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Winter 5772/2011 etzionupdate from

The New Year in Welcoming the New Year In Elul, Yeshivat Har Etzion welcomed its 44th Machzor of talmidim to the Beit Midrash. In total, there are over 460 talmidim in the Yeshiva this year. Of these, 50 are currently serving in the army and over 400 are in the Beit Midrash, which resonates with the sounds of Torah learning. This winter, the Yeshiva is studying Masekhet Gittin. New Overseas Students arrive in

When Eli was offered a position as Director of the Overseas Program, it was a perfect Where are this year’s fit. Eli has been closely associated with the talmidim from? Yeshiva and the Etzion Foundation for 30 ■■ The Dr. William Major Overseas years – as a talmid, board member, Dinner Program includes 68 first-year, 15 Guest of Honor, and now, as staff. second-year and 5 post-college Eli finds the new position more challenging talmidim from North America and than he imagined, yet very rewarding. . The new group of talmidim is a large and ■■ There are 24 talmidim from wonderful group, he says, who are very and in the MTA Program. motivated to learn. “Our ultimate message ■■ Six young men are in the Darkaynu to the talmidim is that everything is about Program for talmidim with special Eli Weber ’81 – our relationship with the Kadosh Barukh needs. New Director Hu,” explains Eli. “This message has always ■■ In the Israeli Program, there of Overseas been implicit in the Yeshiva’s educational are currently 217 talmidim in the Beit approach, but now we are trying to make it Program Midrash and another 50 on active more explicit – to discuss it frontally.” army duty. When Eli Weber ’81 In his work with the Ramim, madrichim and ■■ There are 78 post-Hesder talmidim in moved from Teaneck, administrative staff, Eli is actively involved, the Beit Midrash. NJ to with his energetic, and innovative. In addition family two years ago, he decided to take a to overseeing the program, he teaches break from his career in law and devote his afternoon chugim, delivers sichot and time to learning in the Yeshiva. Eli quickly spends one a month with his family became a familiar face in Yeshiva, learning in Yeshiva. “This is my dream job, being in in the Beit Midrash, waiting on line with the Yeshiva. It’s a fantastic opportunity to make guys in the chadar ochel, joining tiyulim, a positive difference in the lives of others,” teaching afternoon chugim and interacting Eli says. We wish him much success in the Rav Donny Schreiber with talmidim with the talmidim from abroad. new position! Introducing New Ramim Program will be intensified, with a focus on relates, “Before I came to Har Etzion, I had kashrut. In the area of Tanakh, a new cycle heard of the Yeshiva's reputation, and Yeshivat Har Etzion of sefarim will be studied. New classes and I was eager to experience it firsthand, welcomes R a v chaburot have been added in the area of but nonetheless, I had not truly pictured Micha’el Edrei '90H, Jewish Thought and . In addition, an what life in Yeshiva would be like. Simchat who is teaching increased effort is being invested this year Torah in Yeshiva could not have painted Bet in the Hesder in guiding the talmidim in how best to use that picture any better. The dancing and program this year. the hours available to them in both the Beit singing throughout the Yom Tov were Rav Edrei previously Midrash and chabura segments of the day. more than just enjoyable and exciting; it served as a Ram at the Yeshivat Hesder in was an atmosphere of pure and intense Acco for four years. He is an alumnus of Yoni Jesner z”l love for Torah and Avodat HaShem, a sort of Yeshivat Har Etzion and served in the Golani Elul Program intensified version of the atmosphere that Unit in the IDF. Rav Edrei holds a degree in Over twenty alumni from around the world pervades the Yeshiva every day.” law and economics from Bar-Ilan University. came to visit the Yeshiva in Elul, to recharge In addition to his semikha studies, he studied Mazal Tov to HaRav Aharon their spiritual batteries before returning dayanut at the Eretz Hemda Institute in Lichtenstein, who was Chatan Torah, and to to university or work. They benefited from . Rav Binyamin Tabory, Chatan Bereishit. The the Yoni Jesner z”l Elul Program, which chatanim celebrated with an Oneg Shabbat Rav Nehemia Ra’anan subsidizes the stay of returning overseas on Parshat Noach. joined the Yeshiva last alumni who wish to study at Har Etzion in year and is currently the period leading up the Yamim Nora’im. teaching fifth-year The program exists thanks to the generous The Israel Koschitzky Hesder students. He support of Steve and Renee Adelsberg, Virtual Beit Midrash began his yeshiva whose son, David ’01 was a chevruta and The new curriculum for 2011/12 has studies at Merkaz close friend of Yoni z”l. In September of 2002, been posted, featuring 16 weekly written HaRav Yeshiva, continued at Yeshivat Hesder Yoni, an exceptional talmid from Glasgow, courses. We are pleased to offer several Ma’alot Yaakov and served in the IDF Nahal Scotland, was mortally wounded on a bus exciting new courses, including: Unit. In 1996 he became a founding member traveling to Tel Aviv that was attacked by a The Book of Daniel with Rav Yaakov of Yeshivat Siach Sadeh and in 2001 he joined suicide bomber. It is a fitting memorial that Medan, Great Biblical Exegetes with the Gavoha of Yeshivat Har Etzion. in Yoni’s name many talmidim join us in the Dr. Avigail Rock, Principles of Faith In addition to receiving his semikha while Beit Midrash every Elul. with Rav Joshua Amaru '85, and Ethics at Yeshiva, Rav Ra’anan earned a Bachelor of Interpersonal Conduct with Rav of Education degree from Herzog College. Yom Kippur Binyamin Zimmerman '96, as well as He previously taught in the Yeshiva High As in previous years, the Yeshiva welcomed continuing courses in Talmudic Aggada, School Mekor Chaim in . many alumni and other guests from Israel The Temple, Topics in Halakha, The Laws and abroad for the inspiring Yom Kippur of Shabbat, Parashat HaShavua, Sefer : The Riva davening in Yeshiva. Ba’alei tefilla included Shmuel, Gittin, Gemara Megilla, Koschitzky z”l Torah Rav Shlomo Brin for Kol Nidrei, Rami Yanai and Talmudic Methodology. The VBM for Mussaf, and Rosh Yeshiva Rav Yaakov attracts 75-100 new subscribers every Enrichment Program Medan for Ne’ila. Among the guests were: month. Come see what it’s all about at The Revava Program gives both Israeli Julius Berman, Marcel Weber, Leon and www.vbm-torah.org. The Hebrew Israel and overseas students the opportunity to Marilyn Moed, Steve and Adina Fredman, Koschitzky VBM site can be accessed at complement their intensive study Lenny Gross '92PC, Mark and Susan Weisen, www.etzion.org.il with in-depth study of Tanakh, Halakha and Tobi and Gerson Schapiro '84, Jewish Thought. As a secondary benefit of David and Miriam Shapiro, Eliezer and KMTT the program, the afternoon classes provide Yitty Glaser, Marty Kaufman and Kalman A new semester of KMTT is online now, an ideal venue for talmidim to interact in Schoor ’01 with sons Micah and Saadya. with a half-hour daily of audio shiurim an informal way with the Roshei Yeshiva to accompany you while commuting and Ramim, which adds tremendously to Simchat Torah or exercising, including shiurim from Rav Binyamin Tabory and Rav Ezra the Yeshiva experience and their personal Simchat Torah was celebrated in Yeshiva Bick. Check out the course offerings at development. According to Rosh Yeshiva with much joy. New student Shua Katz, son www.kimitzion.org Rav , this year the Halakha of Avi ’76 and Rivi Katz from Teaneck, NJ,

2 etzion update First Yahrzeit of Moreinu Ve’Rabbeinu HaRav zt”l On the first yahrzeit since the passing of social philosophy. They were delivered by in HaRav Amital’s memory by Rav Yirmi Yeshivat Har Etzion’s founding Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Amital’s son-in-law, Rav Yehuda Stavisky ‘82H, Principal of Himmelfarb HaRav Yehuda Amital zt”l, hundreds of Gilad ‘76H, Prof. Shalom Rosenberg and Yeshiva High School in Jerusalem and Uri students, alumni and friends gathered for an Prof. Binyamin Ish-Shalom ‘72H. Ofran ‘92H, Director of the Chevruta Beit evening of and memorial at the A moving video made by talmidim was Midrash at Ben-Gurion University. The last Yeshiva on Thursday, 26 Tammuz, June 28th. screened, after which the main memorial mishna was recited by Yekutiel Fogelman, In the first half of the evening, threeshiurim ceremony took place in the Beit Midrash. great-grandson of HaRav Amital, grandson were delivered by Roshei Yeshiva Rav Rav Shlomo Brin’74H, son-in-law of HaRav of Rav Yoel Amital ‘70H. Yaakov Medan, Rav Baruch Gigi and Amital, moderated the event. Rosh Yeshiva Rav , who shared HaRav and Chairman On Friday (27 Tammuz), an azkara took place HaRav Amital’s teachings on topics related of the Board Moshe Moskovic both shared at the kever in Har HaMenuchot, Jerusalem. to the Yamim Nora’im. Afterwards, three memories and insights from their long, close simultaneous shiurim took place on various relationships with HaRav Amital and the תהא נשמתו צרורה בצרור החיים aspects of Rav Amital’s ideological and evening ended with learning of mishnayot

Yekutiel Fogelman

A plaque was erected at HaRav Amital’s makom in the Beit Midrash to commemorate the spot where the Rosh Yeshiva zt”l was so often seen engrossed in his learning, and where his absence is so sorely felt.

Winter 5772/2011 3 This volume endeavors to display the breadth By Faith alone and depth of the “tent” of Yeshiva University, Remembering HaRav Amital non fiction Byby bringing together Faith its multi-faceted voices, Alone: as represented by our and professors, The Story of Rabbi yehuda amital in a collection of essays that address all of the parashiyyot of the Chamishah Chumshei Torah. These essays constitute contributions from the faculty and administration of the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary, Yeshiva Col- zt”l Around the World Thelege, Stern College for Women, Story the Mazer Ye- of shiva Program, the Irving I. Stone Beit Midrash Program, the Isaac Breuer College of Hebraic Studies, the James Striar School of General Jewish Studies, the Marsha Stern Talmudical Academy, the Graduate Program for Women in Advanced Talmudic Studies, the Bernard Revel Graduate School of Jewish Studies, the NY - An inspirational and well-attended Yom RabbiAzrieli Graduate School of Yehuda and Administration, the Benjamin N. Cardo- zo School of Law, the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, The Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, the Center for the Jewish Future, and the Caroline and Joseph S. Gruss Institute Iyun entitled “Ve’Taher Libeinu – Purify our of RIETS in Jerusalem. These articles range Amitalfrom textual analysis to homiletic exposition to halakhic analysis to academic exploration and to all points in-between. What they share in common is the goal of bringing a wide range of approaches towards the honoring, elucidat- ing, and exploring of our Holy Torah. Hearts” was held at The Jewish Center in NY, (from the Editors’ Preface) by Elyashiv Reichner, jointly sponsored by Kehillath Jeshurun of

[email protected] translated from

ישיבת הר עציון NY and dedicated in memory of Menachem מגיד Elyashiv Reichner מגיד USA $29.95 Maggid & YHE Hebrew by Elli Fischer CAN $ 33.95 MAGGID MAGGID Translated by Elli Fischer מגיד מגיד .ben Bezalel Stern z”l Maggid/Koren Books, Jerusalem Opening remarks were delivered by Rabbi This biography of Rosh Yeshiva HaRav Yosie Levine of The Jewish Center and Rabbi Yom Iyun in Yehuda Amital follows him from his Haskel Lookstein of Kehillath Jeshurun childhood in Eastern Europe through his and the Ramaz School, after which Rav South Africa - Rav Pini Cohen '94 spoke experiences as a Holocaust survivor, young Menachem Leibtag and Roshei Yeshiva at an evening of learning in HaRav Amital’s oleh, teacher, soldier, yeshiva founder, memory hosted by the Beit Mordechai Rav Mosheh Lichtenstein and Rav Baruch politician and always, a spiritual example. Gigi shared HaRav Amital’s teachings on the Campus Kollel and Friends of Gush South From the Afterword: Yamim Norai'm. Africa. “…there are times that a single, unique voice rises above the cacophony… Such was Rav Yehuda Amitals’s voice. Over the course of many years, this voice was virtually hidden, well known to his many students, but swallowed up in the tumult, and unnoticed by the public. When the noise of the crowd subsided a little, Rav Amital’s unique voice emerged and made itself heard – an original voice, pure and clear, voicing its unique sound Rav Leibtag in NY Rav Pini Cohen – South Africa in Halakha, Aggada and Jewish thought.”

The Yeshiva mourns the loss of Rav Hanan In 1948, Kfar Etzion was besieged and the the settlement movement. Porat z”l (December 12, 1943/5704 – women and children were evacuated to In the 1980's and 90's Porat served in the October 4, 2011/5772). Jerusalem, including five-year-old Hanan. He on behalf of various right wing often recalled gazing at the lone oak from parties. Throughout, he lived in his beloved afar during the difficult 19-year period after Kfar Etzion. Porat is survived by his wife, the fall of . Porat served in the Rachel, 10 children and 20 grandchildren. Paratroopers Brigade during the Six Day War The Yeshiva held a memorial service for and was among the troops that liberated Rav z”l on the shloshim. Rosh the . After the Six Day War, Yeshiva Rav Yaakov Medan, Rav Yoel Bin he helped re-establish the Gush Etzion Nun and Rav Elyashiv Knohl, YHE alumnus settlement bloc, and turned to HaRav Amital, and Rabbi of Kfar Etzion, all spoke. They Hanan Porat z”l at the opening ceremony of urging him to establish a yeshiva there. the Yeshiva’s 40th anniversary year emphasized Porat’s strong belief that the Rav Porat spoke at the Yeshiva’s 40th return to Gush Etzion must be based on anniversary in 2008 and said, “From the time the foundation of Torah, his tenacity in Rav Porat was among the founders and we returned to Kfar Etzion, it was clear to me establishing the Yeshiva and convincing veteran educators of Yeshivat Har Etzion. that the Yeshiva was the essence, the most HaRav Amital zt”l to be its Rosh Yeshiva He was also a charismatic Torah scholar, a important thing.” and spiritual leader. Recordings from the political activist, Knesset member and icon Porat was badly wounded in the Yom Kippur azkara are available on the Yeshiva’s Hebrew of the settlement movement. War, but after his recovery he helped found website.

4 etzion update 2011 Trip to Poland Just before Pesach, 30 Har Etzion talmidim participated in a journey to Poland, led by Rav Dr. Shalom Berger ‘77, Rav Shlomo Brin '74H and Rav Yair Kahn ‘77. The group was joined by talmidim from Yeshivat Eretz HaTzvi and was accompanied by two outstanding YHE madrichim – Eitan Martin ‘06H and Asher Fredman ‘07H. The journey included an exploration of Jewish life in Poland before the war, meetings with some extraordinary people and dialogue with the current Polish Jewish community. At the opening of the Vilna Gaon exhibit “We were fortunate to be joined by Rav Brin, whose father is a Holocaust survivor,” Rav the trip in a heartfelt letter which we invite well-known bibliographer and collector, Kahn said. “He was able to transmit his deep you to read on the Yeshiva website. and a descendant of students of the GR"A personal connection both to the grandeur who came to live in Eretz Yisrael in the early of pre-war Poland and to the tragedy of the From Vilna to Har 19th century. war years. His moving stories helped us to identify with past generations and view Etzion: Revelations of Through the diverse items on display, the ourselves as continuing the mesora of Polish Eliyahu in Torah and exhibit illustrates that the Gaon was not only focused on the entirety of Torah literature, Jewry today, by choosing to study Torah and Redemption live a full Jewish life. Thanks to the staff, the but was also intent on using his abilities to In June, the Har Etzion Library opened parents and mostly to an extremely special prepare the way for redemption. an exhibit on the Vilna Gaon which group of talmidim, the trip to Poland was a included some artifacts that had never A special feature of the exhibit was the profound and meaningful experience.” been previously displayed in public. The Gaon's very own copy of Masekhet Zera’im Three fathers joined the trip to Poland: exhibit, curated by Chief Librarian Aharon from the Jerusalem Talmud, which contains Bruce Newman, father of Zev ‘10, Joseph Bejell ’75, was made possible through the his handwritten comments and corrections. Richter, father of Ben ‘10 (and Alan '08) and generous loan of many unique items from This volume was made available to the Dr. Ronald Nagel, father of Josh ‘10 (and the private collection of Mr. Yeshayahu Yeshiva by the Ma’atikei HaShmu’ah Institute Zev ’00). Dr. Nagel shared his impressions of Vinograd of Jerusalem. Mr. Vinograd is a of Jerusalem. The masekhet was recently returned to the Institute, but visitors to the Yeshiva Library can view life-size color photographs of assorted pages, which are still on exhibit.

The exhibit attracted many visitors to the Yeshiva and engendered much discussion about the Gaon's legacy of Torah and redemption. Many attendees commented on the aptness of exhibiting the rare collection at Yeshivat Har Etzion. For the full story and links to recordings and video see our website, www.haretzion.org.

Warsaw cemetery in Poland

Winter 5772/2011 5 HERZOG COLLEGE Summer Study Days in Tanakh: Celebrating 20 Years! The Summer Study Days in Tanakh of Herzog College celebrated its 20th anniversary this year with over 5,000 participants and 200 shiurim over the course of five days. Plus, there was a choice of ten Tanakh-based Rav Yaakov Medan gives shiur at opening ceremony in the Knesset tiyulim on an additional day. Three of the five days had a full schedule of English classes, as well, and there was also an your ongoing efforts to bringing the Tanakh English tiyul option. Education Minister closer to all avenues of the nation. In doing Gideon Sa’ar addressed one of the classes so, you enhance our strength as a nation and congratulated Herzog College on and deepen our faith in the righteousness its contribution in bringing Tanakh to all of our path.” segments of Israeli society. Herzog College’s commitment to Tanakh In celebration of the 20th year milestone, a is, of course, year-round. It includes scores festive opening ceremony was held in the of academic courses for men and women, Knesset, in conjunction with MK , one-day seminars on a variety of topics, and attended by senior faculty members training sessions for contestants in Israel’s of the Yeshiva and Herzog College, public national Quiz (Chidon Tanakh), and figures and friends. A special message from the College’s Tevunot Press puts out a vast Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu was array of publications that bring together screened. “You have succeeded, over the Torah scholarship and academic research course of 20 years of the annual Summer on the highest level. To read more about Study Days in Tanakh, in restoring the Book Herzog College’s publications, see the of Books to the public consciousness,” the Tevunot publishing webpage (in Hebrew) at Prime Minister said. “The stories of our www.herzog.ac.il forefathers, kings and prophets accompany us and influence us to this very day. I support

Answer: What did On the strength of her knowledge of Gitta do with her prize Tanakh, Gitta won $20,000! After using her prize money to give tzedaka and money? gifts to her four children, Gitta decided Last winter, Jewish educator Gitta Neufeld to do something for herself. She used her of Far Rockaway, NY was a contender on remaining prize money to buy a ticket the popular TV game show Jeopardy. to Israel and attend the Summer Study On the show, Gitta was seen moving her Days in Tanakh, which she had dreamed lips in prayer before the last category of of attending for many years. “I never questions was announced, and her prayers imagined that the Study Days would seem to have been answered because the category announced was “Bible”. The final be this amazing!” she said, promising to challenge posed was “He is the prosecutor return again next summer. After all, you never know what can come of learning Alex Trebeck, Jeopardy host, in the Book of Job” and Gitta’s winning and Gitta Neufeld response was, “Who is Satan?” Tanakh…

6 etzion update HERZOG COLLEGE (continued) An Ongoing ■■ The newly-established Bachelor’s degree ■■ A new Training Course for Vice- in Special Education for young men is Principals, which includes 40 vice-principals Commitment filling a yawning gap in the religious school from the AMIT school system, aims to Yeshivat Har Etzion’s Herzog College system. The first class will be graduating this expand the role of vice principals so that in continues to expand and deepen its year, and many of the students have already addition to coordinating logistics they can programs, as befits Israel’s premier teacher’s been offered jobs. function as fully integrated educational college. Rabbi Prof. Yitzhak Kraus, Director figures in the school system. of the College, explains, “Although most ■■ Gevanim, an innovative program in which people know us as the college that trains 15 outstanding students a year are trained Rabbi Prof. Kraus adds, “We don’t just some of Israel’s most outstanding teachers, to teach in Israel’s non-religious state school release teachers into the school system, but that’s only part of who we are. We see system in a non-coercive, open manner that continue to take responsibility for them, and ourselves as strengthening Jewish life in makes Jewish culture accessible to all. to develop programming that will benefit Israel, and our commitment does not stop Israeli society at large. This is what has made at graduation. We’re always looking for ■■ Avnei Rosha – A unique program to Herzog College the leading institution in ways to improve our programs and support train and advance female school principals, Israeli education today.” educators out in the field.“ Some examples improving the quality of education for girls of how Herzog College is doing just that: and boys across the country.

Migdal Oz There’s been lots of change and growth this Israeli students learning in the Beit Midrash. year at the Stella K. Abraham Beit Midrash This winter the is studying Bava for Women in . Batra in the mornings, with evening study A new wing has been added to the Women’s options in Tanakh, Jewish Thought and Division of Herzog College, doubling the Masekhet Berakhot. New staff members number of classrooms. The building is include Yoetzet Halakha and recent olah teeming with teachers-in-training, and more from Teaneck, Shayna Lerner Goldberg, as classrooms are scheduled to be added in the well as several Migdal Oz alumnae who are near future. now teaching Gemara.

Miriam Coren, who headed the Overseas Program the past few years, is on shlichut overseas students, is replacing her. There are Selichot & Yom Kippur in Philadelphia, PA this year and Racheli 33 first-year students from abroad this year, Selichot in Migdal Oz has become an Schmell, formerly the senior madricha for the and 5 second-year students. They join the 90 event without parallel on the Israeli scene. Hundreds of women from across the country, as well as busloads of students from high schools and seminaries, all come to participate in the spirited and inspirational service which continues into the wee hours of the morning.

The selichot are preceded every evening by a shiur from Har Etzion and Migdal Oz faculty. Speakers this year included Rav Yitzchak Levi, Rav Moshe Taragin, Rav Amnon Bazak, Rav Shlomo Brin and Roshei Yeshiva Rav Yaakov Medan and Rav Mosheh Lichtenstein. The shiurim are Shana Aleph overseas students on Sukkot tiyul to the Banyas followed by hours of singing and prayer. >

Winter 5772/2011 7 Migdal Oz (continued) One middle-aged participant explained what Nourishing Body & Soul nourishes the study of Torah in Eretz draws her back every year: “The shiur and Yisrael, is a fitting tribute to her memory. In July, a modern new kitchenette/ selichot help me prepare spiritually for the lounge for students was dedicated at The Arussy family has a longstanding Yamim Norai'm so much that, at this point, the Stella K. Abraham Beit Midrash for connection with Yeshivat Har Etzion and I can’t imagine going into Yom Tov without Women in Migdal Oz. The facility was their daughter Dalya studied in Migdal Oz having been to Migdal Oz first. And obviously, generously donated by alumnus and in 2009-10. Rav Gigi said, “Through the years, I’m not the only one who feels that way. The board member Lior ’85H Arussy and his Lior Arussy has walked with the Yeshiva. combination of serious learning and religious wife Drora, together with their family, in He has been involved in its growth and devotion found at Migdal Oz is having a real, memory of their grandmother and great- development, and in furthering the goal of profound impact on the religious lives of grandmother Rina Giat z”l, wife of Zion Giat Torah study in Eretz Yisrael and the Yeshiva’s women across Israel.” z"l and daughter of Rav Shalom Kessar z"l. educational path. We are very grateful.” The Midrasha also hosted many guests from The dedication ceremony was attended abroad for its spirited Yom Kippur davening. by the extended Arussy family, Rosh Guests included Mindy Kolatch, mother of Yeshiva Rav Baruch Gigi, Rav Amnon Dina ’04MO, Paula Weber, mother of Eli ’81 Bazak and Migdal Oz staff members. Lior and Simi ‘80 and grandmother of Rachel ‘09MO Arussy and his mother, Yona Bar Ami, and Rivka Kaminetsky ‘11MO, and Chairman both spoke movingly about “Savta Rina” of the Board Arye ’81 and Bashi Colton. and her many acts of chessed, including To arrange a tour of the Midrasha next time providing food for poor people to you’re in Israel, contact Racheli Schmell at enable them to study Torah. As such, the [email protected] beautiful new facility, which physically

The Arussy family at Migdal Oz

Erev Shira v'Hitorerut in New Jersey

On Motzai Shabbat, September 24, over 150 A heartfelt singing of selichot capped off the people — alumnae, mothers, friends and evening. women from the community — gathered at Ma'ayanot Yeshiva HS in Teaneck, NJ to Sharon Rifkind, Development Associate of sing songs and niggunim reminiscent of the Etzion Foundation said, “It is inspiring Migdal Oz. A visitor commented, “It was to see the influence that Migdal Oz has had beautiful, inspirational and very moving.” on so many bogrot, parents and friends. The At midnight, Michelle Greenberg- Migdal Oz graduates are clearly carrying Kobrin, Dean of Students and Lecturer their experiences from Israel into their lives at Columbia Law School, gave a shiur here, creating very meaningful learning and entitled “Posting on God’s Wall: Selichot and selichot for the entire community.” Michelle Greenberg-Kobrin at Erev Shira v'Hitorerut Relationships in the Age of Social Media.”

8 etzion update New York Dinner On Yom Yerushalyim, May 31, 2001, over also a video presentation titled “Generation presented the Yom Yerushalayim program, 400 members of the Gush family gathered to Generation” which retold the story of which culminated in festive dancing, tefilla in NYC for the Etzion Foundation Annual "Hearing the Baby Cry" that HaRav Amital chagigit and a beautiful dessert reception. Dinner. The program paid tribute to the famously used to tell talmidim, a story The new English biography of HaRav Amital, which exemplifies the importance he put memory of founding Rosh Yeshiva HaRav By Faith Alone: The Story of Rabbi Yehuda on the balance between learning Torah and Yehuda Amital zt”l, and honored alumni Amital, was given out at the dinner. The contributing to society. and parents Drs. Mort ’75 and Esther book was dedicated by the Moed family in Fridman of Teaneck, NJ and Jay ’80 and Dr. Dinner attendees were honored by the tribute to HaRav Amital, his vision, ideology Rachel Jubas of Stamford, CT. The Fridmans participation of Rabbanit Miriam Amital and warmth, and in honor of Leon Moed are the parents of Ari ’02 (Shana Bet), Daniel and her daughter Tali Brin. Rabbanit Amital and his longtime bond of friendship with ‘02, Michael ’10 and Elisheva. Jay and shared inspiring words of gratitude and HaRav Amital. Rachel Jubas are the parents of Ben ’08, her presence contributed greatly to the Yoel Weiss, Etzion Foundation Director, Talia ‘11MO, Daniel and Maya. evening. commented that ”this special occasion A video about HaRav Amital’s derekh, The Etzion Foundation presented a silver was a most fitting tribute to Rav Amital z”tl, “Commitment and Complexity”, was Omer Counter to each of the honored whose teachings and leadership touched couples in appreciation of their generosity screened and Rosh Yeshiva HaRav Aharon and inspired so many people around the and continued support of the Yeshiva. Lichtenstein spoke about the impact that world. We are grateful to the honorees, HaRav Amital had on his life, and on the Esti Rozenberg, Rosh Midrasha of Migdal alumni, parents and friends who made this lives of thousands of others. There was Oz, and Rosh Yeshiva Rav Yaakov Medan year’s dinner a great success!”

Rachel and Maya Jubas, Mrs. Dorothy Berman, President of the Etzion Lillian, Esther, Mort ’75, and Daniel Fridman '02 Foundation, and Rosh Midrasha Esti Rozenberg with Migdal Oz alumnae

From left: Maya (front), Talia '11 MO, HaRav Aharon Lichtenstein and Rav Yaakov Medan dancing with honorees Rachel, Jay ’80, Ben '08 and Daniel Jubas

Winter 5772/2011 9 Friends from Abroad

September in New York plans for the future The experience of multiple generations of The trip concluded with an Etzion Gush talmidim eating, singing, and learning Over the weekend of September 17-20, Foundation Board meeting at which Rav together, along with the rest of the YU Roshei Yeshiva Rav Mosheh Lichtenstein Mosheh Lichtenstein, Rav Baruch Gigi, and community, was especially meaningful, and I and Rav Baruch Gigi spent a busy four days Yoni Holzer gave an update from Israel on hope to be at many more such Shabbatonim in the New York area. Highlights of the trip the Yeshiva, Migdal Oz and Herzog College. in the future." included: ■■ A highly successful Shabbaton at Yeshiva Shabbaton at Yeshiva Visit of Rabbi Reuven University with over 200 participants University and Leah Bulka ■■ A lovely seuda shlishit with Rav Mosheh Rabbi Reuven and Leah Bulka visited the Lichtenstein hosted by Yair '98 and Talia This year’s annual New York Shabbaton, Yeshiva Library in September to view the Hindin in Washington Heights for bogrim, attended by over 200 participants, was a Rabbi Dr. Noah H. Rosenbloom Collection, bogrot and their spouses great success. The Roshei Yeshiva shared meals with the students, held a lively and which contains over 700 volumes from ■■ An inspirational and well-attended Yom Rabbi Rosenbloom’s personal library, and Iyun at The Jewish Center in NY which spirited tish on Friday night, gave shiurim was donated to the Yeshiva by daughters delved into the teachings of HaRav Yehuda throughout Shabbat, and just generally had Leah Bulka and Michelle Gorman. Rabbi Amital zt"l on the Days of Awe (see p. 3 for a wonderful time reconnecting with alumni Rosenbloom z”l was the beloved pulpit details) in a fun, relaxed setting. rabbi of the B’nai Israel Jewish Centre ■■ An intimate lunch hosted by Donny One of the participants shared an of East Flatbush, NY for over 50 years, a Rosenberg '02 at his office in Manhattan, impression that was echoed by many professor at Stern College and the author of with Rav Mosheh Lichtenstein, Rav Gigi and others: "The Shabbaton was an inspiring several books. the Yeshiva's CEO, Yoni Holzer, who spoke event full of ruach, camaraderie, and reunion about current events at the Yeshiva and its with the Roshei Yeshiva and fellow alumni. When their shul faced a changed neighborhood demographic in the late 60’s, Rabbi Rosenbloom z”l, together with Saul Nack z”l and Sydney Goldner z”l, ensured that all klei kodesh were transferred to Eretz Yisrael and that 100% of the income from the property went to tzedaka. Rabbi Rosenbloom's lifelong support of Yeshivat Har Etzion and friendship with founder Moshe Moskovic, was a model of shared vision, deep mutual admiration, and abiding respect. We are honored to house this Rav Gigi, Rav M. Lichtenstein and Yoni Holzer, CEO, meet alumni in Donny Rosenberg’s office testimony to his heritage.

Rav Mosheh Lichtenstein with Alumni gathered at Donny Rosenberg’s office Rabbi Reuven and Leah Bulka

10 etzion update Lunch & Learn In May, Terry Novetsky ’80 hosted Rav Yoel Bin Nun at the offices of Kaye Scholer LLP in NYC, where he spoke to graduates from Har Etzion and Migdal Oz on “The Red Heifer: Why in Sefer Bamidbar and not Sefer Vayikra?” Rav Yoel Bin Nun gives shiur in NY

Rav Pini Cohen at a tish with alumni at the home Rav Gigi speaks at board meeting of the Etzion Foundation of Dov Frenkel ’06 in Melbourne, Australia

Alumni Achievements

Tobi Kahn ’72 was showcased at two Rabbi Hillel Maizels ’95, Ram at Yeshiva recent exhibits. An installation at the Ernest High School “Shalhevet” in Shoham, and Rubenstein Gallery in NY titled “Embodied Rabbi of Kehillat Ephraim in Ariel. Light: 9-11 in 2011” commemorated the 10th Rabbi Josh Rosenzweig ’95, teaching at anniversary of the 9/11 attacks and ran until Yeshivat Eretz HaTzvi, Jerusalem. Nov 23rd. “Aligned: Paintings by Tobi Kahn” is at the University of Maryland until Dec. Rabbi Ezra Frazer ’96, Instructor of Hebrew 9 and features 33 works from his “Sky and Rabbi Roselaar teaching in UK Kollel and Assistant Coordinator of Hebrew Water” series. Program at YU (Yeshiva College). Rabbi Jeffrey Kobrin ‘92, currently Middle Rabbi Herzl Hefter ’75, Rosh Yeshiva of Rabbi Gideon Black '01, Rabbi of JLIC School Principal at North Shore Hebrew (Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus) at Har’El Yeshiva. The new yeshiva, opening Academy, Long Island, NY will assume the New York University. in Elul 5772, is geared to post-collegiate title of Rosh HaYeshiva/Head of School in young men aged 21-30 and located in the the 2012-13 academic year. Rabbi Tzvi Urkowitz ’03, recently received Old City of Jerusalem. For more information his ordination from YU and is now teaching Shawn Ruby ’94, after working in hi-tech see www.har-el .org at Fuchs Mizrachi School in Cleveland, OH. for 15 years, is leaving his job to study for Rabbi Daniel Roselaar ’87 is the newly semikha at Yeshivat Ma’ale Gilboa. Raphy Rosen ‘06, recently graduated from appointed Rosh Kollel of the Kinloss Columbia University, is a recipient of a Rabbi David Katz ’95 is founder of Community Kollel. The Kollel was established GiveBack Fellowship and teaching at Fuchs Sicha Basadeh, a “mobile factory” by Rabbi ’77, Senior Rabbi Mizrachi in Cleveland, OH. The fellowship that provides experiential learning to at Finchley Synagogue in , UK. program places dynamic college graduates enhance understanding of biblical and in American Jewish day schools for a year. halakhic texts, such as the production of natural olive oil, honey, bread and more. See www.sichabasadeh.com

Winter 5772/2011 11 Alumni Activities in Israel

■■ Bat Mitzva Program HaShana – Be’er Miriam (in Hebrew). This ■■ Life Cycles Series for Alumni in central In May, 60 alumni and their bat mitzva age is the first of a series of 10 books on Jewish Israel daughters participated in the third Bat holidays planned to be published by Yeshivat Over the course of last Mitzva Program. The program began at the Har Etzion and Yediot Acharonot Press, and year, a series of shiurim Stella K. Abraham Beit Midrash for Women edited by Rosh Yeshiva Rav Yaakov Medan. took place at various in Migdal Oz, where fathers and daughters The series is dedicated to the memory of shuls in Ra’anana by studied sources together in preparation Miriam Blau z”l by the Blau family, whose Roshei Yeshiva Rav for a shiur by Rav Moshe Taragin, which son Yitzhak Blau Rav Amnon Bazak Baruch Gigi and Rav was followed by a discussion with the Rosh ’82H studied in Mosheh Lichtenstein, Midrasha, Esti Rozenberg. Afterwards, the Yeshiva. The and by Rav Amnon the girls enjoyed a musical workshop with first book launch Bazak and Rav Moshe students of the Midrasha while the fathers was held in Tel Taragin. This year, the engaged in a discussion with Esti Rozenberg. Aviv on September Yeshiva is expanding Rosh Yeshiva Rav Yaakov Medan spoke 22nd and the these activities to five with the group about the history and second was held Rav Moshe Taragin series of shiurim to be significance of Gush Etzion and they then in Jerusalem on delivered by Ramim traveled to the Yeshiva where they met with September 25th. of the Yeshiva. Details are available on the the other Roshei Yeshiva and were served a Yeshiva website. festive lunch. The program ended with an educational treasure hunt in the library.

■■ An Alumni Shabbaton for Machzor "אחותנו את היי לאלפי רבבה" who entered the Yeshiva in 1998, and ,30 their families was held in the Yeshiva in the ■■ Other upcoming events include Chanuka summer. A highlight of the Shabbat was a Study Days, on December 21 and 22 on lively discussion with Rav Hillel Rachmani the topic of Jewish Leadership, sponsored and Rav Amnon Bazak about how to by Revava: The Riva Koschitzky z”l Torah merge the world of the Yeshiva with family Enrichment Program, and an Alumni and professional life. Shabbaton for Machzorim 7-8 (that is, talmidim who began their studies in 1975 ■■ Book launches, consisting of short or ’76) to take place in February. shiurim accompanied by musical interludes, were held for alumni and their wives on the occasion of the publication of Rosh Book launch in Tel Aviv

Nechama and Rav Yehuda Rock ‘91H at Bat Mitzva Program Machzor 30 returns to Yeshiva

12 etzion update Recent Publications

Mevakshei Panekha: Discussions with Har Etzion. Since its founding, the Yeshiva contemporary – including spirituality, HaRav Aharon Lichtenstein has emphasized Tanakh study alongside marriage, fear of Heaven, egalitarianism, by Rav Chaim Sabato (in Hebrew) Talmud study in order to foster what Rosh philanthropy, and Yediot Aharonot Books HaYeshiva HaRav Yehuda Amital zt”l, called inter-denominational relations – with Available from www.mintzers.co.il an “organic understanding” of Torah and his characteristic blend of depth, scope, In this book, Rav Chaim Sabato, award- Torah philosophy. The result has been erudition, eloquence, and profound moral winning writer and Rosh Yeshiva of Birkhat the development of a unique, analytically and religious sensitivity. Moshe, the Hesder Yeshiva of Ma’ale rigorous, creative interpretive method Adumim, interviews Rosh HaYeshiva HaRav that is infused with a profound quest for Genesis and Jewish Thought Lichtenstein on a wide variety of issues. The meaning. This first volume of Torah MiEtzion, by Rav Chaim Navon two talmidei chakhamim discuss the value which examines the Torah portions of the Ktav Publishing of non-Jewish literature, the legacy of Rav Book of Bereshit, includes essays by Rabbis Soloveitchik zt”l, Torah learning for women, This book explores fundamental Aharon Lichtenstein, Menachem Leibtag, the role of Kabbala, the Brisker method and philosophical and theological issues Chanoch Waxman, Yoel Bin Nun, Elchanan more. The encounter between the Cairo- Samet, Yonatan Grossman, Yair Kahn, arising in the Book of Genesis. It presents born scholar steeped in Syrian tradition Yaakov Medan and other leading scholars the richness of Jewish thought and notes and the American-born, Lithuanian-style from Yeshivat Har Etzion. its uniqueness in comparison with other rabbi seems to have intrigued the public; approaches. Some of the topics addressed the book has become a runaway bestseller In His Mercy: Understanding the Thirteen include religion and science, commandment and already gone into reprint. Midot by Rav Ezra Bick and morality, individual and society, faith, Maggid/Koren Books guilt, evil and equality. L’Ovdekha B’Emet Each year on Yom Kippur, fast days, and Edited by Rav Reuven Ziegler and the days leading up to the High Holidays, Rav Reuven Gafni (in Hebrew) Moses: Envoy of God, Envoy of his People Jews around the world repeatedly recite YHE and Maggid/Koren Books by Rav Mosheh Lichtenstein A collection of 70 essays which shed light the Thirteen Midot, or Attributes of Ktav Publishing God. In His Mercy examines each of the on HaRav Amital’s vision, philosophy and Translated by Perry Zamek thirteen attributes and their philosophical leadership style, all of which enabled him This book follows the path of Moshe's underpinnings through the lenses of to be so influential on the national level in development as a leader, from a young lad in the Talmud, the Midrash and major Israel, within Religious Zionist circles, and in Egypt until his farewell address to his flock. the individual lives of the thousands who commentaries. The book is based on lectures All of the relevant episodes are examined knew him. given by Rav Bick at Yeshiva. through a literary analysis of the text that attempts to delve into the inner world of the Torah MiEtzion: New Readings in Tanach, Varieties of Jewish Experience Vol. 1 Bereshit by Yeshivat Har Etzion by Rav Aharon Lichtenstein leader and his interactions with the people. Magid/Koren Books Ktav Publishing The result is a Midrashic interpretation that Torah MiEtzion presents original, insightful In this book, Rosh Yeshiva Harav Aharon combines textual analysis and emotional essays on Tanakh by the rabbeim of Yeshivat Lichtenstein addresses crucial issues facing insight.

Please note: Har Etzion and VBM students are eligible for a 25% discount from Maggid/Koren Books and a 20% discount from Ktav Publishing. See www.haretzion.org for more information. Lichtenstein

CONTENTS Chapter 1 Of Marriage: Relationship and Relations Chapter 2 Talmud and Ma’aseh in Pirkei Avot

Chapter 3 Communal Governance, Lay and VarietiesJewishExperience of Rabbinic: An Overview Chapter 4 Jewish Philanthropy – Whither? Chapter 5 Beyond the Pale? Reflections Regarding Contemporary Relations with Non-Orthodox Jews Chapter 6 Law and Spirituality: Defining the Terms Chapter 7 Contemporary Impediments to Y i r a t Shamayim Chapter 8 Formulating Responses in an Egalitarian Age: An Overview Chapter 9 Reflections upon Birkot Ha-Torah Chapter 10 To Double Business Bound: Reflections on the Divided Life of Ovdei Hashem Chapter 11 Diaspora Religious Zionism: Some Current Reflections

Rabbi Aharon Lichtenstein is Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshivat Har Etzion and the author of Leaves of Faith, Volume 1: The World of Jewish Learning and Leaves of Faith, Volume 2: The World of Jewish Living.

KTAV

Winter 5772/2011 13 Alumni News Marriages of their daughter Aderet to Yehonatan Shatz Jonny ’98 and Gaby Steel, Gil Yitzhak, Modiin Dov Lapin ’81 and Chevy Greenwald Mazal Tov to Orna and Yoni Holzer, CEO of Yaki ’99 and Adina Rydzinski, Yonatan Eliezer, NYC Avi Ray ’98 and Miriam Lederman Yeshivat Har Etzion, on the marriage of their Yonatan ’99 and Shira Wiesen, Tzvi Yaakov, son Ariel to Efrat Rosenberg Beachwood, OH Eli Cohn ’00 and Ilana Levin Aaron ’00 and Leah Cypess, David Eliyahu, Jeremy Levy ’00 and Lisa Seifman Births Boston, MA Yonatan Shai Freedman ’01 and Rachel Reinstein Assaf ’88 and Leora Bednarsh, Ruchama Leah, Trevor ’00 and Leah Silverman, Eli Simcha, Alon Shevut Yaakov Greenman '01 and Shani Mintz London, England David '89 and Tunie Schorr, Yonatan Ron, Daniel Light ’03 PC and Judith Moher Arye (‘00, ‘07-current) and Aliza Sokol, Yonatan Jeremy Herz ’05 and Michal Bloch Jerusalem Yosef, Alon Shevut Shlomo Zuckier ’05 and Chana Cooper Micah ’92 and Gila Gimpel, Ya'akov Yekutiel, Efrat Natan ’01 and Daniella Rickman, Michal Jerry Karp ‘05 and Atira Kaplan Yakir ’93 and Rachel Franklin, Ori Shalem, St. Hodaya, Modiin Ives, Australia Yoni Halpern ‘05 and Dani Lent ’07 MO Baruch ’01 and Emma Baigel, Sara Lilly, Raphi ’93 and Yonit Schorr, Eliana Pearl, Jerusalem Michael Gottesman '05 and Dani Herszfeld Brookline, MA Ryan ’01 and Rosy Hollander, Nachshon, Josh Caplin ’05 and Tamara Baum Ricky ’93 and Esther Hidary, Zechariah, Johannesburg, South Africa Marc Herman ’05 PC and Debbie Rybak , NY Eli ’01 and Stacey Lansey, Chanan Azarya, Ariel Hersh ’06 and Alana Herz Asher ’93 and Anat Altshul, Yinon Yehuda, Teaneck, NJ Jonathan Ziring ’06 and Ora Shore Jerusalem Josh ’02 Friedman and Rebecca Trachtman, Eli Younger ’06 and Hannah Kahn Aharon ’94 and Adena Frazer, Avichai Eitan, Dvora Chana (Elinor Deborah), Riverdale, NY Yonatan Cantor ’06 and Marlena Lynn Alon Shevut Avi ’02 and Mori Anouchi, Ayelet Irit, Givat Leo Arkush ’06 and Judith Greenberg Yehuda ’95 and Michelle Sarna, Gershon Shmuel Amital, NYC Dovid Barris '07 and Racheli Abboudi Noah ’02 and Nava Greenfield, Judah Alan, Yehuda ’95 and Orit Seif, Yakir Yeshaya, Bala Berkeley, CA Moshe Peters ’07 and Ilana Gadish Cynwyd, PA Bernard ’02 and Abigail Freudenthal, Miriam Daniel Berman ’07 and Eliana Shaul Micky ’95 and Rena Siev, Yedidya, Ramat Beit Yehudit, London, England Idan Chazan ’07 and Leigh Hovsha Shemesh Etan ’02 and Sarah Bendheim, Leba Hadassah Kalman (Vigi) Katlowitz ’07 and Naomi Levin Ari ’95 and Aviva Heller, David, Jerusalem (Dassi), NYC ’07MO Dovi ’95 and Ginat Friedmann, Amitai Tuvia, Noah ’02 and Aliza Gardenswartz, Zev David Baigel ’07 and Miriam Burns Hong Kong Zecharya, Bronx, NY Daniel ’02 and Deganit Rand, Ayala Rivka, Marriages of Children Dov ’95 H and Shani Daniel, Adina Talia, Bala Cynwyd, PA Revava Menachem ’72 and Rina Schrader on the Benjamin ’96 and Yael Resnick, Noam Amichai, Aaron ’02 and Miriam Frolich, Aderet Chana, marriage of their son Yechiel to Chava Valley Village, CA Givat Shmuel Janovsky Shmuel ’96 and Liat Jackman, Avigail, Danny ’03 and Althea Mirvis, Rephael Zvi ’74 and Rachel Bessin on the marriage of Nechemia, Alon Shevut their son Daniel to Esti Biton Marc ’97 and Heidi Romain, Amichai David, Jerusalem Daniel ’03 and Andy Kaplan, Yishai Lev, Alon Shlomo ’75 and Chevie Schrader on the Shevut marriage of their daughter Shoshie to Dov Yakov ’97 and Estee Fleischmann, Noam Daniel ‘05 and Tamar Kahn, Shmuel Yehuda, Gropper Elyashiv, Beachwood, OH Givat Shmuel Dr. Joel ’75 and Martha Fredman on the marriage Abe ’98 PC and Kathi Mezrich, Ezra Yehuda, NYC David '06 and Ariel Pardo, Haviva Neima, of their son Asher ’06 H to Elisheva Schultz Josh ’98 and Tova Lennon, Ezra Hillel, Skokie, IL Jerusalem Dr. Michael ’75 and Batsheva Goldenhersh and Aaron ’98 and Leora Leib, Dov Shlomo, Russell ’07K and Miriam Levy, Ezra Nachum, Dr. Maier ’80 and Judi Becker a on the marriage Southfield, MI Ra’anana of their children, Rivka and Yaakov '06H Sammy ’98 and Rachel Groner, Merav Ashira, Mazal Tov to Executive Vice President of Etzion Rav Binny ’81 and Doreet Freedman on the Riverdale, NY Foundation, Yoel and Zamirah Weiss on the marriage of their daughter Ma'ayan to Eliel Blum Sholem ’98 Kollel and Rochie Hurwitz, Oriya birth of Sarah Nava Alan ’82 and Tzafrira Wecker on the marriage Elisheva, Neve Daniel Mazal Tov to David (former Madrich of of their son Yekutiel to Shira Gets Yehuda ’98 and Elissa Chanales, Akiva Amichai, Darkaynu Program) and Racheli Schmell, Moshe ’84 and Rebecca Linzer on the marriage Bergenfield, NJ Director of Overseas Program at Migdal Oz, on

14 etzion update the birth of Hallel Yaffa and to grandparents, birth of a great-grandson, Odeya Chessed, to Aliya Har Etzion's Comptroller Chaim and Sima Nadav and Hadassa Gilad, and on the birth of Yoel ’84 and Lisa Jakobovitz, Ra’anana Schmell and Har Etzion a great-granddaughter, Noa, to Anat and Yaron Joel ’87 and Laura Richter, Zichron Yaakov Rav Danny and Tova Rhein Schachar. Jeremy '91 and Ilana Spierer, Neve Daniel Mazal Tov to Harav Aharon and Dr. Tovah Births of Grandchildren Lichtenstein on the birth of a great-grand- Josh Rosenzweig ’95, Jerusalem David ’74 and Joyce Friedman on the birth of daughter, Ayelet Ahava, granddaughter to Rav Yair ’97 and Shira Moskowitz Dvora Chana (Elinor Deborah) and to parents Mayer '81H and Michal Biran Lichtenstein. Rav Judah '97 and Shayna Goldberg, Alon Josh ’02 Friedman and Rebecca Trachtman Shevut Zvi ’74 and Rachel Bessin on the birth of Yael Bar/Bat Mitzva Jamie ’00 and Naomi Feinmesser, Modiin Aharon Wolf (Rav Danny ’75 and Susan), Alon Moledet and to parents, Tamar and Eytan Rund Ollie ’04 PC and Shulie Harris, Ramat Beit Shevut Shlomo ’75 and Chevie Schrader on the birth Shemesh Matanya Yitzchak Bejell (Aharon ’75 and of Eliah Elazar, and to parents, Yair and Tzivia Daniel ‘05 and Tamar Kahn, Givat Shmuel Leora), Efrat Schrader Eiran Gordon ’07, Ramat Beit Shemesh Rav Joshua '75 and Shira Schreier on the birth Yehoshua (Shuie) Binyamin Berger (Rav of Tiferet, and to parents Nomi and Avishai Michael ’80 and Elisheva), Atlanta, GA Condolences Magence '05K Binyamin Novetsky (Terry ’80 and Gail), Dr. Andrew Klein ’75 on the loss of his mother, Rav Moshe ’76H and Deena Aberman on the Teaneck, NJ Mrs. Esther Klein z”l birth of their first grandchild, Noam Yair, and to Menachem Becker (Maier ’80 and Judi), Efrat Dr. Shimshon ’77 and Yoni ’82 Schwartz on the parents Tzvi '07H and Yehudit Aberman Yair Freedman (Rav Binny ’81 and Doreet), Efrat loss of their father, Rabbi Netanel Schwartz z”l Rabbi Ephraim ’76 and Valerie Mirvis on the Netanel Rubin (Sammy ’84 and Jamie), David ’77 and Rav Ari Shames ’86 on the loss birth of Rephael Nechemia, and to parents London, England of their father, Mr. Motty Shames z”l Danny ’03 and Althea Mirvis Eli Amaru (Rav Josh ’85 and Ruthie), Alon Shevut Yosef Winiarz Yeinan ’77 on the loss of his Shmuel ’76 and Shainde Sohn on the birth father, Mr. Chiya Kehat Winiarz z”l of Shuvi Leah, and to parents Aderet and Netanel Arussy (Lior '85H and Drora), Fair lawn, NJ Binyamin Kopp Sara Hanna Teitelman (Rav Lawrence ’85 and Aryeh Fund ’78 on the loss of his mother, Mrs. Norma Fund z”l Irv ’79 and Debbie Chiott on the birth of their Nehama), New Hyde Park, NY Dr. Neal Lehrman ’86 on the loss of his mother, first grandchild, Deena, and to parents Shmuel Sophie Zimbalist (David ’86 and Julia), Mrs. Deborah Lehrman, Esq. z”l and Gali Chiott Scarsdale, NY Yishai Klein ’91 on the loss of his father, Mr. Rav Joel '80 and Donna Zeff on the birth of Mordechai Pinchas Blau (Rav Yitzchak ’86 and Shmuel Klein z"l Ayelet Ahava, and to parents Chana and Uri Noa Jeselsohn), Alon Shevut Yaakov '06H Biran Rabbi Barry Kornblau ’96 K on the loss of his Moriah Schreiber (Rav Doniel ’86 and Aviva), mother, Mrs. Lois Kornblau z”l David '81 and Debra Fischman on the birth Alon Shevut of their first grandchild, Miriam Ayelet, and to Rabbi Aaron Leib ’98 on the loss of his Yedidyah Chaim Samuels (Rav Benjamin ’86 parents Gillit and Yair Manas father, Mr. Barry Leib z”l and Stephanie), Newton, MA Dr. Beni ’81 and Nadine Gesundheit on the Rosh Yeshiva Rav Baruch Gigi on the loss of Evyassaf Pinchas Horovitz (Rav Jonny ’86 and birth of Arielle, and to parents Oriya and his father, Reb Yaakov Gigi z”l Daniel Baruchi Michal), Elazar Faye Landes, on the loss of her mother, Mrs. Eliezer Meth (Uri ‘87 and Devorah), Baltimore, MD David ’82 and Tova Kestenbaum on the birth Rachelle Rosenberg Isserow z”l of Dagan Pinchas, and to parents Daniella and Doron Yehiel Eisen (David ’88 and Sara), Beit Rochelle Major on the loss of her father, Amit Nistenpover Shemesh Emanuel Stern z"l (grandfather of Sammy ’12) Rafi ’82 PC and Mona Blumberg on the birth Shira Brofsky (Rav David ’90 and Mali), Alon Rabbi Ephraim ’76 and Valerie Mirvis, Hillel of Yehuda Chai and to parents Ze’ev and Mati Shevut Blumberg ’01, Daniel ’03, Noam ’05 and Eitan ’07 Hillel Amitai Debow (Rav David ’90 and on the loss of their daughter and sister, Alan ’82 and Tzafrira Wecker on the birth of Yocheved), Alon Shevut Leora Graham z”l, after a lengthy illness twin grandchildren, Ya’ir and Eitam and to Gabrielle Safier (Yaacov ’91 and Tanya), which she fought with deep faith and parents Yehuda and Sari Noiman Bergenfield, NJ courage. Sincerest condolences to husband Mazal Tov to Rav Ezra and Itta Bick on the birth of Jonathan and children Kinneret and Elitzur. Shachar Tzivya to Batsheva and Ro’i Stern. Tova Braun (Rav Nasanayl ’92 and Tamar), המקום ינחם אתכם בתוך שאר אבלי ציון וירושלים Longbranch, NJ Mazal Tov to Rabbanit Miriam Amital on the Racheli Cohen (Rav Pini ’94 and Ilana), Alon Shevut

PC = Post-College H = Hesder MO = Migdal Oz K = Kollel Please send your news to: [email protected] The year listed indicates the commencement of study. or update directly at www.haretzion.org under alumni menu.

Winter 5772/2011 15 THIS ‘N THAT IDF Honors Prior to Yom HaAtzma’ut, three Yeshiva talmidim were named “Outstanding Soldiers”. Congratulations to:

Menachem Edelman '06H – Intelligence Corps, Southern Command

Ro’i Vekart '06H – Logistics & Planning

Chananel Ehrman '06H – . Dovid Kleid ’06-’11 of the Darkaynu Chananel also received an accelerated Program received a Medal of Recognition A talmid of Yeshivat Har Etzion currently promotion. from Chatmar Etzion, the local army base, serving in the navy was recently featured in for his dedicated volunteer service there. the IDF magazine BaMachaneh.

An elevator was added to the Yeshiva building this summer, joining the area near the A film crew from the Korean Broadcasting System Library with the auditorium. The installation of this elevator completes the process begun visited the Beit Midrash in November to film a several years ago, to render the Yeshiva and Herzog College campus completely wheelchair segment for a documentary about different accessible. Thank you again to Elli ’92 and Efrat Schorr for spearheading this effort. methods of education around the world.

To make your tax-exempt donation before the end of the year, please contact any of our offices: Israel Office | Yeshivat Har Etzion Alon Shevut, Gush Etzion 90433 ISRAEL Tel. 02-993-7300, [email protected] Office | The Etzion Foundation 111 Galway Place, Suite 203, Teaneck NJ 07666 USA Tel. 212-732- GUSH (4874) Fax. 201-833-0833, [email protected] Yeshivat Har Etzion: Donate online at www.etzionfoundation.org/donate.html Immersed in Torah, Engaged with the World Office | Attn: Inika Blackman Pollack, Kravitz Teitelbaum, 2000 McGill College Avenue, Suite 1460 Editing & Production: Montreal, Quebec H3A 3H3 CANADA Shira Schreier & Channah Koppel Tel. 514-905-1373, [email protected] Graphic Design: Stephanie & Ruti Design England Office | Attn: Rabbi Daniel Roselaar Photos: Gershon Ellinson, Yehoshua 28 Kings Close, London NW4 2JT ENGLAND Halevi, Rebecca Kowalsky, Eliyahu Yanai Tel. 020-8202-7022, [email protected] and staff photographers www.haretzion.org www.etzionfoundation.org www.vbm-torah.org www.kimitzion.org Printed in Jerusalem