SEPTEMBER 2015 VOL. 70

the bulletin THE MAGAZINE OF THE S&P SEPHARDI COMMUNITY

sephardi.org.uk The home of the Sephardi community since 1656 the bulletin

MEMORIES

Rosh Hashanah is one of the most solemn days of the Jewish Year. It is referred to as both the Yom Hadin - the Day of Judgment and the Yom Hazikaron – the Day of Memory. In order to experience with consciousness and meaning we must understand what these names mean. Rosh Hashanah doesn’t seem to have the same joy that the other festivals have -- there’s no , no greetings of moadim lesimha, (festival of joy). There is urgency CONTENTS about the day that teaches us that our actions are not inconsequential, and that no moment we live is trivial. We acknowledge on this day that G-d does not simply The Sephardi Bulletin Message from Joseph Dweck 3 2 Ashworth Road yield to all of our choices. It is a day of consequence. W9 1JY Congregation news 4 T 020 7289 2573 High Holy Days’ 8 What then, if anything, are we to do about our judgement? How does coming [email protected] together and speaking of memories, and G-d’s reign as King of the universe, and 10 www.sephardi.org.uk references to blowing shofar have any effect on ] judgement? Lauderdale Road Synagogue 14 Editor Rosh Hashanah is also – Day of Memory. On Rosh Hashanah Alison Rosen Sephardi Kashrut Authority 18 Yom Hazikaron we come together with our fellow Jews and commit to living memorably as Advertising S&P Welfare Board 19 individuals and as a nation. We acknowledge the fact that our days are constant, Al Goncalves Sha’are Tikvah Hebrew Classes 20 new opportunities to further create and define ourselves . On Rosh Hashanah we T 020 7432 1303 Synagogue 22 commit to live our days as memories, rather than after-thoughts. Chazak 28 We do all of this, because in doing so we accept the covenant of being partners Two Centenarians 32 with G-d in Creation. We acknowledge on Rosh Hashanah that G-d is king, but that Contributions as there is no king without subjects. We involve ourselves in weaving Creation’s Any submissions for inclusion in Archives and Treasures 34 the Bulletin should be sent to the tapestry, rather than passively accepting its uncertain tides. Rosh Hashanah is editor [email protected]. The Edinburgh House 40 a day on which we are startled into awareness by the blast of the shofar. We next issue will be shortly before S&P Synagogue 42 undergo an awakening recognising that our moments matter and that they are Pesach and the all ultimately embedded in the all encompassing knowledge and awareness of Rambam Sephardi Synagogue 46 deadline for submissions will The Holy One. be published neared the time. David Ishag Synagogue 54 Text should be typed and sent Nissan & Tishrei 78 On Rosh Hashanah -- the first two days ofAseret Yemei Teshuvah -- we are meant as a Microsoft Word document. to see all of our coming days as blank pages, and write in them what we want the Photographs or illustrations should Sephardi Congregation of stories of our lives to be. In doing so, the seeds planted for us this Rosh Hashanah be sent as either tiff or jpeg files, South Manchester 82 and should be emailed or sent on will grow strong, and the seeds planted next Rosh Hashanah will be full of even CD. Only high resolution images KK Shaare Ratzon 86 greater potential. May we all see a year of meaningful memories. can be used. The Cohanim 87 Tizku Leshanim Rabot, Environmental policy Book Review 88 The paper used in the printing of the Sephardi LSJS 92 Bulletin is made from pulp Obituary Clemens N Nathan 94 manufactured using timber from Rabbi Joseph Dweck Obituary Isaac Zekaria 97 sustainable forests. Rabbi Joseph Dweck Times 100 SENIOR RABBI 2 3 the CONGREGATION bulletin NEWS

FROM ALISON ROSEN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Mr. & Mrs Jason and Laura Sasson with family Mr George Weisz I am really delighted to present the new branding for the Sephardi Bulletin and hope Mr. Robert Sassoon Mr and Mrs Joshua and Candice Gubbay with family you like the magazine. We are at an exciting point in the history of the S&P Sephardi Ms Tanya Shamash with family Mr and Mrs Eyal and Marilyn Ofer with family Community with a new name and brand, together with an exciting new programme. Katie Shemtob Ms Julie Gourgey with family Lauren Shemtob Mr and Mrs David and Debbie Djanogly with family Please do take some time to look at our new website at www.sephardi.org.uk Mr Elias Soleimany Mr and Mrs Marc Baghdadi I extend a warm welcome to Rabbi Shalom Morris who joins us as our new Rabbi at Mr. Dominic Stolerman Mr Fred Cohen Bevis Marks and also wish besimatob to Rabbi Kada who is now permanent with our Xavier and Sandie Tzinmann Wembley congregation. We would also like to welcome Dayan Yaron Navon as our new head of Beth Din. MEMBERS HAVING MARRIED UNDER OUR AUSPICES We wish our readers a happy and healthy new year and well over the fast. Full details of our festival services is included in our new programme in a separate Naomi Ebeyer and Stephen Gooblar Emma Greene and Daniel Cordell publication. Deborah Carter and David Mowbray Brooke Calvert and Sebastian Vandermolen We wish Besimatob to our Chatanim and their families. Dr Judith Thei and Jeremy Lowe Emma Simons and Jason Margolin Anna Dangoor and Jeremy Sanders Daria Adiv and Gavin Rubinstein A NOTE FROM THE PROGRAMME DIRECTOR, EDWARD HOWARD Julia Fishman and Andrew Newton Dana Benaim and Jacob Attias It has been a wonderful first year here at the S&P. We have tried to provide an Simone De La Fuente and William Castle Sarah Dangoor and Oliver Gee exciting variety of events and programming for the entire community. As we move Sandra Rega and David Sebbah Jennifer Orchudesh and Elliott Kenton forward with the new brand we hope you enjoy what we have on offer throughout Lauren Cohen and Brice Benoliel Zoe Moatti and Adam Keats the coming year. For more information on this please see the upcoming edition BIRTHS of the programme or visit our new website for more details on all the activities Congratualtions to the following new parents: happening at the S&P . Samantha and Josepth Nathan Steven and Danielle Murad Simon and Natasha Goldstone Esther and Marcus da Costa WELCOME TO NEW MEMBERS Sandra and Jonathan Bilbul Rebecca and Oliver Druce Debbie and Gary Somers Jason and Gemma Silver Mark and Melody Salem Mr Yoni Vigouroux Mr & Mrs Simon and Anat Halfon Jason and Dina Webber Claudia and Darren Shenkin Rebecca and Daniel Zubaida Mr Theo Azouz Mr & Mrs Gideon and Tresnia Harbour with family Mr and Mrs Noam and Sabrina Attar with family Mr Ashley Hikmet ENGAGEMENTS Mr. & Mrs Chinks and Yolanda Bharucha with family Mr. & Mrs Jonathan and Ann Joseph with family Mr. & Mrs Cedric and Danielle Boghanim Mr & Mrs Jason and Davina Katz Emma Graham and Mark Haguenauer Hannah Seal and Jonathan Masri Mr. & Mrs Aaron and Alexandra (Altman) Cohen Miss Gaby Khalastchy Stacey Frimerman and Michael Khalastchi Lyndsey Wooley and Adam Greenberg Miss Alexandra Dangoor Dr Shahram Khavari - Hamedani Nicola Henig and Simon Bagel Sarah Sopher and Elliot Arwas Miss Stephanie Dangoor Mr. & Mrs Maurice and Michelle Kindler with family Colette Murray and Lee Murad Lauren Dias and Darryl Taylor Mr. Anthony Dwek Mr Raymond Levy Liliane Dwek and Darren Fogelman Nelly Morgan and Daniel Levene Mrs Zoe Dwek - Adams Julian Meir Mary Dwek and David Radnor Anthony Tricot and Jessica Bromley Dr and Mrs Meir and Simone Garson Mr & Mrs Abraham and Lorraine Nonoo with family Rebecca Marcus and Joey Hasson Alice Prevezer and Gary Hill Ms Melanie Garson with family Mr and Mrs Daniel and Lina Ofer with family Rachael Besser and Yoseph Citron Katie Phillips and Samuel Murray Mr & Mrs Steven and Meryll Gee with family Mr & Mrs Natan and Leah Peres with family Jennifer and Michel Ghatan with family Mr. & Mrs Mark and Gine Riese E-MAIL COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE CONGREGATION Miss Aurora Gherson Mr & Mrs Daniel and Natascha Salaman with family If you have not yet subscribed to our weekly newsletter you can do so at www.sephardi.org.uk 4 5 the CONGREGATION EVENTS IN THE bulletin NEWS CONT. PAST YEAR FUNERALS

Albert Battat Maurice Sasson Shaoul Bilbul Alma Selwyne Emanuel Michael Perez Sharon Gaye Azouz Clemens Nathan Murad Dalah Sion Soleimany Ellis Dallal Nessim Dawood Sophie Sopher Germaine Spencer Norman Goodman Susan Loewe Harry Delmonte Orna Moses Valentine Baroukh Ivan Sopher Rachel Rogers Vera Nabarro-Morris Jamil Birshan Rebecca Webber Michael Espir Joseph Schemtob Renee Papouchado Dayan Saadia Amor Sir Lucio (Robert) Rietti Rita Kalev Albert Sassoon Manocher Nehorai Roland Malley Mary Zekaria Marjatta Mendoza Ruth Sebag-Montefiore Rhoda Nahum Maurice Friend

FUTURE STONESETTINGS

Name of deceased Cemetery Date of service Rebecca Nissim Edgwarebury 21/08/2015 Renee Papouchado Hoop Lane 30/08/2015 Marjatta Mendoza Edgwarebury 30/08/2015 Ezekiel Judah Cohen Hoop Lane 06/09/2015 Shaoul Bilbul Hoop Lane 06/09/2015 Alma Cecilia Selwyne Hoop Lane 10/09/2015 Mercia Asprey Edgwarebury 10/09/2015 Naomi Dwek Hoop Lane 11/09/2015 Murad Saleh Dalah Edgwarebury 17/09/2015 Rachel Rogers Edgwarebury 20/09/2015 Rebecca Webber Edgwarebury 11/10/2015 Nissan Dawood Hoop Lane 11/10/2015 Violette Laskowska Edgwarebury 12/10/2015 Vera Nabarro Morris Hoop Lane 18/10/2015 Florette Sulman Edgwarebury 18/10/2015 Mozelle Ezra Edgwarebury 22/11/2015 Maurice Sassoon Hoop Lane 22/11/2015 Harry Delmonte Edgwarebury 29/11/2015 Rachel Saunders Edgwarebury 29/11/2015 Sophie Sopher Edgwarebury 14/02/2016 Mayer Lagnado Edgwarebury 14/02/2016 Angela Ebrahimi Edgwarebury 22/05/2016 6 7 the HIGH HOLY DAYS’ bulletin INFORMATION

PRE ROSH HASHANA DAYS AT LAUDERDALE ROAD: YOUTH SERVICES OVER HIGH HOLY LULABIM CEMETARIES Main Service: Rabbi Joseph Dweck, DAYS AT LAUDERDALE ROAD Lulabim will be available to order via Rabbi Israel Elia, Adam Musikant, the Synagogue office for £32 per set. For children and youth in both Jewish 30th August with Rabbi Israel Elia Robert Kandel and Amos Hadad Please call the office or email and non-Jewish schools. 10:00am Hoop lane Oriental Service: Rabbi Joseph Dweck [email protected] for more and Amos Hadad See notice boards for locations. 30th August with Rabbi Jeff Berger information. WEMBLEY: 10:00am Edgwarebury Lane ROSH HASHANAH Rabbi Daniel Kada and Services for all ages at 11am (First Day) Nachshon Rodrigues Pereira 6th September with Rabbi Jeff Berger and 10.30am (Second Day) PRAYER BOOKS 10:00am Edgwarebury Lane KAL NIDRE Prayer books for Rosh Hashana, Yom Service for school years 4 – 6 Kippur and Succot may be purchased 6th September with Rabbi Daniel Kada BEVIS MARKS: Service for school years 7+ from the office. Full details, including 10:00am Hoop lane Rabbi Shalom Morris, Philip Maurice (Run by Rabbi Yitsy) prices, may be obtained from the and Nachshon Rodrigues Pereira office as above. SECURITY LAUDERDALE ROAD: Please be extra vigilant during this Main Service: Rabbi Joseph Dweck, YOM KIPPUR time of heightened security when Rabbi Israel Elia, Adam Musikant Services for all ages after the Shahrit arriving and leaving the Synagogue Oriental Service: Rabbi Shlomo Farhi reading. premises. No bags other than small WEMBLEY: Light lunch for children under Bar/Bat handbags will be allowed into any of Mitzvah the Synagogues. Rabbi Daniel Kada and Amos Hadad SUCCOT Mobile telephones should not be brought into any of the Synagogues. HATANIM Services for all ages after Torah They may be removed at the entrance reading (All Festival Days and by the security officers. BEVIS MARKS: Shabbat) At Lauderdale Road any non-member Hatan Torah: Stephen Saady Children’s Succcah Crawl (Primary who has not beenregistered may be Hatan Bereshit: Silvano Stagni school children) 28th September refused admission on the first day of LAUDERDALE ROAD: Rosh HaShana and Yom Kippur. SHEMINI HAG’ATZERET AND SIMHAT Hatan Torah: Alan Bekhor TORAH MINISTERS Hatan Bereshit: Ronnie Hanan Not to be missed Simhat Torah party ROSH HASHANAH WEMBLEY: after the evening service on 5th October with dancing and desserts. BEVIS MARKS: Hatan Torah: Gabriel Mahgerefteh Hatan Bereshit: Denny Sabah Children’s Hakafot and Dancing in Rabbi Shalom Morris and the Dangoor Synagogue 6th October Philip Maurice 11:00am

E-MAIL COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE CONGREGATION If you have not yet subscribed to our weekly newsletter you can do so at www.sephardi.org.uk

8 9 Bevis Marks Synagogue 2 Heneage Lane, London EC3 5DQ. T 020 7626 1274 www.sephardi.org.uk

LOOKING AHEAD: It has been an interesting and active few months since Pesah. The communal meal on the second night was well attended and even sold out. Weekday 7 Sept Rabbi Joseph Dweck lecture 29 Sept Sucot II - Eliot Alderman reads shahrit continues to be well supported. Shabbat and festival services are still 11 Sept Anniversary Shabbat: Friday perashah going strong, led beautifully by our ‘home team’ of regulars. night dinner to welcome Rabbi Shalom 3 Oct Shabbat Succot Eliot Alderman We have had some departures: after a long happy time living locally, Revd Morris reads perashah Halfon and Delia Benarroch have moved to Swiss Cottage to be nearer their 12 Sept Anniversary Shabbat: kiddush family. We wish them many happy years of good health in their new home. to welcome Rabbi Shalom Morris. Eliot 4 Oct Hoshangana Rabba - Eliot We also wish Maurice Bitton a bright future as he relocates to North West Alderman reads perashah. London. He is no longer serving as Shamash on Shabbatot and Haguim, but Alderman reads perashah of course we will continue to benefit from his extraordinary work during the 13/14/15 Sept Rosh Hashannah, with 6 Oct Simhat Tora – we fete Hatan week. Philip Maurice and Rabbi Shalom Morris leading services Stephen Saady who hosts a special Sadly we have lost Maurice Friend who passed away earlier in the year. Our kiddush ever faithful Levy, he is sorely missed and we wish his wife Pearl many years 19 Sept Kiddush to honour Maurice Martin for his 80th Birthday. and a long life. 10 Oct Shabat Bereshit – we fete Hatan On a happier note, we’ve celebrated milestone birthdays for Norma Ereira, 22/23 Sept Kippur with Philip Maurice Silvano Stagni who hosts a special and Nachshon Rodrigues Pereira Brenda Dias and Sam Dias. Sam marked his second bar mitsvah at the ripe kiddush old age of 83. leading services 25/26 Sept Rabbi Dweck’s family 12 Oct Rabbi Joseph Dweck lecture (TBC) Most excitingingly, Rabbi Shalom Morris is coming to serve as our new full comes to us for Shabbat time Rabbi. He will take up residence in the house next door to the synagogue and is bursting with ideas for his new post. We can already feel a certain buzz 28 Sept Succot I - Eliot Alderman reads 30 Oct Friday night services revert in the air! perashah to 18:30

the bulletin

10 11 Bevis Marks Synagogue

BEVIS MARKS ZEMIROT AND HAFTAROT ROTA

Date Parasha Zemirot Haftara

Monday, 14 Sept15 Rosh Hashana 1 Evan Der Millner Jeremy Schonfield

Tuesday, 15 Sept 15 Rosh Hashana 2 Evan Der Millner Howard Martin

Saturday, 19 Sept15 Shabbat Shubah Vayelech Frank Martin Maurice Martin

Wed, 23 Sept 15 Kippur Morning Jeremy Schonfield Gideon Osen

Wed, 23 Sept 15 Kippur Frank Martin

Saturday, 26 Sept 15 Haazeenu Evan Der Millner Kenneth Emmanuel

Monday, 28 Sept 15 Succot 1 Howard Martin Gideon Osen

Tuesday, 29 Sept 15 Succot 2 Frank Martin Jeremy Schonfield

Saturday, 3 Oct 15 Chol Hamonged Jeremy Schonfield Edward Album

Monday, 5 Oct 15 Shemini Atseret Frank Martin Howard Martin

Tuesday, 6 Oct 15 Simchat Torah Howard Martin Maurice Martin

Saturday, 10 Oct 15 Bereshit Evan Der Millner Lawrence Kilshaw

Saturday, 17 Oct 15 Noach Evan Der Millner Jonathan Solomons

Saturday, 24 Oct 15 Lech Lecha Frank Martin Robert Behar

Saturday, 31 Oct 15 Vayera Howard Martin Jeremy Schonfield

Saturday, 7 Nov 15 Chayei Sarah Jeremy Schonfield Daniel Morganstern

Saturday, 14 Nov 15 Toledot Evan Der Millner Frank Martin

Saturday, 21 Nov 15 Vayetse Frank Martin Leon Sassoon

Saturday, 28 Nov 15 Vayishlach Howard Martin Stephen Saady

Saturday, 5 Dec 15 Vayeshev Evan Der Millner Kenneth Emmanuel

Saturday, 12 Dec 15 Chanukah/R.h.tevet Mikketz Frank Martin Daniel Dias

Saturday, 19 Dec 15 Vayigash Jeremy Schonfield Maurice Martin

Saturday, 26 Dec 15 Vayechi Evan Der Millner Stephen Saady

12 13 the LAUDERDALE ROAD bulletin SYNAGOGUE 9 Lauderdale Road, London W9 1LT T 020 7289 2573 T 020 7289 2709 www.sephardi.org.uk FRIENDSHIP CLUB Despite dire warnings of heavy traffic REPORT FROM THE LAUDERDALE ROAD In June we had our annual outing - this year Having received a very generous donation during the rush hour, the return journey SYNAGOGUE ASSOCIATION to Lille on Eurostar. With the early start we from a past member, The Friendship Club took less than 40 minutes, during which had a full day to explore the city - it is under decided to treat its members to a theatre time drinks and refreshments were served. The LRSA continues with our monthly A great afternoon, thanks to our generous meetings and events for the congregation. two hours away but still very much “abroad”. outing. A lunch was served in the Montefiore Also in June several of the committee Hall before the coach arrived to take 45 benefactor. Since the last report we have had a very members joined the Association of Jewish of us down to the Novello Theatre to see The club continues to meet on a Wednesday enjoyable and successful Supper Quiz - Women’s Organisation in celebrating their Mamma Mia. afternoon in the Montefiore Hall, providing nearly £3000 was raised for charity. For 50th Anniversary where the guest speaker Having left in plenty of time, we arrived well a warm happy & friendly atmosphere - a Purim Margalit Dwek and Barbara Simon was Zahava Taub. before the doors opened, so the driver took place to meet other senior members of organised a children’s party at the Dweks’ the community. We celebrate the Jewish home. The adults were catered for in the Leila Dwek’s garage was filled as usual with us on an impromptu tour of Westminster articles for our fund raising at All Aboard - and its environs, whilst Ziva Dwek Festivals; observe the highlights of the Montefiore Hall after the reading of the Jewish Calendar; organise weekly speakers Megilla. £1500 was received from the sale of goods. gave us the benefit of her knowledge of the history of London. On our arrival in the and entertainers; show films; hold raffles; In preparation for Pesach there was a wine The highlight of the year’s activities must Dress Circle, fun and games were had, whilst supply teas; celebrate members’ birthdays tasting which also turned out to be a lively have been the BBQ in June held at the we tried to meet individual needs, with and anniversaries; organise outings; hold an social event despite the torrential rain Sacerdoti’s marvelous garden - despite some members having to be reseated, due annual garden party during the summer & outside. worries about the weather we were to suffering from vertigo! chauffeur members who are unable to get fortunate to have a perfect day for sitting to the synagogue on their own. Pop in and The Friendship Club Tea has been renamed out and enjoying the food and mingling with The performance was very professional, if see us - we’ll give you a very warm welcome! Founders’ Tea when we prepare the the crowd of over 100 guests. rather noisy - a bit like being at a Jewish food for the more senior members of the wedding! So loud was the amplification that For more information, please contact the Synagogue and other friends. As previously We do need more members so please some of our hard of hearing members found synagogue on 020 7289 2573 the scones are a hit (recipe thanks to Sarah do contact Suzanne Magnus or any other it necessary to remove their hearing aids! Magnus). The singer and accompanist committee member if you are able to help provided a musical medley. with activities. Vera Goodman Lastly, Joyce Sopher must be thanked for organising the Kiddushim on Shabbat. celebrated her 100th birthday at a tea party at the KIDDUSHIM Thank you to the following who kindly sponsored kiddushim House of Commons, Mrs. Sonia Sassoon Mr. and Mrs. David Dangoor Mr. and Mrs. Francis Treuhertz hosted by her MP Mr. and Mrs. Alan Bekhor Dr. and Mrs. Alan Shamash Mrs. Helen Sopher and Family Zac Goldsmith Mr. and Mrs. Michael Ani Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Temple Mr. and Mrs. Jack Taylor Mr. and Mrs. Hanan Mr. and Mrs. Mark Salem Mr. and Mrs. Sascha Khakshouri Mr. and Mrs. Michael Rahamima Rabbi and Mrs. Joseph Dwek Mr. and Mrs. Robert Mizrahi Mr. and Mrs. David Kendal Rabbi and Mrs. Abraham Levy Mrs. Anna Albright Dr. and Mrs. Richard Dawood Mr. and Mrs. William Fattal Mr. Jack Aaron Mr. Ezra Hakkak Bilbul and Tricot Families Mr. and Mrs. Robert Kandel Mr. and Mrs. Adam Musikant Mr. and Mrs. Simon Tobelem

14 15 the LAUDERDALE ROAD bulletin SYNAGOGUE 9 Lauderdale Road, London W9 1LT T 020 7289 2573 T 020 7289 2709 www.sephardi.org.uk

COMMUNITY CARES Having reinstated the Lauderdale Road The help we plan to offer can mean anything LAUDERDALE ROAD COMMITTEE Committee, Caroline Hayim and I are from a simple DIY, helping the sick or elderly The Lauderdale Road Committee has been established in order to manage local planning to set up Lauderdale Community by befriending, home visiting, shopping, Lauderdale Road Synagogue issues. We have made steady progress since our Cares , a programme run by the community transport arrangements or merely dropping inception, and hope you will soon see some of our innovations in practice. If you for members of the community. It is hoped in for a chat. It will be achieved we hope would like to raise a Lauderdale Road issue, have some suggestions or improvements to offer a confidential service of practical through a willing and committed group. and emotional support in a friendly manner to make, or would like to get involved in running your synagogue, please drop our And the more volunteers we get, it will help and will be run entirely by volunteers. It is Chairman, Dr Alan Mendoza, a line on [email protected] or our objective to promote and encourage a spread the load. 07974 812 782. sense of belonging and involvement so that Please contact me on 020 8450 4476 or individuals within our community feel cared [email protected]. for and valued. It would be really good to start on this Many of our members at time of need are well supported by friends and family, but before the Hagim. there are times when neither is available or it Many thanks may be easier to talk to someone not known to them, away from the family unit. Barbara Simon

16 17 REPORT FROM THE SPANISH SEPHARDI AND PORTUGUESE SYNAGOGUE KASHRUT AUTHORITY WELFARE BOARD SHANAH TOVAH! The Welfare Board continues with helping to meet the needs of over 300 Sephardi A few personal highlights from what the SKA have been doing this year: individuals. Caterers: we were particularly pleased to supervise the Clifford Chance Channukah In addition to Festival Grants the Welfare Board provides help for children to attend Jewish party at the Savoy last Channukah. There were over 500 guests from across the summer camps. Many of the families that are helped suffer from severe physical or mental community, and the food got very strong positive feedback. health problems and associated financial pressure. Even if working they depend on state welfare benefits which do not meet the costs of an observant way of life. As for products: Kingsmill are launching thin crumpets to complement their In the last year the Board has been the beneficiary of several generous donations without muffin, pancake and waffle range - all are SKA approved. Similarly there are new which the help extended would have had to be severely curtailed. products coming out with McCain – watch out for baby roast potatoes and sweet Please do continue to support this essential source of help; if you would like more information potato fries both will bear the SKA logo. or would consider volunteering as a visitor please contact Linda Granville on 020 7432 1305.

Passover is a challenging time for every kashrut authority, and this year we were proud to have two restaurants licensed to serve food over the chag: Let’s Meat in Borehamwood and Bevis Marks in the City. Congratulations to Rabbi Steinhof for his work over the year, but at this time in particular.

On the restaurants front, we have now licensed the ice creams and sorbets in Bella del Gelato on Golders Green Road. Over in Hampstead Garden Suburb, we have licensed the Gaya Cafe in the park by Norrice Lea, and the Karens Gan Nursery. I can’t say I’ve been to the park café, but the strawberry sorbet comes highly recommended.

On a sad note, the SKA lost a leading figure in Dayan Amor (zt”l) in February. Dayan Amor meant a great deal to us on a personal level as well as a halachic authority. Rabbi Dweck gave a hesped at Lauderdale Road which can be viewed via the website.

Rabbi Dweck continues to increase his input and guidance into the work of the SKA

Very best wishes for the New Year

Danny

18 19 the bulletin

SHA’ARE TIKVAH As a reminder, The Shaare Tikvah Sunday We cater for children who are aged classes are an incredibly vibrant, fun “rising five” to GCSE level with a HEBREW CLASSES and nurturing environment where we specifically targeted curriculum for educate the younger members of our each age group where every child We are delighted to welcome Rabbi the 'Polonies Talmud Torah School' of community on a Sunday morning with will be focused on for their individual Shalom Morris into the community Congregation Shearith Israel in New a mix of formal education, interactive needs. We welcome children at any and also into the role as Headteacher York. The school is over two centuries learning (computer based) and a huge point of their Jewish education, at of the Sunday Classes where we look old, making it the oldest and longest range of activities marking all of the any age and at any level. Our reading forward to learning from his experience running institution of Jewish education major festivals as well as the events that scheme has seen children who could having been Head of the S&P Sunday in America. During my time there, the mark our everyday Jewish lives such as barely recognise the Hebrew alphabet School in New York for the past six school more than tripled in size. I'm a Shabbat Workshop (including Challah become proficient readers with the baking, wine, challah covers and candle help of our two dedicated reading years.. We are incredibly excited to therefore overjoyed to join yet another making), Interactive Seder (including assistants. We also continue to offer have someone with Rabbi Morris’ prestigious, historic, and special school, Matzah Baking), Pureem & Chanukah our highly regarded GCSE class where knowledge, energy and ideas joining now in England. Several elements guide parties and visits to Edinburgh House. the students continue to achieve a top the team and he will work hand in glove my approach to Jewish education. The We have instituted many changes over class grade whilst being able to sit the with our Principal, Rabbi Elia. Together, most important is that we commit ourselves to provide our children with the past few years and the classes offer examination at an earlier age. they will continue to ensure the quality a warm and welcoming atmosphere a substantive and content rich study of Should you be interested in enrolling and breadth of offering of our Sunday where everyone is welcome and where Judaism, including its texts, language, your child in any of our classes, or Classes and will continue to build on our current students look forward history and traditions. Through that introducing others either from the the transformational work done over to attending. The year is crowned we demonstrate to our children that Community or outside or in learning the previous few years to modernise by our celebratory End of Year Prize we value their time and take them more about what we offer – please feel and rejuvenate the classes which have giving where parents, grandparents seriously, and in turn they will do the free to contact the office. yielded great results and growing pupil and siblings assemble with our staff to same. And of course, their studies numbers. We asked Rabbi Morris to celebrate each student’s achievement should also be enhanced through share with us some thoughts ahead of and contribution. his arrival and we are delighted to pass warm, positive and qualified educators, these on to you: and special informal programming. Combined, our children will develop a “The most important element in any healthy and positive attitude toward Jewish community is the education it their Judaism and inner religious provides to its children. It is through that life, and therefore take pride in their education that we demonstrate what involvement in the Jewish community values are important to us and how we as they grow into adults. I welcome the intend the Jewish future to take shape. opportunity to meet the students and I am therefore humbled and enthused parents of our school, as well as anyone to join the historic Sha'are Tikva. For else interested in learning more about the past six years I was principal of our special program. “

20 21 the WEMBLEY bulletin SYNAGOGUE 46 Forty Avenue, Wembley, Middx, HA9 8LQ www.wsps.org.uk Co-chairmen: Julia Ben Nathan & Haroun Mahgerefteh Email: [email protected]

‘Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me’ is a well- known English idiom. But what is Judaism’s perspective on this?

I think it’s remarkable that arguably the holiest day of the Jewish calendar begins This indicates a powerful message. Human beings are similar to animals but there with the Kal Nidrei service – a declaration annulling any forgotten vows one may is one huge difference – the ability for humans to communicate through speech. have made during the course of the year. The faculty of speech is what differentiates man from the Animal Kingdom. When a person corrupts his speech and uses it for the wrong purposes he negates his Granted, a broken vow is a serious and grave issue not to be sneezed at. The Torah essence as a human being. He may still be an animal, but as a human being he is (Bemidbar 30:3) teaches “When a person vows a vow, he shall not break his word; dead. Hence the similarities in the impurity of a dead body and a leper. As humans, according to all that proceeds out of his mouth he shall do”. An entire Talmudic they are both dead. As the psalmist (34:12-13) put it: ‘who is man who desires life? tractate, Masechet Nedarim, is devoted to the laws pertaining to keeping one’s Guard your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit’. promises and undertakings. But Yom Kippur is the day that will atone for all sins. The most heinous sins of man against G-d are forgiven on Yom Kippur - surely we Words are powerful. Words can be used to spread hatred or foster love. King ought to begin the day with more severe matters? Solomon put it precisely in Proverbs (18:21)‘Life and death are in the hands of the tongue’. (According to what we have explained, not just the life and death of It has been argued that the reason goes back to the times of the Spanish Inquisition others are in the hands of the tongue but even our own life and death are in the when Jews were confronted with the choice: convert or be expelled. There were hands of the tongue.) With words we can build worlds. We would probably be many who chose to stay loyal and committed to their religion and faced the speechless if we knew the power of speech. consequences of their decision. But there were others, abusively referred to as Marranos, who whilst outwardly behaved as devout Christians, inwardly, deep Imagine taking out a cloth to polish your precious candlesticks that are slightly down in their hearts remained loyal to their faith. Once a year, on the eve of tarnished. After some time rubbing, you realise that they not getting any cleaner. Yom Kippur, they would gather together in their hideout synagogues and before So you rub harder and more ferociously. Mysteriously though, the harder you rub beginning the services would implore G-d to forgive them for any statements or the dirtier the candlesticks become. Something is wrong. declarations they had uttered over the course of the year which were contrary to Jewish doctrine. It thereby became accepted practice amongst all congregations You look at the cloth and see some splotches of black oil – someone has used your to begin the day with Kal Nidrei. special cloth reserved for polishing your candlesticks to change the oil of his car! The problem with this explanation is that Kal Nidrei predates the Spanish Inquisition However pure and wholesome our thoughts and feelings are on Yom Kippur, they by hundreds of years. Although the exact origins of this prayer are unknown, there have to be verbally expressed through our mouths. If the mouth is dirty and mucky is evidence that it was in existence during the Geonic period (circa 550-1050). and full of grime, then our deepest and heartfelt thoughts that emanate through There must be a deeper reason to the solemnity and gravity Jewish tradition has our mouths will similarly become dirty. lent to this prayer. So we begin the day by first making sure our speech is pure and correct. We In Temple times there were different degrees of ritual impurity. The more severe an first restore our essence as humans by making sure our faculty of speech is clean impurity was, the greater the restrictions were. The most severe of ritual impurities and unsullied. Then we are ready to begin praying and making the most of this was commonly known as the impurity of a corpse. In Rabbinic literature the impurity precious day. of a dead body is referred to as an ‘avi avot ha’tumah’ – literally a ‘grandfather of impurity’ – the source of all impurities and the most restrictive. There was only Perhaps the Jewish idiom should read: ‘sticks and stones can break my bones but one other form of impurity that in stringency equated that of a dead body – the words can break my soul’. leper. One who slandered and spoke derogatorily of others would be inflicted with Rabbi Danny Kada tsara’at, a whitish discoloration of the skin, and would be subjected to exactly the same laws as a dead corpse. Hence the leper would have to dwell outside the camp, because just as a dead body would make impure anyone under the same roof as it, so would a leper too.

22 23 the WEMBLEY bulletin SYNAGOGUE 46 Forty Avenue, Wembley, Middx, HA9 8LQ www.wsps.org.uk Co-chairmen: Julia Ben Nathan & Haroun Mahgerefteh Email: [email protected] CONGRATULATIONS SONIA SASSOON RETIREMENT KIDDUSHIM: Congratulations to Susan and To Richard Sassoon, a Wembley member, After over 15 years in the role of Many thanks for the donation of Alan Howard on the birth of their for being appointed to the Board of Secretary of the Wembley Synagogue, kiddushim to Maurice Rahamim, Sas granddaughter, Olivia Eden, first child Deputies, as a representative of the S & Sonia is taking her retirement. Sonia has and Niran Timan, the Arwas family, for Ilana and Simon Shaw, and Mya, a P congregation. done an unimaginably large amount Anthony and Sandra Leon, Martin daughter for Jo and Daniel Howard. To Ben Avital for completing the of work, putting in hours of dedicated Ben-Nathan, the , Alan 10km run and raising over £600 for work each and every week. From Tabbush, Moshe and George Dallal, and Congratulations to Melissa and Denny Chai Cancer Care in memory of his chairing the Ladies Guild to organising to Julia and Colin Ben-Nathan for their Sabah on the birth of their daughter, grandfather. community events, to liaising with donation of Shabbat breakfast. Lola, and to grandparents Yaffa and Brent Council on a range of issues, Rony Sabah, and Linda and Murray AGM to managing our security guards, Kiddushim are central to the community Nussbaum. This took place on Sunday 10th March caretakers, and waitresses, Sonia is the aspect of our Synagogue and we are at 7pm at the synagogue, followed person behind the scenes, more than highly appreciative of any kiddush Congratulations to Dina and Jason by supper. There was an excellent any other, who ensures the smooth which is donated by members of the Webber on the birth of their daughter, attendance with a lively and productive running of the Wembley community. community, as this helps with this all- Tamar, and to grandparents Jacqueline discussion. The whole community owes her a debt important aspect, and adds a personal and Robert Webber, and Linda and Both the Chairman, Rony Sabah, and of gratitude. touch to kiddushim. It also allows for the Johnny Wosner. the Secretary, Sonia Sassoon stepped donor to mark a special occasion and down from their respective positions. Victor Sassoon who has overseen the share it with their community such as a BARMITZVAHS The new co-Chairs will be Julia Ben maintenance of the building for almost wedding anniversary, the anniversary of Congratulations to Ben Timan, son of Nathan and Haroun Mahgerefteh. two decades is also retiring from his a Bar Mitzvah, a birthday, in memory of Niran and Sas Timan, and Joe Sassoon, We wish them both luck in their new role. We thank them both and hope a loved one, to commemorate a birth, son of Tracy and Daniel Sassoon, positions. they enjoy putting their feet up from an engagement, a marriage etc grandson of Sonia and Victor Sassoon, now on. Please visit our website www.wsps. and Marilyn Raphael. We welcome a number of new people org.uk to see a list of dates available Both boys read their portions to to the Committee in addition to the for sponsorship and also a scale of perfection, and we are most proud of existing members: Allan Howard (who charges. You may also book by emailing them. replaces Dan Benveniste as Security [email protected] Additionally, Jake Sassoon beautifully Officer), Gina De Smith, Diana Zelouf recited the Anim Zemirot, in honour of and Marilyn Segal. DONATION: our Ashkenazi visitors. We thank Rony, Sonia and Dan for the We are most grateful for a very immense amount of hard work they generous donation of a new freezer and CONDOLENCES have put in over the years. refrigerator, which were much needed, To Marcelle Benjamin on the loss of her and are already put to full use. mother, Louise Zubaida. To Sarah Avital on the loss of her father. BIRTHS: Congratulations to Sandra and Anthony BEREAVEMENT Leon on the birth of their second We were much saddened by the daughter, Hannah Jennifer, a sister for untimely loss of Marjatta Mendoza, Gabriella. Mazeltov to grandparents wife of Adrian and mother of Alan Julie Shmueli, Dianne and Roger Leon, and Raquel. Marjatta and Adrian were and great-grandmother Vera Cohen. regular, loyal and much valued members Remembering the late Jennifer Leon of our Kahal for many years until their and Gabriel Schmueli at this happy move to Hendon. We offer our sincere time. condolences to the whole family

24 25 the WEMBLEY bulletin SYNAGOGUE

ZEMIROT AND HAFTAROT, SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2015 EVENTS PARNASSIM: In June, Rebbetzin Tammy Kada October – Mark Sabah Date Shabbat/Festival Zerimot Haftorah organised a Challah Bake evening 07968 372891 for the Ladies Guild during which [email protected] 14thSeptember RH 1 Rabbi Kada M Sabah congregants enjoyed the mitzva of November – Daniel Sassoon th separating challah and plaiting their 020 8950 9181 15 September RH2 J Zelouf Ronnie Sassoon challah into various shapes. Rabbi [email protected] ShabbatShuva Jonathan Tawil addressed us on the 19thSeptember A Ben-Nathan A Ben-Nathan December – Anthony Leon Vayeilech subject of "Challah and the Origin of 07825 761 016 rd the World". See our website for the [email protected] 23 September YKShaharit J Zelouf A MacMull pictures. January – Geoffrey Ben Nathan 23rdSeptember YKMincha Rabbi Kada M Ben-Nathan 020 8907 1613 We were delighted that Rabbi Dweck [email protected] 26thSeptember Ha ‘azinu M Ben-Nathan G Ben-Nathan and family joined us for shabbat on 23/24 April. After the morning service February – Mark Sabah 28thSeptember Succot1 RabbiKada J Zelouf and Israel themed kiddush Rabbi Dweck 07968 372891 delivered an inspirational shiur, which [email protected] 29thSeptember Succot2 C Ben-Nathan P Zelouf was followed by lunch, and a seudah March – Daniel Sassoon 3rdOctober ShabbatCholHa-Moed G Ben-Nathan M Sabah shelishit in the evening. 020 8950 9181 [email protected] 5thOctober SheminiAtzeret J Zelouf Prof M Alpert Rabbi Yitzy David and Rabbi Kada April – Anthony Leon organized a most successful Youth 07825 761 016 6thOctober SimchatTorah G Ben-Nathan Joe Kaye

Shabbat, with a delicious Friday [email protected] th night dinner attended by many of our 10 October ShabbatBereshit J Zelouf Rabbi Kada younger members, who also conducted Requests for aliyot should be made to 17thOctober Noach M Ben-Nathan Ronnie Sassoon their own service on Shabbat. We hope the presiding Parnas of the day well in to make this a regular event. advance (preferably at least two weeks 24thOctober LechLecha Rabbi Kada Dr A Webber

ahead) and not via any intermediary, to st ensure that the appropriate mitzvah is 31 October Va-Yera C Ben-Nathan J Zelouf KKW5 received. Requests can also be made by 7thNovember HayyeiSarah G Ben-Nathan C Ben-Nathan The combined local synagogues, emailing [email protected] Wembley,. Kenton and Kingsbury 14thNovember Toledot Rabbi Kada A MacMull United, together with Nevei Shalom TIMES OF SERVICE st and Wembley S & P, hold a regular Friday evening services: 21 November Vayetzei M Ben-Nathan J Ben-Nathan programme of lectures, details of which Kabbalat Shabbat at 6:30 pm on 28thNovember Va-Yishlach J Zelouf Dr A Webber are circulated to our Kahal, and are also the 1st and 3rd Fridays of the on our website. month followed by a hot kiddush. 5thDecember Va-Yeshev C Ben-Nathan Richard Sassoon Shabbat morning service at 8.45am. Mikketz, Chanukah7, Question and Answer session on the 12thDecember JZelouf JZelouf third shabbat of the month. RoshChodesh Mincha in the winter months is held 19thDecember Va-Yigash G Ben-Nathan A Ben-Nathan directly after Kiddush. 26thDecember Vayechi M Ben-Nathan Prof M Alpert

26 27 CHAZAK

Teen Friday night dinners, Chinese auction, Chanukah on Ice, Tu B’Shvat smoothie party, 4 different Purim parties (over 200 people at the family event & 150 teenagers after that!!) Special Yom Hazikaron Ceremony, 2 football tournaments (One Lauderdale won!!) 2 Wembley Shabbatons, Late Night Learning on Shavuot and finally the wonderful Youth Takeover and family lunch, are just some of the highlights of last year!

Not to mention the establishment of a monthly Youth Minyan.

28 29 YOUTH SERVICES OVER HIGH HOLY DAYS AT LAUDERDALE ROAD

CHAZAK For children and youth in both Jewish and non-Jewish schools. See notice boards for locations.

First and foremost my family and I would like to thank the whole Kahal ROSH HASHANAH for the warm reception upon arrival at Lauderdale road. Special thanks to Services for all ages at 11am (First Day) and 10.30am (Second Day) Family Dweck and Family Elia. We are privileged to be part of an amazing team and special community. New beginnings are always a challenge and we have learnt a lot on this KAL NIDRE journey so far. We have worked hard in building certain foundations and Service for school years 4 – 6 relationships and hope these will continue and flourish. This coming year Service for school years 7+ (Run by Rabbi Yitsy) we hope to secure what we have started and see some new initiatives and programmes, helping us reach and provide for as much of the youth of the Kahal as possible. YOM KIPPUR I myself on behalf of Chazak and representing S&P have been to over Services for all ages after the Shahrit a dozen schools both Jewish and non-Jewish. Reaching out to around Light lunch for children under Bar/Bat Mitzvah 2000 people, meeting our youth and trying to re-engage them in our community. SUCCOT We look forward to continuing working together as a community, taking Services for all ages after Torah reading (All Festival Days and Shabbat) our rich history and inspiring the new generation to carry it with them to Children’s Succcah Crawl (Primary school children) 28th September our wonderful future. For our future activities please look at our S&P programme or on the new website. SHEMINI HAG’ATZERET AND SIMHAT TORAH Not to be missed Simhat Torah party after the evening service on 5th October with dancing and desserts. RABBI YITSY Children’s Hakafot and Dancing in the Dangoor Synagogue 6th October 11:00am

30 31 TWO CENTENARIANS: IRAQ’S FIRST COKE BOTTLER SHARES A BIRTH YEAR WITH THE COCA-COLA BOTTLE

“Soon you will see the bottle which brings of his father’s detailed business plans Perhaps the elder Dangoor was so As we studied a late enjoyment the world over!”, heralded a from the era that he came across while methodical because of his studies in 1940s black and white series of 1950 newspaper ads. cleaning up. While we know that Coke engineering at London University. In photo of his father and Most of the ads featured the famous cost a nickel in the United States for the 1930s, he made the five-day journey Mr. Safwat, David said, Coke bottle as a centerpiece to drum up over 70 years, the documents give a from Baghdad to London on his own “In my heart, Coca- interest and demand while announcing glimpse of how the initial retail price of to enroll in the university at the age of Cola was that symbol Coke bottles in Iraq was determined. that “Delicious and Refreshing Coca- 17. After graduating, he returned to his of common harmony. Cola is on its way to Baghdad.” NAIM DANGOOR native Iraq, where he would eventually The campaign, ‘I’d Like Naim Dangoor, 2015 Naim Dangoor SUGGESTED THE form Eastern Industries Ltd. with his to Teach the World to (left) and PRICE OF 14 FILS business partner, Ahmed Safwat, a Sing’ was something Ahmed Safwat FOR A BOTTLE fellow Iraqi and London University in practice. It was not just an ad man’s graduate. story. Here you had two people from in Nice, France OF COKE. in the 1940s. different communities, hand in hand, Bringing After a few successful real estate and and here they were working together “He was trying to the world- manufacturing ventures, they decided for something that is a universal symbol work out what was famous Coca- to apply for the Coke bottling franchise today. Coca-Cola was to them a symbol the optimum price Cola bottles in Iraq. Coca-Cola was relatively new of a new opportunity. I hope that symbol to sell Coca-Cola,” to Iraq proved to the region, having been introduced will inspire new common harmony.” David Dangoor quite the in Egypt in 1946 and Lebanon in the challenge for explained to me as we reviewed the same year as Iraq – 1950. The bottom At 100 years old, Sir Naim Dangoor Naim Dangoor charts and graphs his father sketched of each print ad in Iraqi newspapers has CBE is still devoted increasingly and Ahmed out sometime around 1950. Safwat, the a line that notes Eastern Industries Ltd. to charitable work with a focus on as authorized bottlers of Coca-Cola. education in London, where he’s lived country’s While the Coca-Cola head office Dangoor remained a Coca-Cola bottler since the mid-1960s. He also continued first Coca-Cola bottlers. They overcame suggested 20 fils as the retail price, in Iraq beyond the 1950s. working in real estate, and his four numerous challenges in importing Naim Dangoor concluded that selling bottling machinery and completing sons followed him in the business. at 14 fils would bring much more profit construction on their building near Naim Dangoor, who happens to be based on his projected revenue forecast Baghdad’s city center. Jewish, and Ahmed Safwat, who estimated prior to launch. Before the The pair was finally able to get their happened to be Muslim, met at a military days of Microsoft Excel spreadsheets, operation off the ground in the training in Iraq, and “they immediately Dangoor created intricate charts and summer of 1950. The original contour hit it off and Sir Naim Dangoor CBE celebrates his bottles they filled were embossed with graphs to convince The Coca-Cola 100th birthday amongst family and friends. decided they had the Coca-Cola script in both Arabic and Company that his proposition was the to go into business English and a cap that read: “Bottled right approach. in Iraq”. Post-launch newspaper ads together,” David recalled. declared, After months of waiting it is “You can see that he was very methodical with us now!” – an indication that there about deciding what the price should was indeed quite the delay on the be,” his son David remarked while introduction. sharing hand-drawn analyses of pricing Ironically, Naim Dangoor is – like the iconic Coke bottle – a centenarian, born versus costs of goods, advertising, rent, 100 years ago in Baghdad. His son, property taxes, wages, coolers, cases, David, shared some scanned versions bottles and ingredients.

32 33 the bulletin

The Congregation’s collection has been Lionel Barnett’s early history of the augmented over many years with gifts Congregation, with facsimiles of of pictures, books, documents, ritualia documents, was published in 1940 and other objects. There have been as Bevis Marks Records Part I. The occasional judicious purchases. genealogical registers containing all dates up to 1901 were made available The Committee’s task has been in Bevis Marks Records Parts II-VI with interpreted broadly and extended 100 YEARS OF informative essays notably by Geoffrey to synagogues and other buildings Whitehill and Dr Richard Barnett. and the cemeteries. For example, in Professor Raphael Loewe, Chloe Loewe ARCHIVES AND TREASURES the 1920s the committee instigated and David Nunes Vaz helped me to the restoration of the gravestone of continue this work. Edgar Samuel and “The Advisory Committee on Both Barnetts were senior scholars, Antonio Carvajal, in Dr Barnett’s words, Rachel Montagu are currently assisting Congregational Records” etc. (from Keepers of Departments at the ‘the leader of the little band of great- me in all aspects of the archives, very 1962 “and Treasures”) was set up by . Lionel, astoundingly hearted men who in 1657 founded capably and with great enthusiasm. a Resolution of the Mahamad dated multilingual, was an authority on our Congregation.’ 217 contributions, 8 February 1915. Three distinguished Sanskrit and Hinduism as Richard was stipulated not to exceed half a crown Some of our treasures are on permanent and well-qualified members were on Western Asiatic antiquities. (12½ pence), paid for the work. display at Lauderdale Road and Bevis appointed – Dr Lionel D Barnett, David Marks synagogues. Some have been David Nunes Vaz assisted Dr Richard Publication of archive material began in Solomon Sassoon and the Rev David shown at special exhibitions over the Barnett, becoming Honorary Archivist the 1920s with articles published in the Bueno de Mesquita BA. years and have attracted considerable and genealogist but unfortunately ill Jewish Historical Society of England interest and admiration. The Committee’s task was “a) to health forced him to retire, although he Transactions and still continue. The investigate the condition of the ancient has remained a committee member. I Elders decided to authorise publication As a result of the Committee’s efforts the congregational records and report replaced him in 1985 and was appointed of our earliest surviving document, the Congregation’s archives and treasures thereon to the Mahamad as to the best Chairman as well in 1986, my intention ‘Libro de los Acuerdos’ (Book of the have been preserved and made known means for their conservation and b) to being to continue the work of my Records). Dr Barnett’s verbatim English to the wider Jewish community and far take such steps as it thinks fit to procure remarkable predecessors to the best of translation appeared in 1931. beyond. Genealogists and researchers gifts of documents and other gifts of my ability. in a wide variety of fields constantly For the 200th anniversary of the historical interest to the Congregation.” approach the archives for assistance The task of ordering and cataloguing opening of Bevis Marks Synagogue or access. Many express appreciation, the books, documents, papers and in 1901, Haham Gaster wrote, in a The first meeting was held on 7 June recognising the importance of the treasures was enormous and there few short months, his ‘History of the 1915. Dr Barnett was elected Chairman, collection and of what they say are our is still work to do. Most of the fully Ancient Synagogue.’ Fifty years later a post he held until his death in 1960. invaluable publications. catalogued manuscript collection Alfred M Hyamson expanded and Other members having particular up to the end of the 19th century is brought the history up to date in his Miriam Rodrigues-Pereira, Chairman of the expertise or interest joined over the now located and well cared for at “The Sephardim of England” (popular Advisory Committee on Congregational years and volunteer helpers were the London Metropolitan Archives and still available). “Treasures of a Records and Treasures and Honorary recruited. Dr Barnett was succeeded (the ’s vast treasure London Temple” describing ritual silver, Archivist by his equally distinguished son Dr house) on long-term deposit. Access is Sepharim, vestments and furniture Richard D Barnett who served until [email protected] authorised for bona fide researchers on appeared in the same year. almost the end of his life in 1986. He had request. been appointed Honorary Archivist in The Register of the Velho (old) cemetery 1946. in Mile End was published by the Jewish Historical Society (Miscellanies VI) in 1962.

34 35 NOTES FROM THE CONGREGATIONAL ARCHIVES

DUTIES OF THE SHAMASH IN THE To attend the Engine when going to EARLY NINETEENTH CENTURY any Fire An undated contract listing the The mark of Isaac de Mordecai “Conditions of Isaac de Mordecai Rodrigues + Rodrigues, Beadle” has survived in our archives. It reads as follows: Witness Almosnino A FOREIGN RABBI’S DEATH of Apothecaries were established. As a Conditions of Isaac De Mordecai Isaac presumably could not sign his In May 1831 the Mahamad granted proof several of his pupils have passed Rodrigues, Beadle: name but made his mark + and the permission to Samson Genese, the the [Apothecaries] Hall. The Mahamad Secretary Mr S Almosnino signed as Shamash, “to receive as an Inmate in his was satisfied, and [with] other enquiries To attend Synagogue from the opening witness. (Usually the mark seen in our house the Dayan R Ephraim Abraham of his competency, for the task of until closing on Friday Evenings, records is O, not +). Arditti.” Almost a year later in March prescribing for the poor. They requested Sabbath morning, afternoon, and 1832 the Rabbi died. He was buried on him to continue, not doubting that the evening, Holidays, Purim, Fast Days, Isaac died in 1814 and was buried in 26th March in the Novo cemetery at Governors of the Beth Holim would Thanksgiving Days and on all other the Novo cemetery at Mile End on 25th Mile End in the honoured position at be satisfied with his responsibility and Public Occasions, and on weekly days September. the head of a row. care in the distribution of medicines to as often as convenient. the poor during Dr Garcia’s illness and NINETEENTH CENTURY GAMBLING The Secretary was instructed to the prevalence of the present disease To attend at the Door of the Vestry Benjamin Lindo’s account book write to Mr Raphael Salem of Trieste (cholera). Room at all Meetings of the Elders, contains a page headed ‘General informing him of Rabbi Arditti’s Parnassim and Committees, and at all Play (ie gambling) and Betts’! The death and requesting him to tell the EARTHQUAKE RELIEF such other times as he may be required entries are quite frequent although the nearest relatives. The Rabbi left “some On 3 December 1857 Rabbi Haim so to do. amounts are small and he managed to little property” which the Mahamad Capeluto who had come to London break more or less even at the end of was anxious should go to his legal from Candia in Greece addressed a To attend as frequently as possible the year, e.g. in 1818 he lost a total of representative after payment of funeral heartfelt appeal to the Elders on behalf but constantly on Saturday in the £10-9-8½ but won £10-15-0. expenses and other debts incurred of the Jews there. They were suffering afternoon, about the Court Yard and here. hardship and distress following the environs of the Synagogue in order to Many entries merely say ‘at home’. The terrible earthquake on 12 October 1856 prevent Children’s Play and all other games he played were well-known DR GARCIA’S LOCUM which destroyed nearly all the houses rioting, and to take immediately into ones – whist, cribbage and piquet – In April 1833 James Sequeira the in the town and was “accompanied by Custody any Persons trespassing be and some quite unfamiliar today – loo, contractor to the Beth Holim for a dreadful conflagration.” it within the Synagogue or in either of pope and primeiro. The lottery is also supplying the poor with medicines was “Numbers of our co-religionists were the Court Yards, and all other person occasionally mentioned. attending the poor while Dr Garcia was buried under the ruins … survivors were who may be guilty of committing any indisposed. The Mahamad called him in obliged to sleep in the open streets…” nuisance or Trespass in or about the On January 1818 he recorded ‘lost one to inquire if he was legally authorised leading to deaths from frost and Premises of the Synagogue. shilling to Mr Disraeli’, evidently Isaac to practise as an apothecary. He was hunger. d’Israeli, the statesman Benjamin’s shown to have done so prior to 1815 father, (who had withdrawn from the when new regulations of the Society community the previous year). 36 37 “The Confessors of other creeds were Sardinia and Greece “in the annexe succoured to a great extent by foreign documents” (not found in the nations, who sent them relief in the archives). The Jews of Candia looked shape of meal, biscuits and money, but to the Congregations of Europe and alas! The Jews received no relief. The “especially to the wealthy Jews of distress of the houseless, breadless, Great Britain and to the ancient and and many helpless men, women and venerable Sha’ar Hashamaim for children is greater than I am able to succour and assistance.” describe.” Ob 10 January 1858 the Elders granted The Wardens and Treasurers of the £10, and Rabbi Capeluto probably Candia Congregation had authorised solicited donations from members Rabbi Capeluto to collect subscriptions of the congregation as well. On 14 APPLICATIONS FOR THE ORPHANAGE as was verified by the Consuls of January the Mahamad granted him £3 Application forms were completed in September 1882 for the following children to England, France, Austria, Naples, on leaving London (despacho). enter the Congregation’s orphanage. The surviving parents stated their inability to support their children.

Child Parent Deceased spouse

Judah Elizabeth Martin Daniel Joseph Martin 2 children 6¼ years Buried 21/1/1881 Born 6/6/1876 Samson Michael Massias Rosa Massias 5 children 12 years Buried 1/7/1882 Born 17/10/1870 Isaac Phoebe da Costa Moses Gomes da Costa 7 children 8½ years Buried 9/4/1882 Born 6/11/1873

The congregation’s doctor HJ Sequeira certified that all three boys were healthy.

MIRIAM RODRIGUES PEREIRA HONORARY ARCHIVIST [email protected]

38 39 EDINBURGH HOUSE

In February, we announced that ‘the Trustees have investigated the feasibility of rebuilding on the current site, and are looking at the potential to relocate Edinburgh House to a new build home closer to the heart of the community. Once a decision has been taken it will be some years until such a project is complete; the welfare of its current residents will always be the main priority of the Trustees, and at the heart of any decision taken. ‘Much further work has been undertaken but, as envisaged, it will be some years before any project is completed. In the meantime, we have been fortunate enough to have volunteers who regularly visit the Home to interact with our residents. The activities include Discussion Group, Poetry Reading, Singalong, News discussions, assistance in the Day Centre and art. The latter has involved students from JFS (see picture) - two pupils are spending a whole week of their summer holidays in the Home. Many thanks to all Edinburgh House, Wembley the volunteers. A registered charity providing superb care for Jewish Elderly people Just before Pesah, on Sunday evening, we had a fire that completely gutted our laundry and linen store. Thanks to the quick actions of the staff on duty, there We are proud to offer: - A warm, friendly, welcoming environment were no injuries nor damage to any other part of the premises. The next day, - Superior levels of care, and a highly skilled and supportive staff team alternative temporary arrangements were made and replacement linen, towels - Registered to provide dementia care and some clothing purchased. We are grateful to all the staff who worked so hard - Exemplary inspection reports to make sure everything run smoothly in the Home and our Residents were not - Full kashrut and facilities for religious observance - 16 separate supported flats and a day centre on site inconvenienced. In May, we were very excited when one of our oldest residents, Hilda Gerrard who will celebrate her 103rd birthday soon, attended a Garden Party at Buckingham To request a brochure or book a visit call: 0208 908 4151 Palace. She was accompanied by Paula Peake (Home Manager), Novie Reyes Or email [email protected] (her Deputy) and Gina Riese (a Trustee). Hilda was a long serving volunteer in “It has been such a comfort to me to see the the Day Centre until she became a resident in Edinburgh House. The group met patience and respect with which you all treat my the Duke of Edinburgh, our Patron, who chatted with them and showed interest mother and I am so grateful” - Mrs. G, Wembley. in our work. It was a wonderful afternoon for Hilda and her companions. Registered Charity Number: 230822 (Beth Holim)

40 41 WITH SADNESS WE RECORD THE PASSING OF THE FOLLOWING MEMBERS: David Levy z”l Samuel Pisar z”l Sharon Azouz z”l Mary Behar z”l Rita Benveniste z”l

We extend our condolences and wish the families “Muchos Años” and many years SPANISH & PORTUGUESE SYNAGOGUE free from further sorrow. STONESETTINGS HOLLAND PARK The stonesetting for the late Mary Behar z”l mother of Laura and Michael, will take 8 St James’s Gardens, London, W11 4RB place at Hoop Lane Cemetery on Sunday 18th October at 2.00pm. Tel: 020 7603 7961/3232 Fax: 020 7603 9471 Email: [email protected] Web: www.hollandparksynagogue.com BESIMANTOV ON HAPPY OCCASIONS ARE EXTENDED TO: Congregation founded 1910 Synagogue opened 1928 BIRTHS MINISTER Rabbi Abraham Lavi Stephanie and Nathaniel Another daughter for Michael Benardout TIMES OF SERVICE Seror on the birth of their son. Gabriella and Jonathan A son for Raphael & Rosalyn Eva Behar on the birth of Kruger – a second grandchild Lavi & a grandson for Rabbi & FRIDAY EVENING Minha followed by Arvit. another great grandson for Doreen and Barry Kruger Mrs Lavi. Times to be announced in the Synagogue Rabbi Yosef and Rebbitsen A daughter for Lucy & A daughter for Dov & Regine Lynn had a baby Jonathan Marcus and a Shani Lavi & another SHABBAT MORNING Shachrit at 8.45am. Service followed by Kiddush. daughter in February a new granddaughter for Denise & granddaughter for Rabbi & Mrs Mincha 1½ hours before the end of Shabbat until winter granddaughter for Collette and Yaacov Banin Lavi. when it shall be recited after Kiddush Leon Sassoon A grandson for Lynda & SERVICE This will be held on Sunday 6th September at 7.30am and followed by a special breakfast provided by Ladies BIRTHDAYS from our Community Eva Behar on her 90th Birthday YAMIM NORAIM Times for all High Holy Days Services will be sent out separately with the BATMITZVAH/BAT CHAYIL: Admission Ticket Safyr Irwin whose Batmitzvah was on Shabbat 22nd November 2014. Millie Benardout whose Batmitzvah was on Sunday 1st February 2015 SERVICES FOR THE HIGH HOLY DAYS The Executive Committee welcomes Rev Nissim Ashkenazi who will be assisting BARMITZVAH: Rabbi Abraham Lavi. Both will address the Congregation during the High Holy David Pinto whose Barmitzvah was on 24th January 2015 Joseph Freedman whose Barmitzvah was on 31st January 2015 Days Services. Jake Shemtov whose Barmitzvah was on 25th April 2015 The President, Mr.Stanley Grant together with the Honorary Officers and Executive Isaak Berebbi whose Barmitzvah was on 3rd May 2015 Committee wish Rabbi & Mrs Lavi, their family and the entire Congregation a very Jack & Joshua Cotton whose Barmitzvah will be on 5th September 2015 happy and peaceful New Year. ENGAGEMENTS: Miriam Seitler, Grandaughter of Ros and George Anticoni, to David Shaw. PRE-ROSH HASHANAH CEMETERY VISITS These will take place at the following WEDDINGS: times on Sunday 6th September: Joshua & Amanda Azouz on 16th November 2014 Adam & Aimee Banin on 16th March 2015 12.30 Edgwarebury Lane Cemetery ADULT EDUCATION Monday KIDDUSHIM: If you have a Simcha, birthday or Nahala then why not sponsor a 1.30 Hoop Lane Cemetery Kiddush. For more information please call the Synagogue office. Parasha with Rashi and PirkeiAvot. This Shiur DONATIONS is held in the Little Please note it will be a communal We are most grateful to our members, their relatives and friends and to our Synagogue at 8.30pm service and not individual. visitors for their generous donations, which are highly appreciated. 42 43 OR TORAH CHADASH CLASSES the progress the children had made HOSHA’ANA RABA Service on 4th AJEX SHABBAT. AJEX Shabbat service this year in their Jewish knowledge and October at 8am followed by a delicious will take place on Shabbat morning 14th The children at the Or Torah Chadash Hebrew reading skills breakfast in the Suzanne Dellal Hall. To November. Memorial prayers will be Sunday classes enjoyed cream cheese The guest speaker was the New West book your place, please either call or recited to honour those who gave their with crackers and cheesecake to help End Synagogues vice chair Mrs Felicity email the Synagogue office no later than lives in the two Great Wars together celebrate Shavuot. They also enjoyed a Miller and the prizes were distributed Sunday 31st August. Your Donations with our servicemen. Berachot party in honour of Jerusalem by Mrs Joanna Shemtov. to cover the cost of Breakfast will be Day. The book prizes were kindly donated much appreciated. CHANUKAH PARTY SUNDAY 6TH by both the Miller and Shemtov families. DECEMBER. The Holland Park The Prize Giving for the classes took The Autumn Term will run from Sunday LUNCH IN THE SUCCAH will be held on Synagogue in conjunction with New place this year on Sunday 28th June 13th September at New West End Tuesday 6th October . Simchat Torah West End Synagogue will be holding at New West End Synagogue. The until the last lesson on Sunday 13th service will begin at 8.45am followed the annual themed Chanukah Party. event was a great success and was December. by Hakafot and lunch. To book your Details to follow or for more information well attended by all the children of We are currently enrolling for all age place at a cost of £20.00 per person please contact the Synagogue office. the classes, their parents and families. groups. You are welcome to joins and £10.00 per child under the age of Head mistress, Mira Grant spoke about us which will enable your children 13 years, please telephone or email the THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING will to preserve the traditions and the Synagogue office. be held on Sunday 13th December at Sephardi legacy of our community at 3.00pm.in the Suzanne Dellal Hall. Or Torah Chadash Hebrew Classes, SHABBAT UK. There will be service which run from 9.30am until 12.30pm on Friday 23rd October followed by CARE COMMITTEE The Synagogue on Sunday mornings during term time. dinner and on Shabbat 24th October has a Care Committee that is available there will be a special Kiddush/Lunch to contact any unwell or vulnerable For further information or to enrol your at the end of the service. Last year member of the Kehilla should they child or children, please contact the ShabbatUK harnessed the goodness wish them to do so. Please contact the Synagogue office. and uniqueness of a traditional, Synagogue office for further details. authentic Shabbat and invited Jews Any member who would like to assist EVENTS: around the country to celebrate it in a and join this very worthwhile committee, way they never have before. Shabbat please contact the Synagogue office. A SELICHOT SERVICE will take place is a central part of what it is to be on Sunday 6th September at 7.30am Jewish. It plays a crucial role in Jewish For more information on all events and will be followed by a breakfast in identity with its powerfully uplifting please contact the Synagogue the Suzanne Dellal Hall provided by and transformative qualities. office 020 7603 9761 or email the Ladies of our Community. To book The Chief Rabbi called on Jews across [email protected]. your place, please either call or email the UK, regardless of their level of Alternatively please subscribe to our the Synagogue office no later than religious observance, to celebrate weekly newsletter. Sunday 31st August. Your Donations a Shabbat unlike any other, which to cover the cost of Breakfast will be this year Holland Park are asking much appreciated. their congregation to make it a very memorable and successful one. 44 45 RAMBAM SEPHARDI SYNAGOGUE

Rooms 5, 6 & 7 Allum Hall 2nd Day Rosh Hashana – Day Shemini Atseret – 2 Allum Lane, Borehamwood, Herts. WD6 3PJ 8:30 Tues 15th September 9:00 Mon 5th October Website: www.rambam.org.uk

Rabbi Jeff Berger – 07855-284-360 SERVICE TIMES Shabbat Shuvah – Eve Simhat Torah – Shabbat Morning Services – Rooms 5, 9:00 Sat 19th September 18:15 Mon 5th October [email protected] 6 &7 at Allum Hall on Allum Lane, over Honorary Chairman – Nathan Hasson the bridge toward Elstree, opposite the Eve Yom Kippur – Day Simhat Torah – 18:15 Tues 22nd September (Yavneh 9:00 Tues 6th October [email protected] Elstree/Borehamwood Train Station. College) Honorary Vice Chairman – Joe Arazi Zemirot 9.00am Shabbat Bereishith – 07957 571 531 [email protected] Shaharit 9:45am Yom Kippur – 9:00 Sat 10th October 8:30 Wed 23rd September (Yavneh Honorary Treasurer – Derek Sheena Parasha 10:15am Children’s Services 10:30am College) 07720 805 796 Sermon & Musaf ~11:15am [email protected] Followed by Kiddush 1st Eve Sukkot – 18:30 Sun 27th September (50 Cardinal Strategy – Lea Misan Rambam Sephardi Synagogue qualifies Avenue) SUMMARY [email protected] for the “attendance point” system Since April 2014 when we became an affiliated S&P synagogue, Rambam Membership – Brian Kaye (CRP) for admission purposes at Jewish 1st Day Sukkot – schools. We use the premises of Allum 9:00 Mon 28th September Sephardi has seen a significant [email protected] Hall primarily for Shabbat morning increase in membership – growing Events & Children – Rivka Azair services. If you wish to be included in 2nd Eve Sukkot – from 22 to 35 families (as of July 18:30 Mon 28th September (50 Cardinal 2015). Young couples continue to [email protected] our email list, please enter your details on our website. www.rambam.org.uk Avenue) move into the Elstree/ Borehamwood Parnas – Uri Kamara area, and we’ve become known as the [email protected] HIGH HOLIDAY SERVICE TIMES 2nd Day Sukkot – destination for Sephardim. At the same 9:00 Tues 29th September time we’re grateful for the continuing Ladies Guild – Lynn Tarragano (ALL SERVICES AT ALLUM HALL UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED) support received from both within and [email protected] Shabbat Hol HaMoed – outside the community. The creativity Kiddush – Michie Berger 1st Eve Rosh Hashana – 9:00 Sat 3rd October and enthusiasm of our social events 19:00 Sun 13th September is recognized as having a well-above- [email protected] Eve Shemini Atseret – expectation impact despite our small Security Rota – Natan Servi 1st Day Rosh Hashana – 18:15 Sun 4th October size. [email protected] 8:30 Mon 14th September (50 Cardinal Avenue) Fundraising – David Albohayre 2nd Eve Rosh Hashana – 07912-514-547 19:00 Mon 14th September

46 47 ADR FELLOW EVENTS Rabbi Berger was one of 30 candidates February – Tu B’Shvat Seder: chosen from a pool of 500 international More than 60 adults and children applicants (only 4 from the UK) attended our annual Tu B’Shvat Seder for this year’s Ariane de Rothschild at Allum Hall on 3rd February. There 2015 Fellowship hosted in July by were almost as many species of fruit on July – Summer BBQ: 26 Mar Bar Mitsvah of Ron Cohen Cambridge University’s Judge Business the table as the number of attendees Despite a bit of late afternoon rain, (96 Shenley Road) School. The programme’s aims are to – with a giant Jack Fruit being the over 100 adults and children attended 25 Apr 40th Birthday of Joe Arazi develop an outstanding network of highlight. Rambam Sephardi’s annual summer (96 Shenley Road) entrepreneurs and social activists with BBQ on 12th July in the garden of Neville 7 May Lag Ba’Omer BBQ & Archery genuine ability for innovative thinking March – Purim Play: & Natalie Levy. Chair, Dr. Nathan Hasson 18 May Pre-Shavuot Lectures and cross-cultural dialogue. The Rambam Sephardi players performed and Vice Chair, Joe Arazi worked the by Rabbi Berger and local 2-week conference blended an intense our second amateur Purim play on grill. Activities: face painting, a bouncy business school curriculum with social the afternoon of 4th March. Many castle, talent show, penalty shoot-out 24 May ‘Tea and Torah’ Shavuot study science and world-faith dialogue thanks to Rivka Azair & SJ Jacobs for and ping-pong tournament. for women workshops. their enormous efforts as producer 31 May Rabbi Dweck Talk in & director! Congratulations to our August – Camp Rambam Borehamwood The Rabbi was also featured on BBC young actors & actresses, the stage An ambitious group of outdoors- 13 Jun Rabbi Andrew Davis & Hazan Radio2’s ‘Pause for Thought’ series hands and prompters and to Brian lovers camped overnight from 2nd– Nachshon Rodrigues Pereira providing 16 inspirational 2-minute Kaye for sourcing the Purim Seudah. 4th August at the Well End Campsite. 28 Jun Sephardi Cross-communal segments during the past year. To participate in future productions Children aged 5 and above (and 5-a-side Football Match please direct enquiries to Rivka at some adults) experienced campfire- 12 Jul Rambam Sephardi Annual HATANIM 5775 [email protected] cooked food, sleeping in tents, hikes BBQ B’Siman Tob to Abe Wahnon (Hatan in the nearby woods and archery. An Torah) and to Yuval Cohen (Hatan May – Lag BaOmer Bonfire: enormous effort went into setting- PASTORAL Bereishith). We wish them and their Nearly 35 Members and Friends enjoyed up and breaking down the campsite. Congratulations & Mazal Tob: families a wonderful year as our an evening Lag BaOmer Bonfire held Special thanks to Rivka Azair, Sylvia Oct 14 - Davide Halfon and Natan Servi Hatanim. at Well End Campsite on Thursday Kozon, Natalie and Eliana Levy for as Hatanim 7th May. In addition to the warm fire, making this unique opportunity for the Nov 14 - Safyr Irwin Bat Mitzvah guests enjoyed good food and a talk local children. Dec 14 - Harry Gee/ Joe Sassoon/ about Rabbi Shimon Bar Yohai. David Shamash Bar Mitzvahs NOTEWORTHY OCCASIONS: Feb 15 - Joel & Emma Seshold 31 Jan 15 Rambam Sephardi Service Marriage NEW MEMBERS held at Croxdale Road Mar 15 - Ron Cohen Bar Mitzvah Albert & Irene Alizade Gideon & Joy Dabby-Joory, Guy & 3 Feb Tu b’Shvat Seder Apr 15 - Talia Winters Engagement Rivka Azair, Yosef, Menuha & Nahara Ethan 4 Mar Purim Extravaganza Apr 15 – Birth of Asher Gavriel Servi Jonathan & Michelle Bahar David & Elisheva Gasc 5 Mar Women’s Megillah Reading Jun 15 – Birth of Micah Yonatan Gerry & Dani Cohen, Benjamin, Daniel Carl & Danine Irwin, Toby, Aden & Safyr 7 Mar Guest Hazan - Shmuel Somers & Evie-Rose Anthony & Mandy Kent Nachshon Rodrigues Pereira Yuval & Iris Cohen, Tom & Ron David & Ann Saleh Rachel Cohen

48 49 OTHER ‘THANK YOU’S: SHABBAT CHILDREN’S SERVICES: 31st January – BES Sephardi Service Rambam Sephardi offers weekly Our thanks to Rabbi Kanterovitz and Shabbat children’s services. The the Borehamwood/ Elstree United programme is created and supervised GET-WELL WISHES: THANK YOU Synagogue board for inviting Rambam by Lea Misan, a facilitator & programme We wish a continuing Refuah KIDDUSH SPONSORS: to hold a separate Sephardi service at developer for youth engagement, Sheleimah to Albert Alizade, Shalom 2015 Croxdale Road on Shabbat Beshalakh. jointly with Rivka Azair, who was head Barukh ben Breinah Leah, Yacov Pesah 10 Jan - Raph Setton & Jennifer Brooke of Chelsea Synagogue Cheder for 8 ben Esther Shoshi, Amos ben Esther – nahalot years. Halfon, Breinah Leiya bat Zishla, Liron 17 Jan – Lorraine Kaye – mother’s nahala 31ST MAY – GUEST LECTURE Efrat bat Vered, Elka bat Esther Shoshi, 24 Jan – Sammy Ezrahi – mother’s Sincere thanks to Rabbi Joseph Dweck REQUESTS FOR ALIYOT & Talya bat Mira, Gaby bat Irene, Irene bat nahala who spoke to the wider Borehamwood VOLUNTEERS TO TAKE SERVICES: Mary, Nava bat Vicky and Naomi Joy 31 Jan – Albohayre & Berger Families & Elstree community on 31st May. The Members are asked to please advise Uri bat Hanina. – nahalot talk on ‘Defining Our Spiritual Goals’, Kamara ([email protected]) or 7 Mar – David Albohayre held at the Ohr Yisrael Federation, the Rabbi before Shabbat if they wish Prayers are recited every Shabbat 60th birthday drew an audience of 85 adults. to be called to the Sefer for a Simha or morning for Refuah Sheleimah in front 21 Mar – Uri Kamara – mother’s nahala a Nahala. We enthusiastically welcome of the Echal. To be included please send 28 Mar – Ron Cohen – bar mitzvah 14th June - Special Hazanut Service volunteers to read Parasha, or to the Rabbi the English and Hebrew 25 Apr – Joe Arazi’s 40th birthday Many thanks to Nachshon Rodrigues to take Tefillah. Please contact Moishe names of the person(s) concerned. 16 May – Nathan Misan’s bar mitzvah Pereira (from the Amsterdam Synoga) Gotlieb at 07723-052-114 to get on our anniversary who took services on Shabbat Shelakh- Rota. Musical training is available upon LONG LIFE: 23 May – Uri Kamara & David Chriqui - Lekha. Guest Rabbi Andrew Davis request. THE COMMUNITY WISHES HAYIM friendship presided, and those who attended ARUKHIM TO: 30 May – Birth of Asher Gabriel Servi commented on what a brilliant service CLASSES/SHIURIM (SEPT – JUNE): 6 Jun – Rachel Cohen (nahala) & Abe it was. Every 2nd Wednesday afternoon from Dec 14 - David Chriqui’s father, Shalom Wahnon (parents Aliyah) 2:30-3:30pm at Mr. Baker on Shenley Jan 15 - Susie Winters’ mother 20 Jun – 1st Anniversary of VOLUNTEERS TAKING SERVICES Road the Rabbi leads a class in Jewish Apr 15 - Rimonit Chriqui’s grandmother Guy Dabby-Joory’s Bar Mitsvah Over the past months, volunteers mystical philosophy. Discussions are at May 15 - Gary Somers’ grandfather, Carl & Danine Irwin 20th have helped read services or parts all levels - beginners are welcome. To Morris Newman Wedding Anniversary of the parasha. We wish to thank the join please contact Rachel Cohen at May 15 - Jonathan Bahar’s father, 27 Jun – Abe & Annette Wahnon 20th following: Gedalya Alexander, Joe Arazi, 07477-764-264. Emmanuel Wedding Anniversary Rabbi Amos Azizoff, Shlomo Biton, Jun 15 - Brian Kaye’s mother, Golda 4 Jul – Shoshana Alexander Mr. Bengigi, Abraham Cabessa, Daniel Every alternative 2nd Tuesday night Jun 15 - Lea Misan’s grandmother, Rita 5th birthday Carmel, David Chriqui, Moise Coriat, from 8:30-9:30pm the Rabbi offers Bourla 11 Jul – Hilula for Rabbi Elazar Abuhasira Freddy David, Joe Eikareb, Sammy an adult education class on Parashat Jun 15 - Becky Hilsenrath’s mother, 18 Jul – Birth of Micah Yonatan Ezrahi, Michael Fuer, David Gasc, Oliver HaShabuah in his home. Refreshments Susan Loewe Shmuel Somers Hazan, Anthony Kent, Neville Levy, are served, all are welcome, discussions Jul 15 - Brian Kaye’s father, Aharon Michael Loewe, Michele Sabakh, Gary are accessible to beginners and more Yehuda To book a Kiddush please contact Somers, Joe and Abe Wahnon. advanced participants. Please contact Michie Berger Tel: 020-8386-4386 the Rabbi for details on 07855-284- 360

50 51 MEMBERSHIP: SPREAD THE WORD: Rambam Synagogue is affiliated Our community is situated in to the Spanish & Portuguese Jews’ Hertsmere, one of the fastest Congregation in London. A full- developing Jewish areas since the membership pack, which includes a 2001 census, where property prices special rate for those holding other are lower than the north- memberships, can be market. The community has an Eruv, obtained from our Membership kosher restaurants & shops and a Secretary Brian Kaye at membership@ mikveh. Sephardi families who used to rambam.org.uk live closer to have recently moved into our area. YOUR SUPPORT Please let your friends and family PERMANENT PREMISES: know there is a warm, caring Sephardi The Rambam Sephardi Building Sub- community to welcome them in Elstree/ Committee continues the search Borehamwood. Hospitality is available for a suitable permanent premise in for Shabbat and Festivals but kindly let Borehamwood. We welcome any and all us know your plans in advance. advance donations into our dedicated Building Fund. Please contact Derek Sheena at 0772 080 5796 should you wish to assist us. Donations can also be made via www.rambam.org.uk.

52 53 the bulletin

DAVID ISHAG SYNAGOGUE Neveh Shalom Sephardi Community 352/354 Preston Road, Harrow, Middx HA3 0QJ Mr. Eli and Mrs. Zippy Howard on the Mr. Cesar and Mrs. Gladys Benson on Tel: 020 8904 9402 Website: www.nevehshalom.com E-mail: [email protected] birth of their granddaughter, Sienna the engagement of their grandson, Pearl, daughter of Mr. Elliot and Mrs. Richard, son of Mr. Ike and Mrs. Susan TIMES OF SERVICES: Mrs. Esther Kamhi on the Bar Mitzvah Emma Norman. Benson, grandson of Mrs. Sybil and the of her grandson, Matan Michael, son late Mr. Leslie Collier, to Katie, daughter FRIDAY EVENING: Approximately 15 of Mr. Moshe and Mrs. Rosa Kamhi, in Mr. Ezra Ramsay and Mrs. Linda Hakim of Mr. Robert and Mrs. Nicola Brackup, minutes after the commencement of Israel. on the birth of their granddaughter, granddaughter of Mrs. Gloria and the Shabbat. Elodie Esme Shehrazade, daughter of late Mr. Alan Ehrlich and of Mr. Peter Mr. Albert and Mrs. Edna Harrison Mr. Richard and Mrs. Michelle Milestone. and Mrs. Anita Brackup from Leeds. SHABBAT: Shaharit 9:00 a.m. on the birth of their granddaughter, Mazal Tov also to the paternal Minha, approximately 1 hour before Sophia Lily, daughter of Mr. Eddie and grandparents Mr. Frank and Mrs. Mr. Hessy and Mrs. Viviane Saidler on the termination of Shabbat followed Mrs. Jacqueline Bitton. Barbara Milestone and to the great- the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Nigel. by a Shiur and Arvit Motzae Shabbat, grandmother Mrs. Aida Hakim. Mazal Tov also to the grandmother, although times for afternoon services Mr. Roni and Mrs. Ava Rashti on the Mrs. Louise Said. will vary when there is a Seudah birth of their grandson, Ezra, son of Mr. Mr. Shlomo and Mrs. Nellie Duschnitz Shlishit. During winter Minha is held Julien and Mrs. Noora Rashti. on the birth of their great-grandson, Mr. Richard and Mrs. Beverley Persky after Shaharit and Kiddush. Mazal Tov also to the great grandmother, Simcha, son of Mr. Yacov and Mrs. Batya on the marriage of their son, Paul, to Any changes will be announced in the Mrs. Katy Rashti. Levine and grandson of Mr. Jonathan Sarah, daughter of Mr. Philip and Mrs. morning on Shabbat. and Mrs. Malka Levine. Vivien Eder. Mr. Edward and Mrs. Antoinette Battat SUNDAY MORNING: Shaharit 8:15 a.m. on the birth of their granddaughter, Mr. Michael and Mrs. Priscilla Dale on Mr. Alan and Mrs. Judy Sitton on the Ella Jasmine, daughter of Mr. Gareth the birth of their grandson, Charlton engagement of their two sons: and Mrs. Lisa Smith. MAZALTOV: (Charlie) Joseph Renzo, son of Mr. Alex • Jonathan, to Charlotte, daughter of and Mrs. Jo Dale. Mr. Keith and Mrs. Ann Fisher. The community is delighted to wish Mr. Michael and Mrs Alison Sitton on • David, to Elizabeth, daughter of Mr. Mazal Tov to: the birth of their grandson, Zachary Mr. David and Mrs. Rosalind Judah on John and Mrs. Thelma Spratt. David, son of Mr. Brett and Mrs. the marriage of their son, Ben, to Yael, Mazal Tov also to the grandmother, Mr. Robin and Mrs. Shafit Samraon the Geraldine Levin. daughter of Mr. Ruben and Mrs. Lulu Mrs. Yolande Sitton. engagement of their daughter, Monica, Mazal Tov also to the great grandmother, Misrahi of Cleveland, Ohio. to Oliver, son of Mr. Edward and Mrs. Mrs. Yolande Sitton. Dee Ziff. Mr. Faiz and Mrs. Bushra Khalastchi on the engagement of their son, Rudi, to Mr. Joe and Mrs. Caroline Cohen on the Frances, daughter of Mr. Steven and Mr. Ezra and Mrs. Avril Meallem on the Bat Mitzvah of their daughter, Natasha. Mrs. Joan Fogel. birth of their grandson, Rubi, son of Mr. Mazal Tov also to the grandparents Mr. Mazal Tov also to the grandmother, Daniel and Mrs. Sara Meallem, in Israel. Berto and Mrs. Joyce Cohen. Mrs. Jacqueline Khalastchi.

54 55 ACHIEVEMENTS: We had some 35 services, with over a HOSHA’ANAH RABBAH LIMMUD AND and Daniel Yehuda and everyone else hundred Aliyot and many other Mitzvot BREAKFAST: who helped organise the children’s Mr. David and Mrs. Rosalind Judah – Seganim, Petichot, and Hagbahot etc. service on Yom Kippur. are very proud to announce that their The entire operation was smoothly We would like to thank Mrs. Matilda A “University Challenge” style quiz daughter, Gaby, completed her PhD organised, efficiently run to the Rasouly for arranging the spread was run, covering subjects related to in “Investigating the Psychological pleasure and enjoyment of all services’ of Berachot in the Succah after the the day itself and the rest of the high Determinants of Habit Formation of attendees and hopefully all requests Hosha’anah Rabbah evening service holidays. Health Related Behaviours” from the for Mizvot were honoured. and limmud. London School of Hygiene and Tropical MORE CHILDREN’S SERVICES Medicine at the University of London. We would also like to thank the security Our appreciation goes to Mrs. Esther team led by Jon Spain that has worked Kamhi, Mrs. Gladys Benson and the We would like to thank all those who CHARITY: hard to ensure the safety and security Ladies Guild for a delicious breakfast helped organise the other impromptu of our services. An extensive rota following the Hosha’anah Rabbah children services during the festivals of We would like to thank the community was arranged for the high holidays’ morning service. Succot, Shemini Azeret and Simchat for their donation and support of the services and the team also liaised Torah. with the local police. Their hard work ROSH HASHANA CHILDREN’S SERVICE They were all enjoyed and much fun .(בית חם) Israeli charity Bayit Cham The funds raised, over £5,000, will be and commitment to the safety of the was had. used to provide food parcels for lone community and the synagogue are Many thanks to Rebecca Menachem, soldiers serving in the IDF and soldiers much appreciated. Elizabeth Yehuda, Dan Amroussi, Thom Rebecca Menachem conducted with that come from poor families during and Daniel Yehuda and everyone else Elizabeth Yehuda the older children the high holidays. Our thanks also go Berto and Joyce who helped organise the children’s discussion groups and discussed the We would like to thank Shafit Samra, Cohen for organising the cleaning and service on Rosh Hashana. following themes: Murray Rose and David Rasouly for polishing the silver parts of the holy There were three groups in the children all their work to raise the funds and to Sifrei Torah, Rimonim and Tassim. service - The youngest group was • Gratitude - on Succot day – where the liaise with the charity in Israel. taught some songs, the middle group children defined the term gratitude and MAZAL TOV TO THIS YEAR’S learnt about the shofar and the story of expanded by finding out what Judaism HIGH HOLIDAYS SERVICES HATANIM: the birth of the prophet Samuel and his says about gratitude. They then moved parents Elkanah and Hannah. to discuss how to implement gratitude Many thanks to Rev Zvi Amroussi for all Mr. Jamil Khazoom, Hatan Torah and The eldest group held a discussion on into their own everyday lives and his hard work during the high holidays Mr. Abner Tamman, Hatan Beresheet. Tsedakah. The theme of charity and gratitude in the context of Succot. services. The community always enjoys They both read portions from the its meaning in the Jewish context was his awe inspiring rendition and always sepher beautifully and the congregation discussed with the group. It was then • The power of words – on Simchat looks forward to hearing him. enjoyed their reading. It was with expanded to cover how charity can be Torah – where the children discussed great pleasure that our President, Mr. carried out on an individual basis, not the power of words and being David Rasouly, presented them with necessarily involving financial aid. aware that the words we use have Our thanks also go to the parnasim certificates for being the Hatanim. It was a lovely atmosphere, as both consequences. Jack Sitton, Freddy Khalatschi, Ben We wish them and their families a very parents and children contributed. Shalom Gentely and David Rasouly for happy, healthy and successful year to Later the children joined the main • My potential – on New Moon service organising the services during the high come. service to hear the shofar blowing. – where the children discussed how holidays. to make realistic assessments of their YOM KIPPUR CHILDREN’S SERVICE inner strengths by focusing on their own abilities and talents – not anyone Many thanks to Dan Amroussi, Thom else’s.

56 57 A NEW SEFER TORAH FOR THE importance of Torah in the Jewish DAVID ISHAG SYNAGOGUE - 21ST world. His emotional speech showed CHANUKAH PARTY: BAR MITZVAH: SEPTEMBER, 2014 how important and significant the giving and receiving of a Sefer Torah On Sunday 21st December the David The community is delighted to wish A beautiful new Sefer Torah was most and its declaration of closeness Ishag Synagogue held a Chanukah Mazal Tov to Nigel Saidler son of Mr. generously donated to the David Ishag between the Almighty and his chosen party to celebrate the festival together. Hessy and Mrs. Viviane Saidler, who laid Synagogue by Mr. Gabi and Mrs. Lina people. tephillin on Thursday 18th December, Tamman in memory of the following The evening commenced with the 2014. members of their family: Rabbi Jacobs underlined the symbolism Minha and Arvit services. On the following Shabbat Miketz, Nigel of a Sepher Torah. It is eternal; the The beautiful Chanukia, donated in read his portion clearly and with great JOSEPH ELIE TAMMAN parchment and the casings may memory of Gilda Cohen, was lit by Mr. confidence. AVRAHAM (IBRAHIM) ELEINI ultimately disintegrate, but the words Nabil Cohen and his children and other He was addressed by Rabbi Dr. Irving FLORA TAMMAN and the ideas which they express are members of the community. It was Jacobs and Rev. Zvi Amroussi, who ALBERT TAMMAN for all time. The Torah, therefore, is followed by the entire congregation presented him with a Tanakh on behalf LEON TAMMAN the symbol of our eternal faith. It is singing Maoz Tzur. of the congregation. RENE TAMMAN GAON also the emblem of an eternal people. The service was followed by a beautiful ELIE JOSEPH TAMMAN When the inhabitants of Judah went The community was then invited to a Kiddush, which was enjoyed by the into captivity in 586BCE, they could sumptuous tea on tables laden with entire congregation. The dedication of a new sepher is have been lost, totally assimilated, as delicious food including plenty of traditionally celebrated with great were the ten tribes of the Northern doughnuts, pizza, popcorn, cup cakes SHIURIM/EDUCATION: festivity. This was no exception and a Kingdom. However, they brought and other delicacies, whilst Israeli music SHABBAT SHUVA - Q&A party to celebrate the arrival of the new the Torah with them into exile and it was playing in the background. An sepher was held in the synagogue. became the catalyst that transformed Israeli dancing teacher took the young On Shabbat Shuva between Rosh the territorial Israelite into the eternal and not so young through their paces. Hashana and Yom Kippur, immediately It was a wonderful and joyous Jew. It was good to discover that there after the Shabbat service and Kiddush, occasion. Berto Cohen, who organised was some professional dancing talent Rabbi Irving Jacobs and Reverend Zvi the celebration, thanked the Tamman Mr Gabi Tamman thanked the within the community although some Amroussi formed a panel to answer family and invited many of the men community for their warmth and will need many more lessons to hone any questions the members might have who attended to complete a Hebrew kindness to him and to his wife. He also their dancing skills. The children were on any aspect of Judaism. letter to finish the sefer. A scribe was thanked his wife, who has encouraged given going-home presents. Given the Various questions were asked about present to assist the men to complete him over the years to perform many amount of fun and laughter the spirit of the importance of replying after these final letters. Writing or finishing a Mizvot. Chanukah was certainly shining bright. blessings, the importance of Avraham letter in the Sefer Torah is considered the patriarch and his connection to a rare and great merit. It was the Our president, Mr David Rasouly, Many thanks to the donors, who Rosh Hashana, the generosity of Mr. Tamman that allowed thanked Mr Tamman for his generosity sponsored the evening and to everyone and the role of women in Judaism, many of the men present to achieve and looked forward to welcoming him who helped to make it such a success. reciting the Hashkava prayer and its this great mitzvah. and his family to the synagogue in the importance, Moses being punished and future. Our thanks also to the Ladies Guild, not entering into the holy land. This was followed by a procession A sumptuous Buffet lunch was and in particular Souad Khalastchi, who It was an enjoyable and informative and hakafot of dancing and songs to provided by the family to all of those helped to prepare and organise the educational event to both the panel receive the new Sefer. who attended this important and Chanukah banquet. and the congregation that we look to Rabbi Dr. Irving Jacobs gave a special day. repeat in the future. speech and put into perspective the

58 59 KKW5 TALK - “ASHKENAZY considerable periods in Synagogue OR SEPHARDI - WHAT IS THE praying. Teshuvah means returning. DIFFERENCE?” To what? To Hashem’s ways or, to the spiritual position we were before our The talk was shared with Rabbi wrongful act. Rambam adds that a true Teshuvah, to sacrifice Isaac to Him. Abraham Yehuda Black of Kenton synagogue, however, is when we are confronted by willingly prepares to do so, only to be and was mainly about differences Rambam (d1204) sets out the essential the same circumstances and this time stopped at the final moment when, between Sephardi and Ashkenazi steps of Teshuvah, as follows: we do not commit that sin. instead, a ram was sacrificed. Our liturgy and customs. It highlighted Rabbis decreed, therefore, that ideally He also makes the point that by “sins”, the Shofar should be made from a ram’s differences in pronunciation of 1. We must admit our sin, by Hebrew and contrasted customs of life we do not just mean transgressing horn, as a symbol to G-d to forgive our cycle events, such as, Brit Milah, Bar confessing it to G-d. This is called against Mitzvot, but also having bad sins even if we do not deserve it, as a Mitzvahs, weddings and funerals. It Vidduy. This should be done traits or habits, for example: anger, favour to Abraham our father who was jealousy, inhospitality, etc. willing to make the ultimate sacrifice also compared and contrasted various individually for our personal Tefillot on weekdays, Shabbat and Blowing the Shofar is, of course, a for Him. The Haphtarah comes from the Festivals, examining their origin. misdeeds, and communally most salient activity of Rosh Hashanah Book of Samuel and tells the beautiful for general sins - this is when when, on each day, we blow the Shofar and very moving story of Hannah who, ROSH HASHANA – REV ZVI AMROUSI 101 times. The obvious reason for this is after many years of being barren had, on Yom Kippur services we hit because we are so commanded by the at last, her prayer accepted by G-d, Rosh Hashanah means Head of The our chests as we alphabetically Torah. Our Rabbis give other reasons giving birth to Samuel who will grow Year and is, therefore, the Jewish New (Hebrew alphabet) declare our such as the Shofar sound shakes and up to be one of our most important wakes us up to make Teshuvah. Prophets. Both the Parashah, which Year. The Torah only mentions that sins, such as: Ashamnu – we we should have a holy day, when the also speaks of Sarah’s barrenness, and Rosh Hashanah is full of symbolism. Shofar blast is heard (Vayikra 23:24). have trespassed; Bagadnu – we the Haphtarah demonstrate Hashem’s At dinner on both nights we sample However, our Rabbis inform us that on kindness in listening to our prayers. have been disloyal; Gazalnu – different foods all symbolising our Rosh Hashanah the world was created. we have robbed… hopes and wishes for the new year It is very important, our Rabbis advise, This is mentioned in the Rosh Hashanah such as, apple and honey for a sweet that since Rosh Hashanah is head of the Musaph, when we sing “Hayom Harat year, leek and spinach to get rid of our year, we must begin well. Therefore, on Olam” – today the world was born. 2. Express regret for our sin, enemies, and pomegranate to help the night of Rosh Hashanah the table Since then, every year on this day of by apologising to G-d for sins us become as full of Mitzvot as the should be set beautifully by the time creation, Hashem sits on His Throne seeds of a pomegranate. On the first the festival begins and husband and and judges all creatures. Please note, committed purely against day of Rosh Hashanah we go to a lake, wife, as well as parent and child should creation of the world means from the Him, such as eating Taref (non river or sea, and symbolically “throw” not row or fight. Instead we should time that Adam and Eve were created Kosher). For sins against a our sins away. This is called Tashlikh endeavour to instil an aura of serenity on the last day of creation, the Friday. meaning “to throw”. Another major and Shalom in our homes. Our Rabbis - mindful of G-d’s judgment human being, we must first seek symbol is in the torah portion chosen of us - have therefore instituted these his/her forgiveness, before that by our Rabbis to be read on the two May Hashem decree that the coming two days of Rosh Hashanah as the first of G-d’s. days of Rosh Hashanah. It relates the New Year be one of Health, Happiness of the 10 Days of Penitence (which story of Isaac’s birth to his very elderly and Security for all of us, for the Land end on Yom Kippur), when we are parents – Abraham and Sarah, and how of Israel, and for the entire world. urged to do Teshuvah and to spend 3. Determine not to do it again. later Hashem commands Abraham

60 61 TIZKOU LESHANIM RABBOT. “Ellu Hammaot halifatkha, Although the day is one of the most long life, and to peace.” The hope is solemn of the year, an undertone of that the fowl, which is then donated Yom Kippur – Rev Zvi Amrousi temuratkha, kapparatkh. Ellu joy suffuses it: a joy that revels in the to the poor for food, will take on any Yom Kippur - the Day of Atonement - hammaot yinatnu litsdaka, spirituality of the day and expresses misfortune that might otherwise occur is mentioned in the Torah, for the first vetekanes atta (for girls: the confidence that G d will accept our to the one who has taken part in the time, in Parashat Emor, where we are vetikansee at) lehayim arukhim, repentance, forgive our sins, and seal ritual, in punishment for his or her sins. told: “But on the 10th day of this month our verdict for a year of life, health and it is the Day of Atonement; there shall tovim oulshalom” happiness. The closing Neilah service be a holy convocation for you, and you This money will be your exchange, your climaxes in the resounding cries of WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF THIS RITE? shall afflict your souls…and you will not substitute, your atonement. This money “A-donai hu hae-lohim” – The L-rd is Kapparot is not mentioned in the Torah do any work” – Vayikra 23:27, 28. Our will be given to Tsedaka and you will G-d – seven times, followed by a series or in the Talmud. The custom is first Prophets tell us that “afflict your souls” enter into a long, good and peaceful of Shofar blows, and a little later one discussed by Jewish scholars in the means to fast. life. For more details, see below*. We long Teruah. ninth century. They explain that since then eat a pre fast festive meal (it is a the Hebrew word gever means both ORAL LAW ADDS THAT ON Mitzvah to eat properly, so that we are As mentioned before, Yom Kippur “man” and “cockerel”, punishment of YOM KIPPUR WE ARE ALSO taking care of ourselves in preparation can only atone for sins between us the bird can be substituted for that of FORBIDDEN TO: for the 25 hour fast), light a Yom Kippur and G-d, if we truly repent. For sins a person. BATHE – but must wash our hands candle saying the Berakhah: “Barukh between each other, we must ask According to the Encyclopedia up to the knuckle in the morning, atta A-donai, E-lohenu melekh ha- forgiveness from those whom we have Judaica (Volume 10, pages 756- etc. olam, asher kiddeshanu bemitzvotav hurt or wronged. Before Yom Kippur it 757), several Jewish sages strongly vetsivanu, lehadlik ner shel Yom is a good custom to seek forgiveness. opposed kapparot. Rabbi Solomon ANOINT OUR BODIES WITH Kippur”, following which we bless our This is not only between strangers ben Abraham Aderet, one of the CREAMS OR PERFUME children, then go to the synagogue for but, more commonly, between parents foremost Jewish scholars during the – anti-perspirant is allowed by the Kol Nidreh service. and children, husband and wife, and 13th century, considered it a heathen most Poskim. siblings. superstition. This opinion was shared In the course of Yom Kippur we hold five by the Ramban (Nachmanides) and WEAR LEATHER SHOES. May Hashem listen to our prayers and prayer services: Arvit, with its solemn Rabbi Joseph Caro, who called it “a ENGAGE IN MARITAL RELATIONS grant us all a healthy and safe New Kol Nidrei service, on the eve of Yom foolish custom” that Jews should Year. Kippur; Shaharit—the morning prayer, avoid. They felt that it was a pagan Yom Kippur is as holy as Shabbat in Tizkou leshanim Rabbot. which includes a reading from Vayikra, custom that mistakenly made its way that any type of work forbidden on describing briefly how Temple Service into Jewish practice, perhaps because Shabbat is also forbidden on Yom KAPPAROT and sacrifices on Yom Kippur should when Jews lived among pagans this Kippur. It is, however, holiest, in that it be carried; Musaf, which includes a Kapparot is a custom in which the rite seemed like a (sacrifice) to is a day on which we are closest to G d: detailed account of the Yom Kippur sins of a person are symbolically some extent. “For on this day He will forgive you, to Temple service in practice; Minhah, transferred to a fowl. It is practised by However, the Kabbalists (led by purify you, that you be cleansed from which includes the reading of the Book some Jews shortly before Yom Kippur. mystics such as Rabbi Isaac Luria and all your sins, before G d you shall be of Jonah; and Neilah, the “closing of the A cockerel (for a male) or a hen (for Rabbi Isaiah Horowitz) perceived in pure” (Vayikra 16:30). gates” service at sunset. We say the Al a female) is held above the person’s this custom mystical significance which Before Yom Kippur some have the Het confession of sins (when we beat head and swung in a circle three times, strongly appealed to many people. custom to perform the Kaparot our chests) eight times in the course of while the following is spoken: “This This greatly enhanced the popularity of atonement service, where coins are Yom Kippur, and recite many . is my exchange, my substitute, my the kapparot ritual down to the present taken, (usually £1) then rotated in the atonement; this cockerel (or hen) shall day. air – one coin at a time - on top of each go to its death, but I shall go to a good, member of the family proclaiming: 62 63 WHY DID SOME JEWISH SAGES on street corners for this ceremony, go to charity, and I shall go to a good, ceremony. OPPOSE KAPPAROT? and not every merchant takes proper long life, and to peace.” Hence, the The psalmist indicates G-d’s concern care of his chickens during this period. heightened sense of repentance can for animals, for “His compassion is over Some Jewish leaders felt that people The birds are frequently cooped up in be kept, and perhaps even enhanced, all of His creatures” (Psalms 145:9). And would misunderstand the significance baskets, and some merchants neglect since no bird has to lose its life or suffer there is a mitzvah-precept in the Torah of the ritual. The belief that the to give them sufficient food or water. for our sake. This substitution, which to emulate the Divine compassion, as ceremony of kapparot can transfer Hence, while the Jewish tradition maintains the tradition of giving charity it is written: “And you shall walk in His a person’s sins to a bird, and that his is filled with concepts, prayers, and (the substituted money) to the poor, ways” (Deuteronomy 28:9). Perhaps or her sins would then be completely actions during the Rosh Hashanah- has been endorsed by many rabbis and the Jewish attitude toward animals is eradicated, is contrary to Jewish Yom Kippur period that relate to the is mentioned in many prayer books, best summarized by Proverbs 12:10: teachings. For, if the ritual could importance of rachamim (compassion including the highly regarded Artscroll “The righteous person considers the remove a person’s sins, what would be and sensitivity), the message of . soul (life) of his or her animal.” the need for Yom Kippur, the Day of kapparot to those who take part and Atonement? those who view it (including children) 2. We should attempt to increase In summary, the Torah prohibits Jews The Mishnah Berurah, an eminent may be just the opposite in some cases, the knowledge of Jews with regard from causing tsa’ar ba’alei chayim, any contemporary commentary by the a lesson of insensitivity to the feelings to Judaism’s beautiful and powerful unnecessary pain to living creatures, Hafets Hayim on Rabbi Joseph of other living creatures. teachings with regard to showing even psychological pain. Rabbi Samson Caro’s Shulhan Arukh, explains the compassion to animals. The following Raphael Hirsch, an outstanding 19th significance of the ritual. Judaism HOW SHOULD JEWS WHO ARE are a few examples: century philosopher, author, and Torah stresses that a person can’t obtain CONCERNED ABOUT THE TREATMENT Moshe Rabbenu, (our great teacher, commentator, eloquently summarizes purity from sin, and thus obtain higher OF ANIMALS RESPOND TO THIS Moses) and King David were the Jewish view on treatment of levels of perfection, without repenting. ISSUE? considered worthy to be leaders of animals: Through God’s mercy, we are given the Jewish people because of their the Divine gift of repentance, so that Jews who are concerned about the compassionate treatment of animals, Here you are faced with God’s teaching, we might abandon our corrupt ways, treatment of animals should try to when they were shepherds. Rebecca which obliges you not only to refrain thereby being spared from the death engage courteously and respectfully was judged suitable to be a wife of from inflicting unnecessary pain on that we deserve for our violation of with Jews who perform kapparot. It the patriarch Isaac because of her any animal, but to help and, when you the Divine law. By substituting the should be recognized that they are kindness in watering the ten camels of can, to lessen the pain whenever you death of a fowl, one will (hopefully) performing what they regard as an Abraham’s servant. see an animal suffering, even through appreciate G-d’s mercy and be stirred important religious act. Some of the no fault of yours. (Horeb, Chapter 60, to repentance. By no means, however, points that can be brought up include: Many Torah laws involve proper #416) In the same section, Rabbi Hirsch does the ritual and the slaughter of the treatment of animals. One may not indicates further how great our concern bird eradicate one’s misdeeds, even 1. There is a substitute ceremony that muzzle an ox while it is working in the for animals must be: though the bird is donated to the poor. is widely practised by many Torah- field nor yoke a strong and a weak observant Jews. Money, perhaps equal animal together. Animals, as well as There are probably no creatures that WHAT ARE MORE RECENT to the monetary value of the fowl, people, are allowed to rest on the require more the protective Divine OBJECTIONS TO THIS CEREMONY? is substituted for the rooster or hen. Sabbath day. The importance of this word against the presumption of man The money is put into a handkerchief concept is indicated by the fact that it than the animals, which like man have The birds may suffer while they are which the person swings three times is part of the Ten Commandments and sensations and instincts, but whose handled. In some places in Israel and around his or her head while reciting by its recitation every Sabbath morning body and powers are nevertheless the United States, chickens are sold a modified saying :”This money shall by many Jews, as part of the kiddush subservient to man. In relation to

64 65 them man so easily forgets that money for the kapparot ritual shows during this holiday in memory of the A sukkah must have at least two and a injured animal muscle twitches just that we are putting Torah teachings period of wandering. Sukkot lasts for half walls covered with a material that like human muscle, that the maltreated about compassion into practice. seven days. The two days following the will not blow away in the wind. Why nerves of an animal sicken like human (c) Acts of kindness and charity are festival, Shemini Atzeret and Simhat two and a half walls? Put simply, that is nerves, that the animal being is just as consistent with God`s “delighting in Torah, are separate holidays but are the minimum requirement for a shelter sensitive to cuts, blows, and beating as life” on Rosh Hashanah, since, unlike the related to Sukkot and are commonly but, our Rabbis give another, beautiful man. Thus man becomes the torturer kapparot ceremony, it doesn`t involve thought of as part of Sukkot. explanation: Look at the Hebrew letters one letter has ; סכה”of the animal’s soul, which has been the possible cruel treatment and death of the word “sukkah subjected to him only for the fulfillment of animals. The festival of Sukkot is instituted in four sides, one has three sides and one of humane and wise purposes. Leviticus 23:33, where we are told: has two and a half sides. The “walls” 4.Finally, and perhaps most ...On the fifteenth day of this seventh of the sukkah do not have to be solid; 3. In view of the above, it can be argued importantly, we should remind others month is the Festival of Sukkot, seven canvas covering tied or nailed down that one way that Jews can accomplish that kapparot is not biblically or days for the L-rd. - Leviticus 23:34 is acceptable and quite common. A repentance and other goals of Rosh talmudically ordained (as is tsa’ar sukkah may be any size, so long as it Hashanah and Yom Kippur is by ba’alei chayim, that the custom arose No work is permitted on the first is large enough for you to fulfill the moving away from the unnecessary at a later period in Jewish history, and second days of the holiday, and commandment of dwelling in it. exploitation of animals. For many of that it has been condemned by many the eighth and ninth. Certain work the values of this holiday period are Jewish sages, and that the important is permitted on the remaining days. The roof of the sukkah must be made more consistent with practicing mercy goal of increasing our sensitivity to the These intermediate days on which of material referred to as sekhakh toward all of G-d’s creatures: importance of repentance and charity work is permitted are referred to as Hol (literally, covering). To fulfill the (a) Prayers on Rosh Hashanah and Yom can be accomplished as well, and Ha-Mo’ed, as are the intermediate days commandment, sekhakh must be Kippur for God`s compassion during perhaps better, by substituting money of Passover. On these days, although something that grew from the ground the coming year are most consistent for a bird. we can drive and switch on electricity, and was cut off, such as tree branches, with acts of kindness to both other we should avoid writing and going to corn stalks, or bamboo reeds. Sekhakh people and animals. The following SUCCOT – REV ZVI AMROUSI our places of business, unless there is must be left loose, not tied together or story reinforces this idea: significant financial loss. Sephardim do tied down. Sekhakh must be placed Sukkot makes quite a drastic transition, Rabbi Israel Salanter, one of the most not put on Tefillin on the intermediate sparsely enough that rain can get from one of the most solemn holidays distinguished Orthodox Rabbis of the days. in, and preferably sparsely enough in our year –Yom Kippur - to one of the nineteenth century, failed to appear one that the stars can be seen, but not so most joyous. Sukkot is so unreservedly Yom Kippur eve to chant the sacred Kol BUILDING A SUKKAH sparsely that more than ten inches is joyful that it is commonly referred to in Nidre Prayer. His congregation became open at any point or that there is more and literature as Zeman You will dwell in booths for concerned, for it was inconceivable light than shade. The sekhakh must be Simhatenu, the Season of our Rejoicing. seven days; all natives of Israel that their saintly rabbi would be late or put on last. Sukkot is the last of the Shalosh shall dwell in booths. -Leviticus absent on this very holy day. They sent Note: You may put a water-proof cover Regalim (three pilgrimage festivals). 23:42 out a search party to look for him. After over the top of the sukkah when it is Like Passover and Shavu’ot, Sukkot much time, their rabbi was found in the In honour of the Festival’s historical raining to protect the contents of the has a dual significance: historical barn of a Christian neighbour. On his significance, we are commanded to sukkah, but you cannot use it as a and agricultural. Historically, Sukkot way to the synagogue, Rabbi Salanter dwell in temporary shelters, as our sukkah while it is covered and you must commemorates the forty-year period had come upon one of his neighbour’s ancestors did in the wilderness. The remove the cover to fulfil the mitzvah during which the children of Israel calves, lost and tangled in the brush. temporary shelter is referred to as a of dwelling in a sukkah. It is common were wandering in the desert, living Seeing that the animal was in distress, sukkah (which is the singular form practice, and highly commendable, to in temporary shelters. Agriculturally, he freed it and led it home through of the plural word “sukkot”). The decorate the sukkah. Sukkot is a harvest festival and is many fields and over many hills. His commandment to “dwell” in a sukkah sometimes referred to as Hag Ha-Asif, act of mercy represented the rabbi’s can be fulfilled by simply eating all the Festival of Ingathering. prayers on that Yom Kippur evening. of one’s meals there; however, if the (b) Consistent with Rosh Hashanah as weather and one’s health permit, one The word “Sukkot” means “booths,” a time when Jews are to “awaken from should spend as much time in the and refers to the temporary dwellings slumber” and mend our ways, using sukkah as possible, including sleeping that we are commanded to live in in it. 66 67 ARBAA MINIM: THE FOUR SPECIES prayer with the refrain, “Hosha na!” (please save us!). On the seventh day On the first day, you will take for of Sukkot, seven circuits are made. For yourselves a fruit of a beautiful tree, this reason, the seventh day of Sukkot palm branches, twigs of a braided tree is known as Hoshanah Rabbah (the and brook willows, and you will rejoice a small oval, represents the eye. The WHAT IS SIMHAT TORAH ABOUT? great Hoshanah). before the L-rd your G-d for seven willow leaf, a long oval, represents the Moshe Rabbenu and Ezra Hassofer days. - Leviticus 23:40 mouth, and the etrog fruit represents instituted the regular reading of After the circuits on Hoshanah Rabbah, Another observance during Sukkot the heart. All of these parts have the the Torah on Shabbat, Festivals and we beat the willow branches against involves what are known as the Four potential to be used for sin, but should Monday and Thursday mornings. the floor five times, shaking loose Species (arbaa minim in Hebrew) or the join together in the performance of Originally, it took a few years to finish some or all of the remaining leaves. A lulav and etrog. We are commanded to mitzvot (commandments). reading the whole Torah, normally number of explanations are offered for take these four plants and use them about three. The Geonim – 10th to this unusual beating practice, but the to “rejoice before the L-rd.” The four According to the second interpretation, 12th Century – started the custom primary reason seems to be agricultural: species in question are an etrog (a citrus the etrog, which has both a pleasing of reading the whole Torah in a year. the rainy season in Israel begins in the fruit similar to a lemon native to Israel; taste and a pleasing scent, represents We begin reading the first Parashah – autumn, and the leaves falling from the in English it is called a citron), a palm Jews who have achieved both Beresheet on the Shabbat after Simhat willow branch symbolize our desire for branch (in Hebrew, lulav), two willow knowledge of Torah and performance Torah and finish reading it on Simhat beneficial rainfall. The following day branches (aravot) and three myrtle of mitzvot. The palm branch, which Torah. Because we complete reading (Shemini Atzeret), we begin praying branches (hadassim). The six branches produces tasty fruit, but has no scent, the Torah, we have reason to celebrate for rain, which was of vital importance are bound together and referred to represents Jews who have knowledge and be happy, hence Simhat Torah – the to the People of Israel then, as is still collectively as the lulav, because the of Torah but are lacking in mitzvot. Rejoicing of the Torah. We elect two highly significant today. In fact, all the palm branch is by far the largest part. The myrtle leaf, which has a strong Hatanim – Bridegrooms – whose job Hoshaanot prayers are about rain. The etrog is held separately, but in the scent but no taste, represents Jews will be to finish reading the Torah, and same hand. With these four species in who perform mitzvot but have little immediately start again. Our Rabbis Why take these plants into the hand, one recites a blessing and waves knowledge of Torah. The willow, which always believed that when you finish a Synagogue? The Torah does not offer a the species in all six directions (our has neither taste nor scent, represents holy activity, immediately start a little specific reason but a few explanations custom: south, north, east, west, up, Jews who have no knowledge of Torah of the next, in order that you will find it are suggested. A simple explanation is down). symbolizing the fact that G-d is and do not perform the mitzvot. We easier to continue later on. On Simhat that, as the Torah says: “You shall rejoice everywhere. bring all four of these species together Torah Day, we take four Sepharim out. (with them) before the L-rd”. In order to on Sukkot to remind us that every one In the first we read to seven people, or thank Hashem for the harvest, we bring The four species are also held and of these four kinds of Jews is important, more, part of the last Parashah of the some typical plants which flourished waved during the Hallel prayer in and that we must all be united. Torah – Vezot Habberakha – then we because of His rainfall. But why these religious services, and are held during call Hatan Torah who will come up with particular plants? Our Rabbis offer two processions around the Tevah or The second part of the Festival are two his own Sepher, and reads the whole explanations: one, that these plants bimah (the pedestal where the Torah special days (in Israel, only one day): of Vezot Habberakha, thus completing represent different parts of the body, is read) called hakkafot each day The first is Shemini Atseret – which is a the reading of the Torah. After that, or that they represent different kinds during the Festival. These processions Holy Day of Assembly. The last day is the Hatan Beresheet comes up with of Jews. commemorate similar processions Simhat Torah – Rejoicing of the Law. (In his own Sepher and reads a small part around the altar of the ancient Temple Israel both of these two Festivals are of the first Parashah of the Torah – According to the first interpretation, the in Jerusalem. This part of the service celebrated on the same day). Beresheet. The fourth Sepher Torah is long straight palm branch represents is known as Hosha-anot, because while for the Mafteer who reads from another the spine. The myrtle leaf, which is the procession is made, we recite a Parashah altogether – Pinhas.

68 69 CONDOLENCES: Mrs. Liat Baher on the passing away of MIMI DWEK EULOGY – AS WAS GIVEN BY REV ZVI AMROUSSI: We extend our deepest sympathy to: her father, Mr. Aharon Daniel. Today, being one of the days between Yesterday was of course Yom Kippur. Mr. Harry Fattal on the passing away of Yom Kippur and Succot, we may not One of the oft repeated chants in Mrs. Hilda Hikmet on the passing away his mother, Mrs. Salima Fattal. deliver a proper emotive eulogy. We the service was “kee bayom hazzeh of her mother, Mrs. Amy Fattal. are however allowed to state facts in yekhapper alekhem le taher etkhem Mrs. Flora Southern on the passing Mr. Chaim Someck on the passing away praise. mikkol hattotekhem lifneh Hashem away of her mother, Mrs. Moselle Ezra, of his mother, Mrs. Flora Somech bat titharu – for on this day He will forgive who was the head mistress of the Mimi Dwek! The name conjures up an Lulu Gabai. you, to cleanse you from all your sins, Hasmonian prep school in Edgware in image of a vibrant, vivacious, elegant before the L-rd”. Based on this Torah Mr. Adrian Mendoza and family on the the nineties. and beautiful lady, who lived life to the verse, the Gemara in Ketubbot advises passing away of his wife, Mrs. Marjatta Mrs. Clemy Lagnado, Victor and Becky full. Whenever she came to the David that dying on Yom Kippur ensures that Mendoza. Dellia on the passing away of their Ishag synagogue she took care to the person dies absolutely without Mr. Maurice Dwek, Mr. Sam Dwek and husband and father, Mr. Mayer Lagnado find out all about it and its members. sin. Being the fighter that she was, Messrs. Saleh, Ellie and Zaki Ishag on For me personally it was always a Mimi defied doctors’ assessment of Mrs. Toni Sullam on the passing away of the passing away of their wife, mother pleasure to speak to her. She was so her situation, passing away three days her aunt, Mrs. Judith Saleh and sister, Mrs. Naomi (Mimi) Dwek easy to talk to and about any subject! later, on Yom Kippur. In addition to Dr. Cyril Brazil on the passing away of Judaism, politics, family, and bridge – having been cleansed of all sin by the Mr. David Onona on the passing away his brother, Mr. Victor Brazil at which I understand, she was almost atonement power of Yom Kippur, she of his sister, Mrs. Perla Bouzaglo bat unbeatable. has also suffered severely. Although To family and friends of Mr. Emmanuel Mazal, in Israel. hers was not a lengthy illness, for a Bahar on his passing away. Having spoken to members of her Messrs. Mark and Daniel Harubi and lady who loved life to be advised of family and to close friends, I find Mrs. Sara Shir on the passing away of her most vulnerable and imminently that she was a consummate most their father, Mr. Avi Harubi, in Israel. critical condition, is a shattering welcoming hostess, an inspiration and painful experience. Add to this Mimi’s a role model to many and a source of antecedents, her parents and the Ishag WE WISH THEM AND THEIR FAMILIES A LONG AND PEACEFUL LIFE. support and wonderful caring advice family’s generosity to Tsedaka, and that to many. In the words of a friend: of the Dwek family she married into, “Mimi was synonymous with life, with and her own cases of individual care her freshness, her laughter and her to the needy, we have before us a true playfulness”. She was physically active Tsadeket, totally devoid of sin. JUDITH SALEH – AS GIVEN BY THE FAMILY: and adventurous. Up to six weeks ago, she was regularly working out with her We regret to inform the Community Judith has been a member of the I pray that your husband Maurice, your personal trainer and 8 weeks ago, she daughter Marie Claire, your sons David of the passing of Mrs Judith Saleh. We Neveh Shalom Community for over 25 went skydiving with her son David, and send our deepest condolences to her years. Unfortunately, her deteriorating and Sam, and your brothers Salah, her grand children Jordan and Antony. Zaki and Eddie will find solace in your daughters Mary Freebody and Joy health prevented her from attending precious and beautiful memory, and Bennett and her niece Toni Sullam. Services in the last few years of her life. She was loved by her husband the realisation that your place in Gan She is sorely missed by all those who and children, her brothers and her Eden is secure. Judith passed peacefully on 14 March knew her. grandchildren, with whom she 2015. found a common language. She was looking forward to becoming a great TEHI NISHMATA TSERURA grandmother in a few months. BITSROR HAHAYIM AMEN. 70 71 Messrs. Robin and Sam Samra in Mr. Maurice Madjar for a seuda in KIDDUSHIM AND SEUDOT: Mr. Richard and Mrs. Beverley Persky memory of their mother Mrs. Mounira memory of his mother, Mrs. Celine Our appreciation goes to the following for the engagement of their daughter, Samra. (Sarah) Madjar and in memory of his for their kind donations of kiddushim Sasha, to Oliver Kay. father, Mr. Jacques Madjar. and seudot: Messrs. Saleh, Zaki and Elie Ishag in Mr. Hessy and Mrs. Viviane Saidler in Messrs. Robin and Sam Samra in memory of their mother Mrs. Oro Ishag Mr. David Judah for a seuda in memory celebration of the Bar Mitzvah of their - Dwek. of his mother Mrs. Rachel Judah. memory of their father Mr. Ovadia son, Nigel. Samra. Mmes. Betty Ishag and Freda Myers Mrs. Esther Kamhi and family for a Mr. Robin and Mrs. Shafit Samra in Mr. Berto and Mrs. Joyce Cohen in and Messrs. Leon and Berto Cohen seuda in memory of their husband and celebration of the engagement of their celebration of the Bat Mitzvah of their in memory of their mother Mrs. Marie father Rabbi Dr. David Kamhi. daughter, Monica. granddaughter, Natasha. Cohen. Mrs. Marie Del Monte, Mrs. Sally and Mrs. Monique Arazi and her children Mr. Jeff Solomon in memory of his Mr. Chaim and Mrs. Esther Someck, on Mr. Richard Del Monte for a seuda in Shafit, Simone and Joseph in memory father Mr. Isaac Solomon. the marriage of their son, Alan, to Orit memory of their husband and father, of their husband and father Mr. Ram Chachko. Mr. Sydney Del Monte. Arazi. Mrs. Jacqueline Khalastchi, Mrs. Suad Sebti and Mr. Jamil Khazoom in memory Mmes. Joyce Cohen, Edna Harrison, Rev Zvi Amroussi for a seuda in memory Mrs. Arlette Hanen and her children of their father, Mr. Yousef Khazoom and Aimée Leon and Myrna Doppelt in of his father Rabbi Orani Amroussi. Victor and Lina in memory of their of their late aunt, Mrs. Margeurite Al- memory of their mother Mrs. Fortunée husband and father, Mr. Raymond Akri bat Dina. Dwek HaCohen. Mrs. Helen Goldblatt for a Seuda in Hanen. memory of her late mother Mrs. Lily Mrs. Betty Ishag, Mrs. Freda Myers, Mmes. Joyce Cohen, Edna Harrison, Mmes. Rosy Cohen, Joyce Tamam and Green. Messrs. Leon and Berto Cohen in Aimée Leon and Myrna Doppelt in Claudy Huttrer in memory of their memory of their father Mr. Joseph memory of their mother Mrs. Edward mother Mrs. Jacqueline Fiss. Aslan Cohen. Dwek HaCohen. THE NEVEH SHALOM CLUB: Mr. Ben-Shalom Gentely in memory of Messrs. Saleh, Zaki and Elie Ishag in Mr. Elliott and Mr. Eyal Myers, Mrs. Alice his father Mr. Zevulun Gentely. The club, which is open to all memory of their father Mr. David Ishag. Levy and Mrs. Ilana Hebert in memory synagogue members and their friends, of their mother Mrs. Liliane Myers. Messrs. Elliot and Eyal Myers and Mmes. meets regularly every Tuesday from The Hatanim, Mr. Jamil Khazoom and Alice Levy and Ilana Hebert in memory 1:00 to 4:00pm and on the first Sunday Mr. Avner Tamman, and their families Mrs. Sue Khazoom in memory of her of their father Mr. Mayer Myers. of every month from 1:00 to 4:00pm. for both kiddushim on Simchat Torah mother Mrs. Daisy Peress. New members are always welcome. evening service and the following Mr. Faiz and Mrs. Bushra Khalastchi on Please contact the following members morning service. Mrs. Jacqueline Khalastchi and her the engagement of their son, Rudi, to of the committee for details of any children Mmes. Bushra Khalastchi Frances Fogel. activities: Mr. Ben-Shalom Gentely in memory of and Brigitte Hikmet and Mr. Freddy Mr. Cesar Benson – on 020 8904 3009 his mother, Mrs. Miriam Gentely. Khalastchi in memory of their husband Mr. David and Mrs. Rosalind Judah on or via email gladysandcesarbenson@ and father Mr. Haron Khalastchi. the marriage of their son, Ben, to Yael gmail.com Mrs. Denise Shemtob, Mr. Sam Shemtob Misrahi. Mr. Alphonse Salem – on 020 8904 and Mrs. Susan Shemtob in memory of Mr. Jack Hikmet in memory of his 4205 or via email alphonse.salem@ their son, brother and husband Mr. Jack parents Mr. Naji and Mrs. Juliette gmail.com Shemtob. Hikmet.

72 73 CHILDREN’S SERVICE: NOTE: A special children’s service followed A central diary of events is held by the by a children’s kiddush is held at the secretary, Mr. Elliott Myers, who can be synagogue in the Victor Saleh lecture contacted on 020 8346 8744 or via room on the first Shabbat of every email at elliottmyers@nevehshalom. month as well as on festivals. com. Young children or grandchildren of the community members are most Anyone wishing to sponsor a regular welcome to join and help establish the Kiddush or arrange a special Kiddush next generation of our congregation. should contact Mrs. Monique Arazi on Parents are asked to sit together with 020 8959 4606 or 07951 273 504 or their children in synagogue for at least via email at moniquearazimail@yahoo. part of the prayers whenever they co.uk. attend. Anyone wishing to hold a special LIBRARY: function at the synagogue should All those wishing to borrow books from contact Mr. Albert Harrison on the Synagogue library lending section 07976 632 515 or via email at are very welcome to do so. [email protected]. Please remember to note the details of the book, your name and contact Anyone wishing to have an information in the blue file which is kept announcement included in the bulletin in the library. This way the librarians, should contact Mrs. Liza Yehuda on Mr. Yehuda Erdman and Mr. Jack Sitton 020 8908 2261 or via email at will know where these books are. Thank [email protected]. you for your co-operation and enjoy your reading! For any information regarding social activities and events at the Neveh PARNASIM Shalom Community please contact Anyone wishing to be called to the Mr. Jack Tamman on 020 8958 0475 Sepher (aliyah) and on any other during the day or via email at matter concerning the wardens should [email protected]. contact the following members: • Mr. Ben Gentely on Anyone wishing to have an 020 8908 3065 or via email at gentely@ announcement on the website or hotmail.com receive general announcements from • Mr. Freddy Khalastchi on the Neveh Shalom Community by email 07956 360 690 or via email at Freddy. should contact Mr. Jon Spain via email [email protected] at [email protected]. • Mr. David Rasouly on 07740 635 707 or via email at [email protected] • Mr. Jack Sitton on 020 8422 2653 or via email at [email protected] 74 75 HIGH HOLIDAYS TIMETABLE

SUNDAY 13TH SEPTEMBER WEDNESDAY 23RD SEPTEMBER FRIDAY 2ND OCTOBER Erev Rosh Hashanah Yom Kippur Chol Hamoed SERVICES DURING THE YEAR ARE AS FOLLOWS: MORNING SERVICE 8.15 a.m. Zemirot 8.30 a.m. Shabbat commences 6.21 p.m. (Including Selihot & Hatarat Nedarim) Shahrit 9.45 a.m. EVENING SERVICE 6.30 p.m. FRIDAY EVENINGS Festival begins 7.05 p.m. Sepher 11.30 a.m. approx. 15 minutes after commencement of Shabbat; EVENING SERVICE 6.45 p.m. Musaph 12.45 p.m. SATURDAY 3RD OCTOBER SATURDAY MORNINGS 9.00 am; Minha 4.00 p.m. Shabbat Chol Hamoed & Erev SATURDAY EVENINGS Hosha'anah Rabbah MONDAY 14TH SEPTEMBER Hashkavot 6.00 p.m. approx. one hour before termination of Shabbat; MORNING SERVICE 9.00 a.m. First Day Rosh Hashanah Neila 6.30 p.m. EVENING SERVICE & LIMMUD 6.30 p.m. MORNING SERVICE 8.30 a.m. Shofar 7.48 p.m. SUNDAY MORNINGS 8.15 am Shabbat terminates 7.24 p.m. Tashlikh 6.15 p.m. EVENING SERVICE 6.30 p.m. SUNDAY 27TH SEPTEMBER SUNDAY 4TH OCTOBER Erev Souccot Hosha'anah Rabbah TUESDAY 15TH SEPTEMBER MORNING SERVICE 8.15 a.m. For security reasons, you are kindly requested: MORNING SERVICE 7.45 a.m. Second Day Rosh Hashanah Festival begins 6.33 p.m. 1. Not to park in the vicinity of the Synagogue Festival begins 6.17 p.m. MORNING SERVICE 8.30 a.m. EVENING SERVICE 6.45 p.m. nor congregate outside the front of the building EVENING SERVICE 6.30 p.m. EVENING SERVICE 7.15 p.m. at any time; Festival terminates 8.05 p.m. MONDAY 28TH SEPTEMBER 2. To be vigilant; to report anything suspicious to the MONDAY 5TH OCTOBER First Day Souccot Security Officers and to cooperate fully with them. Shemini Atseret WEDNESDAY 16TH SEPTEMBER MORNING SERVICE 9.00 a.m. MORNING SERVICE 9.00 a.m. Fast of GedalIah EVENING SERVICE 6.30 p.m. EVENING SERVICE 6.30 p.m. Fast terminates 7.55 p.m. Simchat Torah Hakaphot 7.30 p.m. TUESDAY 29TH SEPTEMBER SATURDAY 19TH SEPTEMBER Second Day Souccot Shabbat Shuvah MORNING SERVICE 9.00 a.m. TUESDAY 6TH OCTOBER MORNING SERVICE 9.00 a.m. EVENING SERVICE 6.30 p.m. Simchat Torah EVENING SERVICE 7.00 p.m. Festival terminates 7.34 p.m. MORNING SERVICE 9.00 a.m. Shabbat terminates 7.57 p.m. WEDNESDAY 30TH SEPTEMBER EVENING SERVICE 6.15 p.m. Chol Hamoed Festival terminates 7.18 p.m. TUESDAY 22ND SEPTEMBER Erev Yom Kippur THURSDAY 1ST OCTOBER SATURDAY 10TH OCTOBER MORNING SERVICE 6.30 a.m. Chol Hamoed Shabbat Beresheet & Mevarchim (Including Selihot & Hatarat Nedarim) MORNING SERVICE 9.00 a.m. Festival and Fast begin 6.44 p.m. EVENING SERVICE 6.15 p.m. Kol Nidre 7.00 p.m. Shabbat terminates 7.09 p.m.

76 77 NISSAN AND TISHREI: A STUDY IN THE JEWISH NEW YEARS by David Tamman judgment nor as the anniversary of the is surrounded on all sides by water. physical features which manifest in world’s creation. As part of the process of teshuva the person as they develop result from David is a Business The Mishnah, however, outlines Rosh (repentance), a person returns to the those genes. As the child develops, Analyst working at Hashanah’s ‘New Year’ status in Rosh water both physically in the widely many critically important phases follow, Goldman Sachs. He has Hashanah 1:1. “The first of Tishrei observed minhag to immerse in the but none as critical as that first instant. been a member of the shul is the beginning of the year [Rosh mikva before Rosh Hashana and Each additional phase is a further since 2011. He is married Hashannah] for years, sabbatical figuratively speaking i.e. man returns to revelation, a further consequence of to Vanessa and has two cycles, and the jubilee.” Although his origin and source, to the initial state the embedded coding of the previous. sons (Gavriel aged 4 and the function of this new year relates of pristine purity in which he was first In all cases, the closer to the beginning, Avishai aged 2). principally to the agricultural cycle and created. This symbolises the ultimate the greater the impact of any change the beginning of a new harvest year, aim of the teshuva process where man and the more critical the consequence the Mishnah also begins to assign to it attempts to spiritually cleanse himself of any pathway taken. The Torah explicitly tells us that the conceptual and theological meaning. and return to a pure, sin-free status Jewish year begins on the first of “On Rosh Hashanah all human beings only known previously before he had TODAY THE UNIVERSE WAS Nissan. This is described in the context pass before Him as troops, as it is said, been born. CONCEIVED - MACHZOR ROSH of the first Passover: “The L-rd said to ‘the L-rd looks down from heaven; He This symbolic force is most keenly felt HASHANAH Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt: sees all mankind. From His dwelling on the festival of Rosh Hashanah, which Time, whilst we don’t always sense it, is This month shall mark for you the place He gazes on all the inhabitants of we describe as “Yom Harat Olam” – the also a creation. In the book of Joshua beginning of the months; it shall be the the earth. He who fashions the hearts of day of the world’s conception. Rosh we find Hashem physically stops time to first of the months of the year for you” them all, who discerns all their doings’” Hashanah marks the day when man was allow the battle to reach its conclusion: (Shemot 12:1-2). (Psalms 33:13-15) (M. Rosh Hashanah created, and it is therefore appropriate, “And the sun stood still, and the moon However, it is surprising that the Torah 1.2). as part of the commemoration of stayed, until the nation had avenged makes no reference to a “new year” Many commentators note that man’s initial emergence, to once themselves of their enemies… and the on the first of Tishrei. We all know the throughout the Jewish calendar again immerse in a mikveh thereby sun stayed in the midst of heaven, and traditional Rosh Hashanah greeting is “different spiritual forces” are at work. embodying and enlivening our efforts did not hurry to go down about a whole ‘Shana Tova’ and recognise this as the The festivals are focal points in the to return to our roots and to our initial day” (Joshua 10:13). The Jewish year start of the Jewish Year as we reset year and it is important to understand state of purity. is an organic entity and its conception the calendar year at this point. The these various spiritual forces at play phase commences on Rosh Hashanah Torah’s references to the first of Tishrei at these times in order to harness the “EVERYTHING GOES AFTER THE and concludes with Yom Kippur. are lacking in detail, the festival being potential of the festivals and maximise BEGINNING” (MIDRASH) It is well known that when a woman is characterised primarily by the blowing it. Taking a closer look at the underlying This statement of Chazal contains pregnant, if she drinks, smokes or takes of a shofar: “Speak unto the Children symbolism of these festivals can assist hidden depth. The moment of drugs the risk of causing irreversible of Israel saying, In the seventh month, us in understanding the answer to the conception of anything which comes damage to the foetus is increased. Yet, on the first day of the month, shall be question of which chag truly represents into existence must contain all the for the most part, the same amount unto you a solemn rest; a memorial the beginning of the year - Pesach or elements of the future of that thing. of drinking or smoking will not cause proclaimed with the blast (teruah) of Rosh Hashanah? In the natural world, we observe that the same level of damage to a grown the horn, a holy convocation” (Vayikra ‘mighty oaks from little acorns grow’. adult. This is because, when a human 23:24). The name “Rosh Hashanah” is ROSH HASHANAH - CONCEPTION Similarly, all the genes of a human being is in a foetal stage, the smallest not mentioned, nor is there a reference A human being originates in the being are laid down at the point things can and will do quite a bit to its function neither as a day of mother’s womb, where the new human conception and thereafter all the of damage. Conversely, using this

78 79 analogy for spiritual matters, spiritually There is a famous piece of imagery awesome deeds, as all that the Lord following which it immediately begins strengthening acts have more potential used by the prophet Jeremiah. He your God did for you in Egypt before its physical development, which lays to be more strongly embedded into says people act as if they are horses your eyes?” (Devarim 4: 34). the foundation for its entire life. our make for the year ahead during the in a cavalry charge. These horses are Echoing Moses’ description (in Rosh Chodesh Nisan, the first day of Aseret Yamei Teshuva. Rosh Hashanah not thinking about the reason for their Deuteronomy 4:34) of the Exodus as the month of redemption, occurs on is a time when we are at our spiritual charging; they are simply doing so a time when G-d “took a nation from the same day of the week as the first foetal stage. Our spiritual genes, are because they are driven to do so even the midst (implying ‘womb’) of another day of Passover, two weeks later. The being laid out over these two days if it is to their detriment. Similarly, in nation,” the prophet Ezekiel describes Torah designated the day of Rosh and the following eight days and these modern day horse racing, the horses the event as the “birth” of the Jewish Chodesh Nisan as the “New Year for particular genes will then grow and do not know why they must run to people. Before the Exodus, the Jews Kings and Festivals.” This designation develop throughout the year. This is the finish line or the purpose of the shared a common ancestry, culture and also suggests a connection with the the importance of Rosh Hashanah and race; they run because they are forced heritage, but they did not constitute a fact that in this month the Jews were we must be alert to the heightened to. In life, the prophet says, we must nation; on that first Passover, the entity reborn as a nation and were then risk that even the smallest damage not simply charge ahead and run Israel was born (Yevamos 46a) — and ordained and promised by G-d to be a can expose us too. We must use this because everyone else is doing it. Rosh “a convert to Judaism is as a new-born “Kingdom of priests and a holy nation” time wisely. When we use our Rosh Hashanah is about stopping and asking child” (Ibid., 22a). at Sinai. The new year starting in Nissan Hashanah in a proper manner, with what the purpose of our lives is and The central theme of this festival is celebrates the creation of the Jewish repentance, and living to our potential, whether we are in fact doing all we can that the Exodus from Egypt marks nation through the redemption of the it will be these traits that will be “coded to fulfil that purpose. the birth of the Jewish nation. But it Israelites from Egypt. In this context, into our genes.” The Maharal further explains that the was not simply the emergence of the Nissan, as the first of the months, For this reason, we are extremely foetus is in a bowing position with its Jews as a nation; other peoples and coincides with the beginning of Jewish careful about trying to live correctly heels tucked underneath it as if it is civilisations also become nations at national history. on Rosh Hashanah and the subsequent bowing before G-d and submitting one point or another. The singular days. The way one begins the year will before His authority. A major theme distinction of the Jewish birth was that CONCLUSION determine how the rest of the year of the prayers on Rosh Hashanah is at that moment Jewry assumed a new Through examining Rosh Hashanah reveals itself. If one can form the genes the Kingship of G-d because Rosh identity. This is why the time of the and Pesach in this way, we can see of the year correctly, the foetus will Hashanah is the anniversary of the day Exodus is considered the beginning two distinct beginnings in their own develop correctly and the child and that G-d became King. Prior to the of the “conversion” phase of the Bnei right – that of creation and conception adult will be healthy. Echoing this, many creation of Adam and Eve there were Yisrael, and the giving of the Torah is and that of the very point of birth. have the custom not to sleep during no beings in the world who could freely then its culmination. They became a On a practical level, Rosh Hashanah is the day of Rosh Hashanah, at least not choose and acknowledge G-d as King Torah nation. Through the birth pains the time that our spiritual genes are until midday -- they want to lay down – a King without subjects is missing an of 210 years of exile in Mitzrayim, the written for next year (first beginning). the genes of the year in consciousness integral part of what royalty requires. Jewish Nation was delivered via the The time from Rosh Hashanah onwards and spiritual effort, not oblivion. By recognising G-d as King we are process of Exodus, the Splitting of the is then spent nurturing that potential The Maharal says that, in the womb, acknowledging His authority over our Yam Suf and Revelation and Sinai. They at which point the real fruits should be the foetus’ hands are by his temple lives and submitting to His will. emerged anew, endowed with all the seen to sprout on Pesach (the second symbolising the fact that human tools needed to embrace and engage beginning) from the initial spiritual seed beings must direct actions symbolised PESACH - BIRTH with life. The Prophet Ezekiel compares that was planted six months earlier. by hands, to mind and thought. He says “Or has any G-d performed miracles the redemption of the Jewish people that emotions are the most powerful to come and take him a nation from from Egypt to the birth of a child, in force within the human being, but we the midst of another nation, with trials, that the bodily and spiritual liberation should strive to rise above them and with signs, and with wonders, and with from Egypt, and their development think clearly about life and our purpose war and with a strong hand, and with thereafter, parallels the birth of a child, in this world. an outstretched arm, and with great

80 81 THE SEPHARDI CONGREGATION OF SOUTH MANCHESTER – SHAARE HAYIM

EVE OF SHABBAT:

11th Sep 6.30pm 6th Nov 3.45pm 9th Oct 5.45pm 4th Dec 3.30pm 18th Sep 6.30pm 13th Nov 3.45pm 16th Oct 5.30pm 11th Dec 3.30pm 25th Sep 6.30pm 20th Nov 3.40pm 23rd Oct 5.15pm 18th Dec 3.30pm 2nd Oct 6.15pm 27th Nov 3.30pm 30th Oct 4.00pm 25th Dec 3.30pm

Beryl Edelstein on the birth of a great Sara and Nasser Bastan on the birth of a granddaughter. grandson. FUNERALS: Sharon and David Tussie on the birth of a Taleh and Yedidya Jebreel on the birth of a great Irene Alexander David Betesh Elie Waddan grandson and granddaughter. granddaughter and great grandson. Lily Lucas Violet Hedwat Jacques Sultan Lauren and Robert Shadi on the birth of a Marilyn and Stephen Blank on the birth of a Maurice Mesrie Evelyn Ezra Hillel daughter. granddaughter. Henri Sueke Gracie Peppi Gilan Tishbi Sara and Iraj Shadi on the birth of a Anne and Harry Rosenblum on the birth of a Yvonne Glaser Violet Dellal Simon Lebovits granddaughter. granddaughter. Erica and Geoff Abrahams on the birth of a Toni and Maurice Horwich on the birth of a great granddaughter. granddaughter. BIRTHS: Grace Kachani on the birth of a great Rabbi Shlomo Ellituv on the birth granddaughter. of a grandson. Rhuanie Tojarieh on the birth of a great Shimrit and Robbie Mesrie on the birth of a son. granddaughter. Fay Mesrie on the birth of a grandson. Danni and the late Henri Sueke on the birth of a Lucille and Sidney Cohen of the birth of a ENGAGEMENTS: son. grandson. Vivienne and Ernie Hunter on the birth of a Karen and Martin Ailion on the birth of a Natalie Peppi to Danny Helen Kandel to Akiva Kline. Simmi Kirsch to Joe Shammah. granddaughter. grandson. Ginsberg. Lee Khodadad to Nati Cohen. Jo Brown to Gary Almond. Hannah and Hadleigh Stollar on the birth of a Maurice Sultan on the birth of a great son. granddaughter. Marilyn and Gary Schultz on the birth of a WEDDINGS : Dianne and Roger Leon on the birth of a grandson. granddaughter. David Goldsmith to Tova David Todd to Shir Abuhron Adam Sher to Anna Lawton Jeanette and Ronnie Abrahams of the birth of a Vera Cohen on the birth of two great Zysanu. Rachel Farshi to James Raven Ellana Ellis to Jeffrey Witter. granddaughter granddaughters. Sharon and David Peppi on the birth of a Sue and David Fernandez on the birth of a granddaughter. BARMITZVAH : grandson. Maurice Peppi on the birth of a great Eidahn Mofarah Tommy Whitfield Rose Fernandez on the birth of a great granddaughter. grandson. Adam Bolchover Benji Khanzadeh Lilly and Brian Joseph on the birth of a Sally and Michael Cohen on the birth of a grand granddaughter. daughter and grandson. BAT CHAYIL: Claire Sinyor on the birth of a granddaughter. Yvonne and Ferri Todd on the birth of a Candice Gabriel granddaughter. Ruth and Stewart Price on the birth of a granddaughter. 82 83 DIDSBURY ARTS FESTIVAL At the end of June, Shaare Hayim After allowing time for everyone to hosted for the second time, an event look around, the guests were invited which enhanced our standing in the to come into the communal hall where wider community. The occasion was there was an exhibition of artwork the “Didsbury Arts Festival” in which produced by talented members of the we were asked to take part. Congregation. ELECTIONS The synagogue was open for the Refreshments were offered in the form afternoon and the local residents came of sephardi delicacies. THE FOLLOWING WERE ELECTED FOR THE FORTHCOMING YEAR-: in droves. Thanks must go to the organisers At first Victor Hassan gave a Jennifer and Eli Cohen and their team President: Treasurer: summary of the history of the Kahal in who gave up their time to act as guides, Withington and Didsbury, Manchester. who undertook security duties, who Michael Khodadad Stephen Elias This was followed by Rabbi Amir Ellituv exhibited their work and who baked explaining the layout of the synagogue and served refreshments. Chairman: Hon Secretary: and the use of various religious There is no doubt that we were all left Anthony Sultan Ros Farshi appurtenances. with a “feel good” factor in encouraging The Echal was opened so that the a good relationship with the wider Members of the Council: Sifrei Torah with their rimonim, crowns community. and breastplates were on view. We Reuben Solomon Lesley Sher Jonathan Shasha were lucky to have the services of a Ros Farshi Natalie Vallance Michael Mesrie Sopher so that the public were able to understand how a sepher is written. Wardens / Parnassim:

Michael Sherbourne Victor Hassan Reuben Solomon

Lady Members of the President’s Committee:

Jennifer Cohen Ros Farshi Natalie Vallance

Manchester Shechita Board: Renee Hodari

Board of Deputies of British Jews: Barbara Simon

84 85 K.K. Shaare Ratzon Spanish and Portuguese Synagogue of Jerusalem

K.K. SHAARE RATZON SPANISH AND RULES, REGULATIONS AND PORTUGUESE SYNAGOGUE OF JERUSALEM CUSTOMS FOR THE COHANIM Founded 1980 Istambuli Synagogue, 18 Bet El Street, The Jewish Quarter, The Old City, Jerusalem and nowadays typically only during the E-mail: [email protected]. Web address: www.sandpjerusalem.org On 9 February 2015, at the home or Rabbi Facebook page: K.K Sha’are Ratzon Spanish and Portuguese Synagogue (Jerusalem) and Marglit Dweck, a group of 25 ladies, Chagim. gentlemen, boys and girls comprising Before the blessin, the hands are washed Cohanim, Levi’im and Yisraelim from the by the Levi’im and a minimum of 3 The Synagogue will hold services on the following days: S&P met to discuss the rules, regulations ounces of water is poured, up to the and customs for the Cohanim. wrist. No blessing for the washing of the hands is recited by the Cohanim and it 1st Day Rosh Hashanah Monday 14/Sep/15 As the Cohanim bless the congregation is permitted to talk after the washing 2nd Day Rosh Hashanah Tuesday 15/Sep/15 during on Shabbat and of the hands until the Cohanim blessing also during the Chagim services, this commences. Kal Nidre Tuesday 22/Sept/2015 discussion together with the differences It is a general custom for the Cohanim to between communities was an interesting remove their shoes prior to the washing Yom Kippur Wednesday 23/Sept/2015 topic for members of the Kahal. Rabbi of the hands. However we learned that it 1st Day Succot Monday 28/Sept/2015 Dweck provided us with a broad overview. is a custom among the Syrian Cohanim Such was the interest generated by the to only remove their shoes if there are Hosha'ana Rabba (7.00 a.m) Sunday 4/Oct/15 discussion that we could have continued steps to the Echal. Parashat Noach Saturday 17/Oct/15 for a couple more hours. A follow up It is our custom to cover our heads with session will be arranged in the next few a tallit. However originally it was the Parashat Toledot Saturday 22/Nov/15 months to discuss the topic in further custom not to cover the head unless a Parashat Mikketz (Hanukah and R.H. Tevet) Saturday 20/Dec/15 depth. person had blemishes on their face. The The Cohanim from biblical times were set hands are raised typically to shoulder Parashat Va'era Saturday 9/Jan/16 apart and unique. We are descendants of level with the palms facing the floor. The Parashat Terumah Saturday 13/Feb/16 Aharon and there to serve the people of congregants face the Cohanim and the Israel. In ancient times the Cohanim did blessing is recited out loud and repeated Parashat Pekudei Saturday 12/Mar/16 not own land and were trustees of the after the reader. people. Specifically, we are not allowed We discussed many different customs Shushan Purim (Evening) Thursday 24/Mar/16 to have any contact with Jewish dead from our communities and many Megilla reading and Purim party bodies except for one’s seven closest interesting stories were recounted relatives. including how pre barmitzvah boys Parashat Tazria/Hahodesh (R.H. Nissan) Saturday 9/Apr/16 The Cohanim took care of the laws and performed the mitzvah. There was also Pesach (1st Day) Saturday 23/Apr/16 customs in the Temple and ensured that the story that some communities had things were completed properly, like our banned the mitzvah of the Cohanim Pesach (7th Day) Friday 29/Apr/16 Parnassim today! blessing as they believed in their Parashat Emor Saturday 14/May/16 In Temple times there were 24 branches of community that the Cohanim were not Cohanim and each year a different family worthy to perform the mitzvah. Shavuot Sunday 12/Jun/16 served in the temple. The Cohanim are a In summary, it was a fascinating evening Parashat Korach Saturday 2/Jul/16 conduit for Hashem to bless the people. and we all became more knowledgeable It is therefore a mitzvah for a Cohen to about the customs and rituals of the give the blessing which is a Torah rather Cohanim mitzvah. The morning services start at 8.00 a.m. and are followed by Kiddush. than a Rabbinic requirement. We would like to thank Rabbi and Margalit Originally the Cohanim blessed the Dweck for hosting this successful event Additional morning services are also held occasionally. In addition to the above people of Israel once every 24 hours, and look forward to a follow up session schedule, the Synagogue also holds occasional Friday evening services courtesy of as occurs in Israel today. In the Western in the near future. Kehilat Yedidya, 12 Nahum Lifshitz, Baka, Jerusalem. Details of these services are tradition, the Ashkenazy Cohanim only only available by e-mail or on our Facebook site. performed the blessing when asked David Dweck – 6 March 2015

86 87 BOOK REVIEW

THE SMOUHA CITY VENTURE: ALEXANDRIA 1923 - 1958 BY R It was on a train journey from In 1925, Smouha launched a SMOUHA, C PALLINI AND M-C Cairo to Alexandria in 1919 that competition that drew submissions BRUWIER (2014 Paperback, £23.82 the visiting businessman Joseph from Europe’s leading architects. A from Amazon) Smouha spotted the potential to residential complex of villas built in be gained from the draining of modernist style was modelled on by Lyn Julius Lake Hadra, one-sixth of Alexandria Welwyn Garden City and Heliopolis, and a mere four kilometers from the upmarket Cairo suburb. As the THE SMOUHA CITY VENTURE: the centre. He moved his wife and water table was so high, no cellars ALEXANDRIA 1923 - 1958 eight children to Egypt to embark could be built. The cost of a villa’s on the adventure of his life. The supporting concrete platform was “He was the only foreigner who family ‘s culture shock, on arrival in nearly as high as the villa itself. came to the country, brought this poverty-stricken and disease- Some of the streets had no names. his own money and did good to ridden country, was considerable. (The villa belonging to Dicky’s aunt, the country.” So said the exiled Among Richard Smouha’s amusing Betty Nagger, was missed out of the Egyptian King Fuad on the death and quirky family vignettes, is the numbering in her street. Thereafter an Iraqi-Jewish cotton trader from anecdote of a lady who sent her her address was 0, rue Mahmoud Manchester named Joseph Smouha. chauffeur to fetch her shopping Gaber.) The cream of Egyptian while she read a book in her car. He aristocracy and even exiled kings In a city where the Jewish returned to find the car propped up bought villas: for instance, Victor- community today is down to five on bricks and the wheels stolen. Emmanuel of Italy, who died in 1947. Jews, Smouha ‘s legacy is, ironically, perpetuated in a residential suburb newspaper cuttings and vintage Dicky’s grandfather Joseph Smouha City comprised a sports of Alexandria called Smouha photos. Chapters by Cristina Smouha, who refused a knighthood, club, golf course and racecourse. City. The story of how Joseph Pallini and Marie-Cecile Bruwier wanted to call the new garden city The well-established Alexandria Smouha came to acquire, build, cast light on the technical aspects after King Fuad. The King insisted Sporting Club did not take too and eventually lose, Smouha City of the architectural venture and that it be called Smouha City. Some kindly to its new horse-racing rival, to the Egyptian state is told by his the archeological findings of this 75 feddans of land (one feddan is and its snooty Jewish aristocrats grandson Richard (Dicky) Smouha ancient Greek city site. 4,200 sq.m) were effectively given excluded Smouha. “If they don’t as a piece of living history. The to Smouha in 1923 on condition he want me, they will come to me,” he Smouha City Venture: Alexandria bore the lion’s share of the expense declared, undeterred. 1923 -1958 (2014) is peppered with of drainage and tunnel building. architectural drawings, plans,

88 89 BOOK REVIEW

Soon Smouha City, which was run After the war came the officers’ by Joseph, his sons and his Aden- coup, Suez and Nasser’s mass and his brother Brian engaged an inherit, that the case was bound by born general manager Daniel nationalisation of British, French Egyptian lawyer to fight the case a statute of limitations. Soon after Delbourgo (‘he spoke a number of and Jewish property. Smouha City for restitution in court. The case the brothers decided to give up, languages, all badly,’ Dicky tells was sequestered. In 1957, along dragged on to 2007: embarrassed President Mubarak was deposed. us) assembled all the features of with 25 percent of the Jewish to be in confrontation with the “We are back in the fray,” writes a town: post office, police post, community, Armenians, Greeks President himself, the Court’s Dicky. schools, dispensaries. The Ford and members of the Egyptian officials threw all sorts of delays and Motor Company set up shop in an and Coptic aristocracy, the family obstacles in Dicky and Brian’s path. This book stands as a monument to industrial zone of workshops and was expelled from Egypt, moving It was argued that compensation one of the great Jewish modernisers warehouses. to England and Switzerland. Its had already been paid, that the of 1930s Alexandria, the ‘pearl of income plummeted to £6 a week. brothers did not have the correct the Mediterranean’. Even if Egypt Of Joseph Smouha, the picture documentation (even the Public will not acknowledge its debt to emerges of a modest, upright and Smouha filed the largest of Jewish Records Office at Kew refused Joseph Smouha, his memory will, generous man who paid for the claims for compensation: £12 and to release documents), that the thanks to his grandson’s lively and building of a handsome mosque to 1/2 million. Six years later, he was grandchildren were not entitled to well-researched record, live on. add to the garden city’s churches awarded £3 million, the Egyptian and synagogue. government producing tax receipts to suggest that Smouha City was A British patriot to the core, ‘agricultural’ land. Smouha paid for two RAF spitfires during WW2: his three sons and a But the Smouha family home, daughter joined the RAF. in 1940 with its furniture, rare carpets and he learned that he was No.1 on the jewellery - a seaside mansion fit wanted list to be executed if the for successive Egyptian presidents Germans conquered Cairo. Smouha - had never been sequestered or fled for a few months to South sold. In 1986, Egypt passed a law Africa. that enabled owners to reclaim their properties. In 2000, Dicky

90 91 WRITING THE STORY

OF YOUR LIFE London School of Jewish Studies

BeRosh Hashanah yechatevu, uv’Yom tzom Kippur yechateimun then just fall back into those same mistakes again right after, then our names are constantly been written and erased in God’s books. And that means that every “On Rosh Hashanah it is written, and on the fast of Yom Kippur it is sealed” – This year it becomes harder for our names to stick. They become fainter and more is the central refrain to Unetaneh Tokef, probably the most famous prayer in our difficult to identify. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services. The haunting melody that accompanies these words entices us to reflect on our actions and attitudes of the previous year. For me, this is a profound image. The inability to commit to a consistent and growing religious path undermines the strength of your name – that is, who you But why use the metaphor of writing and sealing to describe our judgment? The are, your very identity. Only commitment to a path, a derech, allows you to really simple answer is that we are comparing the proceedings of the Heavenly Court have a name. And the pace of progression is much less important than the fact with that of an earth-bound human one. Though a judgment may have been you are actually on a path at all. I think this might be why Maimonides placed written by human judge, it is only sealed and acted upon if there has been no the following verse on the top of the introduction to his Guide for the Perplexed, successful attempt to appeal. Similarly, on Rosh Hashanah our judgment is only probably the most profound book for Jewish philosophy ever written: written, but if we commit to improve our ways before the end of Yom Kippur then there is a chance it might be changed before finally being sealed. “To the person who sacrifices a thanks offering to To bring these words up to date we might, I suppose, say, “On Rosh Hashanah it is Me [God], and sets a path for themselves, typed, and on the fast of Yom Kippur it is uploaded.” Nevertheless, I think there is I will show them My salvation” (Psalms 50:23) something important about the actual metaphor of writing. It says in Ethics of the Fathers (Pirkei Avot 4:25): In other words, God will respond to a person who is willing, (a) to recognise and appreciate God, and (b) to commit to a sustained plan of action and growth. “Elisha ben Abuya said: When you learn as a child, what it is like? Like ink written on clean paper. When you learn With this in mind, Rosh Hashanah cannot just be a repeat exercise of the previous year. It must become a reinforcement and gradual development of a consistent as an adult, what is it like? Like ink written on blotted path. i.e. we should be going somewhere rather than just coasting. paper.” The final irony is the personal life of the author of the Mishnah from Pirkei Avot mentioned above. Elisha ben Avuya, left the Jewish path, rejecting God and The message of this little aphorism is clear, children learn more Torah. Though he was learned and insightful, religious patterns of behaviour and easily as there is less cluttering their minds. Blotted paper is commitment never sealed in him. He was constantly rewriting himself until his very paper that has been written on a number of times with ink name was lost. Eventually he was just known as acher, literally, ‘other’. and then erased. Thus the paper is dilapidated and it will be harder for new ink to adhere to it when written upon Rosh Hashanah is the day of Jewish identity: when we admit what we truly value, again. Similarly, we find it harder to learn and recall as when we reveal our real commitments, when we live up to our names. adults than when we were young. I would like to suggest that this might also apply to May we all be inscribed for Life. the books that God, metaphorically, writes us in on the High Holy Days. If every year we regret our mistakes, aim LSJS RUN A RANGE OF COURSES FOR PEOPLE OF ALL AGES AND LEVELS OF to improve come Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, and KNOWLEDGE INCLUDING. YOU CAN ALSO TRAIN AS A TEACHER OR STUDY Rabbi Dr Raphael Zarum, FOR A BA (HONS) OR MA IN JEWISH EDUCATION. For more information visit Dean of the London School of Jewish Studies (LSJS) www.lsjs.ac.uk. 92 93 OBITUARY OF CLEMENS N. NATHAN

24th August 1933-2nd June 2015 prime example of a man who embraced When the colourful Raphael De Sola, Clemens’ interests were broad and his adopted country while pursuing ideals a member of the community died in diverse, but he approached every activity Clemens Nathan, member of Lauderdale and ambitions underpinned by his Jewish 1989, Clemens arranged for Raphael’s with energy, determination and creativity, Road Synagogue for more than 50 years, values and experience. Indeed Edmund extraordinary and vast collection even when he and Rachel gave out annual passed away on 2nd June 2015 at the age de Rothschild described him in 2006 as of Edwardian tails, frock-coats and prizes at the Evelina de Rothschild School of 81. Clemens, who was born in Hamburg, “amongst the outstanding Englishmen of numerous top hats to be sent to the in Jerusalem, or when he was representing Germany, and of Danish Jewish ancestry, today and one of the great Jews of our Shenkar Textile College in Israel where Jewish interests at the United Nations, or came to England with his family in 1936 to generation” in the context of his voluntary Clemens was a Governor to be exhibited debating human rights with René Cassin, escape Nazi persecution. service. as fine examples of English gentlemen’s the Nobel prize winner. attire! Clemens embraced the Spanish & Like Rachel’s family, (and similar to his own Portuguese Sephardi community father Kurt who was one of the founders But perhaps his main contribution to following his marriage to Rachel née of the Amersham Jewish Congregation Lauderdale Road was largely unseen. Whitehill (z”l) in 1963. He enjoyed the during the Second World War), Clemens With his diplomacy, charm and many traditions and history he married into became an active member of communal connections he would offer advice, - Rachel, daughter of Geoffrey and life at Lauderdale Road. He served as friendship and guidance to many. Violet Whitehill, could trace her Anglo- chairman of the Education Committee Jewish ancestry on her mother’s side for seven years. Later Clemens became A highlight of his membership of the to Moses Mocatta of Portuguese origin a Trustee Director of the Sephardi Centre synagogue was when Clemens was (1643-1693) who had settled in London as well as serving as a member of the chosen as Hatan Beresheet in the late via Amsterdam. The Mocatta family, Publications Committee. 1970s and patiently taught by Rabbi leading members of Bevis Marks and Abraham Levy. Another was when, two later Lauderdale Road, combined Jewish Because of his professional background months before he passed away, on the observance and commitment with loyalty as a textile technologist and second anniversary of Rachel’s death, to England, and identification with English businessman, Clemens supported the too disabled to ascend the Tebah, it values and customs. Synagogue’s Vestments Committee. For was arranged for the Torah scroll to be the Synagogue’s centenary in 1997 he brought to where he was sitting in his It was a history Clemens spoke and donated Alcantara fabric (a new material wheelchair so that he could be called up. wrote about with pride in his pamphlet that he had played a significant role in “Jews in Great Britain” and in lectures developing) for vestments to adorn the he gave on the topic to Jewish and non- Tebah which are still in use. Through his Jewish audiences. He would make the association with and membership of connection between the longstanding the Worshipful Company of Glovers he culture of tolerance in Britain that enables sourced a rare piece of hand woven silk refugees and newcomers to not only feel velvet from the same factory which had at home in their adopted country but made the Queen’s coronation robes of also to make significant contributions 1953. Estelle Levy then incorporated this to its culture, economy or society. It is historic piece of cloth into a Sefer Torah perhaps no surprise that Clemens was a cloak, combining it with other cloth.

94 95 OBITUARY OF ISAAC ZEKARIA Clemens’ true passion was for promoting the cause of justice and human rights. Isaac Zekaria, who died on 26th come to fruition. He also contributed his This grew out of his involvement with March 2014, was an active and design experience to the Fattal Succah at the Anglo-Jewish Association (AJA). enthusiastic member of the Spanish and Lauderdale Road Synagogue. As President (1983-1989) and latterly as a Vice-President of the AJA he Portuguese Jews’ Congregation and a served as a Board Member of “the stalwart of Bevis Marks Synagogue for Isaac was an influential member of Claims Conference” for over 10 years, many years, until recent ill health made the Mahamad and of the Board of representing Holocaust survivors in his visits less frequent. Elders. He was a hard-working and negotiations for compensation and the committed member of the Welfare restitution of appropriated assets. He made significant contributions to Bevis Board and Honorary Treasurer of the Marks over 25 years. He was a member of London Sephardi Trust Investment He recognised the importance of the Bevis Marks Synagogue Committee Committee. He attended meetings interfaith work, becoming founding and of the Bevis Marks Synagogue Trust, fully briefed, prepared to contribute on chairman (1998-2003) of the Woolf Institute in Cambridge and sharing where his thoughtful and measured subjects he knew about and won over approach was always respected. During many a reluctant committee to his point his enthusiasm for its work within the Clemens in his study, Regent’s Park, 2015 community which is devoted to teaching, his term on the Mahamad, he held the of view with passion tempered with research and dialogue between the three building brief for Bevis Marks He applied common sense. Abrahamic faiths. his architectural knowledge and creativity Rights? and last year’s The Duty to Give to the successful renovation of the interior Isaac was dedicated to Bevis Marks and the Right to Receive: Jewish Law and of the Synagogue and the Courtyard, as and it showed whenever he entered Poverty. Clemens achieved recognition in both well as the innovative Brandon Succah. the Synagogue. We all miss him for his his professional and public life receiving When the medieval Mikveh was to be multitude of contributions and especially an Italian Knighthood for economic Despite a medical condition that affected services to the Italian textile industry as his mobility and ultimately left him excavated and moved from its original for his many years of offering wise counsel well as the Officer’s Cross of Austria for severely disabled, he pursued his interests site in the City of London, Isaac was to all who asked.. Christian/Jewish work, and for bilateral and continued to lead a normal life with instrumental in planning its permanent trade between the UK and Austria. He great strength of character. He was a display in the courtyard of Bevis Marks – also received a medal from the Israeli highly regarded and well-loved member although ultimately this scheme did not Economic Council. of the Kahal. He is survived by his three children and five grandchildren. In 2007, Clemens channelled his human rights activity into the Clemens Nathan Research Centre which has been prolific, producing or contributing to over 20 publications and organising or sponsoring ten international conferences including one entitled Does G-d Believe in Human

96 97

The Clemens Nathan Research Centre in association with the Consultative Council of Jewish Organisations and the Anglo-Jewish Association

is delighted to invite you to a lecture given by

Mr Rolf Ekéus

How to Prevent Ethnic and Religious Conflict

The Vote of Thanks will be given by Leif Holmström, Director of the Raoul Wallenberg Institute at Lund University, Sweden.

Rolf Ekéus is the former expert on weapons of mass destruction at the United Nations and was executive chairman of the United Nations Special Commission (UNSCOM) on Iraq from 1991 to 1997. Until 2007 he was the High Commissioner on National Minorities of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) and was Swedish ambassador to the United States from 1997 to 2000. He is currently Chairman of the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.

Following the lecture the Chairman of the CCJO, Clemens Nathan, will present Mr Ekéus with the René Cassin medal in recognition of his work to promote human rights.

Monday 12 May 2008 Arundel House, 13-15 Arundel Street, Temple Place, London WC2R 3DX (nearest tube, Temple) Lecture 6:30pm

RSVP: [email protected] or 020 7486 5055 For security reasons, admittance is restricted to advanced seat reservations only SHABBAT TIMES 5776

Pararsha Start Date Start Time End Date End Time Pararsha Start Date Start Time End Date End Time Re'eh 14 Aug 2015 20:11 15 Aug 2015 21:16 Bo 15 Jan 2016 16:05 16 Jan 2016 17:14 Shofetim 21 Aug 2015 19:57 22 Aug 2015 21:00 Beshalah 22 Jan 2016 16:17 23 Jan 2016 17:25 Ki Tetze 28 Aug 2015 19:42 29 Aug 2015 20:43 Yitro 29 Jan 2016 16:29 30 Jan 2016 17:36 Ki Tabo 4 Sep 2015 19:26 5 Sep 2015 20:27 Mishpatim * 5 Feb 2016 16:42 6 Feb 2016 17:48 Nitzabim 11 Sep 2015 19:10 12 Sep 2015 20:10 Terumah 12 Feb 2016 16:55 13 Feb 2016 18:00 Rosh HaShanah 1st day 13 Sep 2015 19:05 14 Sep 2015 20:05 Tetzaveh 19 Feb 2016 17:07 20 Feb 2016 18:12 Rosh HaShanah 2nd day 14 Sep 2015 20:05 15 Sep 2015 20:03 Ki Tisa 26 Feb 2016 17:20 27 Feb 2016 18:24 Fast of Gedaliah 16 Sep 2015 04:55 19:54 Vayakhel + Shekalim * 4 Mar 2016 17:31 5 Mar 2016 18:34 Vayelekh-Shubah 18 Sep 2015 18:54 19 Sep 2015 19:53 Pekude 11 Mar 2016 17:43 12 Mar 2016 18:47 Yom Kippur 22 Sep 2015 18:45 23 Sep 2015 19:44 Vayikra + Zahor 18 Mar 2016 17:55 19 Mar 2016 18:59 HaAzinu 25 Sep 2015 18:38 26 Sep 2015 19:37 Tzav 25 Mar 2016 18:07 26 Mar 2016 19:11 Succot 1st day 27 Sep 2015 18:33 28 Sep 2015 19:32 START BST 27 Mar 2016 Succot 2nd day 28 Sep 2015 19:32 29 Sep 2015 19:30 Shemini + Parah 1 Apr 2016 19:19 2 Apr 2016 20:23 Shabbat Hol Hamoed 2 Oct 2015 18:22 3 Oct 2015 19:21 Tazria + HaHodesh * 8 Apr 2016 19:31 9 Apr 2016 20:36 Shemini Atzeret 4 Oct 2015 18:17 5 Oct 2015 19:16 Metzora + Hagadol 15 Apr 2016 19:43 16 Apr 2016 20:49 Simhat Torah 5 Oct 2015 19:16 6 Oct 2015 19:14 Ahare Mot * 6 May 2016 20:17 7 May 2016 21:29 Bereshit* 9 Oct 2015 18:06 10 Oct 2015 19:05 Kedoshim 13 May 2016 20:29 14 May 2016 21:42 Noah 16 Oct 2015 17:51 17 Oct 2015 18:50 Emor 20 May 2016 20:39 21 May 2016 21:54 Lekh Lekha 23 Oct 2015 17:36 24 Oct 2015 18:37 Behar 27 May 2016 20:48 28 May 2016 22:06 END OF BST 25 Oct 2015 Bechukotai * 3 Jun 2016 20:56 4 Jun 2016 22:15 Vayera 30 Oct 2015 16:23 31 Oct 2015 17:24 Bemidbar 10 Jun 2016 21:02 11 Jun 2016 22:23 Haye Sara * 6 Nov 2015 16:10 7 Nov 2015 17:13 Nasso 17 Jun 2016 21:06 18 Jun 2016 22:27 Toledot 13 Nov 2015 15:59 14 Nov 2015 17:03 Behalotekha 24 Jun 2016 21:08 25 Jun 2016 22:28 Vayetze 20 Nov 2015 15:50 21 Nov 2015 16:55 Shelah* 1 Jul 2016 21:07 2 Jul 2016 22:26 Vayishlah 27 Nov 2015 15:43 28 Nov 2015 16:50 Korah 8 Jul 2016 21:03 9 Jul 2016 22:20 Vayaisheb * 4 Dec 2015 15:38 5 Dec 2015 16:46 Hukat 15 Jul 2016 20:57 16 Jul 2016 22:12 Miketz 11 Dec 2015 15:36 12 Dec 2015 16:45 Balak 22 Jul 2016 20:49 23 Jul 2016 22:01 Vayigash 18 Dec 2015 15:37 19 Dec 2015 16:47 Pinehas * 29 Jul 2016 20:39 30 Jul 2016 21:49 Fast of Tebet 22 Dec 2015 06:14 22 Dec 2015 16:42 Matot-Masei 5 Aug 2016 20:28 6 Aug 2016 21:35 Vayehi 25 Dec 2015 15:41 26 Dec 2015 16:51 Debarim 12 Aug 2016 20:15 13 Aug 2016 21:20 Shemot 1 Jan 2016 15:47 2 Jan 2016 16:57 Vaethhanan 19 Aug 2016 20:01 20 Aug 2016 21:04 Vaera * 8 Jan 2016 15:55 9 Jan 2016 17:05 Ekeb * 26 Aug 2016 19:46 27 Aug 2016 20:48

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