is worth some cheddar-jalapeo pretzel bagels. Heads up, The Kettle Black mostly operates as grab-and-go place, with just a couple of stools at the window. 631 North 2nd Street.

A spread of mezze at Pera / Photograph by Eddy Marenco

Pera Turkish CuisineLocated inside what used to be Dmitris, Pera is carrying on the tradition of great BYOBs in this 2nd Street spot. Settle into a table in the sunny dining room, and work your way through the Turkish menu of mezze, lamb-filled manti, eggplant dip, and grilled meats. Even if youre full, dont skip baklava from the pastry case. 944 North 2nd Street.

Standard TapStandard Tap is one of those spots thats good for pretty much any situation. Happy hour, date night, dinner with friends, and late-night drinks are all totally appropriate in the big space (that has a fireplace they light when its cold outside and a pool table). Try a local cheese plate, a mackerel croquette, oysters, or a burger. 901 North 2nd Street.

Honeys SitnEatAs implied by the name, Honeys is all about comfort. The menu brings together Southern cuisine (see: a grits bowl with cajun fried catfish, fried green tomatoes and a biscuit sandwich) as well as Jewish food (challah French toast, a brisket breakfast platter, and a lox platter) and Mexican classics (they do a breakfast burrito, huevos rancheros, and enfrijoladas.) Breakfast and lunch are served all day, and there are plenty of vegan and vegetarian options. 800 North 4th Street.

Apricot StoneAnother great neighborhood BYOB where its easy to lose track of time in. Come here and graze your way through Armenian mezze and grilled lamb skewers, plus fattoush and spanakopita. Apricot Stone is casual-feeling enough for a group dinner, but nice enough for a date night, which makes it especially useful if you live in the area. 1040 North 2nd Street.

Baan ThaiBaan Thai does a very busy takeout business, but its also got a comfortable dining room with space for dine-in, and theres usually a last-minute table available. You can certainly rely on standards like pad Thai, drunken noodles, and curries, but pay special attention to the larb gai with tons of herbs, lime juice, and crunchy roasted rice, and the clay pot seafood dish, which comes to the table hot and fragrant with noodles, vegetables and shrimp. 1030 North American Street.

Photograph courtesy of Cafe La Maude

Caf La MaudeA restaurant that offers a long list of breakfast food is probably going to be a hit, and Cafe La Maude does just that. Yes, this daytime spot has classic eggs Benedict and pancakes topped with strawberry and banana, but they also do pancakes stacked with baklava, both red and green shakshuka, foul moudamas topped with scrambled eggs, and lots more. The food skews Lebanese-French (with a BYOB policy and no reservations offered) and the more you explore the menu, that happier youll be. 816 North 4th Street.

Jerrys BarJerrys is NoLibs local Quizzo pub the kind of spot with a lot of regulars, $8 wine, and plenty of $5 happy hour deals. The cocktails are solid, and the food ranges from burgers and fish and chips to local cheese boards, and grilled branzino. 129 West Laurel Street.

Pelicana PhillyThe best strategy at this popular Korean fried chicken chain is to go with a group and order as many different pieces of bone-in chicken as you can. Pelicana doesnt serve alcohol, but there are plenty of tables to spread out your chicken fest. 719 North 2nd Street.

HeritageHeritage hits the sweet spot of being both a restaurant and bar, but also a live music venue with a regular roster of performers. The vibe in here feels casual, with a big bar and high top tables, and a sunny outdoor space perfect for afternoon hangs. This is the kind of place where youll want to meet friends after work and split a bunch of crispy Brussels sprouts, wings, and fries. 914 North 2nd Street.

HikariHikari does all the casual sushi standards you know and love, like a good selection of sashimi and nigiri, plus specialty rolls named after the neighborhood and other free-association topics. But there are some larger options at this BYOB spot as well, like light and crisp tempura platters, and a generous chirashi bowl for around $30. 1040 North American Street.

Photograph courtesy of Aejo

AejoClassic Mexican dishes in a swanky space is the name of the game at Aejo. Happy hour deals flow right into busy weeknight dinners where diners scarf down short-rib tacos, chicken adobo empanadas and (probably) multiple margaritas. They also do a popular weekend brunch and offer at $14 set lunch menu during the week. 1001 North 2nd Street.

Kaplans New Model BakeryA lot of restaurants, bars, and bakeries in Northern Liberties are new. But Kaplans has been selling rye bread and Jewish pastries in the neighborhood forever. Stop by for challah, Black Russian rye, and bagels, but know that you likely wont be able to resist the cookies nor should you. 901 North 3rd Street.

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Where to Eat in Northern Liberties - Philadelphia magazine

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Posted By admin on October 10, 2022

(JTA) Couscous lovers who frequent the grocery store Trader Joes may have noticed a change in the grain aisle: The chains brightly colored purple boxes of Israeli Couscous are now simply known as Pearl Couscous.

The Nosher, a sister website to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency, first reported the label change after word of it spread on the popular Facebook group Kosher Trader Joes.

The move raised questions in the group about whether Trader Joes was trying to distance itself from Israel, a move that some companies have made for political reasons. But a spokesperson for the company said it recently switched to a new supplier for this product and it is now sourced domestically rather than from Israel. The product itself hasnt changed, according to The Noshers report.

The Bamba carried by Trader Joes is manufactured in Israel. (Philissa Cramer)

Trader Joes carries a host of ingredients and products associated with Israeli cuisine. The company sources its date syrup, called silan in Hebrew, from Belgium and its tahini, a Middle Eastern staple, from Greece. But its Bamba, both regular and chocolate-filled, is sourced from Israel and bears the kosher certification of Israels Chief Rabbinate.

Even if the pearl couscous itself is no longer sourced directly from Israel, the method by which its prepared is historically Israeli (and is not actually couscous, a semolina product that is North African in origin). The pearl-shaped ptitim wheat product came about during a period of intense rationing in Israel in the 1950s, when the country was seeing an influx of more than 700,000 new immigrants. Under orders by Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion, local food manufacturer Osem created a baked wheat-based alternative to rice, unlike its semolina-based traditional couscous cousins from North Africa.

A bowl of raw organic Israeli couscous. (Getty Images)

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Trader Joes drops the Israeli for its pearl couscous, citing change in supply chain - JTA News - Jewish Telegraphic Agency

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Posted By admin on October 10, 2022

Like many on the internet this past week, the Eater staff had (to put it mildly) strong feelings about the Great British Bake Offs latest episode, the so-called Mexico Week.

Even before the show aired in the U.S., it was clear Mexico Week would be offensive to many viewers. In teasers, hosts Matt Lucas and Noel Fielding, dressed in sombreros and serapes, made unfunny puns, which were then reiterated by the official GBBO Twitter account. The episode itself didnt allay anyones fears that the shows approach to Mexican cuisine might be reductive when, in the technical challenge, the contestants, many of whom appeared to be unfamiliar with pico de gallo (or at least how to pronounce it), made tacos. (How this qualifies as a baking challenge is beyond us.)

Rather than dwell any further on the reasons why this particular episode is problematic at this point it seems as if the GBBO team may even be writing bad jokes and stoking stereotypes on purpose to inspire hate watching and the rage clicks that inevitably follow wed like to once again acknowledge the other moments that have led us here. The Great British Bake Off (also known as The Great British Baking Show) started out as an almost-universal delight, with a simple format and a spirit that felt kinder than other reality competition shows. But as it reached wider audiences and as the seasons piled up, it seemed to suffer from a desire to keep things fresh, leading to many moments that have caused us to pause Netflix and ask wtf?? Some of these are egregiously offensive, others more mundane yet still off-putting events that looking back, were clearly harbingers of the awfulness to come in Season 13, Episode 4. Taken together they point to a show whose best days have long since passed.

Way back in the first season of GBBO, the episodes were accompanied by a brief segment that went into the historical context of the bakes. The hosts would sometimes journey to a locale known for a particular baked good and speak to actual experts on the subject. In later seasons, as the show grew from British TV to international phenomenon, this segment fell by the wayside; many of us didnt miss it, many more never even knew it existed. I think we can all agree that as the show ventures into territory it is absolutely ill-equipped to handle (see below in re: Japan and Mexico Week, the babka challenge) hearing from people who have a good deal of knowledge about the foods the contestants are instructed to bake would be a huge boon. As it is now, the only expertise that matters is from a narrow, very British viewpoint, which is only fair when the foods coming under scrutiny are very British.

The Paul Hollywood handshake was never cool, but it was also never this gross. In 2018, Buzzfeeds Scott Bryan identified the the precise moment the handshake jumped the shark, when Hollywood began doling out too many handshakes and they became not just a casual commendation but a codified kudos. As Brian Moylan pointed out on Vulture in 2019, having [Pauls] personal trump card of the handshake just cements his dominance over the proceedings. A competition show judges signature move will always be a bit cringe (see also Val Garlands ding dong on Glow Up, or former So You Think You Can Dance judge Mary Murphys hot tamale train), but it just feels overly smug in Hollywoods hands (pun intended).

No one on earth is as much of a spice weenie as Paul Hollywood. The man has, across the seasons, complained to various contestants that their use of spices ranging from paprika to ginger was too heavy-handed, causing him to cough and sputter. His own recipe for spicy beef tacos includes merely one teaspoon of ancho chile powder and half a jalapeno, an indication that hes just not the best judge for any bake that contains any spice more piquant than black pepper. As former host Mary Berry summed it all up herself: Im not a hot, spicy person. This would maybe be fine if all they were judging were the most vanilla of bakes, but the show also claims to reward creativity and asks contestants to put themselves into their baking, which means those with broader palates and backgrounds that include spice get unfairly dinged.

In Series 6, Episode 5, Paul expresses an inordinate amount of skepticism that contestant Ugnes idea to pair peanut butter ice cream with concord grape jelly will work. Spoiler: It worked. Expand your mind, Paul.

The British equivalent of a fancy meemaw, Mary Berry brought class and gravitas to GBBO, and a notoriously persnickety palate. When she, along with hosts Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins, left the show in 2016 after it switched from BBC to Channel 4, not even the charming personality and formidably chunky necklaces of Prue Leith could fill the void she left. Leith, by mere virtue of being new, plays second fiddle to Paul Hollywood. Berry, however, was not afraid to rein him in when he was being too bull-headed. She always made us feel good about loving booze in our desserts, and she is desperately missed even though she couldnt handle her spice.

New hosts Sandi Tosvig and Noel Fielding at first seemed worthy replacements for the departed Mel and Sue. But the energy of the show totally shifted when Sandi left and Matt arrived. Do we even need two hosts? What if it was just Noel? Noel at least understands that the job is to be funny, to put contestants at ease, and to give home viewers something to watch besides panicky bakers.

The show finally does bagels, but instead of researching what makes bagels good, the show opts for rainbow bagels. You know, the storied baking tradition of Instagram.

Not that fans of Jewish baked goods had reason to expect greatness from the show. Back in Season 5, Episode 2 (the earliest available season on Netflix), the bakers are instructed to bake Pauls plaited loaf, a loaf that is quite clearly challah. Neither Paul nor Mary, who comments that the loaf might be quite nice at a sort of festive occasion, acknowledge the breads central role in Jewish tradition. Then in 2020s Chocolate Week episode, Prue went so far as to say Pauls babka was better than anything she had had in New York (lol) because it was lighter (gtfo).

In the finale of Season 9, the bakers were asked to leave the tent for their technical challenge: making pita on an open fire as well as dips, completely upending the notion that the show was a test of a bakers skill and a reversal of the positive ethos of encouragement for which many of us began watching in the first place. As Jenny G. Zhang put it: Technical challenges are meant to test the contestants prior baking experience, advantaging those with more know-how; in this case, the only way for a contestant to be remotely prepared for a challenge like this would be if they were, I dont know, a survivalist who regularly bakes on open fires?

Since the live-fire pita challenge (which its worth noting also took place on a blisteringly hot day), ridiculous, stunt challenges that set bakers up to fail have unfortunately become par for the course.

In Season 12s Japan Week, the show asked bakers to make nikuman, steamed buns with origins in China. The pan-Asian fillings and decorations that the contestants chose for the buns did nothing to further the viewers understanding of Japanese baking tradition, although at this point, they shouldnt have expected it from this show.

Mexico Week makes it clear the makers of GBBO learned nothing from Japan Week. Hire some damn experts from the regions and cultures youre asking contestants to bake from or get back to the business of asking contestants to brilliantly riff on the prescribed forms of historic British bakes. Given the shows issues with overly complicated challenges that stretch the definition of baking, the latter outcome actually might not be so bad. Victoria sponges forever.

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11 Times Great British Baking Show Proved Its Not That Good Anymore - Eater

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Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, Rogers Park is known as a charming north side neighborhood. But its also a bastion of diversity, blending cultures and religions from all over the world. It is, in fact, the most diverse neighborhood in Chicago: a rare quality which has earned the area national distinction.

According to a new list from Money.com, Rogers Park is best fifth-best place to live in all the U.S.

Within the vibrant streets of Rogers Park is Devon Avenue, referred to colloquially as Little India. There, south Asian shops and restaurants thrive and the sidewalks maintain a social atmosphere. But head east, and youll pass even more international cuisine. Among the options: Cuban, Chinese and Israeli.

Rogers Park is also home to multiple mosques, churches, temples and synagogues. West Rogers Park is home to the Midwests largest Orthodox Jewish population, according to Streets Blog Chicago.

Based on statistics from the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for City Planning,the full racial breakdown of Rogers Park was roughly 44% white, 27% Black, 19% Hispanic, 5% Asian and 4% other, as of 2020.

The Loyola University campus, a private Jesuit college, is also located in Rogers Park, which brings new, young people to the neighborhood every year. Despite that cool factor, though, Rogers Park remains an affordable option for families. The median home price there is about $200,000 notably lower than in other Chicago neighborhoods.

The full top five list from Money includes:

1. Atlanta, Ga.2. Tempe, Ariz.3. Kirkland, Wash.4. Raleigh, N.C.5. Rogers Park, Chicago, Ill.

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Rogers Park ranks No. 5 best place to live in the U.S. - Chicago Agent magazine

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We just spent a weekend in whats arguably the most liberal and free city in the Middle East, and the things we found and saw there were far more surprising and dare we say, exciting than we were expecting.

Writing for Travel Off Path, I like to think of myself as a lover of freedom and advocate for an open world. After all, we have been covering the different levels of restrictions imposed on citizens over the course of the last two years and strongly supporting the resumption of normal tourism. As a traveler myself, I tend to favor destinations where individual liberties are upheld.

Not only when it comes to freedom of movement, but where people are not persecuted or criminalized based on their gender, sexuality, or political views, and that is safe in general for outsiders who dont speak the language and/or are unfamiliar with the local customs.

Health crisis aside, I mostly avoided the Middle East in my years of traveling, not because it didnt appeal to me Iraq, for instance, is one of my bucket list destinations but because it has developed a reputation for being a hotbed of religious quagmires and strict laws governing social life Right?

As it turns out, thats not always true, especially when it comes to this one compact metropolitan gem tucked away on the Eastern shores of the Mediterranean:

Ill take a guess here, and please, do let me know if Im wrong in the comment section. When you think Israel, the first image that pops to mind is probably that of ancient cities carved out of limestone, where both History and religion walk hand in hand, and the droves of pilgrims flock into every corner looking for some sort of religious awakening.

Am I wrong? Well, thats not too far from the truth, as Israel is, indeed, the Land of the Bible, as well as home to places held as holy in all three major religions Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. We all know it can be an incredible destination for believers, irrespective of the Abrahamic branch they belong to, but what about others?

Others like me, who are thrill-seeking young digital nomads who do not feel strongly about any particular religion and who wouldnt necessarily mind the occasional infusion of History, but are simply hoping to have a cracking time for once. Luckily for both demographics, Israel has the best of both worlds: sites of huge historical importance and unparalleled city breaks.

Of course, it is the birthplace of Jesus, John the Baptist, King Herod, and all other Bible icons that have long been in our social imagery, whether we were born into a Christian household or simply hail from the Christianized Western World. But then again, it is home to Tel Aviv, which is the most overlooked city Ive ever set foot in and perhaps one of the most vibrant.

In a country as packed with millennia-old monuments and wild nature as Israel is, Tel Aviv is a city that looks almost out of place. Its monumental skyscrapers cannot be found anywhere else, and the unblemished white of its signature Bauhaus architecture looks strikingly alien in a country where the ocher-tinged tone of its historical buildings is the commanding color.

Tel Aviv is an aberration, and although some of the Orthodox Jews of Israel would certainly like to keep it in line with the more-conservative Jerusalem and Nazareth, I mean it as a compliment of the highest order. This is the Land of Creations younger, rebellious child, who owes its charming looks to a century of innovation and openness to the outside world.

It couldnt have been any different: it was established on the shores of Israels central Mediterranean Coast in the early 20th century, and throughout the decades that followed, it hosted an influx of migration from the Americas, Europe, and other Middle Eastern neighbors, as far southwest as the continent of Africa.

This amalgamation of cultures, customs, languages, and ethnicity is still very much present in Tel Aviv. It is indisputably a city belonging to the Jewish State at its core, but if youre looking for Israels equivalent to a multi-faith international community and/or more permissive branches of Judaism, then here is where youll find them.

Being a gay man holding what I would like to consider a progressive worldview, I felt at ease in Tel Aviv as I would normally in Amsterdam, Stockholm, or Lisbon. Granted, I cant speak for other groups, and certainly not for women, but even then, I was under the impression tourists from all walks of life would feel just as embraced and welcome as I was.

In fact, finding the odd rainbow flag proudly displayed on a private balcony or a shops front door isnt a strange sight in Tel Aviv. In the wider Middle East, where numerous countries still criminalize same-sex relationships or even expect women to live under certain constraints, this is certainly a testament to its status as a young, free city.

Tel Aviv may look imposing in pictures when it excels at mimicking New York Citys skyscraper-dotted skyline, but in reality, it is a small town with big city aspirations. By that, I mean it is incredibly compact, in spite of its metropolitan feel, and getting from one end to the other will not take you longer than 35-40 minutes of driving (if theres traffic).

This is why it is such a perfect weekend getaway: most of the attractions are all clumped together and can be seen in a single day. Below, I have listed six of my favorite things to do while on a weekend in Tel Aviv:

Youre free to be yourself in Israel.

Many Americans may not be entirely aware of this, but Israel straddles Western Asias Mediterranean shore. In other words, the worlds most sought-after beach destination, where Ibiza, Santorini, Cyprus, and the like are located, incorporates Israel on an extent and like any Mediterranean hub, Tel Avivs access to the sea makes it a popular swimming hotspot.

Im not even one for beach hopping myself, but I certainly couldnt resist relaxing at a Hilton Beach lounge on a scorching mid-September afternoon, fresh-squeezed lemonade and Kindle at hand, hearing the sound of waves crashing and the faint hint of pop music coming from the nearest beach bar. Absolute heaven.

It is also known for being the gay beach of Tel Aviv, though judging by its diverse crowd of young bathers, it is popular among all groups. However, if youre coming with your family and would prefer a more child-friendly spot, I can suggest Gorden Beach instead, located directly opposite the Sheraton Hotel, or even Geula Beach.

Around 50 66 NIS ( $14 $19 USD) for a one-course meal

Im not the biggest fan of street markets myself. I have little use for the trinkets and souvenirs shouting vendors try to sell you at any cost, nor do I particularly enjoy being hurried along amid the current of tourists and other curious onlookers exercising their bargaining skills. For that reason, I wasnt truly looking forward to visiting the open-air Carmel Market.

It was, however, part of my Tel Aviv Weekend Tour itinerary, and as soon as we approached the first row of shops stacked with Persian rugs, art pieces looking meticulously made, and the smell of kebab grilling on skewers, I knew I was in for a treat, and couldnt have been more grateful to my guide, Michael Skir, for insisting we came here.

Carmel Market couldnt be farther from your usual tourist trap, with all its colorful flowers irises, gladiolas, and roses that owe their blood-red vibrancy to a prosperous Mediterranean climate dried fruits, dates, and other Western Asia classics, as well as a plethora of unique condiments I would have loved to take home myself, were I not a dreadful cook.

Moreover, it is one of the best lunch spots in all of Tel Aviv: its corridors are home to various restaurants and street food stalls, and I certainly felt spoiled for choice in picking a favorite. If your heart is set on traditional Middle Eastern cuisine especially if youre hoping to sample some humus then this is the place to be.

Pro tip? You dont want to miss the Hummus Shlomo & Doron Restaurant*.

*Nakhalilel St, 24, Tel Aviv-Yafo

52 NIS or roughly $15 USD

Perhaps the farthest out of the six that is, if youre staying central Tel Aviv Universitys ANU Museum was bound to become one of my highlights for a very simple reason: my favorite pastime is cuddling up to my cat, burying my nose in a book, and spending hours on end ruffling through the pages, lost in thought.

A museum chronicling the trajectory of Israel as one of Ben Gurions most ambitious projects, and then a nation over time, ANU felt very much like a giant-sized book full of textures and vibrant imagery I could just walk into. Similarly to the Museum of Contemporary History in Bonn, Germany, still my all-time favorite, each floor of ANU is dedicated to a particular period of Jewish History.

Slowly working your way down from the top floor, you will learn how ethnically diverse and surprisingly multicultural the Jewish peoples are, what has been their collective angst and goal across centuries, who are some of the brightest minds to have been born in Israel, and how far this relatively new country has come in as little as seven decades.

My only regret? Not having planned longer than an hour here.

Catch the vibes.

Tel Aviv may not be the ideal destination for those fixated on deep cultural expeditions, but it does shine through with its extensive list of world-renowned restaurants, some of which I will detail further down, bohemian districts where youngsters pour into the streets for a much-needed weekend relief, and a cafe culture rivaling that of Europe.

The best place to feel the atmosphere and mingle with locals and visitors alike is the Downtown Area, close to the iconic Rothschild Avenue and any of the smaller streets feeding into it, such as Allenby, Florentin, and Levontin. Here, you will find alfresco dining options, quirky themed cafes waiting to go viral on TikTok, the countrys top-rated nightclubs, and even co-working spaces perfect for digital nomads.

Being completely unaware of Tel Avivs hidden wonders until I landed, I could have easily skipped the 20th-century city altogether and headed straight to the nearest Roman-era citadel. Sky-high apartment blocks, busy city life, and shopping centers are not exactly my cuppa, but now, Im so glad that I didnt.

Its precisely this eccentricity and the citys unique status as a modernized financial center in the heart of the primeval nation, whose existence has been enshrined on the pages of the worlds best-selling book, that make it worthwhile, even if only for a long weekend.

Youll want to take your time here.

Besides being home to Israels liveliest social scene, Tel Aviv is a guidebook for minimalist aesthetics. An experimental ground for Bauhaus, a 1919 creation of German architect Walter Gropius, Tel Avivs historical center is home to a vast collection of whitewashed, UNESCO-listed monuments comprising the so-called White City.

Strolling the area, tourists are graced with views of rectangular-like or round structures without intricate decorations or the ornate, romantic forms youll find in Europes Belle epoque buildings. Tel Avivs oldest neighborhood, which defies other contemporary developments, is both a lesson in architectural practicality and a sight to behold.

These geometric shapes are spread across the city center, and theyre surely not hard to find, but for some of the most iconic sights, I strongly suggest you visit Rothschild Boulevard, Tel Avivs pulsating vena cava, adorned with some of Gropius finest feats, and Dizengoff Square, the setting for a futuristic water fountain display flanked by Bauhaus landmarks.

Tel Avivs equivalent to an Old Town.

My favorite district in all of Tel Aviv, Jaffa is an ancient port dating back thousands of years that was slowly absorbed by the city as it grew larger, rising from a mere 34,000 inhabitants in 1920 to over 400,000 today. Luckily, its strong identity as a distinct entity hasnt entirely vanished, in spite of the contrasting 21st-century skyline surrounding it.

As soon as you cross the former municipalitys symbolic threshold, which proudly reads Welcome to Old Jaffa, you will feel like stepping back in time and into an alternate reality where Tel Avivs modern sea promenade and a cluster of skyscrapers give way to narrow alleyways, lined with little craft shops, museums, and centuries-old churches.

Doubtless, Jaffa is the most Instagrammable district in Tel Aviv, and in short walking distance of the White City, it makes for an incredible day trip away from all the hustle and bustle. Once in Jaffa, make sure you check out:

Out of the 40 countries I have visited so far, and more than 200 cities globally, I must confess Tel Aviv would rank somewhere in my top 5 for foodie destinations. Whether its sizzling shoarmas straight from the market, or fine dining overlooking the Mediterranean coast, travelers are for sure in for a treat, irrespective of budget.

Compiling the list below was a tough pick, but I did try my very best:

As a devoted foodie myself, and an enthusiast of off-path travel, I couldnt help but verge off the main route and explore a side of Tel Aviv most tourists are completely unaware exists. Luckily, my guide Michael knew just where to go to quench my thirst for authentic experiences, and thanks to him, I met one of Israels most renowned cooks, Myassar Seri.

Mrs. Seri is an Israeli citizen of Palestinian origin who leads cooking workshops from her own home, nestled in Jaffa, and who has done an awe-inspiring job at bridging gaps between Israelis, regardless of their religion or political inclinations, and sharing her culture with other men and women who are willing to learn it.

Amid the ongoing Arab-Israeli conflict, witnessing this womans willingness to heal old wounds, and express her own family history through a rich, flavorful Arab cuisine thats been passed along generations upon generations, is an experience I will cherish forever, and one I can only encourage other visitors to undertake.

As youve been made aware already, I may be a terrible cook myself, and I am sure I wasnt of much help in my group, but in spite of my clumsiness and ceaseless efforts to spoil the tahini one of my main tasks that day it still turned out to be one of tastiest entresIve had in my life.

Either Im not nearly as bad in the kitchen as I thought I was, or Mrs. Seris miracle-working hands somehow saved the day.

Im banking on the latter.

If youre flying all the way from America to Israel and youre planning on spending a weekend in Tel Aviv, like me, I would first advise you to steer clear of shady AirBnB owners and stay in the White City area, a prime location for short-term visitors, within walking distance to all the major shopping centers, street markets and the Port of Jaffa.

I will go even further and personally recommend Esther Cinema, my own hotel. A true Bauhaus jewel towering over Dizengoff Square, one of the main landmarks I mentioned earlier, this hotel has a life of its own. Not only was it once one of Tel Avivs first cinemas, it boasts incredible views of the White City below and a sumptuous breakfast spread.

Today, other than the vintage film posters hanging from the walls and the enviable display of movie projectors dating back to the 1950s, there is little left of Esther Cinema on site to indicate that this hotel, part of Atlas Boutique portfolio, was ever designed to welcome passionate moviegoers, but you will still find:

*The price for a Twin Room is an estimated USD 188.00 per night on Booking.com

Direct flights to Ben Gurion International, Israels main entry hub serving both Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, are available from:

Id advise you to check airfares with each airline for more competitive prices as we have seen this year, they might have been hiked as a result of the soaring inflation. On the bright side, those looking for a last-minute deal for their fall vacays will be thrilled to learn this off-season has been the best time to book international flights globally.

Earlier this year, Israel removed all health entry requirements for foreign visitors, including U.S. citizens arriving from the United States. Heading into the fall, all of the following apply:

Despite the relaxation of measures, tourists must still complete a Passenger Locator Form up to 48 hours prior to departure.

So yes, Tel Aviv and, to an extent, the astoundingly beautiful country of Israel is open for tourism and looking forward to having you back. For unique experiences and a customized itinerary based on your own profile as a traveler, get in touch with the knowledgeable Michael Skir, who was my own contact on the ground while in Israel.

Without Mr. Skirs expertise, insightful comments, and love for Israel, it would have been much more challenging to peel off all these layers of Tel Aviv I didnt even know existed.

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Posted By admin on October 10, 2022

Italy is a top country on many world travelers' bucket lists and one of the leading European travel destinations; with its millenary history, scenic resort towns, fascinating monuments and museums, and world-renowned cuisine, it isnt hard to see why. Beyond well-known classics like the Coliseum and the leaning tower, Italy never runs out of things to explore. Flying out to Italy from New York can be a more straightforward endeavor than expected, and with a smart traveling package, travelers can discover everything this country has to offer.

Floating above the Venetian Grand Canal is the Ca Vendramin Calergi, a stunning renaissance-style 15th-century palace with gondola access. The palace has seen many important historical residents and today hosts de Casin di Venezia, the worlds first casino in history, which opened in the 1600s. Ca Vendramin Calergi is a great choice to visit when flying from New York to Venice.

Lesser known than the neighboring Pompeii ruins, Stabiae is a stunning complex of archeological remains of an ancient port town that were buried under Vesuvius volcanic ash near the port of Naples and Sorrento. Stabiae was known during the Roman Age for being a popular resort for wealthy Roman citizens, and two well-preserved luxury villas with original frescos and a large bath complex can be visited today. Flying to Naples from New York to get close to Stabiae is sure to be a treat.

Related: 10 Walkable Rome Hotels To Book When You're In Italy

The land that encompasses the dazzling gardens of Villa Borghese and the fascinating Galleria Borghese art museum belonged to Cardinal Scipione Borghese, nephew of Pope Paul V. Cardinal Borghese was an avid art collector and patron, and the extensive Borghese Collection displayed at Galleria Borghese hold some of the most important pieces of Baroque art in the world, with works by Bernini, Caravaggio, Titian, Da Vinci, Raphael, and others. The Villa holds multiple gardens and other buildings and museums, and it's a stop worth making for travelers flying to Rome from New York.

Sforza's Castle in Milan is a sprawling medieval fortress standing amidst the buildings of Milan. Built in the 15th century by order of Francesco Sforza on the ruins of a 14th-century fortification which was itself built on the ruins of a Roman fortification. The castle is a massive structure surrounding a courtyard, and after its centuries of protecting citadels, it is now the home of many of Milan's civic museums, like the Milan Pinacoteca, the Museum of Ancient Art, the Archeological Museum of Milan, and even more. For travelers flying in from New York, visiting the Sforza Castle can be a dozen activities inside just one destination.

One of the most exceptional locations of the National Roman Museum, the Baths of Diocletian were public baths built by order emperor Maximian for emperor Diocletian from 298 AD to 306 AD. The extensive, stunning structure of the ancient baths and the many artworks and historical artifacts like plaques, mosaics, sculptures, and reliefs from centuries of Italian history. Flying from New York to stay right at the heart of Rome, the Baths of Diocletian are a less popular attraction that deserves attention.

One of the most famous and beautiful streets in Italy - and perhaps, the world - Via Vittoria Veneto, better known simply as Via Veneto, is a central spot in Rome, connecting Piazza Barberini and Porta Piciana roman gate. Immortalized in films like Fellinis La Dolce Vita and frequented by celebrities for decades, Via Veneto is dotted with luxury boutiques, diverse stores, fascinating bookstores, historical cafs, and art shops. Via Veneto is the place to go for anyone travelers looking for Romes most glamorous promenade.

Related: Get to Know This Magical, Lesser Visited Swiss Valley

Castel Nuovo, also known as Maschio Angiono (Angevin Keep), is an imposing medieval castle rising right at the shores of Naples. The castle was built for the House of Anjou and was the seat of royal houses in Europe until the 1800s. Today the fortress houses the Municipal Museum of Naples and is open for tours of the medieval structures overlooking the shore. Its a sight to see for travelers flying into Naples from New York.

Ostia Antica is an expansive archeological site near the communes of Ostia and Fiumicino, 25 km away from Rome. Ostia is where the seaport of the ancient city of Rome used to be and where Italys biggest airport is located today. At the mouth of River Tiber, Ostia was once a thriving and important military and trade location; the Ostia Antica Archeological Site has stunningly well-preserved buildings and structures, as well as surviving mosaics and frescoes. For travelers flying from New York to the Fiumicino Airport, Ostia Antica is a perfect destination.

The Cannaregio sestiere is one of the six historical districts of Venice. Less crowded with tourists like San Marco, Cannaregio has the charm of Venetian history with a quieter outlook. Great works of renaissance and gothic architecture dot the district, in particular, the Venetian flower gothic like the Ca dOro palace and the Santa Maria di Nazareth. The Venetian Ghetto, the oldest Jewish quarter in Europe, offers an insight into a lesser-known chapter of history, and cafs and bars line the colorful streets of the district. Its a great option to stay for anyone flying to Venice from New York.

Duomo di Milano, or Milan Cathedral, is Italy's largest cathedral and one of the most intricately beautiful pieces of gothic architecture in the world. Construction for the Milan Cathedral started in 1386 and officially finished in 1965, taking six centuries to be completed. The Duomo is the official seat of the archbishop of Milan and, beyond religious activities, holds an archival library, the Duomo Museum, and the Duomo Music Chapel, the oldest cultural institution in Milan. When visiting Milan from New York, it is a wonderful trip to take to experience Italy's spirituality, art, culture, and architecture.

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Posted By admin on October 10, 2022

Antisemitic incidents increased by 42% in the New England region (covering Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont)in 2021, with a total of 155incidents of assault,harassment and vandalism reported to ADL (the Anti-Defamation League). The increase in antisemitic incidentsin the regionoutpaced the 34% increase in such incidents nationally. In response to this uptick, ADL New England will be hosting The Good Fight Forum on Confronting Antisemitism, held in-person at the Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel from 9 a.m. 1 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 30. A virtual option is available.

Never miss the best stories and events! Get JewishBoston This Week.

We invite you to attend The Good Fight Forum to learn skills and strategies to disrupt antisemitism and hate when you see it. Having the facts and skills to stand up and speak out, whether as an individual or as a community, is essential in our collective fight against antisemitism and hate. We all have a role in The Good Fight, says Robert O. Trestan, ADL regional director.

Participants can then choose from four skill-building workshops, all described further here:

The Forum will close with a focus on the rise in extremism activity in New Englandincluding a discussion of recent activity by NSC-131 and Patriot Front. U.S. Attorney Rachael Rollins, WGBH senior investigative reporter Phillip Martin, and ADLs Center on Extremism vice president Oren Segal will discuss who these groups are and how we can collectively confront this hate in our communities. ADL New Englands deputy regional director, Peggy Shukur, will moderate this conversation.

The alarming increase in antisemitic incidents in the region and across the country should be deeply concerning to all, said Trestan. The numbers increased in nearly every category, including harassment and vandalism. The message that the data is sending is crystal clear: antisemitism remains a pervasive ill in our society that must be stemmed, or else we risk normalizing this hatred. ADL is steadfast in our commitment to disrupting and exposing antisemitism wherever it rears its ugly head and urge all to join us in this fight.

Register today and be part of the Good Fight

Never miss the best stories and events! Get JewishBoston This Week.

This post has been contributed by a third party. The opinions, facts and any media content are presented solely by the author, and JewishBoston assumes no responsibility for them. Want to add your voice to the conversation? Publish your own post here.MORE

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Posted By admin on October 10, 2022

Republican gubernatorial candidate Dan Cox outside the Maryland Courts of Appeal Building in Annapolis on Friday. Photo by Bruce DePuyt.

Republican gubernatorial candidate Dan Cox abruptly withdrew from a GOP unity gathering on Monday after a Jewish group said the events name evoked memories of the deadly white supremacist event that occurred in Charlottesville.

The Unite the Right event was scheduled to take place at a restaurant in Arnold on Oct. 22. Organizers said the concert and rally were intended to bring a fractured Maryland Republican Party together for the closing weeks of the campaign.

But Cox and his running mate, Gordana Schifanelli, denounced the event after a leading Jewish organization noted that it appeared to represent the first time since the 2017 riot in Central Virginia that anyone has used the name Unite the Right.

One person died and dozens were injured in that melee. Participants carried Nazi and Confederate flags and some chanted Jews will not replace us and Russia is our friend. The rally followed the removal of Confederate monuments and the massacre at a Black church in Charleston.

In a statement, the Cox campaign said the Maryland event had been publicized without the campaigns knowledge of the title.

Upon discovery, Delegate Dan Cox and the Dan Cox For Governor campaign have immediately disassociated themselves from any further involvement, the statement read. Dan Cox, Gordana Schifinelli [sic] and the entire campaign denounce any association with this event.

We will not be associated with anything that is reminiscent, accidental or otherwise, of the unspeakable tragedy that took place in Charlottesville, VA on August 12, 2017. Anything less is unacceptable.

The Oct. 22 event was sponsored by Red Renaissance, Inc., a group that describes itself as the next generation of conservative leaders. It is described as a fundraiser to benefit Republican candidates.

The flyer for a Unite the Right event organized by Red Renaissance, Inc. Screenshot.

General admission tickets are $17.76. For $45, VIP attendees will get an opportunity to meet country artist James McCoy Taylor, the evenings performer, and WBAL Radio talk show host Kim Klacik, an organizer who is scheduled to serve as emcee.

The group boasts a lineup of special guests that includes Cox, Schifanelli, and several congressional candidates, including Chris Palombi, Nicolee Ambrose and Yuripzy Morgan, among others.

The two party activists who was asked to spearhead the event said they never intended to replicate what happened in Virginia.

This has nothing to do with Charlottesville, said LaToya Nkongolo, an unsuccessful candidate for the House of Delegates in Anne Arundel County. When the name was mentioned, it was fitting for our definition of what we want to do in Maryland. What we want in Maryland is to make sure that our candidates here get the support that they need from the community. And thats it.

This is a concert, she added. I can tell you unequivocally that I dont want to be tied to anything that is anti-Semitic or white supremacist or whatever the connotation associated with it.

Nkongolo said Klacik chose the name. In a video posted to Twitter on Oct. 3, Klacik said: I know I complain a lot about Republicans being somewhat fractured. We need to all come together. On Election Day, we need to vote Republican up and down the ballot.

Co-organizer Dawn Pulliam, a former county council candidate in Anne Arundel, said tying in with Charlottesville was never, ever, ever the intent. I love him, she said of Cox. If we did anything to put him in a bad light, that was not the intent. Thats truly unfortunate. We just wanted to bring people together.

Asked if she knew of the events name, Morgan, who hopes to unseat Rep. John Sarbanes (D), said, hell no.

An event with ties to white supremacy or anti-semitism has no place in Maryland and America for that matter, she wrote in a text. I would never be a part of any event that encouraged those ideas. Further Im deeply offended that I was included as I would never give permission to have my name on it.

The head of a prominent Jewish group said that if the use of the name Unite the Right was inadvertent, the organizers need to go with something else.

Using the phrase unite the right to name a rally feels to me like a dog whistle to anti-Semitic white nationalists, said Howard Libit, executive director of the Baltimore Jewish Council. It clearly harkens to the tragic rally in Charlottesville.

Klacik, who unsuccessfully sought a congressional seat in 2020, told Fox 45 (WBFF-TV) in Baltimore that the rally will take place despite the withdrawal of Cox and Schifanelli. She scoffed at the notion that anyone would tie her event to the violence in Charlottesville.

I just think its quite silly that anybody would try to link the name to Charlottesville and white supremacy, she told the station. As a Black woman that ran in a predominantly Black city, thats the last thing Im thinking about maybe because Im Black.

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Cox withdraws from 'Unite the Right' event after Jewish group raises concerns - Maryland Matters

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Posted By admin on October 10, 2022

The Black and Jewish communities must stand together through incidents like this to make clear that trafficking in hateful stereotypes is unacceptable and that the words of one entertainer do not reflect the views of an entire community, the Black Jewish Entertainment Alliance said.

The Anti-Defamation League also condemned Yes actions, saying, there is no excuse for his propagating of white supremacist slogans and classic #antisemitism about Jewish power, especially with the platform he has.

Songwriter Autumn Rowe, who is both Black and Jewish and on the executive committee for the Alliance, shared the statement on Instagram.

Kanye has been such an inspiring artist to me for so many years. To hear those views is incredibly hurtful, Rowe told BuzzFeed News.

The Grammy-winning artist described how minority communities had been pitted against each other and said that a lack of appreciation for each other's history was causing further issues.

There have been a lot of tensions in the past few years, a big part is due to leadership in this country, which had enabled anything goes at one point. So we're at the state of people feeling unheard and then there's generational trauma, Rowe said.

The artists warned that Yes comments were not only divisive but also reopened wounds for the Jewish community. They urged the artists to seek education.

Commentators on social media were also critical of Ye and warned of the type of damage his recent online activity could do.

A week of full hate starting with a complete disrespect of Black peoples trauma and ending with unbridled antisemitism. Putting both Black people and Jewish people at risk of violence, actor Brett Gelman wrote on Twitter.

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