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south african n Volume 23 – Number 23 n 28 June 2019 n 25 Sivan 5779

The source of quality content, news and insights t www.sajr.co.za Swastika-wearing ‘soldier’ in Wimpy says sorry NICOLA MILTZ expressed deep regret”. In a statement, Wimpy said, “The customer The problem arises, he said, when they are “He shouldn’t have done what he did. He has since been in contact with the restaurant displayed outside of those contexts. he elderly man who last weekend was phoned and apologised. He just didn’t think,” and confirmed he was part of the simulated re- For Jews in particular, this kind of behaviour seen enjoying breakfast at a Wimpy Heunis said. enactment … the customer realises it was poor was threatening and deeply hurtful. “However, eatery in the Free State wearing a World Heunis said members of the organisation had judgement to wear the re-enactment costume most South Africans would likewise be viscerally TWar II German soldier’s uniform with a swastika been briefed not to wear uniforms in public or in a public area. He has subsequently apologised offended by it, as indeed the widespread armband has apologised for his actions. post pictures on social media. for the unintended offense this has caused.” backlash to the Wimpy incident showed. This The Bloemfontein resident in his late 70s SAAACA aims to promote the collection, Said Cronje, “He wasn’t thinking. He is an old might not have been the intention of the person – who has asked not to be named for fear responsible, but acting the way he of reprisal – walked into the Wimpy in the The swastika-wearing ‘soldier’ at Wimpy (inset) shortly did without recognising the offense Fleurdal Mall in Bloemfontein last Saturday, before the re-enactment of Operation Bagration (main picture) he was likely to cause was highly and ordered breakfast, thinking nothing of it. insensitive, or at best thoroughly No one said a word to him. obtuse.” Unbeknown to him, horrified patron Kanya Cronje said Wimpy staff didn’t say Mofokeng made a video of him, and posted it anything to the patron, assuming he on Twitter. It immediately went viral, with a was part of the annual event. broad spectrum of South Africans expressing “They didn’t think twice when he shock and disgust. walked in because they knew the “Unavoidably, this comes across as a event was taking place that day,” he public display of identification with Nazism, said. an ideology inextricably associated with Anti-Semitism expert Professor genocidal anti-Semitism as well as with Milton Shain said this was not extreme white racism,” said David Saks, the the first time an incident like this associate director of the South African Jewish had occurred. In most cases, those Board of Deputies (SAJBD). involved had apologised. Hearing about the furore, Famous Brands, In this case, Shain said the man was which owns the Wimpy brand, said it took “probably oblivious to the impact of matters of this nature seriously, and would his actions”, pointing out that it was review the incident. important that he had apologised, and It turns out that the man was going to it was good that his behaviour had attend a historical re-enactment at a farm caused a stir on social media. nearby, which was commemorating the 75th Richard Freedman, the director anniversary of a famous battle known as of the South African Holocaust and Operation Bagration. Genocide Foundation, said the man The event was organised by the Bloemfontein study, restoration, preservation, and fellow, and it didn’t cross his mind. He didn’t acted “stupidly”, but he cautioned against branch of the Southern Africa Arms and responsible, recreational use of collectible arms mean any harm. He apologised profusely for condemning him. Ammunition Collector’s Association and ammunition, according to its website. causing any harm or upset”. “Is it offensive? Yes. Is it deliberately (SAAACA). It is an annual event held locally, Branches throughout the country host battle The open-day event for families is a widely offensive? No. The man was completely commemorating different battles throughout re-enactments. publicised affair. It received a full-page spread in unaware that he was doing anything history, and takes place at Leeuwberg Farm, Historical records show that the Soviet army’s the Volksblad this week. shocking. We must be careful not to condemn about 15km south of Bloemfontein. Operation Bagration offensive in June 1944 A flyer says, “See the Germans and Russians him. It was stupid and insensitive of him, This year, a Nazi flag and a Soviet Union all but destroyed Nazi Germany’s army, and battle one another and enjoy a nostalgic day but he was oblivious to the offence. He is wartime flag were hoisted as a sign that the drove hundreds of thousands of Soviet troops of living history, military displays, historic a foolish old man who wore a uniform to a battle lines had been drawn. Aghast, Mofokeng and tanks from Minsk into the Third Reich. vehicles, militaria and food stalls, beer hall, and re-enactment, and popped into the Wimpy also posted video footage of the flags, which Historians say it was arguably the greatest an authentic battle re-enactment.” because he was feeling peckish.” drew more ire on social media. disaster for Germany in World War II, three The SAJBD said it was acceptable to display Freedman said the man was not trying Following widespread criticism for his years after Germany’s invasion of the Soviet Nazi symbols in certain contexts. to insult Jews and make a mockery of insensitive behaviour, the man told the Union, resulting in more than “No-one can seriously object to their inclusion the Holocaust. “This was not a deliberate, organiser of the event and Wimpy management 400 000 German casualties. in museum displays or to their reproduction inciteful act.” that he “did not mean any harm, and was not Wimpy’s marketing executive, Jacques in books or documentaries,” Saks said. “The Both he and Saks said it was the thinking”. Cronje, told the SA Jewish Report that the man same must surely apply to the activities [such responsibility of the organisers of historical The chairperson of SAAACA Bloemfontein, “had no idea his actions would create such an as historical re-enactments and memorabilia re-enactments to ensure that participants are MC Heunis, told the SA Jewish Report the man outcry on social media. He didn’t even know collecting] of bona-fide military history aware of the sensitivities involved, and act “did not mean to offend or hurt anyone, and what Twitter was.” enthusiasts.” appropriately. • Brief • Wo in rld 2 SA JEWISH REPORT s N 28 June – 5 July 2019 ew e N w d s l i r n o Jewish Congress scheduled to open in Tokyo in the fall. B W Israel halts fuel to Gaza r i • e Appliance Repairs on Site

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One pointed the finger at Tehran, implicating George Rosenkranz, a chemist who FREE QUOTATIONS of the incendiary balloons landed on a several former Iranian officials and synthesised the key ingredient in the birth kindergarten building, according to reports, Hezbollah in the AMIA attack, and also in control pill, has died. but did not cause any injuries. the 17 March 1992 terrorist attack on the Rosenkranz, a Hungary native who Eight fires were ignited over two hours Israeli Embassy in Buenos Aires that killed immigrated to Cuba to escape the Nazis, on Tuesday afternoon alone in the wake of 29, and injured more than 200. died on Sunday at his home in Atherton, the announcement, Ynet reported. California, at the age of 102. The fuel is used to power Gaza’s only He and two Jewish chemists, Carl electric plant. In recent weeks, in response Call for recognition of ME Djerassi, a refugee from Austria, and Luis to the arson balloons, Israel has also placed pogroms Miramontes, synthesised the progesterone restrictions on the Gazan fishing zone. that was to be used in one of the first two A British legislator has called on the combined oral contraceptive pills. government to recognise the plight of Jews Norethindrone, which the three chemists UN plans conference of forced to flee their homes in Arab countries developed in 1951, at first was used as a terror victims in the 20th century. fertility treatment, only demonstrating its Theresa Villiers, who represents the effectiveness for birth control after five World ORT and ORT SA The United Nations is to hold a global Conservative Party, said the government years of trials, according to the New York mourns the loss of conference of terror victims while should acknowledge Jewish refugees when Times. Rosenkranz’s team also achieved Nilly Baruch commemorating the 25th anniversary of discussing the Middle East, and urged the first practical synthesis of cortisone, in the attack on the AMIA (Asociación Mutual fellow Parliament members to support 1951, according to the Times. Vice Chairman of the ORT SA Israelita Argentina) Jewish centre in efforts to preserve Jewish sites in the Rosenkranz studied organic chemistry in National Executive Committee Buenos Aires. region, the Jewish Chronicle reported on Switzerland, earning his doctorate in 1940 Nilly was a vibrant and generous person, The UN said the aim of the conference Monday. before immigrating to Cuba. After World always looking after the needs of ORT would be to come up with concrete About 850 000 Jews were forced to War II, he became the research director beneficiaries and the many other recommendations on how member states flee their home countries in the Middle of Syntex Corporation, a pharmaceutical charitable organisations that could deal with terror. East and North Africa following the laboratory in Mexico. He became a Mexican she volunteered for. Its undersecretary general of establishment of Israel in 1948. Many faced citizen in 1949. Rosenkranz became chief Her warmth and generous spirit counterterrorism, Vladimir Voronkov, violence, and had to leave behind most of executive and chairman of Syntex, which is an example to us all and announced the conference on Monday their property. grew into a diversified international will live in our hearts forever. at UN headquarters in New York. Villiers, who is not Jewish, previously pharmaceutical and biotech company. He The conference will bring together served as secretary of state for Northern retired in 1981. She will be sorely missed. victims, member states, experts, and Ireland. We wish Nilly’s family a long life. civil organisations, according to the • All briefs supplied by JTA May her memory be a pillar of strength announcement. in this difficult time. The ceremony to mark the 25th Nintendo store for Tel Aviv Shabbat times this week anniversary of the AMIA bombing is among Nintendo has only two retail stores in the a series of more than 20 such events being world – one in New York, and now one in Starts Ends held in major cities around the world from Tel Aviv. 17:08 18:00 Johannesburg 4 June to 18 July. The official Nintendo retail store opened 17:29 18:24 Cape Town Monday’s event on Monday at Dizengoff Center, 14 years 16:48 17:42 Durban was organised after the first store opened in New York in 17:09 18:02 Bloemfontein by the World Rockefeller Center. A third official store is 17:00 17:55 Port Elizabeth 16:53 17:48 East London Torah Thought Learning to live under water ach of the 12 tribes had a great and their generation would die out in the exceedingly good.” spiritual leader. Moses dispatched desert. By getting involved Ethem to scout the land of Canaan in in the world, advance of its intended conquest. What was their error? and facing these Forty days of espionage work, and the The spies were not asked to decide if challenge (designed “spies” returned divided into two factions, the Jewish people should or could enter by G-d) as Jews, Rav Ilan Herrmann each having different perspectives. the land. That was decided by G-d. They conscious of our JI Congregation Ten of the spies conveyed that the land were not asked to determine if conquest mission and supported by our principles was unconquerable, and they proceeded was possible. Their mission was to scout and values, the outcome will be that to rally people to their position. “The and report on the land. But upon seeing it we will rise to even greater heights – land devours its inhabitants. We cannot and its inhabitants, the 10 spies became “exceedingly”. capture it. The nations who dwell there intimidated, overwhelmed, and fearful, The baby cries out because it wants are strong, their cities are fortified, and and calculated that the Jewish people to stay in the womb. It knows that there there are giants among them.” could survive only in the desert, not in the are massive challenges out there. But, The other two spies, Caleb and Joshua, land of Canaan. the Jewish people have never reckoned vehemently opposed this, saying, “The with the world on its terms. As long as we land is exceedingly good … you will not What is the message? are anchored – connected to Torah and fear the people of that land, for we will Entering the land is the model for mitzvot (religious commandments) – the win them as easily as one can eat bread. involvement and engagement by Jews in forces around us cannot diminish us. Their protection is gone, and the Lord is the world around us. It’s our interaction As the old joke goes, the weather with us; do not fear them.” with life, people, society, work, and the forecast announces that a great flood will VEHICLES WANTED myriad experiences that go with this. engulf the world in three days’ time. The How is it that they reached such different The10 spies are of the perspective pope announces to his people, “Repent, perspectives on the same tour? that the Jew will lose his identity if he and you will go to heaven.” The Buddhists The people erroneously accepted the gets involved with the world. He will be proclaim, “Contemplate, and you will first spy report, and began to weep. As overwhelmed, will eventually assimilate, achieve Nirvana.” The rabbi announces, a consequence, G-d decreed that they and be lost. “Chevrah, we have three days to learn to would wander in the desert for 40 years, Joshua and Caleb say, “The land is live underwater.”

Editor Peta Krost Maunder – [email protected] • Sub-editor Julie Leibowitz Journalists: Nicola Miltz • Tali Feinberg • Jordan Moshe The source of quality content, news and insights Editorial co-ordinator Martine Bass – [email protected] Proofreader Kim Hatchuel – [email protected] • CEO Dani Kedar – [email protected] • Advertising Britt Landsman: 082 292 9520 Any make, any model, any condition – [email protected] • Design and layout Bryan Maron/Design Bandits – [email protected] • Distribution: Sandy Furman Accident damaged vehicles and non-runners also wanted Subscriptions Avusa Publishing (Pty) Ltd. Tel: 0860 525 200 • Board of Directors Howard Sackstein (Chairperson), Herby Rosenberg, Dina Diamond, Herschel Jawitz, Shaun Matisonn, Benjy Porter. Advertisements and editorial copy do not neccessarily reflect the views of the editor, staff and board of directors. Tel: 011 430 1980. % The SA Jewish Report subscribes to the Code of Ethics and Conduct for South African Print and Online Media that prescribes news that is truthful, accurate, Arnold Orkin 082 823 7826 fair and balanced. If we don’t live up to the Code, within 20 days of the date of publication of the material, please contact the Public Advocate at 011 484 3612, AUTO AFRICA fax: 011 484 3619. You can also contact our Case Officer on [email protected] or lodge a complaint on their website: www.presscouncil.org.za 28 June – 5 July 2019 SA JEWISH REPORT 3 Fourth case of grave vandalism in six months ‘’I’LL PAY YOU A TALI FEINBERG because cemeteries are becoming These people often drink alcohol places of antisocial behaviour. and consume drugs, which means ewish graves in Somerset West “The problem with our cemeteries they may knock over a tombstone and Strand Jewish Cemetery is that most of them are surrounded intentionally or unintentionally. were vandalised last week. by brick walls. This means homeless “The stones weigh up to a ton, but PRICE FOR TwoJ tombstones were knocked over, people can live in the cemeteries, they are only held upright by a pin YOUR CAR’’ and a grave covering was cracked, and even if they are chased out, they and some cement, so they are very in the fourth case of Jewish grave usually return,” said Silberhaft. easy to knock over,” said Silberhaft. desecration in the Western In December last year, 39 ALAN FINGER 082 850 0004 Cape since December 2018. graves in the Wellington The graves vandalised in Jewish cemetery were Somerset West and Strand knocked over, an incident belonged to Esther Allan, which the Cape board did www.al nauto.co.za Fanny Spitz and Sheina Malka describe as anti-Semitic, as Portnoi. “I’m absolutely only the Jewish section was devastated,” says Blanche targeted. Portnoi, the late Sheina Malka’s In May this year, a plaque daughter, who still lives in the was knocked off a wall of the easy to see into them, and by laying with provincial government and Strand with her sister Elaine. Worcester Jewish cemetery, all tombstones flat. “All new burials local municipalities, and hope to “The grave has been there for and in early June, a grave should have flat tombstones,” said meet them. 50 years and this has really hit was dug into in Robertson. the rabbi. “We’ve created a cemetery me hard. I’m speechless. But we The Cape board viewed Cape Board Director Stuart vandalism WhatsApp group so just have to carry on.” these two acts as vandalism Diamond concurred that these country communities are talking Susan Shapiro, who lives without any anti-Semitic instances were caused by people to each other. The Community in San Diego, told the SA intent. living in the cemeteries, and that it Security Organisation is on that Jewish Report that Esther Allan Silberhaft’s country was a problem in all burial grounds, group,” Diamond said. “We’re was her husband’s maternal communities department is not just Jewish ones. looking at ways and means to keep grandmother. working across the country “Cemeteries in general are quiet in contact, and find solutions “I don’t know what to say to combat these problems places that people can go into. A to this problem. It’s greatly about how we feel other by erecting concrete lot of country communities are upsetting, especially if it’s your than ‘vandalised’,” she said palisade fencing around now investigating hiring security family member’s final resting regarding the destruction of the cemeteries so that it is at night. I have taken it up again place.” gravestone. “In many cases, there are no Jews in those towns,” said Shapiro. “My Israel appoints Joburg native consul general in LA mother’s family is from Uitenhage, and there are no Jews left there to TOM TUGEND now the fifth largest economy in the world, the Hellenistic and Roman periods. take care of the cemetery.” sets the pace for technology and innovation, In the mid-1980s he served as a medic in For this reason, she believes it’s illel Newman, an Israeli career diplomat has a large and active Jewish community, the Israel Defense Forces during the war in vital to have a country communities born in Johannesburg, has been wields considerable political clout and, of Lebanon. department dedicated to caring for named Israel’s consul general for the course, there’s Hollywood with its enormous The vast territory of the Republics of these cemeteries. Hsouthwestern United States, with headquarters global outreach. Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, where “Esther Allen still has two living in Los Angeles, and encompassing an area One indicator of the importance Israel Newman was Israeli children, one in Cape Town, and stretching from Colorado to Hawaii. attaches to the Golden State, and ambassador, was one in Australia, and grandchildren A veteran of about 20 years in Israel’s the region encompassing Arizona, formerly part of and great grandchildren all over the foreign service, Newman, 54, has served as Colorado, Hawaii, Nevada, Utah, the Soviet Union, world, Shapiro said. ambassador to the Republic of Uzbekistan and Wyoming is that its three but declared its “It’s hard to imagine that it wasn’t and Tajikistan. There, his duties included most recent top representatives independence an act of anti-Semitism because the preservation of Jewish cemeteries, and there have been native English following the we are so sensitive to the subject. “facilitation” of matzah and kosher wine for speakers, curiously labelled breakup of the I’m sure it’s upsetting to everyone, Passover. “Anglo-Saxons” in the Jewish Communist especially those of us who are When Newman was four years old, his state. regime. overseas and rely on the community father, Rabbi Jacob Newman, moved with Newman’s predecessors, David During the to take care of our history. It’s his family to Cape Town, where he served Siegel and Sam Grundwerg, hail past two years, really hard, and hits home when it’s as spiritual leader of the Sea Point Hebrew from New Hampshire and Florida Newman has family.” Congregation. Subsequently, the family made respectively. served as a special The Strand and Somerset West aliyah, and settled in the coastal town of Newman has been an Israeli diplomat policy advisor to Yuval Jewish community has opened a Netanyah. for the past 20 years and, like most of his Rotem, the director of Hillel Newman case with the South African Police Assignment to the consulate in Los Angeles colleagues, is a man of diverse interests and Israel’s foreign ministry. Service. Both the Cape South African is considered a key career boost for Israel accomplishment. He earned a PhD in Jewish Both as an activist and a researcher, Jewish Board of Deputies and foreign-service officers, and in an extended History and Judaic studies from Israel’s Bar- Newman has been in the forefront of Country Communities Rabbi Moshe phone interview, Newman outlined the Ilan University, and among his more exotic countering attacks on the Jewish practice of Silberhaft believe it wasn’t a case importance of the city to Israel. accomplishments is a mastery of ancient Greek circumcision and shechita (ritual slaughtering). of anti-Semitism but vandalism, He said that California – in and by itself – is in order to research the history of Israel during Continued on page 4>>

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Donald Trump’s son-in-law, was posted on the make. Chief among these is a $5 billion (R71.6 ABBAS MOMANI/AFP/Getty Images Photo: White House website on Saturday. It doesn’t billion) transportation project that would link outline the political portion of the peace plan, the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. which the architects say will come in November, Kushner’s plan envisions $50 billion after Israel’s September elections. (R716 billion), to be disbursed on building The economic plan’s 40 pages enthusiastically infrastructure and capacity in the West Bank endorse expressions of Palestinian identity, and the Gaza Strip, as well as to promote trade control of the West Bank, suggesting that full outlook, and $150 million (R2.1 billion) from Palestinian food to universities, and hint at and tourism partnerships with Egypt Jordan, Palestinian sovereignty is not on the table. is earmarked for the Palestinian museum political outcomes that could upset Israeli Prime and Lebanon, with portions of the funding to go Netanyahu has retreated from favouring a two- near Ramallah. The museum is dedicated to Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plans to forge to these countries. state outcome, and has said he plans to extend celebrating Palestinian identity, including a coalition with parties to the right of his Likud Neither the 40-page plan nor the Israeli sovereignty to Jewish settlements in the resistance to Israel. Party. Not mentioned, however, is Palestinian accompanying 96-page breakdown of how West Bank. The plan includes nearly $28 billion statehood. the money will be spent mention statehood. The Palestinian Authority, which boycotted (R401 billion) earmarked for the West Bank In addition to the Gaza-West Bank link, which Kushner has said he doesn’t find the term the workshop this week in Bahrain, has rejected and the Gaza Strip. Funds would also go to would inevitably cross Israeli territory, there useful, and David Friedman, the US ambassador the plan unseen in part because it seems clear it three neighbouring countries for cross border are proposals to register Palestinian ownership to Israel, has said that the political portion will stop short of statehood and of a Palestinian projects, including tourism: more than of land, and to give Palestinian farmers greater of the plan will relinquish to Israel security claim to a portion of Jerusalem. The plan and its $7 billion (R101 billion) for Jordan, annex, which breaks down in detail where funds $9 billion (R128.9 billion) for Egypt and should go, do not mention Jerusalem at all. $6.3 billion (R90.2 billion) for Lebanon. Unlike The Gaza-West Bank project would take Jordan and Egypt, Lebanon does not have a about two years. peace treaty with Israel, and Hezbollah, an “Features could include an interurban rail Iranian-allied terrorist militia that rejects any line linking many of the major cities of Gaza accommodation with Israel, remains hugely and the West Bank for rapid urban transport, influential in the country. mass transport stations near urban centres, The proposal advocates for easing the and connections to regional railways such as the movement for Palestinians, and for greater Jordan railway project,” the proposal said. access to fertile land and water. A similar proposal was raised during the Oslo Unmentioned are the obstacles that Israeli process in the late 1990s. Israeli officials at the policies, mindful of security and favouring time fretted that any system that transported Jewish settlement growth, impose on these Palestinians from Gaza, where the Hamas ambitions. terrorist movement flourishes, to the West The plan proposes a vast expansion of Bank across Israeli territory posed a massive border crossings which will incur costs for security risk. Israel if it is to secure and help staff the Other elements of the plan suggest an crossings. embrace of Palestinian national identity, which The issue of governance, which could also be a hard sell to Israeli hardliners, and presumably will feature in the political even to Netanyahu’s Likud Party. component, is absent, but nonetheless Free Evaluation “A new flagship liberal arts and sciences haunts the document. Hamas, a US university in the West Bank and Gaza” designated terrorist group, rules the Gaza & Buying on: is tagged at $500 million (R7.1 billion). Strip, and the Trump administration and Palestinian universities have over the decades US congress have banned all but a small • South African & International nurtured the Palestinian national identity, amount of direct funding to the Palestinian coins and banknotes and have at times been the nexus of protest Authority. • Medals and Militaria at Israel’s occupation. Israeli authorities Addressing the second day of the over the years have repeatedly shuttered the workshop on Wednesday, Haaretz reported • Silver and Gold Jewellery in universities during periods of unrest. Kushner said the political component of any condition Another $80 million (R1.1 billion) has been the plan would be announced when the US set aside for the development of Palestinian was ready, and there would be a peace deal • Silverware arts, which often embrace a nationalist only when both sides were ready to say yes. • Collectable Items Israel appoints Joburg native consul general in LA • Pocket and wrist watches >>Continued from page 3 Looking at the broader picture, he observed that “Jewish life and identity are in jeopardy. Remember your I.D. and banking details There are the direct murderous attacks at synagogues in Pittsburgh and San Diego, and the if you wish to sell your items internal threats of assimilation and lack of Jewish education.” Newman is also concerned about the growing politicisation of American public opinion vis-à-vis Israel, and hopes for a return to a time “when Israel was a bi-partisan issue”. Rounding out the picture of the new consul general is a profile released by the foreign Enquiries: ministry, which notes, in part, that Newman “has gathered extensive experience in professional advocacy, public speaking, networking, new media connectivity, and the Tel: 011 880 9116 / 076 741 8801 • WhatsApp: 079 784 0101 cultivation of formal and informal contacts …[He is] passionate about the preservation of 1st Floor, Illovo Muse, 198 Oxford Road, Illovo, 2196, Johannesburg global Jewish identity, and the safety and security of the state of Israel.” www.collectorsinvestments.com Newman is expected to take up his new post in early July, accompanied by his wife and their nine-year-old son, Ram.

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White House senior adviser Jared Kushner talks to the audience during the opening session of the “Peace to Prosperity” workshop in Manama, Bahrain TALI FEINBERG even says it may be a hoax. Once again, speculation and bad sources don’t do anything to advance peace. If you haven’t n the eve of the unveiling of the Trump heard it from our team, don’t trust it.” administration’s Israeli-Palestinian peace plan, “The economic prong cannot be divorced from the Independent Media’s Foreign Editor Shannon political prong,” says Ebrahim, but admits that “the political OEbrahim had her own version of events about how the prong is not officially published”. plan would be “worse than apartheid”. However, her She insists that her opinions are based on facts, and opinions were not based on the information available, says “judging from the political situation which is being planned Simon Plosker, the managing editor of media watchdog for the Palestinian territories, there are many who would HonestReporting.com. argue that it is an attempt to concretize apartheid”. On 23 June, Ebrahim wrote that the peace plan “The idea that the Palestinians would be confined to unveiled by the White House would lead to a future where self-governing disjointed cantons that are not contiguous, Palestinians would be “starved into submission”. She wrote and that do not in any way reflect the components of a that “Palestinians will be squeezed into a tiny fraction of viable independent state, is an attempt to convince the historic Palestine ... they will be confined to cantons or Palestinians to give up their rights to a state, and to huge Bantustans, stripped of water, resources, the right to a tracts of historic Palestine [which are currently illegal military, or any real sovereignty.” settlements] in exchange for money and investment.” But there is no proof to these claims, and Plosker told the SA Jewish Report that he wouldn’t classify HonestReporting has flagged the story as hugely this story as fake news. “When it comes to fake news, our problematic. “While most other mainstream media outlets definition is a story that simply isn’t true or never took were commenting on the actual contents of the Trump place. It isn’t something that we happen to disagree with. economic plan and the forthcoming Bahrain Conference, “However, in the case of Ebrahim, this is an opinion piece. Ebrahim was making it up as she went along based on a Any media professional is entitled to his or her opinion, clear hatred of Israel,” says Plosker. but this doesn’t entitle someone to make up their own “It’s one thing to write anti-Israel hate speech based facts. In the case of Ebrahim, every credible commentator on nothing more than one’s own misguided and warped has been writing about the Trump economic plan and the opinion. It’s another to claim that this opinion is based Bahrain conference based on facts that have been openly on fact – in this case a fully open United States plan that disseminated. Ebrahim chose to attack Israel based not on anyone and everyone can see for themselves,” wrote Plosker. the facts, but her own evident hatred and prejudice. “South African media outlets shouldn’t believe that they have a free ride when it comes to spreading malicious and hateful anti-Israel propaganda,” Plosker says. “Only the “Any media professional Jewish community has the knowledge of Israel to counter is entitled to his or her opinion, the lies and distortions. but this doesn’t entitle someone “Ultimately, we’ve seen how hatred of Israel eventually has an impact on local Jewish communities. Every effort to make up their own facts.” needs to be made to ensure that the South African general public doesn’t fall into that trap due to the country’s media.” “Maybe Ebrahim believes what she writes, but her Plosker says there is no reason for South African Jews to opinions are certainly not based on fact. In this case, hide their Zionist identity, even if the media lambasts Israel attempting to invent parts of a US plan that don’t actually at every turn. “People should never be afraid to question exist is a breach of the press code,” he says. His organisation or criticise Israeli government policies, but at the end of has since lodged a complaint with Independent Media. the day, BDS [Boycott Divestment Sanctions] needs to TheSA Jewish Report also studied the White House’s Peace be exposed for what it really is, an organised and vicious to Prosperity Plan, and could find no evidence of Ebrahim’s campaign that opposes peace between Palestinians and claims. Jews, and advocates the end of Israel as a Jewish state. When questioned, Ebrahim said that in order to verify “This goes against reconciliation and everything that the information, “I interviewed at length Ahmed Majdalani, the new South Africa stands for, and it is vital that the a senior executive in the Palestine Liberation Organisation South African people realise that. In addition, as the Israel and also social affairs minister in the Palestinian Authority. apartheid libel spreads around the globe, nobody is better He has personally verified the accuracy of these tenets of positioned to fight this than a Jewish community which the ‘deal of the century’, as have other Palestinian leaders knows what real apartheid is.” whom I met recently in the Middle East.” Ben Swartz, the national chairperson of the South She also pointed to two links – the Daily Sabah and the African Zionist Federation, said Ebrahim’s story was Washington Report on Middle East Affairs – which referred “symptomatic of being influenced by a BDS lobby. Ebrahim to leaked documents on the political part of the peace plan, gives nothing to substantiate her claims. The White House still to be released. However, neither of these links could peace plan is trying to alleviate the situation. We have to provide concrete evidence for Ebrahim’s claims. start somewhere, and this plan offers a $25 billion [R358 In a tweet which referenced a Jerusalem Post story on billion] budget to uplift the Palestinians. Her article is all this supposed leak, United States Special Envoy Jason about hating Israel, and has nothing to do with the welfare Greenblatt wrote, “FYI: our plan hasn’t leaked. Reports like of Palestinians. She can choose to reject the plan, but she this are inaccurate and just speculation. The article itself should at least consider it.” 6 SA JEWISH REPORT 28 June – 5 July 2019 south african Trilateral summit in Israel a coup JTheewish source of quality content, news andR insightseport for Netanyahu Statistics can be used sraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday and abused hosted the first-ever trilateral summit between the national DATELINE: security advisers of Israel, Russia, and the United States – MIDDLE EAST tatistics can be useful when used properly, or troublesome Iin Jerusalem. Paula Slier if misused or abused. In some cases, this misuse can be “The very fact that this summit is happening here,” boasted accidental. SBut one key rule is, when you don’t have finite data, don’t guess, Netanyahu, “is more evidence of the special standing of Israel face for Bolton, who sat alongside Patrushev as he delivered don’t use something preliminary, and don’t put down a figure and among the nations of the world at this time.” his remarks during a press conference. claim it to be a fact. Netanyahu has been pushing to hold such three-way talks It must have been awkward for both men. Patrushev is That may seem obvious, but it happened recently with a so-called ever since Moscow boosted its presence in the region, and under personal sanction – both from the US and the European “preliminary” figure that was attributed to the esteemed Kaplan foreign fighters started arriving on Syrian soil after the war Union – due to his alleged role in Russia’s unofficial war Centre for Jewish Studies at the University of Cape Town. there started back in 2011. against the Ukraine. Bolton is on shaky ground regarding his As many of you are aware, the Kaplan Centre is busy with a brave For Netanyahu, the meeting was an opportunity to ensure position in the Trump administration. As Bolton was arriving research project to discover the trends in Jewish communal life. agreement between Russia, which controls the skies of Syria in Israel, Trump was telling American reporters that his It’s about time we had some concrete information about who we and has helped prop up the regime of Syrian President Bashar security adviser was a “hawk”. “If it was up to him [Bolton],” are. al-Assad; the United States, which has troops in Syria serving said Trump, “he’d take on the whole world at one time.” So often, I’m told categorically who the Jewish community is, and as a peacekeeping force; and Israel, which has long sought Already last month, there were reports that Trump was what it wants. I may chuckle to myself, and think they don’t know what they are talking about, but I too don’t have the data to state backing for its demand that Iranian forces leave Syria at the frustrated with Bolton and Defense Secretary Mike Pompeo the facts. conclusion of the country’s war. Aside from fighting in the over what he felt was their war-mongering against Iran. We all make assumptions that are not 100% accurate. We have north-west Idlib region, the war is thankfully almost over. By Trump’s own admission, the two want military conflict a good idea of what and who makes up the community, but even Think what you may about Netanyahu, the fact that while he has committed himself to avoiding costly conflicts that can be misleading. People in Glenhazel are so different to he managed to bring two world powers to Israel for such on foreign soil. Trump’s comments suggest that he might in those living in Illovo and a meeting sends a powerful message about Jerusalem’s future disregard any advice from Bolton on Iran – and that Morningside. international standing. It also underscores the success of the Bolton could be out of a job soon. So, the Kaplan Centre’s many meetings he’s held with American President Donald In the final analysis, Netanyahu might have been able project is essential and Trump, and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, which to organise this historic meeting, but when it comes to timeous. ultimately resulted in such a summit. influencing Washington or Moscow, his power is limited. Consider the story we ran But while Netanyahu saw the meeting as an opportunity to Netanyahu, no doubt, would rather the US took on Iran last week about Limmud, and the Beth Din cementing the counter Iranian influence, Russian national security adviser and did “the dirty work”, meaning that if war between rabbinate’s decision not to Nikolai Patrushev was quick to stress that Moscow backs Washington and Tehran was to erupt, it would be American, allow orthodox rabbis to go to Iran’s interests. not Israeli soldiers on the frontline. Perhaps the next this Jewish learning festival. He denied that Tehran, as both Washington and Jerusalem meeting should take place in the United States? And, perhaps As you can see in this believe, represents the main threat to regional security, and Netanyahu is privately wishing for this too? week’s newspaper, we have he called Israeli airstrikes in Syria against Iranian targets But, as tensions spike, there’s no guarantee that Jerusalem been inundated with letters “undesirable”. won’t be drawn in. The Israeli army has stepped up its alert supporting Limmud. “Iran is in Syria at the invitation of the legitimate status amid concern that Tehran could activate its proxies Can we assume that the government,” Patrushev pointed out, and is “contributing to lash out at the US by targeting Israel from either Syria, majority of the South African Jewish community supports Limmud, a lot to fighting terrorists on Syrian soil and stabilising the Lebanon, or Gaza. Netanyahu and other critics of the 2015 and is angry with the Beth Din for its decision? situation there ... Therefore, of I cannot be 100% certain. I believe the article angered many because it takes a great deal for people – who generally have a lot on course, we will have to take into their plates – to put fingers to keyboard. account the interests of Iran.” However, we all know that there is a great deal of apathy in the These remarks could not have community, and to many, this issue is irrelevant. come as a surprise to Netanyahu, These people generally fall into the category of those who although he would much rather don’t care about what goes on in the political, communal, or even Patrushev had not made them. religious space. They simply get on with their lives, trying not to let But, as is the way with politics and peripheral information have an impact on them. diplomacy, when discussing Israel, What percentage they make up in the community, I cannot say. Patrushev said, “We’re aware of I also can’t testify how many people stand 100% behind the Israel’s concerns … and hope the decisions made by the Beth Din, but I’m sure there are many. Again, threats will be lifted.” we don’t have the data to prove this one way or another. So, clearly the time for this research is now. And, we should all He said Russia paid special support it by doing the surveys honestly. attention to ensuring Israel’s Interestingly, people – or should I say journalists – are so keen to security because, “Here in Israel get the Kaplan Centre’s information out there, a figure has emerged live a little less than about two already. In a series of articles on South African Jewry in Haaretz, million of our countrymen. Israel there was a claim that there were less than 50 000 of us left here. It supports us in several channels, US President Donald was shocking for anyone who read this, and believed the journalist’s including at the UN [United Trump meets with Israeli claim that Jews are leaving in droves. Nations].” Prime Minister Benjamin This journalist said she got the information from the “preliminary This ambiguity – or these Netanyahu findings” of the Kaplan Centre’s research. Others, including one of seemingly contradictory our own columnists, erroneously took the number and used it. statements – highlights the difficulty Moscow faces as it tries nuclear deal repeatedly warned – and it seems to have Where this number originated, I have no idea, but the final figures are definitely not from the Kaplan Centre because the survey to navigate the regional struggle between Israel and Iran materialised – that the massive cash injection Tehran received is still taking place. without harming her relationship with either. It also suggests under the agreement would be used to establish Iranian As Adam Mendelsohn, the director of the Kaplan Centre said, that what is said in public might not always echo what is military bases in Syria, and to provide sophisticated weapons “Our survey is ongoing, and we plan to release conclusive and going on in private. Netanyahu kept quiet about Patrushev’s to Hezbollah and other proxies. Should such groups decide reliable findings once we have finished collecting, analysing, and comments although John Bolton, the US national security to attack Israel, they now have plenty of ammunition at their interpreting the data.” He made it clear that no findings have been adviser, said he did not believe his Russian counterpart’s disposal. released, and cautioned against assumptions until the data has been positive view of Iranian troops in Syria was the true stance Still, the feeling in the region is that war is not on the interpreted. of Russia, and that Moscow, too, hoped to see Tehran’s forces cards, at least not now. Bolton again reiterated that talks I look forward to finding out more about our community when and proxies leave the country. In recent months, Russia has between Washington and Tehran were still possible should the results come out later this year. kept quiet about Israeli strikes on Iranian forces in Syria Iran renounce nukes, ballistic missiles, and terrorism. But And, while I do believe there are people emigrating, particularly which while upsetting the Iranians, gives the Israelis reason to his remarks came as new US sanctions went into force this making aliyah, I am not aware of a mad rush to get out of this week against senior Iranian officials including top diplomat country. believe Russia is not as committed to Iran as it might publicly In fact, I have a sense that people are feeling mildly hopeful, what declare. Mohammad Javad Zarif, the head of Iran’s foreign ministry. with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s moves against corruption and Patrushev, though, really ruffled feathers when he Bolton said that while imposing these “significant new towards growth. But, this is my assumption based on what people contradicted the American position on the US drone that sanctions” on Iranian leaders, Trump “has held the door open around me say and do, not concrete data. was downed last week by Iranian forces. Trump earlier to real negotiations”. Iran President Hassan Rouhani was The truth is that if all of us do this survey, the final results will be blamed Tehran for shooting it down while, Trump insisted, quick to retaliate that Washington was “lying” about offers accurate. I understand that many people don’t want to be bothered it was flying over international waters. “We were cocked and to negotiate. He called the White House “mentally disturbed” by something that is going to absorb their precious time, but it’s loaded to retaliate,” tweeted Trump, explaining the American and “profoundly confused”. worthwhile for all of us. reaction that came shortly afterwards. “When I asked, how While the exact contents of the trilateral meeting have So, let’s get out from under our winter rocks, and do this survey many people will die, 150 people, sir, was the answer … 10 not been made public, there are suggestions that Israel and to ensure that we get accurate information about our community. minutes before the strike, I stopped it, not proportionate to the US offered Russia incentives to curb Iranian influence in shooting down an unmanned drone.” Syria. These might have included legitimising the continued Shabbat Shalom! Peta Krost Maunder Patrushev said the Russians believed, as stated by the leadership of Syrian President Bashar Assad. Either way, Editor Iranians, that the drone was in Iranian airspace, and thus Tehran is not happy. It is irked such a meeting took place – and supported Tehran shooting it down. This was a slap in the in Israel to boot. That alone is a feather in Netanyahu’s cap. 28 June – 5 July 2019 SA JEWISH REPORT 7 Small steps to sanity: life in Mozambique after cyclone Located in Sofala province, Beira is the commercial YANIR GRINDLER nerve centre of Mozambique’s central region. However, it is seen as a stronghold of the opposition Renamo party, ipped-off rooftops, sunken roads, and lacerated prompting claims that it has been deliberately neglected power cables dot the streets of Beira. The port city by the ruling Frelimo party. on Mozambique’s central coast bore the brunt of Reuben told me that if it was not for the humanitarian RCyclone Idai when it made landfall on 14 March, bringing organisations that quickly came to their rescue, many heaving winds, torrential rain, and widespread flooding more would have died. Reflecting at the end of each day, to various parts of south-eastern Africa. however, it felt a bit like we were only sticking band aids The storm battered Mozambique, Malawi, Zimbabwe, over the pain. and Madagascar, killing hundreds and displacing What would happen after we left, when the water hundreds of thousands. filters we had provided stopped working, when the Last week, I travelled to Mozambique with five others temporary tents were taken down? Who would assist as part of a team brought together by Cadena, a Jewish- then? headed humanitarian aid organisation founded in 2005. On our last day in Beira, we ventured inland to spend We found that Beira – three months later – is slowly some time with children orphaned by the cyclones. returning to normal. It has become the hub for co- Miguel runs an orphanage that was partially destroyed ordination of Mozambican aid efforts. Thousands, by the storm. however, are still forced to find refuge in the city’s “Before the storm, we housed 21 children, now we makeshift relief camps, set up by the government and house more than 60.” he told us. As we distributed run by humanitarian groups. hygiene kits and water filters to Miguel and his Our mission was to restore dignity to the victims of colleagues, we couldn’t help but notice the sadness in the the cyclones. With the generous support of the Ramson eyes of the children aimlessly passing the time in their makeshift playground. Yanir Grindler playing with children at a relief We spent time trying to lift camp on the outskirts of Beira, Mozambique their spirits, playing, singing, and dancing with them, giving them temporary solace, but we struggled to hold back our emotions when we left. These children had been physically and emotionally neglected for so long, and as we drove off waving goodbye, it felt like we were simply adding to their pain. Life has changed completely in Beira and its surrounding areas, but it goes on, and people are resilient. Photos: Self-Aweh Productions Photos: Everywhere we went, they were doing everything they could to rebuild their lives, however small the step. Women strapped their babies to their bodies with brightly- coloured cloth, and continued to get water from wells or cook over small fires, slowly sifting porridge into boiling water Cross Foundation and Dis-Chem in Norwood Mall, we to feed their families. transported 18 duffel bags full of goods to deliver to The young children, though, really stole my heart. The those in need. These included hygiene kits to prevent world’s true optimists , they found excitement in almost the spread of bacterial disease, reusable “subz” (sanitary anything, sifting through piles of rubble, and making pads and panties), drinking water filters to contain toys out of the debris – pieces of plastic, twigs, smashed the outbreak of cholera, and inflatable solar lamps to CDs, and bottle tops. compensate for the loss of electricity. Out of the devastation left by Idai, they found Beira had infrastructural challenges before it was hit treasure. I went to Mozambique to give to these people, by Idai, including poorly maintained public buildings never thinking that I would receive so much in return. and roads dotted with potholes. The storm drastically We have a lot to learn. worsened these problems. Cadena has recently launched a chapter in South Travelling around Beira to reach the relief camps thus turned out to be a major challenge. Our first stop in Mozambique was in the storm- hit district of Buzi, located a few hours southwest of Beira. On the outskirts of the village, a temporary relief camp had been set up, a desolate ground about the size of four soccer fields scattered with UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) tents, each packing in more than 15 people. In spite of the devastation, we were uplifted by the villagers, who showed a zest for life even in dire circumstances. We were welcomed with spontaneous song and dance, and offered assistance at all times during our stay. “I’m just happy to be alive,” a 20-year-old man who identified himself as Reuben told me. He volunteered to be one of our translators. In broken English, he told me that in spite of losing his parents to Africa, and is encouraging people to get involved. More the cyclone, he was confident that he would be able to information can be found on its Facebook page “Cadena find a job when things returned to normal. South Africa”, or by sending an email to the South It was a real whirlwind of emotions engaging with African director at [email protected] these special people. We spent the next two days allocating drinking water filters, solar lamps, and hygiene • Yanir Grindler is political liaison at the SA Jewish Board of kits. Deputies 8 SA JEWISH REPORT 28 June – 5 July 2019 Limmud: Torah educators MichaelQUALITY WORKMANSHIP David The Beth Din’s decision last week to reinforce a policy ensuring local orthodox rabbis cannot attend Limmud has caused consternation, but so far, the affected local rabbis have remained silent. Three top international orthodox rabbis and one local Torah educator give their views on orthodox Tired of your old rabbis participating in this Jewish learning festival. worn-out furniture? Rejuvenate your home... Don’t fear Limmud for providing neutral space • Custom upholstery • Furniture repairs Michael RABBI DR SAMUEL LEBENS of Jewish lives. I was blessed to have guardians of this tradition. It is a • Dining room suites seen this first hand. But I have also tree of life, and we should cling to it. • and more 082 820 7091 outh African orthodox seen Limmud first-hand. There, I But Jews in the information age 430 Louis Botha Avenue, cnr Main Street, Rouxville Judaism is an inspiration. But saw a large number of Jews, many are living in a free market of ideas. If I have also thoroughly enjoyed of whom were loosely affiliated with we are unwilling to “sully ourselves” Steaching and learning at Limmud orthodox communities but thought of by presenting our views alongside South Africa. themselves as on the margins. other views that compete for the The Beth Din of South Africa For one reason or another, those allegiance of the Jewish people, states that Limmud promotes “values which are contrary to the Torah’s philosophy and principles”. Indeed, some at Limmud will promote reform Judaism. Some will promote secular forms of Judaism. • Videomed Instore • First Aid & Wound Care When I was there, I did my • Cholesterol Screening • Breast Feeding Advice best to promote orthodox • Vaccinations • Baby Milestones Judaism. Limmud itself • Family Planning • Immunisations promotes none of these. It • Discovery Vitality • Rapid HIV Testing & Counselling is neither in favour of my Assessments • Ear Piercing orthodoxy, nor in favour of somebody else’s anti-orthodox 580 Louis Botha Ave, Savoy Estate (Opp Nando’s) views. It simply provides a Tel: (011) 885-1200/1 • Email: [email protected] space in which honest and sincere people can present Rabbi Dr Samuel Lebens their vision of Judaism. The University of Johannesburg (UJ) allows professors to teach views that are people are not being touched by then I fear we’re putting our own contrary to Torah values. It gives Sinai Indaba (though thousands of pride before the urgent need of the them a platform. Does that mean others are). I saw how eager they hour. I fear we will have written that it promotes values that are were to meet orthodox rabbis face off our obligation to those Jews contrary to the Torah? Does the to face, to talk to them, and to learn who fall between the communal Beth Din want to prohibit rabbis and with them. cracks. I would urge the Beth Din to rebbetzins from attending university They told me they felt comfortable reconsider. campuses? doing this only in what they believed A Marxist historian’s presence to be a neutral space. Limmud • R abbi Dr Samuel Lebens is a research at UJ in no way indicates that shouldn’t be feared for providing a fellow in the philosophy department he agrees with the views of his neutral space. Its neutrality is what at the University of Haifa, and a Ultimate Supanova Stadium Gaming, a fully-immersive Keynesian colleagues. An orthodox attracts a large number of people dynamic Jewish educator. He is also electronic table game (ETG) arena. rabbi’s presence at Limmud in no who we orthodox educators should an orthodox rabbi, having studied 30 Consoles • Play 4 table games simultaneously (Blackjack, way indicates that he agrees with be eager to engage. at various Israeli rabbinical schools Roulette, Baccarat and Live Roulette) with Live Dealer events the views of reform or conservative The Torah was passed down from (Yeshivat Hakotel, Yeshivat Hamivtar, Jews. Sinai in an unbroken chain. Our and Yeshivat Har Etzion). Sinai Indaba touches thousands orthodox rabbis and teachers are Rabbis are obliged to teach there

RABBI NATHAN LOPES CARDOZO Judaism. He is the founder and dean of the David Cardozo Academy, and the Bet Midrash of Avraham y main objections to the chief rabbi and Beth Avinu in Jerusalem. Rabbi Cardozo heads up a think Din are as follows: tank focused on finding new halachic and philosophical First, all of Limmud will fall into the hands approaches to dealing with the crisis of religion and Mof the conservative, reform, and secular movements. identity amongst Jews and towards Israel. By not participating, they deny the Limmud audience an orthodox point of view. Is that what they want to accomplish? Second, they make the

™ impression that the orthodox rabbinate is afraid of the other denominations. It’s seen as FROM a form of cowardice. Is that what they want? Should the R665* other denominations not be PER PERSON SHARING afraid of the orthodox? Where JUNE - AUGUST 2019 is orthodox courage? Bookings 0860 777 900 As long as Limmud is fully or online. Quote Sizzle. kosher, keeps Shabbat in the kitchen and in all public *Ts and Cs apply to all spaces, and has an eruv, offers and promotions orthodox rabbis have an emperorspalace.com obligation to teach there. Follow us • Nathan Lopes Cardozo is a

PEERMONT PROUDLY SUPPORTS THE NATIONAL RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING PROGRAMME. Dutch-Israeli orthodox rabbi, Rabbi Nathan Lopes Cardozo PROBLEM GAMBLING COUNSELLING TOLL-FREE HELPLINE 0800 006 008. philosopher, and scholar of PLAYERS MUST BE 18 YEARS OR OLDER. WINNERS KNOW WHEN TO STOP. 28 June – 5 July 2019 SA JEWISH REPORT 9 speak out Limmud about learning, not grandstanding ILANA STEIN that as a thinking adult, I can work leave the boxes at the door, that fear out for myself who the speaker is, his slips away, leaving in its wake a unity midst what is no doubt or her orientation or belief systems, with others that is at the level of the a plethora of letters and and whether I want to listen to them. yiddishe neshama, the collective soul of opinions on the current No-one is – or should be – there to be the people. Limmud/rabbinicalA debate, I’d like to dogmatic. Rabbi Ben Greenberg, formerly put my oar in. I’m not going to deal Has Limmud sometimes got it orthodox rabbinic advisor at Harvard, with politics or policies, rather discuss wrong? Yes. Have some sessions been in his excellent article, “Orthodox the difference between pluralism and marked with disrespect instead of and Non-Orthodox: Can We Learn diversity. respect? Sadly, yes. Do some speakers from Each Other?” says, “When a Jew Importantly, Limmud is not about espouse values that clash with cannot sit down with another Jew pluralism but about diversity. There orthodox beliefs? Definitely. Is anyone to learn our sacred texts together, is a difference. Pluralism is basically: convinced that my presence expresses the Jewish people as a whole are at a we’re both right. Diversity describes agreement with or legitimisation profound loss.” the fact that we hold different views, of these? I highly doubt it. When We just want to learn together. in other words, I think I’m right, and I don’t have to think you’re right to have a conversation with you over a Ilana Stein cup of coffee. The point that seems to be made by the rabbis is that orthodox rabbis can’t sit on a platform with those of heterodoxy as this would be seen to legitimise the latter’s beliefs. But, if you read the values of Limmud, you’ll find that it doesn’t advocate pluralism, but rather states, “We do not participate in legitimising or de-legitimising any religious or political position found in the worldwide Jewish community. Anyone coming to Limmud seeking opportunities for this will not find them. We have no part to play in the debates between/ across denominations.” at Limmud, people are not there to • Ilana Stein is a conservationist, and In other words – and as a be brainwashed or told what to do. lectures on the subject of Judaism and Limmudnik for 11 years I can testify They’re there to hear, to learn, to the environment as well as Tanach to this – there are no platforms. engage – and yes, agree to disagree. for the Academy of Jewish Thought When you go to Limmud, you It is natural to fear the unknown. and Learning. She is working on her understand another Limmud value, Stepping outside of our boxes can Masters in Jewish Education through “Everyone should be a student, and be uncomfortable. But when you the Academy’s National Education anyone can be a teacher.” This means, understand that at Limmud you can Development Programme. The Halachic reasons for attending Limmud respected British rabbi, who does not want to be however, the rabbi says Limmud doesn’t require speakers to named or drawn into the local debate, has in the share platforms with those of different religious attitudes, past written about the halachic issues Limmud meaning that attendance of Limmud doesn’t involve raises,A and whether it should be permissible for orthodox making a theological compromise. He compares attending rabbis to attend. Limmud to contributing an article to a publication that He speaks about the negative impact of an environment includes essays from authors of different beliefs and values, in which beliefs and values contrary to halacha are shared which is permissible. and promoted, citing a teaching in the book of Mishlei to Quoting the late former United Kingdom chief rabbi, “distance your way from her”. This, he says, is explained Immanuel Jakobovits, he presents a more extreme by the rabbis of the Talmud to mean that we should stay expression of this idea. “Normally, on my American far away from places of heresy. Based on this comment, lecture tours, I accept invitations to speak on conservative halachic authorities have warned against being in an and reform as well as orthodox platforms. I believe the environment where we are confronted by beliefs and values Torah was given to all Jews, and I am obliged to teach it contrary to the halacha. to any section of the community when invited to do so. However, the rabbi believes that Limmud is a different Obviously, I have nothing other than orthodox Judaism case altogether, pointing out that the beliefs and values to proclaim.” contrary to halacha shared at sessions are not those of In response to the claim that his presence would be Limmud itself. Thus, he argues, while the above teaching viewed as an endorsement – or at least legitimisation – of would certainly apply to some sessions at Limmud, it does beliefs and values of such non-orthodox denominations, not apply to Limmud as a whole. He likens a broad ban on Jakobovits responded, “I don’t think anyone would the festival to forbidding a visit to a public library, given misinterpret my appearance as extending ‘recognition’ or that a library certainly contains books that are contrary to ‘credibility’ to non-orthodox Judaism. I and my teachings Jewish beliefs and values. are known well enough, I believe, not to have my presence The second point he raises is the problem of learning taken as any kind of endorsement whatsoever. On the Torah from individuals whose beliefs and values run contrary, I hope my presence and presentations help to contrary to halacha. He believes Limmud offers a variety enhance respect for Torah teaching.” of opinions from which one can choose, and cites Rabbi Thus, he says, attendance at Limmud confers no Yehuda Black of Kenton Synagogue who says, “The way I legitimacy to denominations beyond orthodoxy, as see it, Limmud is a supermarket, and you can buy all kinds Limmud is itself neither a conservative nor reform of products off the shelves, some of which might have a platform, but a setting where various speakers can learn hechsher and others not.” For this reason, he argues that and teach, especially when the speakers are recognised as the presence of orthodox rabbis is necessary at Limmud to representing orthodox beliefs and values. offer a halachic opinion. Their absence constitutes placing a The rabbi concludes that there is no prohibition per se stumbling block before the blind. on attending Limmud, but recognises that attendance of The third issue is the problem of legitimising beliefs and sessions by speakers explicit in their rejection of core beliefs values opposed to the halacha, like those expressed by and values remains halachically problematic. Those who can some non-orthodox denominations, which poses a risk of express a true halachic spirit and orthodox values at these legitimising these denominations. Unlike other settings, sessions are to be commended, he says. 10 SA JEWISH REPORT 28 June – 5 July 2019 Throwing the book at autism: a mother’s journey GILLIAN KLAWANSKY “We were basically told, ‘Accept it, make him the brain. When I suggested this to the South is a treatable and recoverable diagnosis.” comfortable, there’s nothing you can do’,” she African medical profession, I was dismissed.” While autism has a wide spectrum, ranging hen Ilana Gerschlowitz’s son was says. A qualified attorney, Gerschlowitz put on Finding the right education was also key. in severity, all sufferers have two things in diagnosed with autism, she saw it as her research hat, and sought solutions. “I went from school to school to school,” common: deficits in communication, and game on, not game over. And while The couple sought treatment options in the she says. “In South Africa, we tend to box the ability to fit into social settings. “You can fightingW to save her son, she brought effective United States, drawing on the work of top children – mainstream, remedial, special have a child that can’t talk at all, and you can treatment to South Africa. international experts. “We weren’t willing to needs. In Australia and the US, there is a more have a child who can talk, but is struggling In her book Saving my Sons: A Journey give up on our son or accept that he would have integrative approach. to establish and maintain friendships,” says with Autism, Gerschlowitz, with the help of no future,” she says. “I discovered that autism is “When David was seven, I met a woman Gerschlowitz. “Early intervention is key, but journalist Marion Scher, reveals how she and a treatable medical illness, and it doesn’t always in Chicago, Dr Doreen Granpeesheh, who it’s never too late to start treatment. Autism her family turned apparent darkness into light. have to be a lifelong disability.” introduced me to a teaching methodology left untreated can strip a child of the basic “Goodbye and good luck.” That was what This was a revelation. “We learnt about a called Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA),” skills to function as a human being.” Gerschlowitz and her husband, Martin, were gut-brain connection, which is undeniable. she says. “Once we placed David on her ABA She says recovery means that the child is told when their firstborn son, David, was Doctors in America were successfully treating programme, we started to see progress. in a mainstream school with no facilitation, diagnosed with autism at the age of 20 months. children with autism by treating the gut to heal ABA is a teaching methodology endorsed by and he or she has scored average to above the US surgeon general and the American average on their IQ. “Recovery means that the Academy of Paediatrics, and is covered by child is indistinguishable from their peers,” medical insurance in 49 states. If it didn’t help says Gerschlowitz. “Not every child will fully children, why would they pay for it? There is recover, but we can work towards the child’s   no cover for it in South Africa.” functionality and independence.” Gerschlowitz brought ABA to South Africa, In sharing her personal story, Gerschlowitz 2019 and launched the Star Academy 10 years ago. shows that she’s been there, and come out It now offers educational instruction to a wide stronger. “In the beginning, we were in range of children on the autism spectrum, and shock. We went into survival mode. We were HUMANITARIAN AWARD those fighting oppositional defiant disorder so afraid of the unknown, and the grief we - in honour of Chief Rabbi Cyril Harris and ADHD. experienced was unimaginable. I wrote the “David’s battleground has laid the path to book so that family members and other Awarded to a Jewish or non-Jewish person who recovery and healing for professionals many children with understand what has contributed substantially to the betterment autism on the African autism can do to a of the lives of the people of South Africa. continent,” she says. family. Through the academy, “I want them they are now servicing to understand children in African the brokenness. countries including I talk about the Zambia, Mauritius, sadness, and the Ghana and elsewhere. heartbreak, but Gerschlowitz has long I also talk about wanted to write a book victories along to share her experience the way. My older and expertise, and son still wrestles show the importance with autism of maintaining hope every single day. when it seems all is lost. We will never Writing the book took her give up trying and Scher 18 months. “I to restore his would write, and Marion health and would edit. She gave me functionality, confidence. Through her Ilana Gerschlowitz even though polishing, she helped he’s 17 now. make my words come alive. There’s a message “I wrote the book to break down barriers of hope.” for other families trying to access the Gerschlowitz has three sons, and has right treatment for their children,” says seen all sides of autism. “My older son still Gerschlowitz. battles, the second one escaped autism, “I wanted to dispel the archaic notion that and the other son recovered from autism,” autism has to be a lifelong disability, to give she says. “The message of this book is Nominations close at 17:00 on 14 July 2019 parents whose children are now receiving that at any given point in time, we all face Send nominations to [email protected] an autism diagnosis a roadmap and a way challenges. We must focus on the blessings forward. They are where I was 15 years ago. in our lives, and on finding solutions, no My advice to these parents is that autism matter whether the journey ahead appears means game on, not game over. Put on your insurmountable. If mountains need to be boxing gloves, and fight for your child. Autism moved, we must move them.”

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It clinical psychologist and the founding the Psychotrauma Center’s Peace of Mind teachers can be used as agents of knows what to do.” Sdirector of Metiv, the Israel Psychotrauma programme. “We take whole combat teams after change and resilience. “Children Brom also uses a method Center. they’re out of the army, which was never done don’t need psychologists, they of somatic experiencing, The internationally renowned expert on before,” he says. “We give them time to speak, need their parents and their allowing positive feelings trauma and resilience in the face of terror open up, and ask themselves, ‘What did my teachers to know how to to overtake the panic and disaster recently presented workshops army service do to me?’ This is totally against allow them to go on with that arises when for mental-health professionals in South Israeli culture. People don’t speak, wives don’t life after trauma,” he says. traumatic memories Africa. He also addressed Holocaust survivors know where their husbands were in various “To keep all children surface. “American and members of the Community Security wars. It’s amazing what it does when you give learning and developing clinical psychologist Dr Organisation. them that space.” after experiencing trauma, Peter Levine developed “We psychologists are so old-fashioned. We One part of the four-phase Peace of Mind you need to go where this method of having think that everything is solvable by sitting programme involves taking veterans to Jewish they are – in schools and Professor people just track what on a chair for an hour a week, and talking. communities in the diaspora, including places with their families. You’re Danny is happening in their That doesn’t work for everyone,” he says, in like London and New York, and possibly soon building and handing over a Brom bodies,” Brom says. explanation for his ways of working. “We must South Africa. “Connecting with communities system of care that says, ‘Do “He coined the term, the be creative, and think of how to use methods offers a way of broadening both their something for all the children, trauma vortex. As you think like neurofeedback, really training the brain. perspective and the meaning of what they’ve build resilience’. You then determine about a traumatic experience, Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) means done in the army. through screening which children are you become increasingly constricted. you’re staying in survival mode when it’s not “They’re blown away by how connected Jews more at risk, and ensure that they get what they If it’s later, and you’re experiencing PTSD and necessary, and that means that your brain really are to Israel, and with the Israeli army,” says need.” focusing on that memory – which is what many changes. It can change back though. We work on Brom. “We see them again six weeks later, and One of the latest developments in psychology therapists have done until now – it doesn’t finding ways to make that happen.” then six months later, to see who needs further and trauma work, according to Brom, is the really work well because people go back into Born in Holland, Brom has lived and worked support.” notion that trauma is not only in the mind, but survival mode, and then there’s no processing. in Israel since 1988. “In the past 30 years in Brom and his team have also reframed the in the body. “It’s the nervous system that reacts “So, you do the opposite – tap into the Jerusalem, we’ve developed many programmes,” nature of resilience, specifically in childhood. to threat when someone walks in with a gun, body and the resources it has, and focus on a he says. “The Psychotrauma Center is really a Questions they examine include how you build for example. We react, we don’t think and feel positive or relatively ok feeling somewhere in development space. My passion has always been resilience, and whether you can make children – we do. That means this hardwired system of the body. to look at what hasn’t yet received attention in more resilient. “In the past five to ten years, it’s survival mode is really in the body. If you do that, it starts to roll over in the the trauma field.” become clear that the concept of resilience is “In the Western world, psychology has taken body, creating the healing vortex. Through Brom told the SA Jewish Report that together a bit too vague. What’s taking over now is the it all to the head. When people see people our research, we’ve found that this is a nice with dealing with a constant threat of crime, concept of regulation. Can you regulate your trembling after a fall for example, they say, ‘You method to help get people out of PTSD.” South Africans have bigger questions about emotions and your arousal? When you get need to do something, you need to stop that’. where society is going. “A lot is happening, overwhelmed by something that happens, can We know now that’s the way the body gets out • Brom’s trip to South Africa was organised by local and there’s a lot of anxiety here. Our work can you get back to being regulated? That’s a central of survival mode. clinical psychologist Tracey Farber, and made be useful here, although one must always be factor in how well people will cope with trauma.” “Just being with someone, and letting that possible by donor Jeff Shankman.

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Nominations close at 17:00 on 14 July 2019 Send nominations to [email protected] 28 June – 5 July 2019 Travel SA JEWISH REPORT I

TRAVEL FOCUS

Time to get off your toches and travel The nuclear bomb site, Hiroshima HOWARD SACKSTEIN a community, seldom venture beyond the and visit starfish beach. comforts of the known. ew Orleans heaves with music, and In the hope of encouraging more 5. Stop for lunch at the Chabad the smell of cocktails rises as drunk South African Jews to explore the nether of Playa del Carmen in Mexico, tourists fall on the sordid sidewalks reaches of the globe, I’m suggesting 20 before revelling the night away at Nof Bourbon Street. In the ramshackle life experiences, all of them unusual, the Coco Bongo nightclub, part temple that is the historic remarkable, doable, and accessible. They Cirque du Soleil, part Mardi Gras. Preservation Hall, the city Swim with turtles in the shows-off its musical magic. A Sami Tribesman in Norway ocean at Akumal Beach. Standing in the shadows on a raised platform at the 6. Eat at the huge Red Heifer back of the hall, I watch a Kosher restaurant in Cancun performance by the greatest Mexico, before spending jazz musicians alive, belting your days on the whitest, out brass riffs composed widest beaches, and the most by the liberated slaves of aqua water you have ever the American south. It is seen. Many of the tequilas are under flower market in Amsterdam, before a perfect moment, a life the supervision of the Mexican Beth heading to the Portuguese shul, where experience etched into my Din. candles still illuminate a synagogue with soul for eternity. no electric lights or heating. Don’t forget Life appears to be an 7. Stop by the Jewish community centre to book well in advance to see the Anne endless chase, seeking in San Jose, Costa Rica, for a quick game Frank House, and recover in a coffee shop out those moments of of tennis before sitting in the warm in Rembrandtplein. perfection that make volcanic natural pools at the foot of everything worthwhile. Arenal Volcano. Choose your beaches 11. Visit a shul in Berlin, only recently rebuilt That is the magic of from either the Pacific or the Caribbean, after the Kristallnacht destruction, before travel. The whiff of new smells, the taste are meant to take you, in the only country in the world without heading out to Checkpoint Charlie, and trying of exotic spices, the incomprehensible shake you, and give you an experience an army. to find remnants of the Berlin Wall. language, the culture that makes no sense impossible to forget: at all, and the embrace of people who have 8. Go kosher whisky tasting along the Kyle 12. Take a hamper with you from Rabbi nothing other than their warmth and 1. Take a 4x4 through Salar de Uyuni, of Lochalsh in Scotland, and eat smoked Butman in Phnom Penh when you go to hospitality. the salt deserts of Bolivia, and see the salmon in the ruins of Castle Urquhart on watch the sunrise over the temples of My life journey has taken me to 75 fluttering Israeli flags that decorate the the banks of Loch Ness. Angkor in Siem Reap Cambodia, matched countries around the globe, each one Dakar Rally pit-stops in the white desert. only by the pyramids in their beauty and exceptional in its uniqueness. Stay in hotels made entirely out of salt, Lurking in the shadows of the jazz hall, where even the chairs and tables are The island of Koh Rong Sanloem I realised that South Africans just don’t pillars of sodium, and take photos in a know how to travel. Sure we sit on the unreal moonscape where no perspective crystal white beaches of Mauritius, and is possible. dance at the full-moon party of Ko Pha- ngan. 2. Stay in a tree house in the Amazon

We do New York in the snow, and the jungle, and visit the Chabad shul of Howard Sackstein Photos: sales in London at the end of Chanukah. Manaus, the largest city in the rain We worship at the Western Wall, and take forest. Swim with fresh-water dolphins cruises on the Mediterranean, but travel in the Rio Negro, and be escorted by an is meant to expand the mind, educate and Amazonian woman with a “Jewish papi”. open us to new cultures and ideas. We, as 3. Eat Falafel in Cusco, Peru, before you start your trek on The northern lights the Inca trail to the ruins of the hilltop village of Machu Picchu. After your hike, bath in the hot natural springs of the village of Aguas Calientes.

4. Practice your Hebrew in the 9. Chase after the northern lights on a scale. The Phare Circus in Siem Reap tiny islands of San Blas off the safari in Tromsø, Norway, where darkness rescues street children, and teaches them coast of Panama, where most of lasts for months on end, and Shabbos performance skills and a new life. the tourists are Israeli. Each island never comes out. Play with the dogs before has a few huts, a few palm trees, dog sledding, and spend a day with a Sami 13. Take a hot air balloon over the and a handful of Israelis. Eat at tribesman reindeer herder. thousands of Buddhist temples and stupas the kosher restaurant in the little of Bagan in Myanmar after visiting the shul seaside village of Bocas del Toro, 10. Eat raw herring from a kiosk in the in Yangon (Rangoon) looked after by the II SA JEWISH REPORT Travel 28 June – 5 July 2019

Sunrise over the Temples of Angkor Amman is a spotless, beautiful city that chandeliers donated by congregants over will remind you of Jerusalem with its white its 350-year-old history. After shul, hop on stone buildings. a houseboat, and cruise the backwaters of Kerala before heading south to the beaches 18. For complete rest and relaxation, take of the red cliffs of Varkala, the home of a ferry from Sihanoukville in Cambodia Indian massage. to the islands of Koh Rong Sanloem. Hike across the island to watch the sunset, 20. Nepal boasts one of the largest Passover and wander back through the desert by seders in the world, but don’t miss out on torchlight. There are no roads on the Pokhara Lake at the foot of the Annapurna islands, and no cars or bikes. To get around, trail of the Himalayas or Nargakot, where you walk on the beach – a perfect getaway you can watch the sunrise over the highest for Shabbat. peaks in the word at an elevation of more than 7 000 feet (2 133m). 19. When next in India, stop by Kochi (Cochin) Kerala, home to India’s once So, before you pack your next bikini for 20 000-strong Jewish community. Visit Mauritius, think of a few more reasons the ancient Paradesi Synagogue in Jew to make the Cohens next door just a little Town, with its hundreds of brass and gold more jealous of you and your family.

The Dakar Rally

single remaining Jewish family in Myanmar. spectacular sight has to be the terracotta Join one of their trips on Shalom Tours. soldiers in full military formation in the excavation pits of Xi’an. 14. Before heading off to the most beautiful beaches in the world in El Nido on the 16. Japan is hot at the moment with island of Palawan in the Philippines, the Rugby World Cup and the Olympics stop by Manila to learn how the Filipino just around the corner. Hang out in the government saved thousands of Jews from Gion Geisha district of Kyoto, and stop Nazi persecution in World War II. at midnight to ring the peace bell in Hiroshima to commemorate the destruction 15. While wandering through China, wrought when America bombed Japan at pop by the city of Kaifeng to see the rich the end of World War II. history of Chinese Jews, who are thought to have arrived in China with Marco Polo 17. When next in Israel, cross the border on his trade missions to Asia. Don’t miss into Jordan and visit Petra, the ancient city a hike along the Great Wall, but the most carved into the mountains of the desert.

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The Houghton Hotel Advitorial .indd 1 2019/06/25 21:17 VI SA JEWISH REPORT TravelTravel 28 June – 5 July 2019 The ebb and flow of working on a cruise ship TALI FEINBERG and Jewish staff can host Shabbat services for where he works as a “generalist” and heads up she had no experience in the hospitality themselves. Codron was once even allowed to an entire hospital – something he says he could industry, and it was a challenge. “With ael Codron spent almost a decade do tashlich (casting off the sins of the previous never have done without his training on ships. cruise ships, you have to work your way up. working on cruise ships as a doctor, year) and throw crumbs off the side of the boat, “I’ve traded a life of sea for a life of sand,” Management needs to see how you attend to during which time he visited every even though throwing anything over is usually he quips, about living in the middle of the your role, and your general attitude. Working Rcontinent – including Antarctica – multiple strictly forbidden. Australian desert. “The experience of living seven days a week with only hours off was times. He recommends that people work on on a cruise ship is something I would highly difficult to get used to. It was all dependent He is one of many Jewish people who have cruise ships at the beginning or end of their recommend.” on how fast you worked. Sometimes girls on opted to work on cruise ships for a finite careers when they are not tied down by family He advises parents to allow their children to the same floor would pair up to move through amount of time. “I can’t imagine my life without commitments. work on a ship if they want to, even if it’s not a the rooms quicker.” After this, the crew were having gone to sea,” says Codron. “It was the best eight years of my life.” While it may seem luxurious to work on a cruise ship, Codron says that it’s actually the opposite – especially for a ship’s doctor. “The job is seven days a week, as a cruise ship doesn’t stop. You get hours off, but not days off. Especially being the only doctor on a smaller ship, you are on call 24/7. “You do clinic hours in the morning and afternoon, and it’s busy as people don’t want to be sick on holiday. It can become exhausting, especially if there is an outbreak of flu or gastro. You can’t refer someone onto another doctor!” But when he got to port, Codron was able to leave and explore, although always with his phone on. “Once you’re in port, someone can be referred to a hospital in an emergency.” It was these periods of downtime that were the highlight for him. He visited 88 countries in total. His favourite place was Antarctica, because of the natural beauty, and he conventional career path. allowed to socialise: “You feel exhausted 24/7 recommends that everyone Haylee Pincus worked on a ship for a year as because you work so hard and party just as hard take a cruise there. cruise photographer. “I always wanted to have a for months at a time.” Why else would someone gap year after university and travel, and working One funny memory is of meeting a lovely choose to work on a cruise on a cruise ship was a clever way to earn great Frenchman who worked in room service. “It was ship? “It’s like living on a money and travel essentially for free, as well as the perfect match: I got fresh cappuccinos and kibbutz! If you do your job meet interesting people from all over the world,” croissants every morning while I was attending well, everything else is done she says. to my guests’ rooms, and no one was any the for you,” says Codron. For her, the most challenging part was the wiser. The guests also always loved a good love “You don’t have to cook or work hours. “The working hours are incredibly story, and tipped us well. It was always very clean, and all your expenses intense and long for everyone on board. You’re strategic!” are covered, so you can save on your feet anywhere from nine to 12 hours a Her favourite destinations include a lot of money. Your travel Rael Codronday, every day, for six to nine months.” Scandinavia. “The little sea-side towns we documents and visas are all But being able to travel places she would visited were something out of a fairy tale. organised for you. normally never get to visit was a highlight. Her The Norwegian Fjords are breathtaking, even “I used the time to study favourite memories are and write exams, I read a lot, interacting with rescued Sian Cohen I met many people, and got dolphins and sea lions in an amazing international Haylee Pincus Atlantis, bobsledding in perspective. You work with Jamaica, lying on the pink people from all over, and beach in Bermuda, and zip- usually there are about 50 lining through the forest in nationalities on board.” “It’s not a typical career choice for a nice Honduras. Codron says the cruise-ship life would Jewish boy from Cape Town. When I told my She would absolutely not work for anyone who is frum (religiously parents that I planned to work on ships, they recommend working on observant) or anyone with a family. “No ship told me ‘we don’t go to sea’. ships to anyone who is a would allow you not to work on Shabbat and “Yet, it turned out to be the best training for “people person” and willing chaggim (Jewish holidays), and kosher food my career, something that my parents are proud to work hard. “Working on would be difficult.” of and people are simply fascinated by,” he says. a ship far away from family However, Jewish guests can get kosher food, He now lives in Alice Springs in rural Australia, is difficult. It was definitely a bit of a wakeup call, and a shock to my sheltered system. It makes a person grow up really quickly; and it made me independent and strong. The ship is a demanding space, but if you do what you have to do work-wise, you will be Rael Codron rewarded with the spoils that ship life has to offer.” Sian Cohen worked as a stewardess on a luxury cruise liner in 2010. “I attended to ten guest while cleaning the balcony of one of your rooms every day and night, cleaning the rooms, rooms.” managing the guests’ personal requests and Cohen wouldn’t think twice about needs, and making a Noah’s Ark of towel recommending working on a ship, “but it’s animals!” The ship was split almost 50% guests, important to know the good and the ugly 50% staff. “It meant we delivered an extremely about ship life, and decide if it suits who personal experience to each guest, right down you are, and what type of experience you are to knowing their first and second names.” seeking. Be prepared to work hard, but have Although Cohen had an advertising degree, equal amounts of fun.” For all your travel and lifestyle needs, consider it done.

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Terms and conditions apply. Authorised Financial Services Provider Registered Credit Provider Reg No NCRCP7 66671/MH VIII SA JEWISH REPORT Travel 28 June – 5 July 2019 The survival guide to eating kosher while on holiday ANTONY AND JUSTINE SEEFF all about. Of course, there are other great open for hungry perks that come with international travel travellers. Others Gelato in Rome hen we think of Rome, we are like sightseeing, learning new cultures, and have a handful of transported back. Not to the exploring different cities, but it’s the eating options that you Trevi Fountain, the Colosseum, that stands out for us. It’s the sampling can make work orW the Pantheon. But to Ba’Ghetto Milky. of local cuisines – whether it be pad thai (we’ll touch on Ba’Ghetto Milky is an unassuming kosher in Bangkok or paella in Barcelona – which them below). restaurant in the Jewish quarter of Rome really gives you a feel for your destination But then there’s which makes the most unbelievable pizza and adds flavour to your journey. a third category of we’ve ever tasted. The base, which let But how can you unlock that gastronomic cities, the kosher out a crunch that was music to our ears, travel experience if you’re kosher? abysses, where It really comes you’ll struggle to down to two eat kosher, with no options – you kosher restaurants, can either pack no Chabad (if you a few extra can believe it!), kilos of some and no kosher trustworthy supermarkets tinned tuna or local kosher together with the products. requisite amount A bit of online of Provita and research and asking around should point getting a feel for the lay of the land from their mix it in with you in the right direction for your next trip. perspective. your tears as you They can show you where to eat, where to Photos: Antony and Justine Seeff Photos: cry through every buy supplies, and tell you about what local meal in your products you can get away with. They can also hotel room. So, with a bit of research and the help you translate some of those kosher lists Or you can put you downloaded online but couldn’t quite make in a bit of effort, right planning, there’s nothing sense of. and follow a stopping you from enjoying your If you’re stranded and hungry, you can always Paella and Sangria in Barcelona few simple tips kosher cuisine wherever your next resort to technology, and fire up an app like to make sure Kosher Near Me to help you find your way to was caressed by the Gal Gadot of cheese, that you’ll be able to eat your way through adventure takes you. the closest mashgiach. together with toppings that were fresh yet whichever destination you choose – like a Our last piece of advice is to learn the halacha, fantastic, simple yet scrumptious. mouse munching through a giant wheel of Second, plan ahead before you go. This and eat like a king wherever you are! Some It was the kind of pizza that ruins every (kosher) Swiss cheese. includes chatting to friends about their products are acceptable anywhere in the world other pizza you taste afterwards. And, don’t First, you have to research your experiences, and spending as much time as you and, with a bit of knowledge and some fresh get us started on the deep-fried Jerusalem destination carefully. Some cities, like can doing research online. Google Translate pots and pans, you can eat gourmet meals on artichoke. New York or Paris, are packed with kosher will become your best friend in this endeavour. a cruise, in a hotel, or restaurant wherever you If you ask us, that’s what holidays are restaurants just waiting with doors-wide- It’s also worth calling local rabbis and Chabad may find yourself. centres to get more information. You’re basically Generally speaking, fruit, vegetables, and fish seeking to find out about the local kosher are always safe, and double-wrapping a kosher restaurants and supermarkets – where they fish in tin foil together with some lemon and are, what hechsher they have, and importantly, fresh vegetables is a delicious option. However, whether they’re still open. Unfortunately, please check with your local rabbinic authority kosher restaurants aren’t known for sticking before being so brazen. So, add those pots, pans, around too long. It’s also helpful to find out Pizza in Rome what local food you can eat. For example, milk in some countries is sometimes a problem from a kashrut perspective. Remember that most countries won’t have a kosher hechsher on products, so try to download any lists of kosher products that you can find before you go. It’s a lot easier to download these and keep them on your phone than it is to try find them on the go while connecting to some dodgy free Wi-Fi. Now that the pre-planning is over and you’ve reached your destination, hop and spices (to give your meals an extra kick) in a taxi and go straight to the nearest Chabad, together with your copy of Shulchan Aruch (Code shul, or kosher establishment. of Jewish Law) to your packing list, and get ready You can find out only so much online. to eat in style. Nothing beats chatting to the locals, and And, if you have some extra space in your suitcase, you can include a disposable braai together with some kosher meat, and cook up some boeries to remind you of home. This technique is actually used by a cousin of ours who often travels to Shanghai for work. So, with a bit of research and the right planning, there’s nothing stopping you from enjoying your kosher cuisine wherever your next adventure takes you. And please don’t forget, when you go to Rome, you have to try the pizza from Sushi in Switzerland Ba’Ghetto Milky.

Europcar Jewish Report March 2019 FA.indd 1 2019/03/04 01:23 28 June – 5 July 2019 Advertorial SA JEWISH REPORT IX Taking the stress out of kosher travel avid Walles never imagined that he and That same something-for-everyone approach hosts, and guides for each vacation. More than just a business, Walles views Kosher his wife Chana would be running a highly is evident in Kosher Travelers’ list of packages, “You can google ‘kosher in Morocco’ and find a Travelers as an opportunity to give back to others, Dregarded international kosher travel company offering a dizzying number of destinations kosher restaurant and travel on your own, but if you choosing worthy causes to highlight in his hotel operating luxury cruises, African safaris, multiple including Pesach at multiple hotels in Israel, and its don’t speak a word of Arabic, you will have a hard programmes. Through the business, they have raised Pesach programmes, Alpine ski trips, and high-end European Pesach package on the exclusive island of time without a guide and logistics manager,” said considerable sums of money for organisations land-tour vacations. Losinj in Croatia. Walles. “We take all the stress out of travelling to including Ezer Mitzion, Leket Yad Eliezer, Innovation Originally from Melbourne, Walles had a successful It has winter and summer cruises to the exotic locations by taking care of every detail.” Africa, and Tzohar. steel manufacturing company and his wife was in the Norway Fjords, Alaska, Caribbean, Panama Canal, Kosher Travelers’ prices vary by package, and the “While we do get much satisfaction from real-estate business when the two decided to run a Mediterranean, Japan, and exotic land tours to company’s high volume of business allows it to arranging kosher travel, we get even more from Pesach programme in a Queensland hotel. Heading Italian Alps, China, Peru, Galapagos Islands, Spain pass on considerable savings to its clients without being able to change the world and better people’s north to what he described as the Miami Beach of and Portugal, India, Morocco, and, of course, the compromising on the quality and kashrut of the lives,” said Walles. “We are thrilled to be able to use Australia, the couple hosted five-star Pesach vacations ever-popular whisky tours in Scotland. For ski package. In regard to Pesach, Walles invites clients our business as a platform for tikun olam (improving for five consecutive years. That was 17 years ago. lovers, it offers a fabulous package to Les 3 Vallées to consider coming to Israel, noting that Israeli the world).” By all rights, a decision to move to Israel could in France with more than 600km of ski slopes. The programmes are priced less than European packages, have ended the family foray into the hospitality list goes on and on, with the Walles personal touch and offer an opportunity to spend Pesach 2019 in the • For more information on Eddie’s Travel & Tourism, business, but while on a pilot trip to the holy land evident as it scales up and employs the right staff, holiest place in the world. visit it online at www.koshertravelers.com in 2008, David met the person whose recently deceased father in law had founded Eddie’s Travel & Tourism back in 1979. It was already an established travel and tour operator catering to the needs of the kosher Jewish traveller. “Eddie had just passed away, and he had a sterling reputation,” David, a father of four, told Jewish Link. “His son in law was looking for someone to buy the business, and it became a no-brainer for us, letting us turn our passion into a full-time business, and at the same time fulfil our aliyah dream.” The Walles family added Pesach hotels to their offerings each year, and began operating kosher cruises and land tours. Focusing on providing fabulous kosher food at unique destinations without compromising on quality, Walles grew the business to keep up with the changing demands of the kosher travel market.“ There is a vacation package we have on offer for every day of the year,” said Walles. “It used to be a seasonal business, but it no longer revolves only around Pesach and Sukkot.” Multigenerational family tours and cruises are another relatively new phenomenon in the world of kosher travel. In addition to hosting Barmitzvahs and Batmitzvahs at hotels, Walles has also welcomed many families celebrating milestone birthdays and anniversaries who treat their entire mishpacha (family) anywhere in the world to a most memorable and unique experience. “These days, many Jewish families are spread out in communities across the globe and don’t get to see each other too often,” said Walles. “We have families fly in and meet in Venice, and together join our Greek Isles cruise, spending a whole week together enjoying family time, meals, and tours.” “We are also seeing more travel in private-group tours for friends that are like minded as well as community organisations and synagogue missions.” After having kept the company’s original name for many years, Walles recently rebranded the image and logo in keeping with changing times and travel trends. Known today as Kosher Travelers, the company’s “one-stop shop” approach offers a true turnkey vacation experience. “Our team does all the work,” said Walles. “You just need to show up, relax, and enjoy the experience.” Walles’s vacations attract a diverse clientele of all levels of religious observance who have at least one thing in common – an interest in eating strictly kosher food no matter where in the world they may be. Because Kosher Travelers criss-crosses the globe, rabbinical supervision varies by destination: Pesach hotels in Israel are all Glatt Mehadrin under the auspices of the local Israeli Rabbanut, while cruises are supervised by Rabbi Nechemiah Rottenberg of Vienna. Most tours have a full time mashgiach, with food prepared by a Kosher Travelers chef in a hotel or eaten at local kosher restaurants. One thing is certain: Kosher Travelers’ clients will never be served frozen airline meals. In spite of the diverse crowd that can exist on some tours, Kosher Travelers goes out of its way to make every person feel comfortable. A Sefer Torah travels along with the tour in locations where there are no synagogues, while in others, itineraries are planned around local shul schedules, giving travellers a glimpse of a local Jewish heritage and culture often different from their own. “Our target audience is mostly Modern Orthodox, however, we do often attract a sprinkle of Chareidim, and many traditional Jews. They all sit in the same dining room eating together and everyone loves it,” said Walles. X SA JEWISH REPORT Travel 28 June – 5 July 2019 An ‘authentic’ Tel Aviv market has become a vegan haven KAREN CHERNICK – JTA the neighbourhood, but certainly not the culinary options expanded.” Mikitas, co-owner of Taste for Life, “because market’s first vegan establishment. Over the Certain plant-based foods were always there are regular delis, so we vegans deserve n a city where new eateries open and older past few years, the number of Israeli vegans abundantly available through vendors in to have one too.” ones close with the frequency of the waves has swelled to 5% of the city’s population of the market, such as the nationally beloved The deli, a vegan pioneer when it opened, is lapping at the nearby seashore, Tel Aviv’s about 400 000, ranking it high among the hummus and falafel. But Levinsky’s vegan in good company now. ILevinsky Market stands as a place where countries with the largest number of vegans menu has now grown to include items such “Today, the vegan options around the people have anchored their food businesses per capita. Tel Aviv alone boasts 400 vegan- as non-dairy malabi (a vegan version of the market are very diverse,” said Shikma Jacoby, for decades. a vegan blogger and advocate, who found only Chef Haim Rafael, for instance, still two plant-based eateries in the market when prepares Turkish tarama salad according she moved to the area three years ago. “You to his grandmother’s recipe, whisking can have anything from incredible desserts to breadcrumbs and light pink fish eggs into the vegan shawarma.” same spreadable paste the way she did when These options include the veteran street the family set up their delicatessen in the vendor permanently parked in front of market in 1958. the Eliahu Hanavi synagogue with signs Occupying a seven-block stretch of advertising the rare homemade vegan malabi; Levinsky Street in the south of Tel Aviv, the Café Kaymak, which serves plant-based marketplace of dry goods, spices and delis versions of traditional home-cooked dishes; a founded in the 1930s by working-class Balkan tahini-based tapas restaurant with an entirely Jews attracts shoppers looking for specialty vegan menu section called Hatahinia; and items and the smoked and briny flavours of a an outdoor café, Tony ve Esther, offering bygone era. elaborate vegan breakfasts that include With its inclination towards kippered fish, almond-based labane cheese, tofu scrambles cured meats and pungent cheeses, Levinsky and vegan affogato (ice cream-topped Market might not seem at first glance like a espresso). logical locus for a vegan invasion. A vendor roasts nuts in the back of his Levinsky Market shop in Tel Aviv Side streets off Levinsky house Lila Pizza, But it was, in fact, the market’s time- friendly eateries, and several have found a traditional Persian milk pudding topped with which happily substitutes cashew cheese on honoured quality that recently attracted a home in Levinsky Market. rosewater syrup and crushed pistachios), any of its pies, and an artisanal coffee roaster, surprising newcomer to the scene: the upscale “Levinsky Market was actually always a cashew-cheese pizza, borekas (Balkan phyllo Cafelix, serving vegan desserts. vegetable-centric restaurant Opa. place for vegans without intending to be,” said dough pastries) and non-dairy cheeses. These eateries are certainly not the “I think that Levinsky Market is one of the Ori Shavit, a Tel Aviv-based food journalist There is even an all-vegan delicatessen establishments that Levinsky Market was last truly authentic places remaining in the and vegan advocate. “It has an abundance of resembling the style of Haim Rafael’s veteran built upon, but they seem to easily coexist city,” said Shirel Berger, chef and co-owner of pantry staples that are an inextricable part of establishment. The Taste for Life deli opened with the veterans. Opa sits midway on a block Opa, about her choice to open a fine-dining vegan nutrition, especially anything related five years ago. Like many of its Levinsky bordered by Fat Dog hot dogs on one corner, establishment there in November last year. to the world of grains and beans, nuts, seeds, Street neighbours, it makes all of its own and a cheese shop called Hahalban (Hebrew “People have had their stores for generations, dried fruits and, of course, an enormous spreads, producing pepper-corn pastrami for “the milkman”) on the other. Berger and I really like the vibe – it seems real and range of spices. made from walnuts, tart coconut-based has found ways to incorporate some of her not like a mall, or anything new. It’s very raw “Many vegans shop in Levinsky Market and yoghurt, and soy cheeses. neighbours into her kitchen. and authentic.” also live nearby, so it was only natural that “It just seemed necessary (to open a “All the dry goods are definitely from Opa is the latest plant-based addition to they’d eat in the area, and with time their location in Levinsky Market),” said Daniel Continued on page XI>>

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www.discovery.co.za Discovery Bank Limited. Auth FSP. FSP 48657. NCRCP9997. Limits, Ts & Cs apply. 28 June – 5 July 2019 Travel SA JEWISH REPORT XI Did an ancient Jewish scholar introduce the world to pizza? HENRY ABRAMSON – JTA Nissan and Alinei vehemently dispute Oxford Professor Martin Maiden’s argument that the n 1983, Italian-Israeli professor Sandra word “pizza” is of Germanic origin, deriving Debenedetti Stow stunned the scholarly from the old High German word “pizzo” meaning world with an explosive article that “bite”. Iproposed that Jews introduced pizza to the Maiden seems to give little credence to the European diet. obvious association with pita bread, suggesting She cited Yehuda Romano, a 14th- instead that the Mediterranean food was also century Hebrew scholar from Italy, influenced by Gothic vocabulary. Seriously.

who translated Maimonides’ use of the Photo:Wikimedia Commons / Pixabay After much research, I’m not much closer to word hararah (a type of flatbread) in the really pinning down the origins of the word, but Mishneh Torah with four simple Hebrew one thing is clear: pizza, in one form or another, letters: peh, yud, tzadi and heh, or “pizza”, has been part of our diet as long as Jews have arguably the very first time the word was been turning over the kitchen after Passover. ever used in any language. Who knows, even Maimonides himself might Before the leaven could rise, a new Did Maimonides introduce pizza to the world? have enjoyed a slice or two. scholarly sub-field was born. I tripped over this appealing historical fact while reading the catalogue of the new National Museum of Italian Judaism and the Shoah in Ferrara on the intermediate days of Passover (no doubt my gustatory interest was partially fueled by the holiday). I was intrigued by the possibility that while oblique references to the aromatic staple of adolescent diets can be traced to ancient times, it was the Jews who first gave a name to the global delicacy. The connection to Maimonides was also quite tempting. Was his hararah really an Egyptian antecedent of Chicago deep- dish? A thousand questions erupted. Did Maimonides hold, asked Yechiel Goldreich on Twitter, with the “one slice mezonos, two slices hamotzi rule” (one slice, no reciting grace, two slices grace rule)? And if Rambam ate pizza, wondered Professor Jared Ellias, how did we Ashkenazim get stuck with gefilte fish and stuffed cabbage? Even my wife chimed in, “Finally, the end of challah tyranny!” Unfortunately, it turns out, the story is a little more complicated, and our ethnocentric glee was premature. A 10th- century Latin code from Gaeta explicitly mandates the donation of “twelve pizzas” to the local bishop every Christmas and Easter, antedating Romano’s reference to the word by 400 years and, incidentally, providing evidence of the very first pizza delivery service. Writing in the journal Onomastics in Contemporary Public Space, Ephraim Nissan and Mario Alinei, perhaps hoping to redeem the Jewish antiquity of the doughy disc, pointed to the pizzarelle, possibly a cookie-sized version of pizza eagerly consumed by Jewish children in ancient Rome. The fact that pizzarelle were served on Passover, however, diminishes its value for our purposes – if it isn’t chametz, it can’t be real pizza. An ‘authentic’ Tel Aviv market has become a vegan haven >> Continued from page X Levinsky Market, of course,” said Berger. “We have a small nut roaster right next door, so of course we work with him. I have relationships with everyone.” For the market’s old-timers, it seems to make sense to welcome the new vegan arrivals. Vegans mean business, fresh clientele, and renewed interest in the historic market. Asked how long he’s been selling coconut-based malabi from his street cart, the vendor outside the Eliahu Hanavi synagogue answered: “For years already. Everybody likes it.” “I think that Levinsky Market is extremely open to veganism and is embracing it,” said Jacoby. “It’s almost as if when you don’t offer vegan options, you are kind of out of the loop.” XII SA JEWISH REPORT Travel 28 June – 5 July 2019 The Jewish family travelling to every country on earth History ARIELLE KAPLAN – JTA How did your kids react when you told them what was in store? The little one is more concerned about Wi-Fi strength than anything. JORDAN MOSHE hat would you do to make it into The Guinness Book of World When we get to the hotel, he wants to know how good the Wi-Fi is Records? Eat an absurd amount of bagels? Jump rope for because, you know, YouTube beckons. Our older son, Finn, wants to lackbeard captained the days on end? Grow your nails so long that they drag on the go to Finland because he feels that he’s going to be welcomed like a Queen Anne’s Revenge, floor?W Travel to every single country in the world? king. He wants to go to Greece because he studied ancient Greece. Jack Sparrow captained the The last option might be incredibly expensive, and time-consuming, BBlack Pearl, and Jews captained the but it’s exactly what one Jewish family intends to do. Do you take breaks? Prophet Samuel. Justin Zackham, a screenwriter who literally How do you plan As European nations advanced coined the term “bucket list”, is attempting to go to every westward in a scramble for colonies, this feat. But he’s not doing it alone – his wife, country? And how the Caribbean became prime Katherine, and their sons, aged 5 and 10, are long do you stay in property for pirates, among them travelling along. each place? Jews. This impossible journey has an incredible back Guinness listed Taking to the high seas aboard the story. 195 sovereign, self- Queen Esther, the Prophet Samuel After graduating from New York University’s governing nations, or even the Shield of Abraham, a

film school in 1994, Zackham, 48, scribbled what that doesn’t include rich history is gradually coming Photo: Courtesy of the Anderson Group Anderson the of Courtesy Photo: he called a “list of things to do before I kick the territories. There to light of Jewish buccaneers who bucket”, which he later shortened to “Justin’s bucket are people who have undermined the Inquisition and list”. Marrying the “perfect woman”, jumping out of done this before, persecution by becoming pirates. an airplane, and visiting the pyramids in Egypt and but no group Between the 1600s and 1800s, Taj Mahal in India were just a few things on his list. has ever done it. Jews fleeing persecution at the In 2007, he crossed off the first item: Get a movie There are ways of hands of Catholic Europe often made at a major Hollywood studio. travelling, and you joined the voyages of explorers Yes, Zackham’s list is what inspired the hit movie, have to document bound for South America and The Bucket List. everything. They the Caribbean. Out of this fateful About 12 years later – plus two kids, two movies, don’t want you encounter of piracy and Judaism, and a TV show – Zackham and his family are 21 to stay in any many Jews took up swashbuckling countries deep into their endeavour. The mission Justin Zackham and his family in the Bahamas country for more lives on the high seas. is twofold: Zackham wants to scratch “visit every than two weeks, While history books have rarely country” off his bucket list, as well as cement the family and once you accounted for the exploits of Jewish name in The Guinness Book of World Records. start, the idea pirates, their surprising prevalence Following a trip to the Bahamas, Zackham took some is that you keep has gained more recognition in time from his current “office” in Puerto Rico to chat to going without recent years. They even feature in us about adventures with little ones, if it’s plausible to taking extended breaks a book titled Jewish Pirates of the travel to every single country in the world, and what, if unless it’s for an emergency. So we have those rules, Caribbean by Edward Kritzler. anything, being Jewish has to do with it. but we also have two kids. If a year goes by and, as Excavations carried out in much as our 10-year-old loves to travel, he wants to go home, we will historical graveyards discovered in When and why did you decide to travel to every country? do that. We don’t think he will because he loves it so much, but those the Caribbean over the past decade It’s kind of a crazy idea and adventure, but the reality is we have are our biggest task masters, and this is all about them and for them. have yielded tombstones featuring always loved travelling as a family. We really want to show our What have you learned from travelling with kids? Do you have a combination of the Magen David, kids – especially given advice for parents? Hebrew writing, and the infamous everything that’s going Just do it. It’s easier than you think skull and crossbones insignia. on in America right now because your kids adapt faster than you Though certain Jewish pirates of – how to focus on the do. You’ll grow closer to your children, antiquity – most notably those of good in the world. The and grow as a parent. Our biggest tip the Hasmonean period – have been best way of doing that is is to leave extra time on travel days. accounted for, most were active to travel. Airports are stressful for everyone – but after the Spanish expulsion of the more so for children who don’t walk as Jews in 1492. Your kids are being fast, use the bathroom more, and can’t Exacting revenge on the Catholic home schooled in a see over the heads of crowds. empire, they frequently seized very non-traditional control of its trading vessels, often sense. What are Being in an interfaith family, how do with the backing of their new they learning that you navigate religion? refuge, including the Ottoman they wouldn’t in a My wife’s family is not religious at all, Empire or Europe’s Spanish rivals classroom setting? and I haven’t practiced religion for years. such as the United Netherlands. Our boys get to see I do, however, identify strongly with the Dozens of Jews were also completely different cultural side of Judaism. My oldest son is economically invested in backing cultures and ways of at the age where we are beginning to talk privateers attacking Spanish ships. thinking than they’ve about what it means to be Jewish. We will Privateers were essentially pirates ever known. In Fez, read the Torah together when we go to with government protection for the Morocco, they saw a tiny, Israel, and both boys will learn about the pursuit of less-than-legal goals in single-classroom school modern history of our people. wealth, dominance, and control of in the Medina. Finn, who This past autumn, during our visit to the seas. Jewish privateers could have is 10, was particularly Spain, we all learned about the Sephardic seen it as a profitable revenge strategy affected by the difference in education. He immediately asked to diaspora from Iberia and the forced conversions for those that for the expulsion and continued sponsor a student. He gives a dollar a week from his allowance, which remained. It led to some wonderful discussions about what makes our religious persecution of Jews. directly pays for a boy his age to go to a private school he would people different, what makes us strong, and why our culture is worth Even the Caribbean, the otherwise be unable to attend. preserving, even if it makes us outsiders. We were able to add another very capital of piracy, served link to this chain this past week in Medellin, Colombia, where we as a welcome haven for Jewish learned that the city was originally founded by Jews who fled from buccaneers. Jamaica was one Spain and Portugal. among the many remote and distant locales in the New World Some countries aren’t considered safe to travel to. How will where Jews and other unwelcome you navigate that? apostates sought shelter as far There are some countries that are too dangerous to go to, but from the inquisitors of Spain and there are ways around this. Like, there is a resort island off Portugal as possible. Yemen that you can go to. It’s more about the journey, and the The lush Caribbean island served experience. as home to several hundred Jews. While many of them sought to If you don’t make it into The Guinness Book of World Records, make a living from typical economic how will you feel? opportunities like sugarcane The Guinness Book of World Records is great, and we’d love to get plantations or by trading various into it, but we are doing it for our sons to have that connection, to commodities, others turned to a have an appreciation for each other, and a love of travel. more adventurous calling: a pirate’s life at sea. • This story originally appeared on Kveller. Continued on page XIII>> 28 June – 5 July 2019 Travel SA JEWISH REPORT XIII History unearths Jewish piracy as revenge for the Spanish Inquisition >>Continued from page XII As Kritzler suggests, perhaps the most coast of Spain’s holdings in the New World. famous of the Caribbean’s Jewish pirates As several other such accounts come to light, was Moses Cohen Henriques. After the range of Jews who took up a life on the living initially as a secret Jew under the high seas continues to grow. A Moroccan rabbi, inquisition in his native Portugal, he was the right-hand man of famed Turkish pirate discovered in 1605, and tortured in public. Barbarossa, and even a physician credited with The experience is said to have led Cohen introducing the potato to Europeans are among to devote his life to working against Spain the Jewish figures emerging as having held a and Portugal. Escaping to Amsterdam, he life of piracy. reportedly enlisted as a secret agent for the Whether they substituted the cry of “Yo ho Dutch navy, making his way to Jamaica. ho!” with “Oy vey!” we may never know, but On behalf of the Netherlands, he attacked their stories are undoubtedly as impressive Spanish ships, and frustrated Spain’s plans as any other found in the annuls of piracy’s to settle the New World. history. Teaming up with Dutch hero Admiral Piet Pieterszoon Hein and one of the most feared pirates, Sir Henry Morgan, Henriques went on to capture vessels across the sea. His prizes included a legendary treasure fleet, consisting of a fortune of gold and silver bullion that amounted to a staggering Quality KOsher 11 509 524 guilders (worth around $1 billion or R14.4 billion today). It was hailed as the Dutch West India Company’s greatest heist in the Caribbean. Cruises 2019/20 Another recorded Jewish pirate was Yaakov Koriel, who commanded three pirate ships in the Caribbean. He eventually renounced his piracy, and DiscOver the WOrld retired to the Israeli city of Tzfat, studying at AffOrdable Prices mysticism under famed Kabbalist Rabbi Isaac Luria. Another is David Abrabanel,

*glatt me’hadrin *all fresh meals *daily minyan *On-bOard hOsts who joined British privateers after his family was put to death off the South American coast. He assumed the name “Captain Davis”, and commanded his own pirate vessel called Jerusalem. All of Spanish extraction, Henriques, Koriel, and Abrabanel knew too well the sting of the anti-Semitic slur marrano (pig) Greek isles NOrwegian and its associated acts of persecution. Panama Although he was French, their cousin June 30, 2019 FjOrds from across the pond, Jean Lafitte, knew Jan 15, 2020 the meaning of maudit juif (damned Jew), Aug 16, 2019 and similarly turned to piracy to take revenge for persecution. Born in France in about 1780, the infamous buccaneer moved to the French colony of New Orleans in the United States, where he and his brother, Pierre, held respectable jobs as blacksmiths. Unbeknown to anyone else, however, they held commissions from the Republic Western Cu ba of Cartagena (found in today’s Colombia) Alaskan to intercept Spanish boats. With a crew Mediterranean Feb 12–19, 2020 and ships of their own, they carried out Aug 18, 2019 raids off the coast of New Orleans from a July 8 + Aug 19, 2019 secluded colony in Barataria Bay. Laffite offered his services to General Andrew Jackson in 1812 to help American Exotic Kosher Tours 2019 troops foil British invasion plans in exchange for a pardon of pirate activities. *Central America *African Safari *China Jackson agreed, and Laffite’s gang emerged *Scottish Whisky *Spain & Portugal *Japan victorious. Jackson would later dub Laffite Caribbean “one of the ablest men” of the Battle of *Italian Alps *India *Morocco New Orleans. *Galapagos Islands *Vietnam & Cambodia & more… Feb 14, 2020 A pirate to his core, however, Laffite returned to piracy a few years later, amassing almost a thousand followers. Until his death in about 1825, Laffite www.koshertravelers.com | [email protected] maintained his reputation as a feared ISRAEL: +972 2 992 9801 | USA +1 646 240 4118 | EUROPE: +44 2070486168 pirate of the “Spanish Main”, the eastern DELUXE CRUISES | EXOTIC TOURS | LUXURY HOTELS | AFRICAN SAFARI | PESACH/SUKKOT HOTELS | ISRAEL TOURISM XIV SA JEWISH REPORT Travel 28 June – 5 July 2019 The wanderlust of the Jewish Don Quixote JORDAN MOSHE to influence the Jewish people to free Benjamin – a bumpkin by all themselves from the physical and intellectual accounts – is shaken to his core istory shows that in addition to being restraints of the ghettos of Europe. by the arrival of a date from called “the people of the book”, we It is these Jews and their apparent Israel while at home in his shtetl Jews have undoubtedly earned the complacency with living provincial lives who of Tunyedevka. The fruit inspires Htitle of seasoned traveller. fuel his major work of 1878, Masos Benyomen him to travel the world. When we’re not learning, we’re wandering, Hashlishi, (The Wanderings of Benjamin III). The wonder with which he and even when we learn, we often learn about Until today, it is considered by some to be the describes the simple fruit is wandering. Our journeys frequently take up greatest satire on Jewish life in exile. visually rich. “A Bible was brought our prayers and religious practices. to prove that the very same little Though the catalysts for our various fruit grew in the holy land. The peregrinations have varied, it is Benjamin of harder the Tunyedevkans stared at Tunyedevka whose journey was inspired by it, the more clearly they saw before the oddest catalyst of them all: a date from their eyes the River Jordan, the the holy land. Benjamin dives into Cave of the Patriarchs, the tomb of Benjamin is one of the many unique Mother Rachel, the Wailing Wall. travelogues and travel personalities created by Minsk-born Yiddish They bathed in the hot springs of writer Mendel Mocher Sforim, the pen-name literature, thirsty for whatever Tiberias, climbed the Mount of of Shalom Jacob Abramovich. descriptions he can find of the Olives, ate dates and carobs, and Born in 1836, Abramovich is recognised stuffed their pockets with holy soil world beyond the shtetl. by all the great Yiddish writers as the zeida to bring back to Tunyedevka. For a (grandpa) of Yiddish literature. He was the moment, the whole of Tuneyadevka first enlightened Jewish author to write in was in the land of Israel.” Yiddish as opposed to Hebrew. He attempted Benjamin dives into travelogues

and travel literature, thirsty for whatever descriptions he can find of the world beyond the shtetl. He prepares himself for the journey by venturing alone into the local forest, and getting lost in the process. Hearing a voice in the distance, he immediately imagines it to be a highwayman. Despite initially being overcome with fear, he steels and reprimands himself, “For shame, Benjamin! You dream of voyaging to far deserts and oceans teeming with griffins, hydrae, and anthropophagi, yet tremble at the thought of encountering a robber in the forest? I TRAVEL LITE swear, I thought better of you!” These words achieve little. Although he TO TEL AVIV discovers that the suspected highwayman is simply a peasant driving a cart, Benjamin faints, wakes up in the cart, and believes himself taken captive by Arabs. Like Don Quixote before him, he believes every fanciful thought which enters his head, and embarks on a journey with his own Sancho Panza, a fellow-Jew called Sendrel. Unlike Quixote, whom few actually take seriously, nearly everyone believes Benjamin’s delusions of grandeur. In fact, the act of setting out on the road makes him a hero. He is even suspected at times of being the Moshiach. This work of satire is said to be inspired by an actual Jewish traveller called Benjamin, who lived hundreds of years earlier. This Benjamin was born in around 1127 in the city of Tudela, located in the northern Spanish province of Navarre. From ZAR 5 700 Benjamin of Tudela is the author of one of the most famous early travel books, ALL INCLUSIVE Massaot Shel Rabbi Benjamin (The Itinerary of Benjamin of Tudela). A rabbi by training, he set out on a world journey around 1159. During the next 14 years, he travelled to areas in Greece, Syria, ancient Palestine, Mesopotamia, Persia, and Arabia. He is also believed to be the first European to approach the Chinese border. He visited 300 cities in all, including many of importance in Jewish history. Fly ELAL Israel Airlines The book he wrote to describe these travels, first translated in the 1840s, gave scholars one of the first eyewitness accounts From Johannesburg to Tel Aviv Return of life in the Middle Ages throughout parts of southern Europe and the Middle East. Hand Luggage (8kg) and Meal Included Benjamin included fascinating descriptions of the physical conditions under which Jewish people lived in these regions, as well Contact ELAL direct on (011) 620-2525, or visit our as politics, trade, and geography. website www.elal.co.il to Book Now! So, when you’re next looking for inspiration to set out and see the world, perhaps Freshfellas or some other well- Subject to availability and to change due to rate of exchange and/or withdrawal without prior notice. Terms and Conditions Apply. E&OE www.elal.com stocked greengrocer might be the place to start. 28 June – 5 July 2019 Travel SA JEWISH REPORT XV Hot tips for Jewish travellers JORDAN MOSHE should include appropriately and you’ll ensure you are translated equivalents of, “I understood and welcomed. ince we journeyed from Egypt to don’t eat anything that is not If all else fails, remember escape slavery, certain guidelines have gluten-free, vegan-friendly, that a Chabad House can be always been relevant to Jews when we and contains no traces of found within a 10km radius Stravel. animal products,” as well as, of your location. To make We are known for jetting off with “When my aunt visited this your search as discreet and everything barring the kitchen sink, but place, she said that…” unobtrusive as possible, there are a number of until now unwritten Locals will always always carry a picture of the tips which govern the way we travel. appreciate hearing you Rebbe with you, and flash it Here is some advice you might want to speak their mother tongue, at anyone who looks like they consider for your next holiday, whether so no matter how much could direct you to Chabad. you’re going to Beaufort West or the they insist that you speak Remember to be persistent, Bahamas. English, continue to make and break into a rousing Before going anywhere, read up on the those strangled sounds chorus of “Mashiach” if all history and current affairs of the location your audiobook taught you, else fails. They’ll get the hint. you are considering visiting, and make sure to be as thorough as possible. You don’t want to be branded an ignoramus when confronted with a landmark you are unable to identify. Instead, you want to be an expert not only on the sites, but the people, their food, their families, and whether their children have married into good families or not – heaven forbid! The intricacies of Jewish geography can spring up anywhere. Then you’ll want to consider what to pack. In theory, how much you pack depends partially on how long you’ll stay. However, you’ll probably want to ensure that your apparel is de rigueur (current fashion) wherever you are, as you wouldn’t want to give your community a bad name. With this in mind, be sure to include in your luggage every possible colour combination to complement your surroundings. Heading to the Kruger Park? Leopard print cannot go amiss. Men can find a suitably-patterned kippa for any setting, so they have no excuse for failing to blend in anywhere, be it the red-light district or the Vatican. When you’re a traveller with dietary restrictions, there are logistical challenges. Be aware that not every delicacy you come across is kosher, nor is it guaranteed to be as flavourful as your mother’s. Imagine walking down the bustling streets of Bangkok, passing street food vendors hawking their wares, and delectable smells wafting your way. What you see might look like Shabbos cholent, but it isn’t necessarily so. It might be worth looking up kosher restaurants in the area (as suggested in an article on page VIII) before going out in search of supper or befriending local Jewish residents who seem like the sort to invite strange, foreign Jews into their homes. You are still encouraged to take food with you – how much and what will depend on whether you suffer from heartburn, the amount your family can eat, and what you usually enjoy at the Shabbos table. Remember that Shabbos customs tend to differ around the globe, and what is true of Glenhazel might not be so in Madrid. Note that ring-fighting bulls pass through all local shuls during Kabbalat Shabbat, and this is a perfectly normal phenomenon. Sing along to tunes which are not familiar to you as loudly as possible, as this will show the locals that you are eager to envelop yourself in their community’s practices. It is advisable that you take a ready-to- use Shabbat kit wherever you go. Simply put all essential Shabbat items in a large ziplock bag, including matches, tea lights, a box of matzah crackers, a small grape juice, a cholent pot, the fine glaze Royal Dalton dinner service, and a 12-seater Shabbos table (complete with tablecloth, table runner, the good napkins, bobba’s challah board, and bobba herself). It goes without saying that you should commit to memory a few useful words and phrases in the local language. These The Leading Luxury Hospitality Experience strictly Glatt Kosher Cholov Yisroel Follow us Follow

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24, rue Octave Feuillet · 75116 Paris Tel : (+33) 1 53 43 02 24 · Fax : (+33) 1 80 18 27 27 Organization of your private events on our destinations 28 June – 5 July 2019 SA JEWISH REPORT 13 Chance encounter helps opera-singing Uber driver’s career TALI FEINBERG needed to put positive energy out line up at Durban’s Music at the come and hear him in person,” says they met. “This past weekend, we into the universe and something Lake, performing with Mi Casa Davey. were reunited in Johannesburg, hen Menzi Mngoma would come. I asked his permission and Hot Water. He was also invited She is now raising funds for when he was invited to perform at auditioned for the Cape to post the videos on Facebook. by Anthea Ambursley to perform him to attend iPOP in Los Angeles a private function. I will continue Town Opera on 12 June, Little did I know that through my at the second Annual AfriCAN in December, an annual event to support and encourage Menzi on heW couldn’t believe the turn his post and simple request, I would be Authors Awards. which promotes emerging talent his journey.” life had taken. After that, he was that someone who would help to Yet, the Voices of South Africa to agents. “He will have the Davey has gained hope from accepted to compete in the Voices expose his natural talent.” International Opera Singing the encounter. “Negative stories of South Africa International Opera What transpired about South Africa not only Singing Competition and master afterwards is the unsettle us as a people, but create classes to be held in Cape Town. stuff of a Hollywood a disharmonious environment. In All this happened simply because movie. “I never order to bring about balance and Mngoma – an Uber driver – opened imagined that my to move forward as a nation, we up to a passenger, Kim Davey, that post would go viral. need to strive towards achieving the he was an opera singer. My friend suggested spirit of ubuntu (humanity). This “Nothing in life is coincidence. We that I make the post experience has reaffirmed for me were put in one another’s paths for public, and that is that there is good in the world, and a reason,” says Davey, whose video when the number of that by working together, anything of the opera singing Uber driver shares climbed. The is possible.” has gone viral, leading to these life- video has since been She says her Jewish identity changing opportunities. viewed more than played an important role. “Judaism “On 23 May, I went to Durban on 650 000 times. The teaches us to be socially responsible, a work-related trip and hailed an response has been which is achieved through acts of Uber. The driver, Menzi Mngoma, overwhelming and loving kindness and the giving of and I got chatting, and I discovered as a result, Menzi tzedakah (charity). I believe that that he was an opera singer who due has been offered we all have the potential to make a to a lack of opportunities in South some wonderful difference in someone’s life. Africa, became an Uber driver to opportunities,” says “We need to be less self-absorbed, support his family,” Davey says. Davey. more conscious of one another, and “Not letting the unique Jacaranda FM’s Kim Davey and Menzi Mngoma opportunity most importantly, take action. As opportunity pass me by, I asked breakfast show, Competition and master classes to showcase his talent in front a child, it was instilled in me not Menzi if he would mind singing for Breakfast with Martin Bester, stand out for him above all else. of more than 200 agents,” Davey to judge a book by its cover, and me. He gladly obliged, and I was donated R5 000 to Mngoma “The master classes are led says. She has no doubt that the always treat people the way I would blown away. I asked to film him. In and his family. East Coast Radio by international guests and opera singing Uber driver will go expect to be treated. If you can be our subsequent conversation, I told arranged for him to work with representatives of opera companies. far. “He has a dream to perform anything in this world, be kind.” him, ‘There must be someone who musician Hendrik Joerges to have Furthermore, there is a concert opera internationally, and he can help you!’ a single produced, recorded, and planned at the Baxter Concert is committed to achieving that • If you want to help Mngoma, or find “When Menzi dropped me back released on the radio station. He Hall in Cape Town that Menzi will dream.” out more about sending him to iPop, at the airport, I told him not to was invited by Stuart Barry from perform in, so all the people who She and Mngoma have visit http://gotalent.co.za/send- give up on his dreams, and that he Impi Concert Events to join its have supported him so far can communicated every day since menzi-to-hollywood.html

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William Kentridge, Landscape with sports field, 1982 | Estimate: R2 200 000 – 3 200 000 14 SA JEWISH REPORT 28 June – 5 July 2019 From the bima to singing La Traviata JORDAN MOSHE is more than a community cantor, having fell over Shabbat. Although his studied opera at the Tshwane University of regular stint as chazzan did help hazzan Yudi Cohen this week Technology. somewhat, he says the two styles exchanged the bima for the stage, Although he has had his degree for are very different. stepping into the spotlight to put more than ten years, this was his debut in “Chazzanut helped me to some Chis vocal prowess in service of a different professional opera on stage, and the stakes extent. The deeper meaning of purpose. were certainly as high as the notes. both tefilla and opera need to be Kitka became cantata as he stepped out of “The last time I performed a proper opera tapped into to give the singing Shabbos into the role of Alfredo in Verdi’s was while studying,” said Cohen. “I played greater significance, but there’s La Traviata at the Johannesburg Theatre parts in operas like Carmen and La Boheme, no crossover in their respective on Saturday night, delivering a first-rate and the stress was enormous. This was my genres. While one can load opening night performance. first appearance in a professional opera, and I singing in shul with certain La Traviata is one of the most popular did not anticipate the stress it would bring.” amount of emotion, opera singing operas of all time, telling a heart-breaking This is unsurprising, as Cohen was cast in requires a specific channelling of emotion. A people, and as Jews. Alfredo loves a woman story of love, sacrifice, and tragedy. It the role in mid-April. An active who is scorned by society, but his father premiered in Venice in 1853, and has chazzan, businessman, and won’t support him. It’s all about yichus remained a classic. Producer Pierre du Toit father, he was given little more [lineage], loyalty to parents, avoiding and Sempre Opera brought the show to South than two months to prepare after scandal, and making our own choices. In Africa audiences this week in Braamfontein, not having performed in an opera the frum [observant] world today, these where it will be staged until Sunday. for more than ten years. continue to be concerns. What children want The SA Jewish Report chatted to Cohen “Pierre du Toit was one of my is replaced with what their parents want. after his performance, getting insight into lecturers at university,” Cohen “My background as a religious Jew helped the demands of operatic music. Cohen, a said. “He phoned me the day me to understand this. The opera questions familiar face and voice at Sydenham Shul, before I left for a trip to New whose life you’re living, whether you care York to ask if I wanted what society thinks, and how you navigate the role. Although I its contradictions. We need to express who studied opera, I’d never we are.” studied the part, and For Cohen, singing is an expression of Du Toit was taking life. He stresses that we all need to find a lot on faith. But I our way of achieving this. “To say that you had actually planned to watch La chazzan is not necessarily an opera singer.” must follow your heart is a cliché. What

Photos: Yolandi Jacobsz Yolandi Photos: Traviata in New York on my trip, Although he was the sole debutante in the I’m saying is that you don’t need to explain so I took it as a sign that it was cast, Cohen took to the role naturally, and yourself to anyone, especially when you’re meant to be.” said that he found that his character and the trying to find the nourishment your soul Juggling his various plot resonated with him as a Jew. Though needs. If you have a passion for something, commitments, Cohen devoted the story is set in 19th century Paris, he you must do it, because that’s the talent G-d hours to memorising his lines believes it remains pertinent to us today. gave you. If people try to supress it, they and the music in spite of “There are human issues which Verdi could be preventing you from achieving your missing some rehearsals which addresses that remain relevant to us as purpose.”

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NOMINATIONS FOR THE ABSA JEWISH ACHIEVER AWARDS 2019 NOW OPEN Send nominations to [email protected] 16 SA JEWISH REPORT 28 June – 5 July 2019 Beth Din has right to express its view A column of the SA Jewish Board of Deputies The collective gasp from the community could be the case of BDS, because of its approach, it isn’t. Taking anti-Semitism seriously heard the moment the SA Jewish Report rolled But here’s a question: should it be an issue At the time of writing, I am in Israel with Zev off the production line. “Beth Din reinforces for the Beth Din to have a view on rabbinic Krengel, the national vice-president of the South ABOVE prohibition on rabbis attending Limmud” attendance when it comes to Limmud? Is it African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD). We BOARD was the lead headline. With the ink still wrong for it to say that a certain environment have participated in a number of high-level “smudgeable”, the outrage began. It was swift, doesn’t reflect its values, and that for that meetings aimed at providing updates on the Shaun Zagnoev cutting, and mostly critical of the Beth Din’s reason, it won’t allow rabbinic council rabbis to political developments in South Africa, sharing decision. attend? information about our community, and getting Jewish communities in the diaspora operate. This decision has been the position of the It wouldn’t be the first perspectives on the political situation in Israel. Today, unfortunately, we have to rely mostly upon rabbinate for the past 10 years. organisation to do this. Yes, This will form the basis of my next column. This ourselves to provide adequate security for our My own response bothered me. A childhood we might hate the very idea week, I would like to focus on National Director communal events and installations. Indeed, our reflex to reject being of “thought police” but to be Wendy Kahn’s recent participation in two very own Community Security Organisation was formed told what to do kicked INNER VOICE clear, they aren’t telling us important international gatherings in Bucharest, on the initiative of the SAJBD soon after the AMIA in. Nothing would that we shouldn’t go. They are Romania, namely the International Meeting of attack. motivate me more to Howard Feldman telling their members that Special Envoys and Coordinators Combating Anti- At the directors’ forum, senior communal attend the conference they shouldn’t. Semitism, and the annual World Jewish Congress professionals from more than fifty countries (as a speaker) than being told not to – not that And whereas I might not like the approach National Community Directors’ Forum. came together to share experiences and discuss I am an orthodox rabbi (or any other kind). or even agree with it, and whereas I might be At the special envoys meeting, presentations common challenges. Two of the issues discussed Meaning that the notification, or prohibition, convinced that there must be a solution to the were made by a range of senior political and at length were the dire situation of the Jewish wasn’t even aimed at me. quandary, I do wonder if I am within my rights communal leaders at the forefront of combating community in crisis-ridden Venezuela, and the Last year, I was deeply critical of the fact to be outraged about it. anti-Semitism worldwide. They included Elan Carr, ongoing problem of anti-Semitism within the UK’s that Limmud had invited speakers from the If we are so open to various views and United States special envoy to monitor and combat Labour Party. Boycott Divestment Sanctions (BDS) campaign standpoints, why is this the one viewpoint we anti-Semitism; the United Kingdom’s special envoy Taking part in forums like this makes one realise to present at the conference. My concern was reject? By definition, a speaker at Limmud might for post-Holocaust issues; and Anna Bokshitskaya, that Jewish communities everywhere have their that many in the anti-Israel movement routinely genuinely make a case for underwater yoga, or the executive director of the Russian Jewish own unique challenges, which we need to bear in deny a voice to those who support Israel. atheism being the only way to serve G-d, and we Congress. mind when dealing with our own. We can also be Intimidation tactics, anti-Semitism, and even would tolerate it because we are “tolerant”, but a On the one hand, it is reassuring to see how strengthened by the many sincere and committed support of terror are not unknown, and I felt view from the rabbinate that relies on thousands seriously governments across Europe and further non-Jewish opponents of anti-Semitism who are that to grant them a platform was to – quite of years of deep learning is something we reject afield are taking the threat of anti-Semitism, and fighting the scourge alongside us. Lord Kevin literally – shoot ourselves in the foot. out of hand. the kind of practical measures that are being Shinkwin, who we were honoured to bring out Limmud ultimately withdrew the invitation. I have never attended Limmud, but I hope to implemented to protect Jewish communities. to South Africa earlier this year to speak at Yom At the time, I was challenged for the present there this year. That is my choice, and On the other, it’s deeply sobering that 75 years Hashoah and at various other human-rights inconsistency of my approach. Why would I feel my decision to make. after the Holocaust, the hatred against Jews has forums, is one of them. Speaking in a debate on so strongly about issues relating to Israel, but I still hope the Beth Din and Limmud will increased to such an extent it necessitates these anti-Semitism in the House of Lords last week, not about issues relating to the preservation of be able to reach a compromise, perhaps one responses. Shinkwin paid generous tribute to the SAJBD core Judaism? that involves a stream that they would be The meeting included an event to mark the “for the wonderful work that its national director, Why was it different, I was asked, to allow comfortable with. But in the absence of a 25th anniversary of the bombing of the Asociación Wendy Kahn, and her colleagues do to promote speakers to present when they might undermine solution, whether I like it or not, I need to make Mutual Israelita Argentina (AMIA) Jewish the Jewish community and its continuing and some of the tenants of Torah and Judaism? The sure that I respect the Beth Din’s approach community centre in Buenos Aires. Considered to significant contribution to South Africa”. answer that I gave is that in the case of religious just as much as I respect the underwater yoga be the worst terrorist attack against Jews in the presentation, that debate is possible, whereas in teacher or atheist. post-World War II era, the AMIA atrocity claimed • Listen to Charisse Zeifert on Jewish Board Talk, 85 lives, and fundamentally changed the way 101.9 ChaiFM every Friday from 12:00 to 13:00. This column is paid for by the SA Jewish Board of Deputies

  How Anne Frank remains vulnerable at 90 2019 depict Jews, such as Der Sturmer in 1934, with its front-page cartoons of ugly Jews in TAKING grotesque poses, accompanied by allegations EUROPCAR WOMEN IN of Jewish ritual murder – the notorious “blood LEADERSHIP AWARD ISSUE libel”. Geoff Sifrin But as the Holocaust recedes further into history, younger generations of Jews become Honouring the leadership, impact, achievements, In this age of vulgarity, with increasing anti- more distanced from it. Even some of the success and overall contribution of distinctive Jewish Semitism and racism, the power of the mass children of Holocaust survivors who grew up women in business or in the broader South African media to propagate hatred through the internet with the constant echo of what happened to community. has increased a million-fold. their parents are less inhibited about how they It draws in people who would shudder at portray it. accusations of anti-Semitism, including naïve Another, equally vulgar treatment of Anne Jews. Who would have thought that this power Frank and the Holocaust, reported in May would result in mocking world-renowned in the New York Times, involved the Harvard holocaust victim Anne Frank, who would have Lampoon, an independent satirical publication been 90 this month? run by students at Harvard University. It One of the episodes of a show currently published a sexualised, digitally-modified distributed by Netflix is called The Roast of image of Anne Frank, depicting her facing the Anne Frank, in which she is “roasted” by a panel camera, with her head mounted on the body that includes Hitler. He mocks her, saying, of a slim, large-breasted, bikini-clad woman. “Everyone knows you as a hero and a bestselling A bold headline above it read, “Gone before author, but to me you’ll always be little number her time: virtual aging technology shows us 825060.” what Anne Frank would have looked like if It is part of a Historical Roasts programme, she hadn’t died.” The text below it read, “Add where various historical figures take the hot this to your list of reasons the Holocaust seat to be lampooned by their peers, including sucked.” Abraham Lincoln and Princess Diana. An uproar followed among students and It seems crude that the late Anne Frank faculty, with demands of accountability. The should be included. journal apologised publicly, and promised to Comedian Jeff Ross, who hosts the show, review the editorial processes which allowed tries to deflect accusations towards him, this to slip through. saying that he only kids people he loves, and TheNew York Times has itself been accused Anne Frank is close to his heart. He says her of anti-Semitism after it recently published diary made him cry. This sounds like sloppy a cartoon featuring Israeli Prime Minister Hollywood thinking, where nothing is sacred. Benjamin Netanyahu. It apologised for the Nominations close at 17:00 on 14 July 2019 Most Jews still view any depiction of the incident. Holocaust and its victims as a serious thing, not The power of internet-based media houses is Send nominations to [email protected] to be treated light heartedly. This is particularly new in the world because of its scale. Netflix is the case in an age when rising anti-Semitism like a behemoth that lacks cultural sensitivity. reminds us of the 1930s. It challenges the moral basis on which the Jewish historians remember Nazi media operate, not only in relation to Jews, publications which used cartoon imagery to but others. MORIAH COLLEGE SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

ABOUT OUR SCHOOL Located in the heart of the Eastern Suburbs, in Sydney, Australia, Located in Sydney, Australia, Moriah College is a leading Modern Orthodox Zionist Moriah College was established in 1943 by Abraham Rabinovitch, Join the Moriah College Family school, catering to students from Early Learning at 2 years of age, right through to an extraordinary man with an extraordinary dream. He envisaged MORIAH COLLEGE High School graduation. Moriah is the school of choice for the majority of students a Jewish school in Sydney to rival any in the wider community Employment who attend a Jewish Day School in Sydney. – a school where every child, regardless of academic aptitude BURSARYWe are always PROGRAMsearching for dynamic 2019 and WHOor financial WE ARE standing, would have access to both an excellent ‘Jewishengaging Education educators is the lifeblood who have of Jewish a passion survival’ Golda Meir, former Israeli Prime Minister Sincegeneral its inception, and comprehensive Moriah College has Jewish been education.an integral centre for Jewish life, for inspiring their students ZionismToday, and Moriah learning. College We take is thegreat largest pride in Modern being a wellOrthodox respected Zionist pillar of Jewish valuesschool in our in thecommunity. Southern Hemisphere. It is an an ever-evolving place Student Enrolment Guidedof learning by our Collegewhere valuesstudents of kindness, and staff respect, members integrity, have responsibility access toand the Discover the exceptional opportunities available at commitment,most advanced we aim facilities. to make InJewish the children2017 Higher proud ofSchool who they Certificate, are and what It is ourMoriah belief College that for every our students. Jewish child Moriah College was ranked top Independent, Educational they can achieve. Fee support options are available. school in NSW. deserves the opportunity to access a Our vision is to educate and encourage children to achieve personal excellence and makeFrom a positive Early Learning contribution, to Yearinformed 12, Moriahby the richness College of studentstheir Jewish heritage. Moriah PleaseCollege contact education. experience an exciting learning journey through which they are ThroughLauren the generosity Koseff [email protected] of our community and the support WHATencouraged MAKES US to DIFFERENT? develop their unique skills and abilities to become of The Moriah Foundation, Moriah College is offering a Moriahfuture-ready, offers an innovativeexciting personalised young adults.learning experience inspiring students to for more information or to arrange a flourish, think critically, display resilience, take on challenges and develop the skills numberconfidential of bursaries, grantedmeeting onin theJohannesburg basis of financial exhibitedPERSONALISED by future-ready LEARNING young adults. assessment, onfor 15,students 16 or wishing17 July to2019 join us in 2019: CombiningOur strategy academic advocates programs a withgrowth innovative mindset experiential infused and with co-curricular optimism PRIMARY SCHOOL offeringsand resilience, gives all studentsinspiring every students opportunity to think to differentiate of themselves their asschool having Visa sponsorshipEntry into Years for employment K-4 for the duration purposes of a will be experience. We cultivating an inclusive and welcoming school culture offering the limitless potential. Combining high quality academic studies with Moriahprovided College Primary where School required education supporta wide to rangeensure ofeveryone co-curricular feels that activities, they belong. we give our students HIGH SCHOOL A strongevery foundationopportunity of Modernto differentiate Orthodox Jewish and personalisevalues is woven their into school the fabric of eachexperience student’s identityto ensure encouraging progress them and to success. develop an interest in their culture, an EntryVisit into www.moriah.nsw.edu.au Years 7-9 for the duration of a engagement with their heritage, and a lifelong connection to Israel and the Jewish Moriahto learn College more High about School our education school people.OUR TEACHERS LOVE WHAT THEY DO To learn more about our school and to register your interest Our inspiring educators use a range of best-practice teaching and in the Bursary Program please contact Brenda Jankelowitz, learning strategies to cater to the unique needs of each child and Admissions and Marketing Manager to motivate each student to become independent, enthusiastic [email protected] and innovative inquirers, both in the classroom and the wider For more information visit www.moriah.nsw.edu.au world. Bursary Applications close 8 June 2018 JEWISH LIFE AND LEARNING is more than a component of our school – it underpins a way of life that serves as the driving force behind everything we do at Moriah. Our students feel supported and safe to develop their own Jewish identity. They are encouraged to develop an interest in their culture, an engagement with their heritage, and responsibility for members of their community.

Lighting their way to personal discovery, At its core, Moriah College is Moriah College aims to kindle within about belonging. all students the strength and knowledge to SPARK curiosity and IGNITE passion so that they can SHINE through their achievements.

Queens Park Road, Bondi Junction, Sydney, Australia Tel: (02) 9375 1600 Email: [email protected] www.moriah.nsw.edu.au CELEBRATING 75 YEARS 1943-2018 | 5703-5778 18 SA JEWISH REPORT 28 June – 5 July 2019 Fasting can be good for you – but don’t make a meal of it ON 24-hour periods, similar to the length of Yom It seems that the success of intermittent fasting sounds great for everyone, right? NOURISHING Kippur, for one to two days per week. The fasting can be due to it being easier to follow Unfortunately, it isn’t. While a lot of research other five days incorporate normal eating than a “normal” diet, resulting in increased has been done on its benefits, many of the NOSH routines. compliance and sustainability. studies to date have a variety of limiting factors. • M odified Fasting or 5:2. This involves a fast Intermittent fasting doesn’t dictate what These range from the length and size of the Hilit Milner day where individuals restrict their caloric and how much you should be eating, but rather study group, to testing on animals rather than intake to 25% of their normal daily caloric when you should be eating. However, people humans. avid and Ben are sitting at their requirements for two non-consecutive days forget that creating a caloric deficit is still Intermittent fasting is not a one-size-fits-all breakfast meeting. David turns to Ben, of the week – the other five days incorporate important, and mindfully eating a balanced solution. It’s important to understand that and asks what he wants for breakfast. normal eating routines. choosing whether to do it also depends on DBen replies, “Nothing thank you – I’m fasting.” The only things you your medical history, and your health goals. Taken aback, David asks, “What fast have I can have during total Certain groups of people should not fast missed? I know it’s not Tisha B ’Av or Yom fasting hours are water, at all, or should do so under professional Kippur!” Ben laughs and says, “I’m intermittent black tea, or black coffee guidance, including: fasting”. (no milk or sugar). - Pregnant or breastfeeding women, women One of the most popular health trends today Numerous changes with fertility or hormonal problems; is intermittent fasting. As with any new dieting occur in our body - People with a history of nutritional approach, there are many basic questions about when we fast. When deficiencies or any form of disordered intermittent fasting: what is it, does it work, and we eat, glucose and fat eating; can anyone do it? are used as the body’s - P eople with advanced diabetes on insulin; Well, to answer this, let’s start at the top, and main source of energy. and understand what it is and what the research Glucose is usually used - Anyone suffering from chronic diseases or says. first. on medication. Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern that However, when Though intermittent fasting can be cycles between periods of fasting and eating. glucose is not available beneficial, as always, it’s best to fast under It‘s promoted for fat and weight loss, longevity, to use as fuel, such as in a fasting state, the body diet still holds true. Being a glutton during non- the guidance of a dietitian as more conclusive enhanced cognitive ability, and improvements switches to using fat as its main fuel source. This fasting hours will limit its success. research is needed, especially in the case of in markers such as blood sugar, cholesterol, and can then lead to “fat burning”. Intermittent fasting is also in the spotlight specific patient profiles. inflammation. Hormonal changes also occur during a fasting for other potentially powerful benefits such Ask yourself what eating approach is There are different types of intermittent state like a drop in insulin, which increases the as a reduced risk of developing diabetes due to most sustainable for you. If fasting results in fasting. Some of the most popular are: accessibility of fat stores, and an increase in reduced insulin levels, improved cardiac health imbalanced eating with extreme hunger, side • The 16:8 ethodM or Leangains Fasting growth hormone, which stimulates growth and by reducing blood pressure and LDL cholesterol effects, or poor compliance, then it’s not a Protocol. This is the most popular type of cell regeneration. (the unhealthy cholesterol). It also potentially balanced approach for you. fasting routine. In this method, you fast for Weight loss is by far the most studied increases longevity, though the studies have Learn what’s good for your health, and go 16 consecutive hours, and eat during the benefit of intermittent fasting. Research is mostly been done on mice. with it. remaining eight hours. This means that if you mixed as to whether intermittent fasting or a Research has also shown that intermittent stop eating dinner at 20:00, you fast until normal calorie-restrictive diet is more effective fasting upregulates our antioxidant and anti- • Hili t Milner is a registered clinical dietitian who 12:00 the following day. for weight loss. Some studies show that inflammatory pathways as a result of causing a runs a private practice, works in a top private • A lternate-day fasting or eat-stop-eat intermittent fasting results in less muscle loss mild stress response in our cells. hospital, and has founded a wellness blog called fasting. This involves complete fasting for and greater reduction in body fat. Based on the above information, intermittent ‘Sunrise by HM’.

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Nominations close at 17:00 on 14 July 2019 Nominations close at 17:00 on 14 July 2019 Send nominations to [email protected] Send nominations to [email protected] 28 June – 5 July 2019 SA JEWISH REPORT 19 Hatbox from Kovno tells family history JORDAN MOSHE who in 1933 planned to leave for Cuba to escape delicatessen in Cyrildene. Doreen cooked the photos to create a special project.” Nazi persecution. supplies herself. The project is called “Brimming with Pride: hen 20-year old Doreen Benjamin “My mother-in-law was by then earning a Although she no longer practised as a milliner, A Milliner’s Story”, and includes the hat box, Fait left Lithuania for South Africa living as a milliner, having been sent to ORT by Doreen’s collection of hats became part of the which has been encased in pewter and enhanced in 1934, she arrived with a duvet her uncle when she was 18,” says Ruth. Her uncle lives of her children and grandchildren. “We with photographs of Doreen. Among them is cover,W a set of candlesticks, a tin of Wissotzky suggested that she contact her estranged father one featuring her crafting a hat at the tea, and a hat box full of hats. ORT centre in Kovno, which is why Ruth Although all these items remain Gina Dave with her Roots school project made the decision to hand the hat box with her family until today, it is over to ORT Johannesburg for display. the hatbox that best captures her “My father, Morris Seeff, was very endurance. It is also this hatbox that involved in ORT,” she explains. “Our is what Doreen – who passed away whole family knew a lot about ORT, and in 1998 – is remembered for by her the work it does. When we moved from children and grandchildren. Savoy to Oaklands in 2017, I decided Doreen’s unique legacy has now to thin out the collection of stuff I’d not only been preserved, but is part accumulated over the years, and chose of a campaign to collect and display to take the box and hats to ORT. These artifacts connected to ORT at the ORT hats have come a very long way, and SA Academy in Johannesburg. ORT is part of their story.” This is because Doreen trained to Gina’s project was also given become a milliner at her local ORT to ORT, and is the first in centre in Kovno (Lithuania) when she what the centre hopes was 18, creating the hats which will go will eventually be a on display with the hatbox. collection of items Her daughter-in-law, Ruth Fait, a related to the history teacher by profession, was organisation’s determined to record her mother-in- history. law’s story from the moment she heard Ruth believes it. “The hats that and their her story have been part and ask to join him were always using them,” says of our lives in South Africa. Ruth. “They came out for fancy for decades,” Although she dress parties or even to be used with Ruth says. had never seen Purim costumes. Although she wanted “We knew him, he sent her to forget the past, the hats became part of that she a ticket, and she her family’s life.” had been a arrived here in Ruth received the box in 1984 when milliner, but 1934.” Doreen Doreen moved out of her house in Berea, she never soon met and and after recording her mother-in-law’s made hats for married fellow story in detail, she kept the box in her home anyone after Shavel resident where her grandchildren could become arriving in Charles Fait, who acquainted with its contents and story. South Africa. was 13 years older It is for this reason that Gina Dave, Ruth’s The hatbox “These hats than her, and had granddaughter, chose to use the collection as took her back been living in the subject of her Roots school project earlier mother- to a past that South Africa since this year, and showcase her great-grandmother’s in-law would be surprised and proud to know was painful 1926. legacy. that her humble hatbox and its contents are so to remember, Both lost all the Ruth gave her all the information she required, greatly treasured. Ruth looks forward to seeing it and because relatives they had sharing what she’d gleaned from her mother-in- go on display at the centre. she wanted in Europe to the law before she passed away at 84 in 1999. “My mother-in-law was a tremendous to forget Doreen Benjamin Fait Holocaust, but “I’d asked her all about herself and where she woman,” she concludes. “Until she died, she was Lithuania, she went on to have came from,” says Ruth. “I was the only one who always immaculate, and could always be found left her trade three children of their own really pushed her to tell me about her life before reading. Her story is one of endurance and behind as well.” – Faye, Norman, and Ruth’s husband, Abram. coming to South Africa. When Gina told me that triumph despite pain and loss. She made the Doreen was born in 1914 in Shavel, Living in the southern suburbs of she wanted to use it for her project, I took the most of a bad lot. Her legacy shows us just how Lithuania, and her early years were marked Johannesburg, the couple ran their own kosher hats out of storage, and we combined it with well she succeeded.” by hardship and loss. Her father, Samuel, left for South Africa before her birth to seek out a better life for his family, but Doreen lost both her sister and mother to typhus when she was just 11. Doreen was raised by her mother’s sister, Rocha, and Rocha’s husband, Feivel Rosenfeld, בס"ד AMAZING LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITY YESHIVA COLLEGE COLLEGE AT YESHIVA COLLEGE The Torah School of Excellence Yeshiva College Primary School is seeking a talented Rabbi / Religious Personality to join the leadership team of our school. The successful candidate will serve as the Rabbi / Torah Leader of our Primary WINTER SALE School, responsible for directing and inspiring our Limudei Kodesh staff and uplifting our Primary School learners. The candidate must have strong interpersonal skills, be a team player and be passionate about Primary Up to School Torah education with relevant experience. Responsibilities also include curriculum development and integration of experiential programming. Skills required include staff management, public speaking, ICT integration, project management, etc. less 50% Please submit your CV to [email protected]. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. on Toni, Barrington pants 1 WEEK ONLY OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY 09:30 – 15:30 GREAT THINGS HAPPENING AT YC! OPEN DAY STAY TUNED: YESHIVA COLLEGE COLLEGE 9 Grafton Ave, corner Roxborough Ave WATCH THIS SPACE ROSH CHODESH ELUL 01 SEP The Torah School of Excellence Craighall Park. (011) 447-0337 20 SA JEWISH REPORT 28 June – 5 July 2019 Letters

LIMMUD PROHIBITION A WHY IS THE BETH DIN SO AFRAID OF LIMMUD? STUPENDOUS OWN GOAL What a sad day for South African Jewry! This have attended Limmud many times (even some amazing Torah light into the Limmud The Beth Din is fruitlessly fighting last prohibition of rabbis attending Limmud is presenting at conferences) and have found it programme – what a lost opportunity! Where century’s war, and the collateral damage shameful, divisive, and creates alienation in to be stimulating, inspiring, and provocative. are the voices of the community, and where is unaffiliated Jews in our community our community. It’s such a wonderful opportunity to give the are the voices of the rabbis (are they too hungry for Jewish learning. Rather than First, does any conference involving Jewish 1 000 to 2 000 attendees some expansive afraid of the Beth Din and the chief, their protecting Torah Judaism, the popular life, Israel, and Jewish issues have to have a and creative Torah. What’s the Beth Din and jobs, and livelihood?) As a community, we open platform that is Limmud is handed Beth Din hechsher for South African rabbis chief rabbi afraid of? You would think South are entitled to know what halacha is being on a platter to a plethora of secular and to participate? I can understand if they are African rabbis could make a call as to whether violated? non-orthodox voices. representing the Beth Din (and the chief they could make a meaningful contribution Readers might be interested in reading Limmud’s goal is to help participants rabbi) or the Union of Orthodox Synagogues. or not. If they can’t do that, then maybe they the account of Rabbi Simon Jacobson, the “take their next step on their Jewish But what if they are participating in their shouldn’t be a rabbi. director of the Chabad New York Meaningful journey”. The Beth Din is ensuring own right? Of course, anyone can rightfully decide Life Center (and a presenter at Sinai Indaba) that for the not already frum Limmud- Second, why are we restricting or whether they want to attend or not, but of his very positive experience at London attendee, it’s very unlikely to be a step prohibiting the dissemination of Torah to to be prohibited by Beth Din decree! I find Limmud (www.meaningfullife.com/vayechi- towards a traditional Torah observant Jewish audiences. You might not agree with such a prohibition distasteful, it smacks of 2500-seekers/). United Kingdom Chief Rabbi journey. You can’t win a war of ideas by some of the other speakers, even vehemently an archaic policing of Torah teaching and Ephraim Mirvis also felt it was in order to running away. disagree, however why not use the platform thought control. I can imagine a handful attend the conference. Makes you think, The grounds for a blanket prohibition to inspire and share creative Torah? I of South African rabbis who could instil doesn’t it? – C Ralph, Johannesburg on all orthodox rabbis is puzzling, as there is no consensus across the WHERE ARE OUR RABBIS? orthodox world on this divisive Having read the article in the SA Jewish Report on 21 June 2019 we were able to hold onto our core beliefs and practices, but because matter. Our community rabbis are about the Beth Din ruling to reinforce the South African Rabbinical our leaders were able to respond to the challenges of the world around being dishonoured. Why should their Association’s prohibition on rabbis attending Limmud, I am left feeling them and innovate to meet the demands of the day. Ezra and Nehemiah, congregations respect their rulings extremely disappointed with our leadership. It is not only the response through the introduction of public Torah reading, enabled Judaism to or pay them any heed if the dayanim from these official leadership bodies, but the deafening silence from exist as a diaspora religion without a centralised temple. The Rambam, (judges) treat them like children. No our rabbis, that reverberates. I’m left assuming that their silence means by integrating Aristotelian philosophy with Torah and the writing of the other community has done such a consent. Mishneh Torah, was able to empower the Jews of his time to resist the thing. Globally, Limmud is attended by Their reticence to speak out on this and other issues is probably in physical and intellectual onslaught of Christianity and Islam. The Zionist orthodox Rabbis, haredi, non-haredi, response to an atmosphere of coercion created by the South African visionary, Theodor Herzl, dreamed of the Jewish State in Palestine at a chief and rosh yeshiva. The dayanim Rabbinical Association, the Beth Din, and the chief rabbi. It creates a fear time when this seemed impossible. and the chief rabbi may believe this of publicly expressing a divergent voice, thus becoming a betrayer of the The contribution of these historic Jewish visionary leaders may be too is inappropriate – and don’t have to “party line”. Having a counterview ultimately leads to stigmatisation and much to expect from our rabbis. There is, however, much to be learned attend – but to impose that viewpoint deliberate marginalisation. from the Limmud style of leadership. Limmud is a place where all Jewish on all orthodox rabbis in South Africa, This coerced silence is a worrying sign of a fragile, insecure Jewish people have a voice. There is one massive and gaping void – the absence of diverse communities, talents, and leadership and organisations without the values, confidence, and security of our appointed spiritual leaders and their diverse voices. hashkafot (meanings), is astounding. to withstand public debate and difference. Is this draconian and dogmatic How can anyone lead if they are forbidden to listen and forbidden to – Rabbi’s assistant in orthodox shul, style of leadership what is required “to uphold halacha and Torah values”? engage? Of what value are our rabbis, if their own religious judgement who requested anonymity Judaism has survived for more than 3 000 years not only because and agency is taken from them? – Nina Cohen, Johannesburg

ASSUMPTIONS PREMATURE, AS JEWISH COMMUNITY SURVEY NOT YET RELEASED The Kaplan Centre for Jewish Studies at the Cape Town community. These findings relate University of Cape Town is in the process of to religious, political, and demographic trends

 conducting the Jewish Community Survey of within Cape Town. This needs analysis has  South Africa (www.jcssa2019.co.za). not sought to develop a national picture of 2019 We have noted with concern recent the Jewish community, but has collected newspaper reports referencing the release of important data about Cape Town that we will findings from this study. No findings have release once this study is complete. been released, and no conclusive data will be We strongly advise and caution against ABSA BUSINESS AWARD available until the study is completed later this assumptions about current and future trends year. within the South African Jewish community Awarded to a Jewish person who has played a critical The Jewish Community Survey of South until all data from the Jewish Community leadership role in building a thriving business. Africa is a once-a-decade study of trends Survey of South Africa has been collected, within communal life. The data we collect analysed, and interpreted. is used to aid communal planning and give Given its importance to the Jewish an accurate portrait of the community. Its community, we urge all South African Jews to primary goal is not to estimate the current complete the survey at www.jcssa2019.co.za. size of the South African Jewish population. The fieldwork phase of the survey will close in Newspaper reports may have confused the a few weeks, so the time to participate is now. ongoing Jewish Community Survey of South Results from the Jewish Community Africa with a soon-to-be-completed needs Survey will be finalised by the end of 2019, analysis of the Cape Town Jewish community. and will be shared widely. – Professor Adam Preliminary findings of this needs analysis Mendelsohn, Kaplan Centre for Jewish have been shared with the leadership of the Studies

IMAM’S INCENDIARY SERMON ON MIDDLE EAST OPPORTUNISTIC We at Cape Town’s Open Mosque, South Africa’s most progressive Islamic house of worship, reject the bigoted stance of the Gatesville mosque regarding the volatile situation in the holy land. When Abdurahman Alexander, the imam of that orthodox institution, gives a highly incendiary sermon to mark the end of the blessed month of Ramadan, his manifestly ill- informed address only entrenches prejudice and partisanship. Instead of focusing on the venal corruption and religious tyranny of the Muslim Judicial Council, this opportunistic stalwart of the traditional Islamic clergy expediently defects attention from the growing rot that pervades the local Muslim community by highlighting the conflict in the Middle East. A far more effective and beneficial strategy would be to urge everyone in Israel/Palestine to come to the negotiating table so that a genuinely just, equitable, and lasting peace can be secured that guarantees the legitimate rights of Jews and Arabs. Anything that jeopardises the future of Jews in the region only exacerbates matters and encourages hardliners and extremists on both sides of the divide. – Dr T Hargey, The Open Nominations close at 17:00 on 14 July 2019 Mosque, Cape Town Send nominations to [email protected] Disclaimer: The letters page is intended to provide an opportunity for a range of views on any given topic to be expressed. Opinions articulated in the letters are those of the writers and do not reflect the views of theSA Jewish Report. The editor is not obliged to use every letter and will not publish vitriolic statements or any letters with inappropriate content. Letters will be edited and – if need be – shortened. Guidelines: Letters are limited to 400 words. Provide your full name, place of residence, and daytime phone number. Letters should be emailed to [email protected] www.kia.co.za

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24681 KIA Grand Sedona - C&O Life + K&K Magazines ENG FA.indd 1 2019/06/24 12:06 22 SA JEWISH REPORT 28 June – 5 July 2019 Letters RELIGIOUS INTOLERANCE MAKES SHORT-SIGHTED DECISION TAKES US BACKWARD BETH DIN INTOLERANCE SMACKS OF PARANOIA ME SICK I am an elderly orthodox Jew. I have supported Limmud for We feel the need to voice our dismay and be encouraging our rabbis to help I have taken umbrage over the past many years, and applaud it for the work it does. disappointment in the Beth Din at its members of our community find any six months or so at some of the I also admire it for the way it appeals to many young people rigid stance on Limmud South Africa. way to strengthen their connection to opinions in lead articles and letters who don’t only attend its events, but participate actively and At a time in which the South African our religion, our community, and our by some “prominent” members of the passionately. Jewish community is shrinking and country (as all these aspects are covered community. Last week’s front-page I was disappointed to read in the SA Jewish Report world attitudes to Jews and Israel are at Limmud). headline, in particular, made me sick (21 June) that the Beth Din has reinforced the decision made reminiscent of the events we read about The fact that they are even going so to the stomach, inferring that other by the South African Rabbinical Association and the chief in history books, it’s distressing to see far as considering authorising a psak for brands of Jewishness are not good rabbi to forbid South African orthodox rabbis from teaching such a narrow-minded, divisive, and something like this when there are so enough. or lecturing there, and that they have extended the ban to the outdated approach from our leadership. many other things they could rule on (for Most of the time, most Jews express wives of rabbis. Their decision to impinge on their example, a one-day Yom Tov as times are tolerance and understanding of co- I want to see my rabbi as well as other distinguished South affiliated rabbis’ rights of speech and accurate these days and we don’t need to religionists, be they secular, atheist, African rabbis, including our chief rabbi, at Limmud. I want thought is another can of worms. Do rely on the fires in Jerusalem!) is such a modern, or halachically observant to see my rabbi teach at Limmud. they feel their rabbis are so weak and waste of effort and resources. Jews. This ban is not just an own-goal for the Beth Din, it causes feeble minded that if they are exposed to Their attitude shows that they may Would the presence of orthodox yet more division in our community. Our numbers are not something different, they will be “turned not be interested in the needs of the rabbis at Limmud corrupt those growing. South African Jewry should be immensely proud to the dark side”? community at large, only those that fit rabbis, instead of them taking the that they are able to offer Sinai Indaba and Limmud to the Their need to control and dictate their mould. opportunity to strengthen Jewish community as opportunities to come together and learn. to our rabbis who they may associate What a lost opportunity to embrace knowledge among different people? Short-sighted decisions by the Beth Din take our with smacks of paranoia and power- different viewpoints, and generate We have attended several Limmud community backwards, not forward, and they force us mongering. a feeling of unity! – Etti and Daniel Sunday sessions in Johannesburg, and apart rather than bring us together. – Herbert Rajak, Surely, at such times, they should Shmukler, Johannesburg we encountered attendees of all levels Johannesburg LIMMUD ABOUT STRENGTHENING JEWISH TIES, NOT WEAKENING THEM of observance, everyone exhibiting JEWISH ORGANISATIONS CONFLICTED ON respect and the harmonious and The weekend I spend at Limmud is the with a community that seeks to revel FREEDOM OF THOUGHT intelligent interchange of ideas. highlight of my Jewish year. Contrary to in its expertise and wisdom on a wide Would it not be preferable for the Beth The Jewish world is strange, holding two conflicting the views expressed in last week’s SA Jewish range of topics. In light of all this, I was Din and its rabbis to pay more attention views on the same subject. Report (21 June), this is not a time when struck by the narrow-minded, cold, and to the problems of divorce, those of the The South African Zionist Federation has asked alumni I am vulnerable to weakening my links to unrepresentative mindset that issued this agunot (anchored women), and other to submit their objections to the University of Cape orthodox Judaism, but actually when those fatwa-like decree against Limmud. It’s just matters that impose suffering and Town against the proposed boycott of Israeli universities bonds are strongest. so tangential to the spirit of Limmud, and cruelty on many lives? and academics in order to protect freedom of thought The thrill and adventure of having a rather speaks volumes about a rabbinate Our community is rapidly diminishing. and open discussion. community of Jews celebrate their diversity that is conservative and out of touch with Would it not better to mekariv (bring Meanwhile, Chief Rabbi Dr Warren Goldstein, the is unparalleled by anything else on the the community is serves. someone closer to Judaism) than to South African Rabbinical Association, and the Beth Din Jewish calendar. The most attended sessions The fact that it creates a blanket ban on create further controversy have prohibited orthodox rabbis from participating in involve discussions of politics, current rabbis, who one would think would be well Isn’t discussion and interchange Limmud’s activities which encompass - guess what - affairs, art, literature, culture, and history, equipped to decide for themselves, only of ideas paramount and central to advancing freedom of thought and open discussion. not, as is suggested by the Beth Din, an serves to amplify the fears and desperation Jewish life and values? – Jack Miller, Which view do you support? – David Woolf, evangelical onslaught on orthodox Judaism. of a disconnected rabbinate. – Dr Hilton Johannesburg Johannesburg At Limmud, I am united in my Jewishness Rudnick, Johannesburg RABBINATE’S HYPOCRISY INDICATES ULTERIOR MOTIVE FOR LIMMUD BAN I have just finished reading the SA Jewish Report front-page article (21 June 2019) about Limmud with much dismay. To quote, “the Beth Din’s mandate is to uphold halacha and Torah

 values within the community”.  Later, I read that Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis regularly attends Limmud in England. 2019 Therefore, I must conclude that the esteemed Chief Rabbi Mirvis and the British rabbinate do not have a mandate to “maintain Torah values and halacha in the community”. Obviously, that’s nonsense. Therefore, I must come to the reasonable conclusion that our rabbinate has some other reason to boycott Limmud. ABSA BUSINESS ICON AWARD I ask our rabbinate to give reasons for not supporting Limmud, and not issue a pompous statement which says nothing. Perhaps they think only rabbonim can teach Jewish matters. Awarded to a Jewish person who has achieved iconic The worst aspect of this matter comes last. The Beth Din is considering imposing a psak on the status within the business community. issue (a halachic ruling that would make this policy official Jewish law). This would be an infamous first in the Jewish world.– Paul Rome, Johannesburg

RABBINICAL ASSOCIATION’S INTOLERANCE A DISGRACE I feel disgusted at the South African Rabbinical Association’s stance on Limmud. I have been going to Limmud since its inception. The diversity of its lectures and the variety of its presenters make it difficult to choose from this spectacular event. It is the highlight of the calendar year, and it brings the Jewish community together regardless of their beliefs. Anne Harris, the wife of the late Rabbi Cyril Harris, has attended and presented at Limmud. Overseas rabbis attend and present at Limmud worldwide. Non-Jewish teachers are employed at Jewish schools. Do they believe in the halacha and Torah law? I can imagine how uncomfortable a non-Jewish person must feel after reading that article. It’s an absolute disgrace, and creates divisiveness. The association’s intolerance for others breeds anti-Semitism. The least it could do is apologise to Limmud, and not discourage congregants from attending. Its members are the poorer for not engaging in this enriching experience. – Ruth Freedman, Johannesburg

Sunday (30 June) • Hebrew speakers meet at 10:30. Venue: Beyachad second floor, • Second Innings hosts pianist Malcolm Wood, in More Marvellous 2 Elray Street, Raedene. Music by Malcolm. Time: 09:45 for tea, 10:30 for performer. Venue: • Learn Yiddish every Thursday with Tamar Olswang and the Union The Gerald Horwitz Lounge, second floor, Golden Acres, 85 George of Jewish Women. Time: 10:00 to 11:00. Venue: 1 Oak Street, Avenue, Sandringham. Cost: R20 Second Innings members; Houghton. Cost: R100 per person, R80 for pensioners and R40 visitors (includes tea/coffee and refreshments). UJW members. Includes tea/coffee and refreshments. Contact: 011 483 7425. Contact: 011 648 1053. Thursday (4 July) •  Join the Women’s International AT Nominations close at 17:00 on 14 July 2019 • The Johannesburg Holocaust & Genocide Centre opens the Zionist Organisation every H ’S Send nominations to [email protected] participatory exhibition, My Congo, My Story, exploring the personal Thursday for a Lunch & Learn W

O stories of citizens of the Democratic Republic of the Congo who fled shiur with Rabbi Michael Katz.

the violence of war in their homeland. Time: 18:00. Venue: Time: 13:00 at Beyachad, N 1 Duncombe Road, Forest Town. Free admission, donations welcome. 2 Elray Street, Raedene. RSVP to [email protected] or 011 640 3100. Contact: WIZO office: 011 645 2515. 28 June – 5 July 2019 SA JEWISH REPORT 23 Pine Street wins again Torah Academy makes smart moves Torah Academy Primary School pupils Mushka Feinblum, Yael Naparstek, and Shayna Badler play chess against King David Victory Park Primary at home. The pupils fared well in their recent match against the strongest Jewish school in chess in Johannesburg, scoring 2-2 for senior girls; 2-4 for senior boys; and 2-2 for junior boys.

The Pine Street Shul quiz team was The team is made up of a group of old victorious yet again on 19 June, this friends and work colleagues who have time beating 20 teams of about 180 played together for a few years. It has Humanitarians shine at Absa Jewish Achiever Awards people at the Bnei Akiva fundraising quiz won a number of other Jewish quizzes, When Freedom Under Law’s (FUL’s) Nicole Fritz accepted the These include former Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan, a at Waverley Shul Hall. such as the recent Sandton Sinai quiz. Humanitarian Award at the Absa Jewish Achiever Awards remarkable public servant determined to battle corruption. last year, she said defending democracy often took just a He is currently minister of public enterprises, and is involved few committed individuals. in evaluating the damage wreaked by state capture, and Barmitzvah boy inspires “Many are surprised to learn that Freedom Under Law is implementing a lasting solution for Eskom. a very, very small organisation. It has a single employee - Gordhan clearly believes that anyone can make an sports fund for needy kids that’s me,” she quipped on accepting the award on behalf of enormous difference to the lives of others. “[Corruption and or a kid who loves sport, there’s and off the field. the organisation. state capture] are not issues for politicians, but issues for nothing quite like the feeling of a The boy, who wants to remain Yet, the fact that FUL and the Helen Suzman Foundation people,” he said when accepting the award in 2017. brand new English willow cricket anonymous, also challenged his friends (HSF) were jointly recognised for their accomplishments “The Jewish community is extremely resourceful, with Fbat, a World Cup-branded soccer ball, – and all the barmy boys and batti girls proves that even the small are capable of punching well great skills, talent, and entrepreneurs, some of whom are or new boots. However, many children around Joburg – to spread the simcha by above their weight when it comes to fighting the good fight. here today. It has produced fascinating freedom fighters never get to have that “brand-new” donating to the chev’s sports fund. Their receipt of the award last year is proof of the impact from whom my generation learnt some of their politics and feeling. The fund, run by the Chevrah they have made in fighting for the administration of justice principles. Now, a young boy has challenged the Kadisha, will primarily help Jewish in our country. “We have to find bridges for [our differences], and that community to donate to a sports fund to children to be able to afford sporting “We are here to promote our constitutional democracy, requires people of foresight... This community has produced meet that need. equipment, though a percentage of defend the Bill of Rights, and hold those in power illustrious people who’ve contributed to the Freedom Charter, The idea came from a young boy in the funds raised will go to children outside accountable,” Fritz declared. which stands as a testament to real imagination, foresight, community, who while playing for his of the community. FUL Chairperson Johann Kriegler, a retired Constitutional but above all, humanity.” club, began to notice the people around The campaign will target Barmitzvah Court judge and life-long human-rights lawyer, as well as Other previous winners are clearly of the same calibre as him who never had that “brand-new and Batmitzvahs specifically as it’s Francis Antonie, the HSF’s executive director, joined the Gordhan, including human rights lawyer and icon, George feeling”. His eye was drawn to their something kids can relate to, and a great ranks of an esteemed cadre of winners. Bizos; Thuli Madonsela, whose reports into governance scuffed, second-hand shoes, and tattered charitable cause for a simcha, says Taryn In jointly accepting the award, Antonie paid tribute to the changed the face of South African politics; and master kits, and his heart was filled with resolve. Hatzkilson, group marketing manager at powerful woman whose legacy his organisation upholds. educator Professor Jonathan Jansen. At his Barmitzvah, this young boy stood the chev. Hatzkilson says the campaign “We can give thanks for Helen’s life, especially the values There is certainly no shortage of people who, like up and pledged to donate a portion of has also been advertised on social media, she brought to public life, which we endeavour to honour in Madonsela, Gordhan, and Bizos, contribute to the betterment his gift money to the chev so that other through posters around the community, our work,” he declared. of our lives on a daily basis. Jewish children could also enjoy the best and via press releases and advertising in A number of household names have been honoured at the Email your nominations for this and other awards to of the best, and feel like a champion on school and shul newsletters. Absa Jewish Achiever Awards for their humanitarian work. [email protected] 24 SA JEWISH REPORT 28 June – 5 July 2019 Jewish golf historian’s ‘unsellable’ book on excluded black golfers a hit LUKE ALFRED later, the museum relocated to the Cape Town OSEM Waterfront, where it also incorporated a hall ONION SOUP & SEASONING MIX uthor and golf historian Barry Cohen of fame with a sub-section for “disadvantaged has just published his first book, golfers”. 99 Blazing the Trail: Celebrating 90 years of In spite of doing his bit to dramatise the 121 BlackA Golf in Southern Africa. Initially rejected endless petty humiliations of black golfers like 400g by several mainstream publishers as being Chowglay, Sewgolum, and Tshabalala, Cohen “too niche”, the book has found a curious, still felt something was lacking. He was sitting appreciative, and interested audience. on records and stories about black golf that Cohen promoted the book in Durban, Joburg, neither the golf authorities nor the media and Cape Town last week. Wherever he went, seemed open to. “So I decided on a book – and the relatives of those he writes about came up to that was the beginning of Blazing the Trail.” talk. Cohen himself believes it is one of the most Not only is Blazing the Trail a history book important – if not the most important – golf about golf and the politics of exclusion, it is a 4 Fried baby 99 book ever written in this country, detailing as it book of remarkable stories. There is the (by now Fish fillets does the struggles of black, coloured, and Indian famous) story, for instance, of Sewgolum being 59 golfers in the heyday of apartheid. denied access to the “whites only” clubhouse Such players, like Ismail “Boy” Chowglay; after winning the Natal Open in 1963, and Sewsunker “Papwa” Sewgolum; Vincent receiving his trophy outside in the rain. Tshabalala; and the highly regarded Few people know, however, that Sewgolum’s Zimbabwean, Lewis Chitengwa, who once beat mother was blind, and that he lived in a a young Tiger Woods, were often caddies on shack, unable to read or write. He survived suburban courses. With time on their hands, an assassination attempt at Port Elizabeth in they taught themselves to play, fashioning clubs 1966 (a gas pipe in his caravan was severed) and FRESHMARK Tenerised out of wire, and often experimenting with the was so feted in India, he was offered the job of MIXED VEG 99 unorthodox grips that they subsequently took course professional at the Royal Calcutta Golf SOUP PACK Steak /kg 189 into tournament golf. Club – a position he refused. “Not only does 99 Cohen has written a fascinating, factual, the book show these iconic black golfers that 26 PAREVE and timely book 900g after being told by mainstream Barry Cohen publishers that “sports books don’t sell” and that books about the neglected history of South African sport sell even less. “Having MCCAIN CRISPY OVEN self-published, I’ll be CHIPS TEXAN BBQ happy if I break even,” HARVESTIME MIXED he says. “The book 49 VEGETABLE tells an important 33 collective story that 750g 49 23 hasn’t been told 1k g before.” TELMA Describing PARVE CHICKEN STOCK SOUP CUBES Muizenberg as “a little shtetl” of 250 Jewish 99 families, Cohen 3’s each grew up playing FRY’S 11 15g VEGETARIAN touch rugby on the ORIGINAL BURGERS Muizenberg beach, DE LA VI and taking trips to HERRING FILLETS 49 SALTED & MATJIES the Empire Bioscope 33 where, “if you didn’t 320g 99 have your shilling, you 37each hid in the toilets and 350g snuck in at interval”. When he was 12, he happened on the Clovelly Golf Club, so beginning a might have become champions, but because of MONTAGU RAW lifelong romance with the sport. The original Papwa, India had South Africa turfed out of the MACADAMIA EUROBERRY Clovelly Country Club had been bought in Olympics [in Tokyo in 1964], and later out of BERRY BLEND 1932 by Raymond Ackerman’s father, Gus, and the International Olympic Committee entirely.” 99 Michael Pevsner, with Ackermans and Pevsners Cohen is also fond of telling a story about 55100g 99 alternating as club chairmen and presidents Raymond Ackerman presenting himself to BJ 54 through the years to follow. Their intentions had Vorster and Connie Mulder in an attempt to 1kg always been to create an open club, mainly (but have Clovelly Golf Club opened officially to MANY not exclusively) for Jews excluded from other all. Mulder was having none of it, but Vorster MORE Cape clubs like Mowbray and the sniffy Kelvin over-rode him, telling Ackerman that if 87% of BERKIES SPECIALS Grove. For Cohen, it became a home from home. Clovelly members voted “yes”, the club could be MERINGUES IN-STORE MONTAGU Shortly after arriving at Clovelly in the mid- opened to golfers of all races. YELLOW CLING 99 PEACHES 1960s, he rubbed shoulders with then club The 87% threshold – an entirely arbitrary 14 caddy-master, Chowglay, one of the finest left- figure, says Cohen – was duly reached, and 50g 99 handed golfers South Africa has ever produced. Clovelly became the first golf club in the country 159 For Cohen, it was a political awakening. Here to open its doors to all, a fact about which he 1kg 56’s was the attractive Chowglay, with his flashing is justifiably proud. In a winding way it was the Offers valid till smile and distinctive pointed straw hat, much- genesis of this remarkable book. 3 July '19 or IWISA loved at Clovelly, but denied opportunity in PAMPERS while stocks SUPER MAIZE MEAL BABY WIPES last the world at large because of his colour. Clearly Fencing first for Israel SENSITIVE & REFILL something wasn’t right. In a first for Israeli fencing last week, fencer 49 After living in Australasia for 14 years, Cohen Yuval Freilich (24) became the first Israeli 49 18 returned to South Africa with the advent ever to win a title at the European Fencing 2.5kg 26 64’s of democracy. His lifelong interest in golf, Championships in Dusseldorf. “It’s the most each racial politics, and history came to fruition incredible feeling,” said Freilich, ranked 40th, Actual offers may differ from visuals shown. We reserve the right to limit quantities. E&OE 1 Long Avenue, Glenhazel | 011 440 9517 | [email protected] | www.kosherworld.co.za when he started a golf museum at Oubaai after beating the 13th-ranked Italian, Andrea Hours: Mon-Thurs 7am-10pm | Fri: 7am-4pm | Sat:1/2 Hour After Shabbos -10pm | Sun: 8am - 10pm in 2009. Six years and several incarnations Santarelli, to win the gold medal.