Jews, Judaism, and Antisemitism: News and Recent Posts
Judaism is one of the oldest world religions and continues to have an important influence on world events, despite its relatively small size. Wondering about what has been going on in the world when it comes to Jews, Judaism, and Antisemitism? There is regular news about the conflict between Jews and Palestinians in Israel, about Antisemitism in the world (including in the context of Mel Gibson's film The Passion), and the state of Jews in American and European societies.
Secular Jewish Terrorist Convicted of Murder?
An Israeli settler in the West Bank who worked as a driver transporting Palestinian workers seems to have gone absolutely nuts, grabbing a gun from an Israeli security guard and shot the men he was driving. These Palestinian knew him well and probably thought well of him, even if they perhaps weren't quite friends. The strangest aspect of this is the guy led a "secular" life.
An Israeli settler in the West Bank who worked as a driver transporting Palestinian workers seems to have gone absolutely nuts, grabbing a gun from an Israeli security guard and shot the men he was driving. These Palestinian knew him well and probably thought well of him, even if they perhaps weren't quite friends. The strangest aspect of this is the guy led a "secular" life.
Mel Gibson: The Holocaust is a Numbers Game
I've written before about how Mel Gibson's father, Hutton Gibson, is a Holocaust denier and his son's less than clear denial of whether he agrees with his fathers antisemitic position. Recently, more information about Mel's non-denial denials and past involvement with antisemitic groups has surfaced.
I've written before about how Mel Gibson's father, Hutton Gibson, is a Holocaust denier and his son's less than clear denial of whether he agrees with his fathers antisemitic position. Recently, more information about Mel's non-denial denials and past involvement with antisemitic groups has surfaced.
Mel Gibson: Drunken, Anti-Semitic Tirade and Cover Up?
I've written here before about the possibility that Mel Gibson holds strong anti-Semitic views, possibly even including Holocaust Denial like his father. He's always denied this, after a fashion, but a recent incident may have forced out the truth: stopped and arrested for drunk driving, Mel Gibson launched into several vulgar tirades against the police. His comments includes anti-Semitic slurs.
I've written here before about the possibility that Mel Gibson holds strong anti-Semitic views, possibly even including Holocaust Denial like his father. He's always denied this, after a fashion, but a recent incident may have forced out the truth: stopped and arrested for drunk driving, Mel Gibson launched into several vulgar tirades against the police. His comments includes anti-Semitic slurs.
Jewish Extremists Assault Christians
Although Jewish extremists aren't as active in the 'Holy Land' as Muslim extremists, they are there and they do have an impact on the region's politics. Not only do they sometimes attack Palestinians in an effort to drive them off, they even attack Christians who get in their way. They don't care about others, they only care about fulfilling their religious mission.
Although Jewish extremists aren't as active in the 'Holy Land' as Muslim extremists, they are there and they do have an impact on the region's politics. Not only do they sometimes attack Palestinians in an effort to drive them off, they even attack Christians who get in their way. They don't care about others, they only care about fulfilling their religious mission.
Jewish Terrorist Wants to Secede From Israel
It may be starting to dawn on Jewish extremists that Israel is likely to remain a generally secular, democratic state. Their desire to create a fundamentalist Jewish theocracy hasn't been getting very far, and this is perhaps one of the driving forces behind the new reports that some want to secede from Israel and form a theocracy under their control.
It may be starting to dawn on Jewish extremists that Israel is likely to remain a generally secular, democratic state. Their desire to create a fundamentalist Jewish theocracy hasn't been getting very far, and this is perhaps one of the driving forces behind the new reports that some want to secede from Israel and form a theocracy under their control.
Is Israel a Religious or a Secular State?
Ever since its creation, there have been debates and disagreements about the nature of the state of Israel. Formally, it's a secular democracy where Judaism is privileged; in reality, many orthodox Jews believe that Israel should be a theocratic state where Judaism is the supreme law of the land. Secular and orthodox Jews are at odds over the future of Israel and it's uncertain what will happen.
Ever since its creation, there have been debates and disagreements about the nature of the state of Israel. Formally, it's a secular democracy where Judaism is privileged; in reality, many orthodox Jews believe that Israel should be a theocratic state where Judaism is the supreme law of the land. Secular and orthodox Jews are at odds over the future of Israel and it's uncertain what will happen.
American Conservatives: We're Not Anti-Semitic. Honest
Some Jews are becoming more vocal in their criticisms of the political activities of America's Christian Right. This, in turn, has inspired supposedly non-anti-Semitic Christians to insist that even though they aren't really anti-Semitic, these Jews should just be quiet unless they want to learn what Christian anti-Semitism in America could be like.
Some Jews are becoming more vocal in their criticisms of the political activities of America's Christian Right. This, in turn, has inspired supposedly non-anti-Semitic Christians to insist that even though they aren't really anti-Semitic, these Jews should just be quiet unless they want to learn what Christian anti-Semitism in America could be like.
The Reason why Iran is Attacking Jews, Israel
The infamous 'Southern Strategy' of America's Republican Party was to emphasize race and advocate racist policies in order to attract support from southern whites away from the Democratic Party. It worked and we are still living with the legacy of this. It appears that Iran's leader Ahmadinejad studied this tactic and is using it to attack Jews and Israel.
The infamous 'Southern Strategy' of America's Republican Party was to emphasize race and advocate racist policies in order to attract support from southern whites away from the Democratic Party. It worked and we are still living with the legacy of this. It appears that Iran's leader Ahmadinejad studied this tactic and is using it to attack Jews and Israel.
Hispanics Embracing Hidden Jewish Ancestry
During the Spanish Inquisition, many Jews and Muslims pretended to convert to Catholicism in order to avoid torture and death. Such conversions were not total and families retained their religious traditions, even after moving to the New World and even over the course of the centuries. Today, some Hispanics in America are rediscovering those religious roots.
During the Spanish Inquisition, many Jews and Muslims pretended to convert to Catholicism in order to avoid torture and death. Such conversions were not total and families retained their religious traditions, even after moving to the New World and even over the course of the centuries. Today, some Hispanics in America are rediscovering those religious roots.
Did Ancient Israel Exist?
A primary basis for the defense of the creation of modern Israel is the supposed existence of ancient Israel. The presence of Jews in the region now known as Israel is unquestioned; the nature of their presence there is, though. The Bible records a great kingdom, but archaeological evidence suggests otherwise.
A primary basis for the defense of the creation of modern Israel is the supposed existence of ancient Israel. The presence of Jews in the region now known as Israel is unquestioned; the nature of their presence there is, though. The Bible records a great kingdom, but archaeological evidence suggests otherwise.
Ethnicity, Nation-States, and Liberal Democracy
Today most people think of nationality in terms of political citizenship. A person might be a citizen of any nation without it necessarily saying much about them. The origins of the idea of a nation-state, though, lie in extreme xenophobia, racism, and discrimination.
Today most people think of nationality in terms of political citizenship. A person might be a citizen of any nation without it necessarily saying much about them. The origins of the idea of a nation-state, though, lie in extreme xenophobia, racism, and discrimination.
Jews are Doomed to Hell
Arrogant, superior attitudes towards Jews still exist among Christians. In the past, these attitudes fueled anti-Semitism; if Christians continue to be anti-Semitic, they aren't willing to acknowledge it anymore. Ryan Church, an outfielder with the Washington Nationals, had to apologize for indicating that Jews are headed for eternal damnation.
Arrogant, superior attitudes towards Jews still exist among Christians. In the past, these attitudes fueled anti-Semitism; if Christians continue to be anti-Semitic, they aren't willing to acknowledge it anymore. Ryan Church, an outfielder with the Washington Nationals, had to apologize for indicating that Jews are headed for eternal damnation.
Memorializing the Holocaust is Offensive to Muslims?
Muslims in Britain are upset: they believe that Holocaust Day, a date used to memorialize the victims of the Holocaust, is offense to Muslims because it singles out Jews for special treatment. The long history of anti-Semitism and Holocaust Denial in Muslim communities surely has nothing to do with this, right?
Muslims in Britain are upset: they believe that Holocaust Day, a date used to memorialize the victims of the Holocaust, is offense to Muslims because it singles out Jews for special treatment. The long history of anti-Semitism and Holocaust Denial in Muslim communities surely has nothing to do with this, right?
Skepticism of the Holocaust, Skepticism of Evolution
Religious critics of evolutionary theory emphasize the idea that 'all sides' of a debate should be taught and that schools have an obligation to present the 'debates' about academic subjects. If we apply this to evolution, though, why not also the Holocaust? This is a valid question because some teachers have tried to do exactly that.
Religious critics of evolutionary theory emphasize the idea that 'all sides' of a debate should be taught and that schools have an obligation to present the 'debates' about academic subjects. If we apply this to evolution, though, why not also the Holocaust? This is a valid question because some teachers have tried to do exactly that.
Holocaust Theology for Christians & Jews
The Holocaust is one of the central, defining events of the twentieth century. It's also a defining event for both modern Judaism and Christianity - but while Jews realize this, Christians don't seem to. Some professional theologians do work related to the Holocaust, but for most believers it doesn't appear to have intruded on their thinking.
The Holocaust is one of the central, defining events of the twentieth century. It's also a defining event for both modern Judaism and Christianity - but while Jews realize this, Christians don't seem to. Some professional theologians do work related to the Holocaust, but for most believers it doesn't appear to have intruded on their thinking.
Leadership Changes in Israel
Former Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin ('Bibi') Netanyahu has resigned from the government and is challenging current Prime Minister Ariel Sharon for leadership of the nation. This could have profound implications for the future of the peace process in the Middle East
Former Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin ('Bibi') Netanyahu has resigned from the government and is challenging current Prime Minister Ariel Sharon for leadership of the nation. This could have profound implications for the future of the peace process in the Middle East
Jewish Terrorism in Israel
When one thinks about terrorism in Israel, one normally thinks about Palestinian attacks against Jewish targets - usually civilian. Because of the Gaza pullout, though, there has been an increase in terrorist acts committed by Jews against both Palestinians and Jews. We could be looking at the beginning of a new era of terrorism in Israel.
When one thinks about terrorism in Israel, one normally thinks about Palestinian attacks against Jewish targets - usually civilian. Because of the Gaza pullout, though, there has been an increase in terrorist acts committed by Jews against both Palestinians and Jews. We could be looking at the beginning of a new era of terrorism in Israel.
Christian Disinterest in the Holocaust (Book Notes: Doctors from Hell)
Recent years have seen a sharp increase in people's interest in the Holocaust: there are a large number of books, movies, and documentaries available for consumption. Interest in learning about the Holocaust has not, however, translated into an interest in learning from the Holocaust and remembering all those who died in it.
Recent years have seen a sharp increase in people's interest in the Holocaust: there are a large number of books, movies, and documentaries available for consumption. Interest in learning about the Holocaust has not, however, translated into an interest in learning from the Holocaust and remembering all those who died in it.
Jewish Law, Civil Rights, and Gay Rights
Traditional Judaism is not welcoming of homosexuality. Like most traditional religious systems, it condemns homosexuality as a sin and homosexuals as violating God's will for humanity. This does not mean, however, that Jews believe that gays shouldn't be accorded the same basic civil rights as the rest of the population.
Traditional Judaism is not welcoming of homosexuality. Like most traditional religious systems, it condemns homosexuality as a sin and homosexuals as violating God's will for humanity. This does not mean, however, that Jews believe that gays shouldn't be accorded the same basic civil rights as the rest of the population.
Is Secularization Inimical to Religion?
Some people believe that religion cannot survive in a secular society. Apparently, the voluntary and personal commitment of individual members isn't sufficient; instead, religion needs the active defense and support of the state. Otherwise, people will find it too easy to drift away from religion.
Some people believe that religion cannot survive in a secular society. Apparently, the voluntary and personal commitment of individual members isn't sufficient; instead, religion needs the active defense and support of the state. Otherwise, people will find it too easy to drift away from religion.
Israel, Gaza, and Jewish Messianism
There are only about 8,000 Israeli settlers in Gaza, but their removal is far more important than their numbers would suggest. The debate in Israel over Gaza is about more than the settlements, it's about the future of Israel. It's a debate between secular Israelis who want a peaceful, democratic future and religious messianists who believe they are doing God's will.
There are only about 8,000 Israeli settlers in Gaza, but their removal is far more important than their numbers would suggest. The debate in Israel over Gaza is about more than the settlements, it's about the future of Israel. It's a debate between secular Israelis who want a peaceful, democratic future and religious messianists who believe they are doing God's will.
Israel vs. Judaism, Politics vs. Religion
Israel was founded as a Jewish state, as a state where Jews would always be welcome, always be safe, and where Judaism could be expressed without fear of discrimination and prejudice. One could argue, though, that even from a Jewish perspective, there are disadvantages to the existence of Israel as a state and as a political power.
Israel was founded as a Jewish state, as a state where Jews would always be welcome, always be safe, and where Judaism could be expressed without fear of discrimination and prejudice. One could argue, though, that even from a Jewish perspective, there are disadvantages to the existence of Israel as a state and as a political power.
Jewish Extremists Put Death Curse on Sharon
Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon had better watch out: Jewish extremists have invoked a "death curse" and expect God to strike him dead in retaliation for his policies. I'll bet he's just shaking in his boots now.
Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon had better watch out: Jewish extremists have invoked a "death curse" and expect God to strike him dead in retaliation for his policies. I'll bet he's just shaking in his boots now.
Israel vs. Jewish Extremists
One of the most serious security concerns for Israel isn't Palestinian extremists, it's Jewish extremists. There is a significant, vocal, and influential minority of Jews who insist that God has authorized them to take control over all of the "biblical" lands of ancient Israel, regardless of who lives there now and regardless of the policies of the Israeli government.
One of the most serious security concerns for Israel isn't Palestinian extremists, it's Jewish extremists. There is a significant, vocal, and influential minority of Jews who insist that God has authorized them to take control over all of the "biblical" lands of ancient Israel, regardless of who lives there now and regardless of the policies of the Israeli government.
Jerusalem: Jewish Extremist Attacks Gay Pride Parade
A few days ago I wrote about how Jerusalem tried and failed to ban a gay pride parade. It was an effort to appease religious conservatives. One Ultra-Orthodox man decided to take matters into his own hands and attacked the parade, stabbing three people.
A few days ago I wrote about how Jerusalem tried and failed to ban a gay pride parade. It was an effort to appease religious conservatives. One Ultra-Orthodox man decided to take matters into his own hands and attacked the parade, stabbing three people.
Billy Graham: Anti-semite?
One of the nation's most famous and beloved evangelists, Billy Graham, has what appears to be an antisemitic past. His most recent and ostensibly final Crusade was praised and hyped in the press, but nowhere did you read criticisms of what Graham said in the past - much less his lame excuses today.
One of the nation's most famous and beloved evangelists, Billy Graham, has what appears to be an antisemitic past. His most recent and ostensibly final Crusade was praised and hyped in the press, but nowhere did you read criticisms of what Graham said in the past - much less his lame excuses today.
Jewish Anti-Missionaries in Israel
Judaism is not a proselytizing religion. Jews don't go around trying to convert non-Jews to Judaism, but they do try to convert people from one branch of Judaism to another. It also seems that they try to re-convert people who have been converted away from Judaism.
Judaism is not a proselytizing religion. Jews don't go around trying to convert non-Jews to Judaism, but they do try to convert people from one branch of Judaism to another. It also seems that they try to re-convert people who have been converted away from Judaism.
Heritage Foundation Sells Out to anti-Semites
The Heritage Foundation is one of the most prominent and influential Christian Right organizations in America. It has also apparently sold out to the anti-Semitic regime of Malaysia. They used to criticize the anti-Semitism of former Malaysian prime minister Mahathir Mohamad; now that they are getting money from him, they've stopped.
The Heritage Foundation is one of the most prominent and influential Christian Right organizations in America. It has also apparently sold out to the anti-Semitic regime of Malaysia. They used to criticize the anti-Semitism of former Malaysian prime minister Mahathir Mohamad; now that they are getting money from him, they've stopped.
Judaism Leads to Hostility towards Christianity? Criminality?
Christianity has a very poor record when it comes to treating Jews with respect. Things have improved in America in the past few decades, but every so often someone says or does something which suggests that some form of anti-Semitism continues to lurk beneath the surface.
Christianity has a very poor record when it comes to treating Jews with respect. Things have improved in America in the past few decades, but every so often someone says or does something which suggests that some form of anti-Semitism continues to lurk beneath the surface.
Alan Dershowitz on Torture in Israel
Known for his support for the creation of "torture warrants" that would allow the state to torture suspects to get information, Alan Dershowitz recently claimed that the Public Committee Against Torture in Israel (PCATI) admitted to him that there was no longer any torture in Israel for them to investigate, but they were keeping the name because it attracts media attention.
Known for his support for the creation of "torture warrants" that would allow the state to torture suspects to get information, Alan Dershowitz recently claimed that the Public Committee Against Torture in Israel (PCATI) admitted to him that there was no longer any torture in Israel for them to investigate, but they were keeping the name because it attracts media attention.
Delaware: Christians Threaten Jews Over School Prayers
In Delaware, Jews who have challenged the promotion of Christianity in school have received threats. The local Christian dominionists seem unaccustomed to being questioned and may be hoping that they won't have to defend themselves in court if they can use fear and intimidation to chase away the nasty Jews.
In Delaware, Jews who have challenged the promotion of Christianity in school have received threats. The local Christian dominionists seem unaccustomed to being questioned and may be hoping that they won't have to defend themselves in court if they can use fear and intimidation to chase away the nasty Jews.
Hollywood Jews are Ruining the Nation?
We can read regular complaints from the Christian Right about "cultural elites," but how many of those complaints are actually directed at Jews? We don't usually hear such complaints about forms of entertainment where Jews are less in evidence.
We can read regular complaints from the Christian Right about "cultural elites," but how many of those complaints are actually directed at Jews? We don't usually hear such complaints about forms of entertainment where Jews are less in evidence.
Israeli Supreme Court Recognizes Non-Orthodox Conversions
Traditionally, only conversions to Judaism performed by Orthodox Rabbis have been recognized as legally valid in Israel; hence, only orthodox converts to Judaism become citizens. A recent decision by the Israeli Supreme Court may make things easier for Reform Jews.
Traditionally, only conversions to Judaism performed by Orthodox Rabbis have been recognized as legally valid in Israel; hence, only orthodox converts to Judaism become citizens. A recent decision by the Israeli Supreme Court may make things easier for Reform Jews.
Jewish Law on Terri Schiavo & Feeding Tubes
We've heard quite a lot about what conservative, evangelical Christians think about the Terri Schiavo case, but what about other religions? They have their own perspectives and disagreements but any contributions they might make has been lost in the fundamentalist din.
We've heard quite a lot about what conservative, evangelical Christians think about the Terri Schiavo case, but what about other religions? They have their own perspectives and disagreements but any contributions they might make has been lost in the fundamentalist din.
Jews Chase Whores from Western Wall
Natalie Portman is filming a movie in Jerusalem and made the mistake of doing a kissing scene near the Western Wall, a site very holy to Jews. She and her film crew were chased away and I doubt that they will return any time soon.
Natalie Portman is filming a movie in Jerusalem and made the mistake of doing a kissing scene near the Western Wall, a site very holy to Jews. She and her film crew were chased away and I doubt that they will return any time soon.
Zionism Discriminatory?
In a very interesting move, Israel's attorney general has ruled that reserving land just for Jews is discriminatory and should not occur with state help. Acquiring and reserving land just for Jews has been an important component of Israeli/Zionist policy since before Israel was founded.
In a very interesting move, Israel's attorney general has ruled that reserving land just for Jews is discriminatory and should not occur with state help. Acquiring and reserving land just for Jews has been an important component of Israeli/Zionist policy since before Israel was founded.
Last Jew in Afghanistan?
It seems that there is just one Jew left in Afghanistan - yes, just one. It's strange to think of a single Jew left in an entire nation, but it would be even stranger to be the last Jew left in an entire nation.
It seems that there is just one Jew left in Afghanistan - yes, just one. It's strange to think of a single Jew left in an entire nation, but it would be even stranger to be the last Jew left in an entire nation.
Orthodox Jews Can't Sing in the Shower
Is it OK to sing in the shower? Many people do it, but if you are an Orthodox Jew perhaps you shouldn't. Fomer Jewish grand rabbi Mordechai Eliahu has declared that such activity is a sin. Humming is acceptable, though.
Is it OK to sing in the shower? Many people do it, but if you are an Orthodox Jew perhaps you shouldn't. Fomer Jewish grand rabbi Mordechai Eliahu has declared that such activity is a sin. Humming is acceptable, though.
Holocaust: Jews Died For Not Following Kabbalah?
Did six million Jews die in the Holocaust in Europe because they failed to follow the principles and teachings of the Kabbalah? That's apparently what at least some leaders of the Kabbalah Centre in London believe.
Did six million Jews die in the Holocaust in Europe because they failed to follow the principles and teachings of the Kabbalah? That's apparently what at least some leaders of the Kabbalah Centre in London believe.
Israeli Army Sacks Gaza Pullout Opponents
In a move that has been long expected, the Israeli army has gotten rid of six officers who recommended that others disobey orders to expel Jewish settlers from the Gaza Strip. Decisive action by the army in the settlements may come soon, now.
In a move that has been long expected, the Israeli army has gotten rid of six officers who recommended that others disobey orders to expel Jewish settlers from the Gaza Strip. Decisive action by the army in the settlements may come soon, now.
Israel: Settlers Compare Gaza-Pullout to Holocaust
Israeli Settlers in the Gaza Strip really don't want to leave but the Israeli government is likely to take them out by force if they don't go willingly. This is already causing serious conflicts in Israeli society, conflicts that are bound to get worse. How much worse? Armed violence is not out of the question.
Israeli Settlers in the Gaza Strip really don't want to leave but the Israeli government is likely to take them out by force if they don't go willingly. This is already causing serious conflicts in Israeli society, conflicts that are bound to get worse. How much worse? Armed violence is not out of the question.
Florida Jews Hostile to Christianity?
Whenever people try to prevent Christians from appropriating the power of the government to promote their religion, they are attacked for being anti-Christian and anti-religion. It seems that no smear is too great to use - even if it smacks of anti-Semitism
Whenever people try to prevent Christians from appropriating the power of the government to promote their religion, they are attacked for being anti-Christian and anti-religion. It seems that no smear is too great to use - even if it smacks of anti-Semitism
O'Reilly to Jews: If You're Offended, Go To Israel
In the past, Protestant domination of American culture tended to make religious minorities feel like outsiders. For example, the presence of overt Christianity in public schools (organized prayers, Bible readings) offended Jews and played a role in their prosecution. Even today some see nothing wrong with that sort of situation.
In the past, Protestant domination of American culture tended to make religious minorities feel like outsiders. For example, the presence of overt Christianity in public schools (organized prayers, Bible readings) offended Jews and played a role in their prosecution. Even today some see nothing wrong with that sort of situation.
Humanity Flickers in Israel?
Israeli soldiers' treatment of Palestinians rarely receives praise, but recent reports have been especially bad. Most outrageous to Israelis has not been the shooting of a 13-year-old-girl by an officer who said he'd have done the same if she had been 3, nor ultra-orthodox soldiers mocking a Palestinian corpse by placing the head on a pike with a cigarette. What could be worse than all this?
Israeli soldiers' treatment of Palestinians rarely receives praise, but recent reports have been especially bad. Most outrageous to Israelis has not been the shooting of a 13-year-old-girl by an officer who said he'd have done the same if she had been 3, nor ultra-orthodox soldiers mocking a Palestinian corpse by placing the head on a pike with a cigarette. What could be worse than all this?
The End of Israel As We Know It
When Israel was founded, it was conceived of as a Jewish state more in the ethnic than the religious sense - Zionism was for most Jews a political rather than a religious ideology. Today that is changing and orthodox religious Jews are pushing out the secular, ethnic Jews. This could have profound implications for what sort of state Israel becomes.
When Israel was founded, it was conceived of as a Jewish state more in the ethnic than the religious sense - Zionism was for most Jews a political rather than a religious ideology. Today that is changing and orthodox religious Jews are pushing out the secular, ethnic Jews. This could have profound implications for what sort of state Israel becomes.
Israel's Alternatives
Everyone knows that the situation between Israelis and Palestinians is very difficult. Everyone would like to see some sort of peaceful resolution. Not everyone seems to fully appreciate just how narrow and unpleasant the available options are.
Everyone knows that the situation between Israelis and Palestinians is very difficult. Everyone would like to see some sort of peaceful resolution. Not everyone seems to fully appreciate just how narrow and unpleasant the available options are.
Ancient Egypt and Judaism
What is the relationship between Egyptian religion and ancient Judaism? There was a time when the links were being explored by scholars, with many thinking that Egypt was at one point a strong influence on the Hebrews. Today the connections are generally ignored - but that may change.
What is the relationship between Egyptian religion and ancient Judaism? There was a time when the links were being explored by scholars, with many thinking that Egypt was at one point a strong influence on the Hebrews. Today the connections are generally ignored - but that may change.
Jews vs. Israelis vs. Zionists
In Israel, there is a growing conflict over people identifying themselves as Jews or Israelis. There was a time when no conflict or difference existed, but now that the Israeli government is doing things that right-wing Jewish groups find objectionable, people are being forced to choose. This does not bode well for the stability of Israeli society.
In Israel, there is a growing conflict over people identifying themselves as Jews or Israelis. There was a time when no conflict or difference existed, but now that the Israeli government is doing things that right-wing Jewish groups find objectionable, people are being forced to choose. This does not bode well for the stability of Israeli society.
Israeli Rabbis Calling for Mutiny
Should Israel pull out of the Gaza Strip, taking Jewish settlers with them? Most people around the world would probably go along with that idea. Even most people in Israel support it. Religious extremists in Israel do not, however, and they are pushing for Israeli soldiers to disobey orders to remove settlers, should they come.
Should Israel pull out of the Gaza Strip, taking Jewish settlers with them? Most people around the world would probably go along with that idea. Even most people in Israel support it. Religious extremists in Israel do not, however, and they are pushing for Israeli soldiers to disobey orders to remove settlers, should they come.
Jews Spitting on Priests in Jerusalem
Jews spitting on Christian priests in Jerusalem? It may sound surprising but in fact it's a common problem that priests don't generally complain about because little is done when they do and complaining may just make things work. Yes, chauvinism is alive and well in Israel.
Jews spitting on Christian priests in Jerusalem? It may sound surprising but in fact it's a common problem that priests don't generally complain about because little is done when they do and complaining may just make things work. Yes, chauvinism is alive and well in Israel.
Wal-Mart Stops Selling Antisemitic Book
"The Protocols of the Learned Elders of Zion" has long been recognized as a forgery designed to encourage suspicion, fear, and hatred of Jews. Why, then, did Wal-Mart begin selling the book and describe it as potentially true? It's fortunate that they stopped, but there are many unanswered questions about the matter.
"The Protocols of the Learned Elders of Zion" has long been recognized as a forgery designed to encourage suspicion, fear, and hatred of Jews. Why, then, did Wal-Mart begin selling the book and describe it as potentially true? It's fortunate that they stopped, but there are many unanswered questions about the matter.
Jerusalem: Great Synagogue Defaced
People spray-painted graffiti on the Great Synagogue of Jerusalem during the Jewish holy days - and some think that it was Jews who probably did it. This isn't the sort of thing one would expect to happen in Israel.
People spray-painted graffiti on the Great Synagogue of Jerusalem during the Jewish holy days - and some think that it was Jews who probably did it. This isn't the sort of thing one would expect to happen in Israel.
Israel: Archaeologists Fear Temple Mount Collapse
The Temple Mount area in Jerusalem is sacred to both Jews and Muslims. It also may be collapsing, in part due to the digging and construction done by Muslims who control the site. Guess who will get blamed if it does fall apart?
The Temple Mount area in Jerusalem is sacred to both Jews and Muslims. It also may be collapsing, in part due to the digging and construction done by Muslims who control the site. Guess who will get blamed if it does fall apart?
Civil War in Israel?
Israeli prime minister Ariel Sharon would like to pull his country out of the Gaza Strip. If he can, it will be an important step towards peace with the Palestinians - but many right-wing Israelis are doing all they can to keep it from happening. The risk of civil strife isn't too far-fetched, at least in Sharon's eyes.
Israeli prime minister Ariel Sharon would like to pull his country out of the Gaza Strip. If he can, it will be an important step towards peace with the Palestinians - but many right-wing Israelis are doing all they can to keep it from happening. The risk of civil strife isn't too far-fetched, at least in Sharon's eyes.
No Judo With Jews?
Iranian judo champion Arash Miresmaeili has refused to compete against Israeli athlete Ehud Vaks. The Olympics officially prohibits race, religion, ethnicity, or skin color from interfering with sports - so what are they going to do abut this?
Iranian judo champion Arash Miresmaeili has refused to compete against Israeli athlete Ehud Vaks. The Olympics officially prohibits race, religion, ethnicity, or skin color from interfering with sports - so what are they going to do abut this?
Israel: Rabbi Calls Cancer "Penalty"? for the Irreligious
Religions have long treated diseases as punishments from the gods. Lacking any real scientific or medical knowledge, what else could they do? In the context of ancient cultures, such a belief isn't entirely unreasonable. It is, however, very unreasonable for such beliefs to persist today. People should know better; those who don't, are guilty of willful ignorance.
Religions have long treated diseases as punishments from the gods. Lacking any real scientific or medical knowledge, what else could they do? In the context of ancient cultures, such a belief isn't entirely unreasonable. It is, however, very unreasonable for such beliefs to persist today. People should know better; those who don't, are guilty of willful ignorance.
Jews Leaving Israel, Returning to Russia
Usually we hear of Jews leaving a country in order to travel to Israel - it is, after all, the Jewish state. Some Jews in Israel though are leaving in order to return to wherever they originally came from. Israel, it turns out, is no paradise.
Usually we hear of Jews leaving a country in order to travel to Israel - it is, after all, the Jewish state. Some Jews in Israel though are leaving in order to return to wherever they originally came from. Israel, it turns out, is no paradise.
Israeli Warnings Over Jewish Extremists
In all the regular reporting about Muslim extremists and Islamic terrorism, one can forget that there are Jews in Israel who are ever bit as extremist in their ideology as is the most hard-core Al-Qaeda member. Since they generally have the support of a strong government, there's no need for them to engage in terrorism - but if they feel abandoned by the government, trouble is ahead.
In all the regular reporting about Muslim extremists and Islamic terrorism, one can forget that there are Jews in Israel who are ever bit as extremist in their ideology as is the most hard-core Al-Qaeda member. Since they generally have the support of a strong government, there's no need for them to engage in terrorism - but if they feel abandoned by the government, trouble is ahead.
Court Rules Against Israel's Security Barrier
The security barrier that Israel is building between them and the Palestinians has generated a lot of negative press around the world but most Israelis seem happy with it. The Israeli Supreme Court has decided, though, that a 30km stretch of the barrier's route northwest of Jerusalem is illegal, which means that some major changes must be made.
The security barrier that Israel is building between them and the Palestinians has generated a lot of negative press around the world but most Israelis seem happy with it. The Israeli Supreme Court has decided, though, that a 30km stretch of the barrier's route northwest of Jerusalem is illegal, which means that some major changes must be made.
Israel and Kurdistan: What's the Connection?
It seems as though Israel is losing confidence in America's ability to establish a democratic and free state in Iraq. According to recent reports, Israel is cultivating a military relationship with the Kurds in the region - a relationship which would allow them to use the Kurds to strike at Iran and others in the region if needed.
It seems as though Israel is losing confidence in America's ability to establish a democratic and free state in Iraq. According to recent reports, Israel is cultivating a military relationship with the Kurds in the region - a relationship which would allow them to use the Kurds to strike at Iran and others in the region if needed.
Growing Chabad Judaism
Many Jews today are concerned about the rapid and widespread growth of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement. On the one hand, it's growth has helped Jews around the world through education and social services that wouldn't be available without them. On the other hand, their beliefs are just a bit off center and risk undermining traditional Judaism.
Many Jews today are concerned about the rapid and widespread growth of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement. On the one hand, it's growth has helped Jews around the world through education and social services that wouldn't be available without them. On the other hand, their beliefs are just a bit off center and risk undermining traditional Judaism.
Maddona: Slut for Kabbalah?
Pop singer Maddona has been promoting Kabbalah, a religious movement she recently joined. Unfortunately, not everyone agrees with the value of having her support and association.
Pop singer Maddona has been promoting Kabbalah, a religious movement she recently joined. Unfortunately, not everyone agrees with the value of having her support and association.
Jews Smuggled Out Of U.S.
Jewish immigrants from Yemen have been smuggled out of an ultra-Orthodox township in New York and flown to Israel. Smuggled out of New York? Did someone build a wall around that state when no one was looking? Apparently, they did - not around the state, but around an enclave of Jews who oppose the existence of Israel.
Jewish immigrants from Yemen have been smuggled out of an ultra-Orthodox township in New York and flown to Israel. Smuggled out of New York? Did someone build a wall around that state when no one was looking? Apparently, they did - not around the state, but around an enclave of Jews who oppose the existence of Israel.
Is New York's Water Kosher?
Jews, especially those how are Orthodox, make every effort to ensure that the food they eat is kosher. Unfortunately for them, New York City tap water may contain tiny creatures called copepods. The problem? They're crustaceans - and crustaceans aren't kosher.
Jews, especially those how are Orthodox, make every effort to ensure that the food they eat is kosher. Unfortunately for them, New York City tap water may contain tiny creatures called copepods. The problem? They're crustaceans - and crustaceans aren't kosher.
Wigs, Religion, and Modesty
Orthodox Jewish women aren't allowed to show their hair publicly after they are married, so many in the United States simply buy wigs - often wigs made in India from human hair. Well, some Orthodox rabbis decided to ban these wigs as well (but not for the obvious reason), sending Orthodox wig-wearers into a tizzy.
Orthodox Jewish women aren't allowed to show their hair publicly after they are married, so many in the United States simply buy wigs - often wigs made in India from human hair. Well, some Orthodox rabbis decided to ban these wigs as well (but not for the obvious reason), sending Orthodox wig-wearers into a tizzy.
Polish Church Spokesman Refuses to Condemn Church Antisemitism
Antisemitism has long been a serious issue in Poland. In fact, Polish antisemitism was an significant factor in the Nazi extermination of the Jews - some of the worst extermination camps were located in Poland and almost all Polish Jews were killed. Unfortunately, Polish antisemitism hasn't ended yet - and the Roman Catholic Church bears some of the responsibility for it.
Antisemitism has long been a serious issue in Poland. In fact, Polish antisemitism was an significant factor in the Nazi extermination of the Jews - some of the worst extermination camps were located in Poland and almost all Polish Jews were killed. Unfortunately, Polish antisemitism hasn't ended yet - and the Roman Catholic Church bears some of the responsibility for it.
Mordechai Vanunu: Israel Shouldn't Exist
Eighteen years ago Mordechai Vanunu revealed that Israel had developed nuclear bombs and he was put in prison until recently. Now he is out, but his movements are severely restricted as well as is his ability to talk to the media. What he is saying, however, isn't very favorable to Israel.
Eighteen years ago Mordechai Vanunu revealed that Israel had developed nuclear bombs and he was put in prison until recently. Now he is out, but his movements are severely restricted as well as is his ability to talk to the media. What he is saying, however, isn't very favorable to Israel.
Jews to Give Up World Control
Apparently tired of the long hours, low pay, and utter ingratitude on the part of the goyim, Jews have decided to give up control of the world and take a much-needed vacation to rest. Good for them, I say! This will allow the true puppet-masters, the atheists, to come out of the closet and rule more openly.
Apparently tired of the long hours, low pay, and utter ingratitude on the part of the goyim, Jews have decided to give up control of the world and take a much-needed vacation to rest. Good for them, I say! This will allow the true puppet-masters, the atheists, to come out of the closet and rule more openly.
Jewish Prisoner wants Race to be Reclassified
Jews in American prisons can suffer a lot of extra problems because they are targets of vile antisemitism and violence from neo-Nazi thugs who live alongside them. In California, the situation for one Orthodox Jew has gotten bad enough that he wants his race reclassified from "white" to "non-white" in order to get out of sharing a cell with neo-Nazis.
Jews in American prisons can suffer a lot of extra problems because they are targets of vile antisemitism and violence from neo-Nazi thugs who live alongside them. In California, the situation for one Orthodox Jew has gotten bad enough that he wants his race reclassified from "white" to "non-white" in order to get out of sharing a cell with neo-Nazis.
Jews Evangelizing Among Jews
Jews don't evangelize among members of other religions, but some Jewish groups do evangelize among other Jews. The biggest such group are the Lubavitchers who seek to convert all others Jews to their brand of ultra-orthodox Judaism. They even send out families to various places around the world in order to set up shop near other Jews.
Jews don't evangelize among members of other religions, but some Jewish groups do evangelize among other Jews. The biggest such group are the Lubavitchers who seek to convert all others Jews to their brand of ultra-orthodox Judaism. They even send out families to various places around the world in order to set up shop near other Jews.
Rabbis: Woman Must Choose Divorce or Jail
Most cultures have tended to treat women as inferior to men, which meant in practice giving women fewer rights relative to men. In some ways and some places, this has changed - but not everywhere. Orthodox Judaism continues to accord women fewer rights than men, and in one divorce case in Israel the Rabbinic High Court ruled that a woman must go to jail for refusing to divorce her husband.
Most cultures have tended to treat women as inferior to men, which meant in practice giving women fewer rights relative to men. In some ways and some places, this has changed - but not everywhere. Orthodox Judaism continues to accord women fewer rights than men, and in one divorce case in Israel the Rabbinic High Court ruled that a woman must go to jail for refusing to divorce her husband.
Jews for Jesus Passover
The evangelical group "Jews for Jesus" pretends to be Jewish but on a practical level is more evangelical Christian - and around this time of year, the seem to like to play-act Passover rituals in evangelical Christian churches as way to get names, raise money, and attract converts.
The evangelical group "Jews for Jesus" pretends to be Jewish but on a practical level is more evangelical Christian - and around this time of year, the seem to like to play-act Passover rituals in evangelical Christian churches as way to get names, raise money, and attract converts.
Jews for Judaism vs. Jews for Jesus
The organization "Jews for Jesus," which ties to convince Jews to accept Jesus as their Messiah while retaining their Jewish identity, is very controversial in both Jewish and Christian circles. In an effort to oppose them, some Jews have created another organization, "Jews for Judaism," which works to counter the former group's distortions and misinformation about both Judaism and Jesus.
The organization "Jews for Jesus," which ties to convince Jews to accept Jesus as their Messiah while retaining their Jewish identity, is very controversial in both Jewish and Christian circles. In an effort to oppose them, some Jews have created another organization, "Jews for Judaism," which works to counter the former group's distortions and misinformation about both Judaism and Jesus.