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Winter 5773/2012 etzionupdate from

Save the Date! Etzion Foundation Annual NY Dinner Participants in Rabbinic Conference with Roshei Sunday Yeshivat Har Etzion First- Advanced Scholars at March 10, 2013 Ever Rabbinic Conference This year, in conjunction with the Annual This September saw the opening of an all- In This Issue Dinner, the Yeshiva hosted a two-day new flagship program at Migdal Oz. Four The New Year Begins 2 conference for rabbinic alumni at the days a week, ten select women aged 25-35 Revava Expands 2 Grand Hyatt Hotel in NYC. The conference, are participating in the groundbreaking Yoni Jesner z”l Tenth Yahrzeit 2 supported by the Yeshivat Har Etzion Center Advanced Scholars Program in & HaRav Amital zt”l Yahrzeit 3 for Torah Leadership (CTL), was attended by Halacha (in Hebrew: Tochnit Mitkademet B’Ron Yachad 3 over 50 YHE alumni professionally employed be’ u’be’Halacha). Virtual Beit Midrash 3 in either Jewish education or the rabbinate, Torat Chaim: Live from the VBM 3 Esti Rosenberg, Head of the Beit Midrash, including participants who flew in especially New! Phone App 3 explains, "This is a hand-picked group MIA Zachary Baumel 4 from England, and . of the brightest and best, who will be Liwerant Memorial 4 The first day of the conference featured studying intensively for two years. Our goal Chafetz Chaim Inscription 4 shiurim and presentations by HaRav Aharon is to produce women who are truly talmidot Schreiber Scholarship Fund 5 Lichtenstein, Dr. Tovah Lichtenstein, Rav chachamot." Beit Sefer Amital 6 Alumni Reunion 6 , Rav and (continued on page 8) YHE Overseas 6 other prominent associated with the Annual Dinner 7 Yeshiva. Education & Family in the Modern World 9 Mrs. Esti Rosenberg, Head of the Beit The Ra’anana Connection 9 Midrash in Migdal Oz, joined the Roshei Aseret Yemei Teshuva 9 Amital Program for Holocaust Studies 10 Yeshiva for an engaging and interactive Jewish Studies in Secular Schools 10 panel discussion on the second day of the Summer Study Days in Tanakh 10 conference, which was hosted at the Fifth Studying with the Prime Minister 11 Avenue Synagogue by Grauer ‘96, Migdal Oz - the New Year 12 Associate Rabbi of the Synagogue, Assistant Singing & Selichot in NJ 12 Principal at the YU High School for Girls, and Advanced Scholars, from left to right: Briana Alumni Achievements 13 Leibovich, Michal Halberstadt, Alona Gleizer, From Sinai to Ethiopia 13 one of the major driving forces behind the Adina Mann, Fran Tanner, Shuli Schwartz, Avigail conference. Gelman, Gilat Ben Shachar, Efrat Barchad. Absent: Alumni News 14 Shlomit Shevut Recent Publications 16 (continued on page 8) The New Year Begins – Revava Expands Welcome Machzor 45! Revava – The Riva The 45th machzor of the Yeshiva began Koschitzky z"l Torah on Rosh Chodesh Elul. The Beit Midrash Enrichment Program was joined by 51 first-year Israeli is enjoying an impressive start to the new students and 57 first-year students from Yeshiva year. In addition to the vast array of North America and England, and 6 post- Tiyul in Yerushalayim with Rav Menachem Leibtag chugim traditionally offered, the program college overseas students. Sixteen first-year has branched out to include guided study talmidim in the MTA program, from South tracks in the areas of Tanakh, Halacha and Africa, Australia and New Zealand, began Machshava. Guest speakers and engaging their studies in January. The Beit Midrash panels have been introduced to enrich the also welcomed ten talmidim studying in regular learning cycle. the Darkaynu Program for special needs This year, a strong emphasis is being placed students; this is the largest group since the on developing the Shana Bet schedule to program began seven years ago. The 140 First Melave Malka of the year for Hesder and reflect the added potential and background incoming students join the 305 talmidim overseas students. From left: Yehuda Meir, Eran of second year overseas students. Rav already in Yeshiva, making for a total student Yegayov, Shlomo Goldstein, Yosef Brander, Alon Zilbershain and Zacky Rosenthal Binyamin Zimmerman '96 is leading the body of 445 (of which 87 are currently in new Shana Bet program, providing valuable active army service). The Yeshiva is currently group with such a will to grow in the ways of guidance and mentoring for the participants. studying Masechet Bava Batra. Hashem. To me, this is the most impressive component of Yeshivat Har Etzion, not to A key element of Revava is the "Preparation "We are blessed with an exceptional group mention the all-star staff of prominent and for Life" program, for Israeli students in their this year," says Weber '81, Director of the caring Rabbeim, the beautiful surroundings, fifth and last year of the Hesder Program. Dr. William Major Overseas Program. "The and the special atmosphere that the Yeshiva Headed by Rav Hillel Rahmani and Rav sign of a successful beginning in Yeshiva provides for us. All of these components Benny Lehman, the program aims to is for talmidim to accept the challenge of together have created for me and my peers prepare students for life beyond yeshiva. being here and jump into Yeshiva life with an entirely new definition of what it means Experts address personal, halachic and a feeling of joy and belonging. And that is to study Torah. even economic questions which may arise exactly what's happened." Not only have I felt a significant improvement in all areas of life. Topics covered include in my , but almost every aspect of dating, marriage, home management, my avodat Hashem has gained greater depth decision-making, and more. and understanding. It's hard to express Rav Baruch Gigi explains, "Alongside our the feeling of awe that was experienced ongoing educational work, we strive to when the first recitation of the shelosh- provide our talmidim with the capabilities to esreh middot was wailed by the tzibbur on successfully confront the many challenges Sam Grill in the Beit Midrash the opening night of Selichot. That feeling they will face in their lives after Yeshiva, as was carried with us through the rest of Elul they work to forge a path of avodat Hashem zman, continuously learning and preparing in our complex world." Sam Grill, first-year talmid from Long Beach, for what were to be the most powerful NY shares his impressions of the first three Yamim Nora'im that I can recall. There was Yoni Jesner months in Yeshiva: "On the first day of zman never an instance where I experienced z"l Tenth Elul, we English-speakers fresh out of high such sincerity and clarity of mission as I school, were thrown into a bustling Israeli Beit did during the closing prayers of Ne'ilah. Yahrzeit Midrash. The energy in the air that day was After a very exciting and fun-filled bein The tenth yahrzeit almost overwhelming, yet definitely inspiring. ha'zmanim, my hope is to continue to not of Yoni Jesner '01 z"l took place on the 14th What astounds me most is the character only gain the most that I can, but also to Yoni Jesner z"l and dedication of the diverse talmidim of contribute my tile to the elaborate mosaic of Tishrei. Yoni, an the Yeshiva. Never have I been exposed to a that is Yeshivat Har Etzion." exceptional talmid from Glasgow, Scotland,

2 etzion update was mortally wounded on a bus traveling B'Ron Yachad The 5773 curriculum includes the following to Tel Aviv that was attacked by a suicide new courses: "Melachim Bet" with Rav Alex bomber. YHE alumnus and ; "Contemporary Issues in the Study musician Yoni of Tanakh" with Rav Amnon Bazak; "Laws Rav Yair Kahn, speaking at the azkara, said, Genut ‘92H has of : Cooking" with Rav Yosef Zvi "Yoni's drive and determination were fueled released an album Rimon; "Laws of Blessings" with Rav David by a belief in Mankind. It was not a naive titled Ot Le'Ot, in Brofsky; and " Introduction to the Guide of trust that all men are inherently good, but cooperation with the Perplexed" with Rav Chaim Navon. Join a profound understanding that Man has popular Israeli now at www.vbm-torah.org the potential of improving himself and the singer Ehud Banai. The album features a world around him. He constantly worked on single called B'Ron Yachad, dedicated in changing himself, always striving to become Torat Chaim: memory of HaRav Amital zt"l. For many a better person. Yoni's legacy to us is to be years, it has been customary at the Yeshiva Live from the VBM inspired by his example to always strive to to sing this soulful piyut at the end of every improve ourselves, and to try to make the Thursday night mishmar. The beautiful world a better place." words, written by Rav Shmaya Kosson, Overseas alumni who return to Yeshiva for challenge Man to moral and religious the period leading up to the Yamim Nora'im awakening just as the morning stars emerge. are subsidized by the Yoni Jesner z"l Elul A clip of the song on YouTube features Program, established with the generous photos taken during the all-night mishmar support of Steve and Renee Adelsberg, that ended the summer zman at Yeshivat whose son David '01 was a chevruta and Har Etzion. The clip begins with a photo close friend of Yoni. The Yeshiva has invested increased effort of the plaque over HaRav Amital's seat in in recent years in strengthening the the Beit Midrash which succinctly states, connection with alumni, and the most HaRav "Through his Torah, tefillot and path, he natural connection is through Torah study. drew the hearts of his students closer to Amital zt"l The VBM now offers a live iyun taught the Almighty." The clip can be seen on the Yahrzeit by Rav Bick, in which students can ask Yeshiva website. The second yahrzeit questions online, as the shiur is in progress. of Moreinu HaRav The shiur is given on Wednesdays at 9 pm Israel time. For more details and to register: HaRav Amital zt"l zt"l, founding Rosh http://www.etzion.org.il/vbm/merkaz.php Yeshiva, was held in the Yeshiva on the 27th of Tammuz, July New! Phone App 17. Rav Shlomo Levy, Head of the , "Lalechet b’Drachav" – gave a shiur on the topic of "Lifnim Mishurat The Beit Midrash after mishmar, at sunrise Daily Torah Study for Youth HaDin", emphasizing that HaRav Amital In cooperation with the Virtual Beit Midrash, encouraged people to take responsibility, Virtual Beit Midrash = a new application for cell phones has been and to act with integrity toward oneself, Real Torah uploaded by Har Etzion talmidim, dedicated others and the Kadosh Baruch Hu. Rav The Israel Koschitzky Virtual Beit to the memory of talmid Uriel Liwerant ‘07H Hillel Rahmani shared special memories of Midrash, now in its 19th year, offers z"l, a tank commander in the IDF who was HaRav Amital and grandson Rav Mordechai 15 shiurim in English and another 15 killed in a tragic training accident three Fogelman studied mishnayot in memory of in Hebrew. The shiurim are given by years ago. The application, which is in his grandfather, HaRav Amital zt"l. renowned rabbis and educators in Tanakh, Hebrew and updated every month, covers a The aliya la'kever took place the following Talmud, Philosphy and Halacha, to tens wide range of topics – Machshava, Parashat morning at Har HaMenuchot in . of thousands of subscribers of all ages, in Shavua, Halacha, Tefilla and Yehi zichro baruch. Israel and worldwide. The Beit Midrash more. For free download, scan may be virtual, but the learning is not. the QR code. For more details: [email protected]

Winter 5773/2012 3 Remembering Zachary's mother, told of the importance of continuing to be active on behalf of the Zachary Baumel missing soldiers. The evening ended with To mark 30 years since Yeshiva talmid Zachary the heartfelt recitation of selected chapters Baumel went missing in action during the of Tehillim on behalf of all of Israel's missing Sultan Yaqub battle, a gathering was held on soldiers. Thursday evening, June 7, in the Beit Midrash. Rosh Yeshiva HaRav expressed the hope that we will soon merit to see the light through the current fog as to the plight of Zachary and all missing soldiers. Colonel (Res.) Bentzi Gruber ‘77H, described his memories of the battle and of Zachary and expressed the IDF's ongoing commitment to Mrs. Miriam Baumel, Zachary's mother, speaks in Students view informative display about MIA each and every soldier. Mrs. Miriam Baumel, the Beit Midrash Zachary Baumel

Zachary (Zak) Baumel Zachary had nearly completed his military Zachary Baumel, Tzvi Feldman and Yehuda was born in , service when he was called up to serve in Katz – are still missing in action. in 1960 to the Lebanon War. He had been accepted In the years since, the Baumels traveled the Yonah and Miriam to the Hebrew University in Jerusalem world, following every clue and knocking Baumel. In 1970, the and, come fall, was planning to study on every door that might bring closure for family made aliya to psychology. During that fateful summer of themselves and the other MIA families. As the suburb of Kiryat Motzkin. After 1982, he had also secured a job working time went on, they became the address graduating high school, Zak joined the with youth from abroad as part of a Jewish for the parents of other MIAs (both Israeli Hesder program at Yeshivat Har Etzion and Agency program. On June 11, 1982, just and Arab) who have needed help in their served in the IDF Armored Corps, where hours before the declaration of a cease- own search for information regarding he rose to the rank of tank commander. fire, Zak and his colleagues were sent into their missing children. After many years At Yeshiva, Zak was a serious student battle near the Lebanese village of Sultan of ceaseless searching for his son, Yonah and he was also dorm counselor for the Yaqub. 21 were killed that day, and Baumel passed away on Shavuot 5769 American students who had come for a many more were injured. Three soldiers – year of study. (2009).

Liwerant Memorial Discovery! An Inscription in the Library from the Chafetz Chaim A Memorial Corner was dedicated in the A week before Rosh Hashana this year, an library on August 23 (5th of Elul), in memory inscription with a blessing and signature of Uriel Liwerant ‘07H z"l, in the presence handwritten by the Chafetz Chaim, HaRav of his family members, the Roshei Yeshiva, Yisroel Meir HaKohen of Radin zt"l, was Ramim and talmidim. A short film was unexpectedly discovered in a sefer in the screened, after which Ido Tal ‘07H, a friend Yeshivat Har Etzion Torah Library. The and chevruta of Uriel, related some personal book is a first edition of Chomat HaDa'at, memories. Rosh Yeshiva Rav Mosheh a book of mussar by the Chafetz Chaim Lichtenstein shared words of Torah and from 1905, which has been in the Yeshiva chizuk. library for 25 years, as part of the collection of Rav Yissachar Tamar z"l. The inscription Memorial Corner in Library for Uriel Liwerant z"l was addressed to a friend, Rabbi Baruch

4 etzion update Meir, wishing him success in spreading Schreiber 87 of whom are currently on active duty, the greatness of Hashem and his Torah the majority in combat units. Each year, a in the world. The book appeals to "every Scholarship Fund number of YHE students from overseas join Jewish man to strengthen himself and The Roshei Yeshiva and administration their Israeli peers in defending the Jewish others towards the study of Torah and the express their heartfelt gratitude to David State through the voluntary IDF Machal fulfillment of mitzvot." and Ruth Schreiber of Jerusalem, parents Program. More than 100 Yeshivat Har Etzion of Zvi '86, Daniel '89, Benji '92 and Arye students have served in the Machal Program "The excitement became even greater when '95, for establishing a Scholarship Fund for to date. Many of them have excelled in we realized that the discovery was made a Hesder and Machal Students at Yeshivat Har their units, despite an initial language day before the Chafetz Chaim's yahrzeit, Etzion. This year there are 227 Har Etzion disadvantage, and their high motivation which is on the 24th of Elul," relates Aharon students in the five-year Hesder program, and Zionist spirit is an inspiration to all. Bejell, Head Librarian. "Even the Lithuanian and Brisker ‘Gushnikim' had to admit that it was clearly a ‘mofes'."

Rav Rhein visits YHE students in Paratroopers Unit. From left: Moti Gutman, Erez Levy, Dor Furer, Inscription by the Chafetz Chaim Dovy Olwyn, Rav Danny Rhein, Itai Schimmel, Elitzur Schimmel, Gilad Hasa

IDF induction ceremony for YHE talmidim joining the Kfir Infantry Unit

The annual trip to , led by Rav Shalom Operation Pillar of Defense: YHE talmidim entertain Rav Yaakov Medan hosts IDF officers of Pikud Berger '77, was enhanced by the presence of Rav children in a bomb shelter in Beer-Sheva U'Mateh (The Command and Staff College, the Itiel Oron '95H, Rav Amnon Bazak '85H and Eli most elite instructional institution in the IDF) at Weber '81 Yeshiva in June

Winter 5773/2012 5 Beit Sefer Amital News from Abroad

In May, Rav Mosheh Lichtenstein visited the NY area to participate in a variety of learning programs. Among them were a Lunch and Learn hosted by Meir Nordlicht '86, and a Dinner and Learn hosted by Donny Rosenberg '02.

Har Etzion talmidim lead a pre-Shavuot workshop at Beit Sefer Amital Rav Taragin in England Two years ago a state religious elementary Kehillat Alei Tzion of , England school in , Jerusalem was hosted Rav Moshe Taragin on Shabbat dedicated in memory of HaRav Amital zt"l Bereshit. Rav Taragin's many speaking and since then the Yeshiva has maintained a arrangements included a keynote lecture close relationship with the school. Har Etzion Shabbat afternoon on "Divine Redemption talmidim run pre-holiday activities at the and Secular Zionism" and a Motzaei Shabbat school and the children visit the Yeshiva for panel on "The Religious Encounter of the special programming. The school considers Lunch & Learn with Rav Mosheh Lichtenstein Modern Orthodox Jew". it a great honor to be the first educational institution named after HaRav Amital, and Rav Baruch Gigi visited the strives to educate its students in HaRav in September. Alumni, alumnae, parents Amital's path. and friends enjoyed his shiurim at a Lunch Alumni Reunion and Learn hosted by Hillel Silvera ‘91 and a Dinner and Learn hosted by Terry Novetsky ‘80. Among Rav Gigi's other stops were a shiur at the Chicago home of Drs. Sharon and Yossie Goldberger, parents of Dinner & Learn with Rav Baruch Gigi Adina ‘06MO, Sara ‘09MO and Michal ‘11MO, a Shabbaton at Mt. Sinai Jewish Center in Washington Heights, NY, a pre-Selichot shiur at , NY and a Sunday morning shiur at Congregation Rinat Yisrael Eighty alumni (‘91H and ‘92H), their wives in Teaneck, NJ. Sharon Rifkind, Associate and almost 300 children, converged upon Director of Development at the Etzion the Yeshiva for a special Shabbat program Foundation, commented, "Even though on Parashat Va'yera, November 2. It was the it was a very quick trip, Rav Gigi managed largest alumni Shabbaton to date at Yeshiva. to connect with a large number of alumni Oren Hadar ‘91H from Petach Tikvah said, and alumnae from many machzorim, as well "It is difficult to describe the wonderful as with parents, donors and friends of the Rav Gigi at Congregation Rinat Yisrael in Teaneck Shabbat we experienced. The encounter Yeshiva." with the Roshei Yeshiva and spending time with old friends was very moving. The Yeshiva, as always, was well-organized and everything ran like clockwork. Today, I am better able to appreciate that nothing is accomplished without great effort, so I would like to express my sincere Yashar Koach to all involved." Rav Gigi at Goldberger home in Chicago

6 etzion update Annual Dinner In May, on Yom Yerushalayim, over 400 speak about Yerushalayim made this year's Yoel Weiss, Executive Vice President of members of the Gush family gathered in celebration so much more meaningful for me." the Etzion Foundation, said, "It is always New York City for the Etzion Foundation wonderful to have so many alumni, parents, While enjoying a delicious dinner buffet, Annual Dinner. It was a beautiful and attendees had the opportunity to and friends together in one place celebrating moving program, honoring YHE parents hear from Roshei Yeshiva Rav Mosheh what makes the Yeshiva special." Ben and Aviva Adler; Alumnus of the Lichtenstein and Rav Baruch Gigi, and Year Andrew Borodach '87; and Rabbinic from Mrs. Esti Rosenberg, Head of the Leadership Award recipients, Rabbi Beit Midrash at Migdal Oz. There were also Nasanayl '92 and Tamar Braun. video presentations that paid tribute to the Foundation's well-deserving honorees. Three hundred dinner attendees arrived an hour early to attend Rosh The Foundation presented the honorees Yeshiva HaRav Aharon Lichtenstein's with artistic plaques and thanked them for shiur entitled, Yerushalayim: Royalty their generosity and continued support of Redoubled. The standing-room-only crowd the Yeshiva. Everyone in attendance received a special Yeshiva publication called "That was privileged to have the opportunity to Goodly Mountain" with scholarly articles benefit from the Rosh Yeshiva's insights and on the Yeshiva's Torah and educational scholarship. path written by the Roshei Yeshiva, Ramim Yeshiva alumnus Jonathan Hefter '02 and alumni, and with feature stories about Pre-dinner shiur with HaRav Aharon commented, "Hearing Rav Lichtenstein overseas alumni. Lichtenstein

Rabbi Nasanayl '92 and Tamar Braun receive gift Ben and Aviva Adler with their son, Yoni '09H Arye Colton '81, Chairman of the Board, Andrew from HaRav Lichtenstein Borodach '87 and HaRav Aharon Lichtenstein

From left: Doron Hindin '02, Jonathan Hefter '02, From left: MO alumnae Eliana Grosser Rotenberg, Esti Rosenberg, Head of the Beit Midrash, meets Asher Orkaby '02, Jeremy Schwarzbaum '02 and Mindy Feldman Hecht, Rena Wiesen, Deni Kolatch, with Migdal Oz alumnae before the Dinner Yair Hindin '98 Nava Billet, Kelila Kahane and Migdal Oz Overseas Administrator Miriam Coren (currently on shlichut in Philadelphia)

Winter 5773/2012 7 Yeshivat Har Etzion First- take leadership roles in their communities, Yerucham. "I'd been away for a few years they will have all the knowledge and skills but when I heard about this program, I Ever Rabbinic Conference necessary to take full part in the Torah just knew I had to head back to Migdal Oz," (continued from page 1) discourse of our generation." Alona relates. "I'm so glad they accepted me because I've always wanted to have The conference, in addition to providing Three days of the week are devoted to the opportunity to learn really seriously. a chance for alumni to learn from and Gemara study and a fourth day is dedicated The learning style I was used to was based reconnect with the Roshei Yeshiva and other to practical halacha. The women are on knowledge acquisition, bekiut, so YHE Ramim, was also a welcome networking studying Bava Kama with Rav Mosheh sometimes I find the in-depth iyun learning opportunity – enabling alumni who are Lichtenstein, Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshivat Har challenging – but it's also very enjoyable! involved in chinuch and the rabbinate across Etzion, and Halacha with renowned expert We're extremely lucky to have Rav Mosheh the globe to share ideas and experiences Michal Tikochinsky. Rabbi Dr. Judah Lichtenstein teaching us, and the other and to discuss common challenges. Goldberg is the Ram Beit Midrash, who women in the program are truly quality Reflecting on the conference in a letter to assists students with their learning and people, each and every one." the participants, Rav Mosheh Lichtenstein also delivers shiurim. He says, "They're very "The presence of these advanced scholars in wrote, "The ability to benefit from different bright and motivated learners, and they the Beit Midrash adds tremendously to the perspectives and to gain from the bring fresh insights to the material. Right atmosphere," Esti Rosenberg comments. combined experiences of the participants now we're studying the laws of theft. The "They are role models for the younger was extremely valuable. I returned home women fully engage in interpretation and women, they set a tone of serious learning with much food for thought, as well as analysis of the classic halachic positions, but and as the year goes on, they'll be expected important insights that will be helpful in they will also notice understated elements, to lead chaburot in the Beit Midrash and my educational work." such as the perspective of the victim." share their learning with others. As always Rabbi Daniel Roselaar ‘87, Rabbi of Alei with Torah study, the ultimate goal is to Tzion in London, commented, "I found it give to others – lilmod u'lelamed." very inspiring to listen to the Roshei Yeshiva The leadership and faculty of the Stella again and also found the sessions to be very K. Abraham Beit Midrash for Women of relevant and useful. It was probably the Yeshivat Har Etzion at Migdal Oz wishes most worthwhile conference that I have to thank the Feldman, Hochstein, Kolatch, attended in 17 years in the rabbinate!" Alona Gleizer Leiter, Schoor, Seif, Straus and Wiesen families for their partnership and generous Alona Gleizer is a 31-year-old mother of support. five who lives in Yerucham in the Israeli Negev, and spends two and a half hours a day traveling to and from the Advanced Program. "It's worth it. This is a dream come true for me," she says. Alona has a A session with HaRav Aharon and Dr. Tovah Lichtenstein longstanding relationship with the Beit Midrash. She studied in Migdal Oz after Rav Mosheh Lichtenstein giving shiur to the Advanced Scholars completing high school, did two years of Advanced Scholars at , and then returned to Migdal Migdal Oz Oz for another year of study. Soon after, she (continued from page 1) married and moved to Yerucham, where she began teaching while simultaneously Esti Rosenberg adds, “We intentionally chose pursuing a degree at Herzog College in women who have demonstrated leadership Migdal Oz. She majored in Tanakh and abilities, and we are giving them advanced Oral Law and for the past few years has Talmudic and halachic skills so that in the been teaching full-time in Midreshet Be'er, Rabbi Dr. Judah Goldberg with students in Beit Midrash future, when they go out to teach and a for young Israeli women in

8 etzion update Alumni in Israel has succeeded in raising a generation of took place at Beit Knesset HaNasi in students simultaneously dedicated to Torah Jerusalem. Reuven Gafni '93H told the story Aliya and involved in the community. of the Beit Knesset, Rami Yanai ‘71H led Yamim Nora'im singing, and Rosh Yeshiva HaRav Lichtenstein responded to a number Rav Yaakov Medan spoke. of thought-provoking questions on issues such as family planning and career vs. family obligations. "I learned what avodat Hashem is while growing up at home," Dr. From left: Chanan Linder, Rav Taragin Lichtenstein said. She stressed that, "Raising and Josh Kahn children is the most powerful thing. Kids give This summer's second Nefesh B'Nefesh back to their parents more than the parents Aliya charter flight from the U.S.A. arrived give. Both parents must raise their children Alumni at Aseret Yemei Teshuva shiur on August 14th, with 350 new olim, including together, with equal responsibility." two Har Etzion talmidim: Josh Kahn '11 from Rav Lau thanked the Lichtensteins for Oak Park, Michigan and Chanan Linder providing such a wonderful personal '11 from West Hempstead, NY. Rav Moshe example and role model in all of the areas Taragin met them at the airport. Mazal Tov! discussed. An audio recording of the event V'shavu Banim Le'Gvulam! (in Hebrew) is available on the Yeshiva website, www.haretzion.org Rami Yanai sings Yamim Nora'im melodies Education and Family in "A big yashar koach for the amazing the Modern World The Ra'anana Connection program. I thoroughly enjoyed both the Yom In May, HaRav Aharon and Dr. Tovah In addition to the above event, over the Iyun and the evening program, and they Lichtenstein addressed issues of education course of last year, Roshei Yeshiva and made a huge difference in my preparation and family to an audience of nearly Ramim delivered a series of shiurim in for ," wrote Arye Schreiber '95, 600 alumni and friends of the Yeshiva Ra'anana and the surrounding region. On originally from London and now living in at Congregation Ari in Ra'anana. Parashat Emor, Rav Yaakov Medan and Jerusalem. "Particularly moving were the The event was dedicated by Alan and Rav Moshe Taragin were hosted by the melodies of the Yamim Nora'im with Rami Randi Gelman (parents of Uri '08H ) on Ra'anana community and gave shiurim Yanai, interspersed with stories about how th the occasion of the 16 yahrzeit of their and derashot in five different shuls over the and why HaRav Amital z"l introduced the niggunim we all know and love." beloved father, Rabbi Aaron S. Gelman course of Shabbat. z"l. The evening was moderated by Rav Dr. Benny Lau. Rav Ronen Neuwirth, After the Yeshiva took the step of hiring Bar & Bat Mitzvah Rabbi of Ohel Ari, welcomed the large two younger Ramim to join the educational Programs crowd and noted that Yeshivat Har Etzion staff, the community of Ra'anana decided to contribute towards this endeavour by establishing the Ra'anan Chair at the Yeshiva. The Yeshiva is grateful to all who gave so generously to this cause.

Aseret Yemei Teshuva Avi ‘77H and Shirel Bloch at Bat Mitzvah Progam in June HaRav Aharon and Dr. Tovah Lichtenstein A Study Day for alumni took place during Aseret Yemei Teshuva on September 24, with a full day of limud in Gemara, Machshava and Tanakh, in preparation for Yom Kippur. In addition to the shiurim by the Roshei Yeshiva and Ramim, the day provided an opportunity to reconnect with friends and recapture the inspiring Yeshiva experience Roni ‘92H and Avinoam Lesser at Nearly 600 people attended the event Bar Mitzvah Program in October for a day. In the evening, a special program

Winter 5773/2012 9 Herzog College Summer Study Days in Weinberg '82, in an article which appeared in on July 31, 2012. Herzog College continues to be Israel's Tanakh 2012 "I was overwhelmed, seeing thousands premier teacher's college. There are currently The 21st Annual Summer Study Days in of people coming from all over to study 600 men and 430 women studying towards Tanakh of Herzog College took place on July Tanakh with such enthusiasm," said their Bachelor of Education degrees, and in 22-26 and were dedicated to the memory Jane Seidemann, a school psychologist the Master of Education programs there are of z"l, a veteran lecturer at from Lawrence, NY. "It was thrilling and 68 men and 67 women. Herzog College and one of the founders of invigorating to learn Tanakh with such Some new courses instated this year include Yeshivat Har Etzion. A day of educational dynamic teachers who make Tanakh come a certification class for tour guides and a touring took place on July 11, with ten alive." training program for school principals. Here optional routes throughout the country. A are two more innovative Herzog programs first-ever one-day parallel Yom Iyun program you may not know about: was held at Midreshet Hagolan, in Hispin in northern Israel. Amital Program for Holocaust Studies and Teaching The goals of the program are to increase Malka Stern with grandson Yaakov Becker ‘07H, awareness of the Shoah and to address son of Dr. Maier '80 and Judi Becker religious, ethical and existential dilemmas that arise from the destruction of European Malka Stern of Monsey, NY, who comes Jewry. In the framework of the program, every year with her extended family, Prof. Yitzchak Kraus, Director of Herzog College students discuss in-depth educational (left) and Rosh Yeshiva Rav Yaakov Medan (right) said, "The Yemei Iyun were inspiring and topics related to the teaching of the welcome guest lecturer HaRav Yaakov Ariel, Rav spiritually uplifting. I would like to give and of Ramat Gan, a leading Shoah, and research the resurrection of the among Religious Zionist rabbis. kudos to the committee for the extremely Jewish nation as a whole, and of religious efficient organization." Over the course of five days, Herzog College Jewry in particular, in the wake of the hosted over 200 shiurim, including 25 Five members of a study group Shoah. Graduates of the program receive shiurim in English. The shiurim covered a that has been meeting 2-3 times a week certification from Herzog College attesting wide range of topics and addressed aspects for about six years in Kew Gardens Hills, NY, to their ability to serve as Coordinators of all 24 books of the . The number of attended the Yemei Iyun for the first time. of Holocaust Study in schools and in the participants reached an all-time high, with community. over 1,500 daily participants. As in the past, Gevanim: Teaching the lecturers were renowned Roshei Yeshiva, rabbis, university professors and scholars. Judaic Studies in "The annual Herzog College Bible study Secular Schools seminar is a magnificent enterprise, an Gevanim is a program that trains educators intellectual treat, and an exhilarating to teach Tanakh, Jewish Thought and Jewish spiritual experience," wrote David M. Culture in non-religious state schools. The idea is to promote familiarity with Jewish heritage and sources, so that all Israelis share a common language and culture. The curriculum includes enrichment classes on topics related to identity, tools to create dialogue in situations of conflict, special practical training, educational trips, and Atara Snowbell delivers shiur as part of the Rav ‘76H delivers shiur Study Days. program for English-speakers to an overflowing crowd

10 etzion update Rav Menachem Leibtag, Rav Amnon Is your bookshelf Bazak, Rav Chanoch Waxman and Rav Yitz Yeshivat Har Etzion up-to-date? Etshalom, all lecturers at the Yemei Iyun, Guest House have also all been guest lecturers at the Journals currently available: The Yeshiva has upgraded 16 rooms Kew Gardens Hills group. "It's been a thrill From Herzog College (www.herzog.ac.il) and 2 large apartments for families seeing these rabbis in the broader context Megadim vol. 53 (Tanakh, Hebrew) and groups for Shabbat. The facilities, of the Herzog College and the Yemei Iyun, Netuim vol. 17 (Torah SheBe'al Peh, which come with full room and board, and some of them hosted us for Shabbat Hebrew) are perfect for special occasions such meals as well," said Ezra Dyckman '84. He Al Atar vol. 16 (Eretz Yisrael Studies, as bar mitzvahs, sheva brachot, etc. Hebrew) added, "The shiurim were amazing, both Every room has private bathrooms From Yeshiva ([email protected]) the content and presentation. Of course, with showers and heating/AC systems. Alon Shevut vol. 174 (Torah, Hebrew) the biggest problem was worrying about Guests are welcome to enjoy the Yeshiva Alei Etzion vol. 17 (Torah, English) what you were missing in all of the parallel atmosphere through davening, classes, sessions..." and more. Discount for alumni. For details: [email protected] Tel. +972-52-2606-301 In Israel: 052-260-6301

From left: Eliyahu Segal, Bob Lindenbaum, Ezra Dyckman '84, Dr. Marc Singer, Eli Schick '89, Rav Menachem Leibtag and Yoni Holzer '79H, CEO of the Yeshiva.

Studying with the Prime Minister Before Shavuot, Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu renewed the tradition of holding Tanakh classes in his official residence, as was the custom in the days of David Ben-Gurion and Menachem Begin. PM Netanyahu was inspired to do so by the memory of his late father-in-law, Shmuel Ben-Artzi, a famed Tanakh teacher. Among those who gathered for the study group were Rosh Yeshiva Rav Yaakov Medan, Head of the Women's Beit Midrash in Migdal Oz Esti Rosenberg, and Head of the Women's Program and Tanakh lecturer in Herzog College, Rav Dr. Yehoshua Reiss ‘82H.

See the Yeshiva website for more details and video. Rabbi Dr. Benny Lau, Sara and PM Binyamin Netanyahu, and Herzl Makov, Director of the Menachem Begin Heritage Center

Winter 5773/2012 11 Migdal Oz the room feeling very happy for (and almost jealous of) these young women, who very The New Year Begins clearly felt a passionate and deep connection to the year they had spent learning Torah The Stella K. Abraham Beit Midrash for and growing religiously in Migdal Oz's Beit Women, now in its fifteenth year, has a Midrash. It struck me then how students of total of 120 students in the Beit Midrash, different years, who had never met before, including 31 students from overseas (28 Talmidot in Beit Midrash bonded that night over the shared heritage first-year and 3 second-year). Some classes of songs, experiences and Torah that they are now open to the broader public on to the regular shiurim, there are weekly had received from Migdal Oz. Knowing that Wednesday mornings and Thursday chaburot and extra learning opportunities aliya was in our plans, I remember hoping evenings, and they are attracting women such as Daf Yomi and Bekiyut Tanakh, as well that I would have the opportunity to become from across the country. Plus, the exciting as voluntary chesed activities. a member of this special community of new Advanced Scholars Program opened its To sum up, Elisheva says, "So far, my year women. doors this year – read more about it on the in Migdal Oz has enabled me to learn and front page of this newsletter. After our aliya last summer, I began teaching experience a lot and to have lots of fun, too. in Migdal Oz and immediately connected Elisheva Rabinovich, first-year student I know it will only get better." with the wonderful overseas students, who from New York, describes the beginning of were bright, sophisticated, and strongly the year in Migdal Oz. "We landed on Friday Singing & Selichot in NJ committed to their learning. That is why I morning, and after Shacharit at the Kotel, By Shayna Goldberg was so thrilled when the Etzion Foundation we arrived at Migdal Oz. We had a quiet invited me to join these alumnae and others Shabbat with only the overseas students Three years ago at this year's Selichot event in Teaneck. It and then on Sunday the Israelis joined us Migdal Oz launched was incredible for me to reconnect with and the program got started." a Selichot night these students…The ruach in the room event for its alumnae Soon after the initial adjustment period, it was palpable as we sang the songs of in America so that was almost Rosh Hashana. "Hundreds of the Beit Midrash over and over again and these women could women from all over Israel came for Selichot then ended the initial singing portion Shayna Goldberg reconnect with the which lasted until the morning hours. Some of the night with a spirited round of intense experience nights there were flutes and violins, some dancing. That energy lasted through the that they had had in the Beit Midrash during nights there was dancing, and every night shiur and continued into a beautiful and the weeks leading up to the Yamim Nora'im. was beautiful and touching," says Elisheva. heartfelt recitation of the Selichot, which Each year the event is held in Ma'ayanot "Yom Kippur was one of the most moving was led by Avi Block, husband of alumna Yeshiva High School in Teaneck and is and intense days of my life. I will never Dena Katz Block. open to women and girls of the immediate forget the experience of over 500 women community and beyond. singing and clapping ‘marei ' after a full day of davening. " I attended the first annual event in Teaneck and I remember feeling very moved by Yom Kippur was followed by a three-day the spiritual and sincere singing, as well as tiyul up north, and then it was back to the by Dr. Yael Ziegler's shiur. I looked around Beit Midrash for zman choref. In addition

Migdal Oz alumnae dancing at pre-Selichot event

Although my trip to America was only a couple of days long and I expected to be exhausted from the flights and the jet lag, I returned to Israel feeling invigorated and inspired by our alumnae and the attachment that they continue to feel to their powerful Esti Rosenberg, head of the Beit Midrash, delivers Sicha Klalit experiences in Eretz Yisrael.

12 etzion update Alumni Dr. Amichai J. Erdfarb '94 received the Yossi (Jon) Farkas '02 graduated from Radiological Society of North America's Stony Brook School of Medicine and Achievements Trainee Research Prize. Dr. Erdfarb is a started his Pediatrics Residency at NYU. Alan Wecker '82 completed an MSc degree second-year Fellow in Interventional at Haifa University on uses of Information Neuroradiology at Montefiore Medical Rabbi Benji Levy '04 Acting Director of Technology for Cultural Heritage. As part Center in New York. Informal Jewish Education at Moriah College of his work, a mobile museum guide was in Sydney Australia, with over 1800 students. Elie Jesner '95 has been writing a blog developed and is available at the Hecht He is responsible for all the informal Jewish on the new cycle of daf yomi, which picks Museum in Haifa. education, including the Counterpoint up on interesting themes on the daf and Seminars on Jewish Identity, which he and Ze'ev Schwartz '85 has returned to direct explores them through a philosophical and his wife Renana run for 600 students. World Torah Mitzion after serving as Director psychoanalytic lens. The blog has gathered of World . The Torah Mitzion Kollel quite a following and can be found at: Ben Thwaites '06 Kollel Educational Director Program, which began 17 years ago, has over http://thinkingdafyomi.com for FJL (Forum for Jewish Leadership) in 1,000 shlichim and continues to make a great London, England. Rabbi Yonah S. Berman '98 Rabbi at impact on Torah learning around the world. Congregation Kadimah-Toras Moshe in Mazal Tov to Yeshivat Har Etzion alumni New shlichim from Yeshivat Har Etzion this Brighton, MA and Orthodox Rabbinic Ezra Blaustein ‘04, Yair Rosenberg '06, year are: Advisor at Harvard University Hillel. Daniel Swartz '06, and Shlomo Zuckier ‘05 upon receiving the prestigious Tikvah Gil Tzur and Nati Eliyahu in Memphis, Rabbi Tzvi Sinensky '98 Rosh Beit Midrash, Fellowship for 2011/2012 and to Dov Tennessee, Daniel Lewin in Capetown, Kohelet Yeshiva High School, Lower Lerner ‘05 and Jonathan Ziring ‘06 for South Africa, Yonatan Weinberg in Perth, Merion, PA. Australia and Matan Torpaz in Melbourne, 2012/2013. The Tikvah Fellowship is a Rabbi Dr. Yonah Feldman '98 opened a Australia. year-long full-time residential program for medical practice with Winthrop-University exceptional individuals interested in the Rabbi Ilan Raanan '89, in addition to being Hospital in Mineola, NY and was appointed political, religious, and intellectual future of Dean of the Girls' High School at Yeshiva Associate Program Director of the Internal the Jewish people. College, Johannesburg, South Africa, is Medicine Residency Program there. now Dean of the Boys' High School as well, Read more about these alumni on our Rabbi Jay Weinstein '00 Rabbi of Young administering Limudei Kodesh on both website, www.haretzion.org Israel of East Brunswick, East Brunswick, NJ campuses.

years. Rav Prof. Daniel Sperber writes: "This collecting sources that were dispersed in is a wonderful contribution, written with a many places and interviewing the wise men deep understanding of the complex needs of and spiritual leaders of the community. The the Ethiopian community living in Israel." first was a personal need to find a practical path in Avodat Hashem. The second was to Rav Shalom made aliya from Ethiopia in 1982 teach the customs and present the beautiful during Operation "Bat Galim". He attended heritage of Ethiopian Jewry to Israeli society. high school in Merkaz Shapira, studied in The third reason is connected to the spiritual Yeshivat Har Etzion and Herzog College, and leaders of the community – the Keisim – who received rabbinic ordination from Israel's From Sinai to Ethiopia: The Halachic and feel delegitimized as spiritual leaders. Chief Rabbinate. He is currently the Rav of Conceptual World of Ethiopian Jewry by Congregation Kedoshei Yisrael in Kiryat "It is my hope that this book will open Rav Sharon Shalom ‘92H, edited by Dov Gat, is completing his doctorate in Jewish a window into the conceptual world of Eichenwald, Yediot Aharonot Press and Philosophy, and lectures at Michlelet Orot Ethiopian Jewry, and will pave a path leading Chemed Books. Yisrael in Elkana, at Bar Ilan University and at to dialogue and unity," writes Rav Shalom. This book is a halachic guide for Ethiopian the university’s Machon Gavoah Le'Torah. "May it be His will that the Beta Yisrael will Jewry ("Beta Yisrael"), who have returned to become an inseparable part of the mosaic of Rav Shalom explains that several motives Israel with a rich tradition of thousands of the Jewish people." led him to write this book, which involved

Winter 5773/2012 13 Alumni News Marriages Jonathan '95 and Esther Gruenhut, Asaf, Jeremy '01 and Aviva Stern, Revital Bracha, NYC Ari Weiss '97 and Sara Kranzler ‘02MO Jerusalem Daniel '01 and Yael Strauchler, Ayelet Vita Yonah Berman '98 and Rachel Stein Yehoshua ‘95H and Tali Grunstein, Ayelet and Yardena Freda, Riverdale, NY Hodaya, Efrat Justin Goldberg ‘99 and Michelle Bernstein Noam '01 and Nomi Schneck, Brielle Chana, Henri '95 and Dani Sueke, Eliya Miriam, Teaneck, NJ Adam Steiner '99 and Miriam Kahn Halebarns, England Joseph '01 and Abby Finkelstein, Elyasaf Dov Aharon Goldstein '03 and Elisheva Benji '96 and Alisa Zimmerman, Moshe Yair, Ariel, Jerusalem Kupferman ‘04MO Alon Shevut Azi '01 and Gavi Grysman, Miriam Alexis, NY Daniel Fienberg '04 and Eden Sagman (Mazal Tov to grandparents YHE Mashgiach Jonathan '02 and Sefi MO ‘04 Hefter, Naama Joe Wolfson '04 and Corinne Shmuel Ruchani Rav Danny and Tova Rhein) Batsheva, Riverdale, NY Jeremy Litton '04 and Jackie Itzkowitz Jason '96 and Rachel Cyrulnik, Corey Daniel, Donny '02 and Arielle Rosenberg, Teaneck, NJ Dov Lerner '05 and Miriam Weiss Gedalya, Riverdale, NY Duvie '96 and Jenny Nachbar, Chananya Geoffrey Kiderman '05 and Miryam Spiegel Asher '02 and Ariela Orkaby, Naftali Baruch, Riverdale, NY Shimon Gillis '05 and Naomi Boyar Simchah, Brighton, MA Avi '96 and Chana Billet, Temimah Pearl, Itamar Rosensweig '06 and Esty Krausz Daniel '03 and Sarah Landman, Chaim, Hollywood, FL Jonathan Seligsohn '06 and Avital (Tali) Muroff Alon Shevut Ezra '96 and Azadeh Frazer, Tamar Avigayil, Dan '03 and Daniela Rosenblatt, Gil, Zurich, Alex Tsykin '07 and Ahuva Camille Gandara Teaneck, NJ Daniel Bomsztyk '07 and Abi Saffer '97 and Lauren Jerozolim, Noa Zahava, Aaron '03 and Abi Djanogly, Yehoshua Zvi, Periel Shapiro '08PC and Michal Lieblich Efrat London, England Ezra Seligsohn '08 and Ma'ayan Hachen Steven '98 and Ariela Goldsmith, Yocheved Yossi '04 and Tzipora Dinnen, Mayrav, David Greenberg '08PC and Chana Kaye Miriam, Kfar Haroeh Jerusalem Yoni Adler '09H and Eliana Kupietzky David '98 and Yael Goldfischer, Yehuda Yonah, Teaneck, NJ Ricki '04 and Shelly Bornstein , Talia Sara, Aaron Posner '09 and Daniella Broude Jerusalem Ari '98 and Ilana Erdfarb, Ezra Itiel, Teaneck, NJ David '04PC and Beth Perkel, Ahuva Bracha, Births Eric '98 and Lauren Siskind, Dovid Sinai, Chicago, IL Tani ‘89 and Miriam Wallach, Tzuriel Manhasset, NY David '04K and Sarah Kishenevsky, Rachamim, Moreshet Avi '98 and Esthie Rosenblatt, Binyamin Batsheva, Jerusalem Gavriel '89 and Leora Lambert, Yehuda Yakir, Moshe Zev, Elisha '04 and Anna Fredman, Maayan New Rochelle, NY Mordechai '99 and Jen Raskas, Aaron Adir, Bracha, University Heights, OH David '90 and Bracha Silverberg, Yonatan Houston, TX Tzvi '05 and Alex Cohen, Zalmy, Chicago, IL Moshe, Alon Shevut Ira Karoll '99 and Shoshi Butler, Lily Anne Yitzi '05 and Aviva Matanky, Meital, Chicago, IL Marc '90 and Sharon Friedman, Yaakov Yair, (Ella Aderet), Pittsburgh, PA Lawrence, NY Josh '99 and Michelle Younger, Aiden Judah Mazal tov to Darkaynu director Avi and Etan '91 and Esther Tokayer, Yedidyah (Aryeh Leib), Riverdale, NY Chana Esther Ganz on the birth of Talya Mordechai, Brooklyn, NY Ezra '99 and Chana Schneck, Eli Yonah, Emuna Chava. Teaneck, NJ Allon '91 and Cheryl (Provorny) Franklin, Mazal tov to Darkaynu educational director Yaakov (Koby) Saadya, Riverdale, NY David '99 and Adina Shyovitz, Keren Tair, Shalom and Bryna Ozarowski on the birth Evanston, IL Jonathan '93 and Heidi Nathan, Chana of Nachala Sarah. Moriah Esther, Chashmonaim Jay '00 and Sharon Weinstein, Eitan Binyamin, East Brunswick, NJ Mazal tov to Executive Director of the Rav Pini '94 and Ilana Cohen, Yehuda Chaim, Etzion Foundation, Shirley and Marty Alon Shevut Adam '00 and Liliana (Martinez) Sales, Amital Colores, Ann Arbor, MI Schuster on the birth of granddaughter Amichai '94 and Jody Erdfarb, Yehuda Naama Elisheva and to the parents, Lisa Menachem, Riverdale, NY Daniel '00 and Becky Freedman, Annabel Sophie (Annael Leiba), NYC and Michoel Abel, and on the birth of Benjy '95 Shana Bet and Sarah Joffe, Leo grandson Yaakov Yair to Sharon and Marc Aaron '01 and Gaby Godfrey, Elisha Rephael, Stuart (Yehuda Chai), NYC Friedman '90. Jerusalem

14 etzion update Mazal Tov to Rav Mordechai '79 and Debby Aliya Yeshiva Comptroller Chaim Schmell, on the Friedman on the birth of granddaughter Yakir '93 and Rachel Franklin and family, loss of his mother, Gittel Bracha Schmell z"l Tiferet Hanna, and to parents David and Clil Modiin The Yeshiva mourns the untimely loss of our Friedman. Ariel '96 and Shifra Penkower and family, alumnus, Jeremy Barkan '85 z"l. Our heartfelt Efrat condolences are extended to his wife, Lisa, Bat/Bar Mitzva to the children and the entire family. Trevor '00 and Leah Silverman, Modiin Dov Yitzchak Friedman (Shalom '77 and The Yeshiva mourns the untimely loss of Esther), Jerusalem Stephen '01 and Tamar Kaye, Alon Shevut our alumnus Jeffrey Friedman '86 z"l. Our Binyamin Jachter (Rabbi Howard '81 and Shmuli '03 and Dinah Kraus, Jerusalem heartfelt condolences are extended to his Malca), Teaneck, NJ Aryeh '03 and Chemda Gluck, Jerusalem parents and brother. Yedidya Weinberg (David '82 and Bonnie), Tal Kohn '05, Alon Shevut The Yeshiva mourns the untimely loss of Nof Ayalon Josh Kahn '11, IDF, Garin Tzabar Uriel Minzer z"l, alumnus, board member, Noam Taragin (Rav Moshe '83 and Atara), Menachem Schindler '11, in Yeshiva, Shiur and father of our talmid, Benaya. Our Alon Shevut Bet Hesder heartfelt condolences are extended to his Yoel Jacobowitz (Rav Menachem '83 and wife, Channa, his children, his mother Sarah, Daniel Cohen '11, in Yeshiva Chani Jacobowitz), Bayit Vegan, Jerusalem his brother Dani, and his sister Dr. Michal Chanan Linder '11, in Yeshiva, Shiur Bet T'mema Hecht (Yossie '84 and Phyllis), Lichtenstein. Hesder המקום ינחם אתכם בתוך שאר אבלי ציון וירושלים Chashmonaim Daniel Shibley '12PC, in Yeshiva Elnatan Riffkin (Rav David '85 and Paula), Nof Ayalon Bini Zupnik '12, in Yeshiva, Shiur Aleph Hesder Benjamin Rosenblum (Elisha '86 and Melissa), Skokie, IL Condolences Basi Meth (Uri '87 and Devorah), Baltimore, MD Rav Josh Schreier '75, on the loss of his The tenth yahrzeit of mother, Toby Schreier z"l Yaakov Matanky '99 z"l Tamar Tziporah Gerson (Seth '88 and Lori), took place on the 2nd of Chashmonaim Rabbi Joel Tessler '77, on the loss of his mother, Gertrude Bennett-Fox z"l Av. Yaakov set an example Sara Eisenberg (Michael '89 and Yaffa), to others with his Jerusalem Rabbi Dr. '77 on the warmth and humor, his loss of his mother, Jaclyn Rosenblatt z"l Talya Berman (Rav Todd '90 and Naomi), Efrat enthusiasm for life, and Rabbi Benzion Scheinfeld '79 on the loss of Shaltiel Tzion Shmidman (Avi '92 and Shira), his commitment to Torah his father, Rabbi Herb Scheinfeld z"l Alon Shevut and mitzvot. A scholarship fund at Camp Rabbi Perry Tirschwell '82 on the loss of his Shmuel Yehuda Ross (Rabbi Aaron '92 and Moshava, to which he was so devoted, has Tzippy), Teaneck, NJ father, Donald Tirschwell z"l been established in his memory. For more information, see: www.hakolkolyaakov.org Chaya Tova Ross (Rabbi Aaron '92 and Rav David Harbater '84, on the loss of his Tzippy), Teaneck, NJ mother, Sylvia (Harbater) Cohen z"l Avi Braun (Rabbi Nasanayl '92 and Tamar), Rav David Riffkin '85 on the loss of his Longbranch, NJ father, Cyril Riffkin z"l Hadar Shmuel Wolf (Rav Daniel '92 and Daniel '83, Jonny '86 and Anthony '86 Rachel), Alon Shevut Kitsberg, on the loss of their mother z"l Please send your YHE alumni news to: [email protected] Dalia Goldberg (Michael ‘93 and Lisa), Rav Jonny Horovitz ‘86, on the loss of his or update directly at www.haretzion.org brother, Ronny Horovitz z"l Sydney, Australia under alumni menu Daphna Michal Ziffer (Yossi '93 and Esti), Avi '87 and Yoni '95 Deitcher on the loss of Baltimore, MD their father, Yosef Deitcher z"l Please send your Migdal Oz alumnae news Yael Katz (Rav David '95PC and Devorah), Rabbi Aaron Cohen '87PC on the loss of his to: [email protected] Alon Shevut brother, Azriel Cohen z"l For more news, see our website: Jarred Myers '98 on the loss of his father, Elisheva Jackman (Shmuel '96 and Liat), www.haretzion.org Neve Daniel Steven Myers z"l

PC = Post-College H = Hesder MO = Migdal Oz K = Kollel The year listed indicates the commencement of study. Winter 5773/2012 15 Publications New Books by the Har Etzion Community

Torah MiEtzion: Sefer Devarim – New Readings Echoes of Eden: Sefer Shmot –Salvation and in Tanakh, Vol. 3, edited by Rav Ezra Bick and Rav Sanctity by Rabbi Ari Kahn '80, Gefen Publishing Yaakov Beasley, Koren Publishers and YHE Press. and OU Press. Original, insightful essays on the book of Devarim by Plumbing the depths of Jewish sources, Rabbi Kahn Yeshivat staff and alumni, employing the rigorous and provides fascinating answers to age-old questions, creative interpretive method developed at Yeshivat Har Etzion. infusing the weekly Torah reading with fresh significance. Through provoking questions and intriguing insights, he inspires readers to Chanuka, Vol. 3 of the "Be'er Miriam" series (Hebrew), seek the Godly. edited by Rosh Yeshiva Rav Yaakov Medan, Yediot Aharonot Press and YHE Press. The Pillar of Volozhin: Rabbi Naftali Zvi Yehuda The series of essays by Yeshiva staff and alumni is Berlin and the World of 19th Century Lithuanian dedicated to the memory of Miriam Blau z"l by the Blau Torah Scholarship by Rabbi Gil S. Perl '96, Academic Family, whose son Yitzhak ‘82H is an alumnus of Yeshivat Har Etzion. Studies Press. The author traces the influences which helped mold Iyunim b'Parashat HaShavua: Bereishit, Shemot and shape the Netziv's thinking, while opening new doors into the (third series, Hebrew), by Rav Elhanan Samet, Yediot world of 19th century Lithuanian Torah scholarship, an area heretofore Aharonot Press. almost completely untouched by academic research. Rav Samet, veteran lecturer in Herzog College, utilizes his signature innovative and literary approach Studies in Liturgy and Torah Reading (Hebrew) on selected units in the parasha, interweaving a wide range of by Rabbi Ephraim Bezalel Halivni '79 commentaries and stressing the peshat understanding of the text. The book presents the author's ideas on matters of Masora as well as Halacha as they relate to the customs Passages: Text and Transformation in the Parasha of prayers and Torah reading. by Rabbi Michael Hattin '85, Urim Publications. Order from: www.aron-hasfarim.co.il A thought-provoking study of the weekly parasha that deftly weaves literary analysis of the Biblical text The Rarest Blue: The Remarkable Story of an with selected classical Jewish commentaries, and Ancient Color Lost to History and Rediscovered applies the Torah's message to the complexity of modern living. by Baruch Sterman '78 with Judy Taubes Sterman The fascinating story of the loss and rediscovery of Ki Va Moed by Rav David Milston ‘83 tekhelet, a tale that brings together religion, history, An in-depth, two-volume series offering a fascinating biology, archeology, art and psychology. journey through the Jewish Year. To order: office@ More info at: www.therarestblue.com harova.org

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