Category: current events

The Cultural Revolution

Israel is H’Shem’s treasure. Those who bless Israel, will receive blessings in return. And visa versa. Who would be foolish enough to cast Israel in a negative light or praise its enemies? Yet, the social justice ideologues, who cohort with Pro-Palestinian activists are bringing naive students and others into the fold. The nature of the social justice movement oversimplifies causes, in order to build a solidarity with the so-called oppressed groups of the world. We are witnessing the rise of the New Proletariat.

The collusion of causes overlooks any evidence or information contrary to the furthering of the revolutionary aims of the ideologues. For all appearances, the social justice movement seems like something positive to many naïve individuals. After all, who isn’t for tolerance and human rights? Good meaning people are being seduced by cries of compassion for select groups, without consideration to any others, who also experience discrimination or even persecution, whether historically or currently.

The Jewish people, who are indigenous to Israel biblically, historically, and through long lines of lineage over the generations are more and more being linked with Israel as oppressors. It is ludicrous, considering some of the false claims that are being made by the Left. Yet, the ideologues, well-steeped in Palestine studies, and the claims of colonialism would care not whether their targets are also decried as being white oppressors, for the aims of the movement.

What ties all of the different oppressed identity groups together? Only a vague concept of liberation, that would actually look very different for each group, as well as individuals within those groups. The key to understanding what appears to be irrational is the following statement made by an adherent of revolution: “It’s not about the cause, it’s about the revolution.”

As such, we need to address the misinformation, especially about Israel, in order to unravel the movement’s hold on naive individuals, by challenging their perspective. To engage in discussion with those who are receptive to words spoken in truth – this is the obligation of every person with a conscience.

Essay on Life’s Illusions

“Freedom of expression depends only on the courage of your convictions.” – Natan Sharansky

The metanarrative of prophetic scripture is superimposed upon history, past, present and future. Therefore, aside from current events as viewed from a geo-political, cultural, or moral perspective, there is the overarching prophetic march of time that encompasses these events. There is also the historical perspective, wherein is seen repeating cycles of ideologies, rising over and over again in different manifestations of its predecessors. Unfortunately, history repeats itself, when we do not learn from the past mistakes of previous generations.

Outside of Israel, perhaps, the realization of the existential situation wherein Israel is united for its own survival, falls upon deaf ears. If the differences between the Left and Right have been set aside for the sake of meeting this existential threat, shouldn’t the same be true amongst Diaspora Jews? Moreover, the consensus amongst Israelis is clear in regard to the prospects for peace with the Palestinians: this will not occur unless Hamas is dismantled. The Israeli Left is disillusioned, and has realized the truth about the futility of bargaining with terrorists; yet, the Woke ideologues in America and elsewhere around the globe, are still blinded by their Marxist mentality.

Speak the truth from your heart, and if you are unable to speak the truth out loud, speak the truth silently within your heart, so that, at least, you will know what you believe, without external influence persuading you otherwise. Yet, always make sure to “live not by lies.” If something does not resonate with you, examine that something; however, do not be completely subjective in your analysis; objectivity is required, because truth is not relative. If we say that truth is relative, then all truth breaks down into personal perspectives. Yet, truth, value, and morals exist independently of our own subjective thoughts, and worldview.

Israel Matters

Israel Matters: G-d’s Presence on Earth

Because the understanding of the Deists limited G-d to His role as Creator, without acknowledging His continual Presence in the world, mankind was designated as the sole manager of earth, without G-d’s intervention. Thus, a vast separation between G-d and mankind resulted, conceptually, within their faulty logic. Yet, G-d is not only present in the world, He continually interacts with the world. He maintains Creation through His hasgacha (guidance) over the affairs of the natural world and even every individual on the face of the planet.

He is a very present G-d, Who, within the framework of Judaism is both transcendent and immanent. So, although G-d is said to reside in Seventh Heaven, He is also present in this world, and His presence may be felt within a human being. At any given time, he may feel as if he is further away from or closer to a person who has a relationship with Him. Thusly said, we are active partners with Him in regard to His divine plan when we accede to His will.

Israel is the apple of G-d’s eye, a treasure that He always has in mind. Israel will never be abandoned by G-d. Despite the nisyanos (trials) both as a nation and as individuals, we may rest assured that He is there with us in the midst of our challenges. When Israel fought against Amalek, Moses held up his hands in prayer the whole time, bringing strength from Above to Israel in its battle. In like manner, those of us who are not directly involved in combat or material support for I.D.F. may offer their prayers for the sake of the defeat of evil.

We will triumph; light will prevail over darkness. As Chanukah approaches, we may reflect upon the preservation of the Jewish people, despite great odds at that time. Again and again we have succeeded in the face of great challenges; will continue to do so in anticipation of the Geulah.

©2023 all rights reserved

Truth Must Prevail

In regard to the Understanding Israel presentation, the event went well. At least two people, who had been leaders of the protest in town over the weekend, were at the presentation; they each identified themselves, while asking a question, during the question and answer part of the event. One of them did try to make his own points, before asking a question; however, he was reminded that it was questions only.

There were two moderators, and six panelists: five were Jewish, one was a Christian pastor. After the panelists answered the questions, a news video was shown of an interview with the Son of Hamas, who is an ex-member of Hamas that speaks out against Hamas. He is very pro-Israel, as well as concerned for the Palestinian people. 

As soon as the video started, the two activist leaders got up, as well as about a dozen people sitting in the back of the lecture hall (also identified as activists by their talk amongst themselves) who walked out. Although, three of the activists remained, including one of the leaders. It’s like they know that the Son of Hamas, who spoke in the video, speaks the truth that they did not want to hear.

At least, none of the activists disrupted the presentation. (There had been 3 or 4 police officers there, as well as a security detail just in case). Since the activists were there for the entire presentation, before the video, I hope something that was said may have made an impression on some of them. 

After the presentation this evening, I reflected more on what occurred. I asked myself why did several activists remain? Two of the activist leaders got up as soon as the video began, as well as about a dozen activists sitting in the back. Yet, three activists remained, including one of the leaders.

I think that this was planned ahead of time, inasmuch that the leaders signaled the others to leave, perhaps, seemingly as a walk-out protest against the video; yet, more likely, so that the regular activists – underlings – who left, would not be influenced by the words of the Son of the Hamas. In other words, the leaders had the other members of their group leave to prevent them from hearing the truth. That is my analysis.

Yet, there were at least several people in the audience who asked more sincere questions that were responded to by the panelists with the truths that revealed the overall reality of the conflict. I think these, apparently Non-activist students in the audience are more likely to have their hearts changed by the truth.

The following video is the complete panel discussion:

The Truth Will Prevail

If you care about changing somebody’s mind, then it is the individual that must take precedent in the endeavor, without becoming argumentative about the issues. This may sound counterintuitive; however, I think that it is sound advice. Let me explain why. The immediate concern is not only showing respect toward the individual that is encountered; rather, also, developing a sense of compassion within oneself for that individual.

These are not empty words; they convey my thoughts, as I prepare for an event tonight, wherein protesters may show up, and, perhaps, even try to disrupt. Moreover, I personally know some activists from about twenty years ago, who may still be active in the area where I live; because, I associated with them at the time, I have already generated a sense of compassion for them.

Yet, my own compassion for anyone who is caught up in a cult-like mentality, either unaware of the truth or unwilling to consider the truth, knows no bounds. This is because I, myself, was in a cult for ten years; and, so, I am able to better empathize with experience of others who are isolated from the greater opportunities that life offers, when an individual is autonomous, in the sense of not being ruled by a thought-system that is feeding them untruths.

One way to reach others is through what is referred to in psychology as disconfirming information. A fact, lived experience, or witnessed experience can elicit an individual to reconsider his or her viewpoints, if the initial fact or experience runs counter to the narrative that they have accepted as their own. For myself, there were a handful of experiences like this that led me to question what I had been compelled to accept; I left the cult on my own – a walk out.

For others, especially in regard to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, changing hearts may be centered primarily on providing information, that will disconfirm the viewpoints that they have. Moreover, not everyone is aware of the ramifications or full implications of what they claim to support. To get people to question their own stance is to “disarm” them, and truly free their minds.

©2023 all rights reserved

Catalyzing Change

In the film Bonhoeffer, the German anti-Nazi pastor, who founded the Confessing Church that opposed Nazism, is being compelled to join the German military resistance against the Nazis. He is hesitant at first, until he is shown secret documents and photographs detailing the atrocities committed against the Jewish people. This evidence catalyzes his conscience to accept becoming part of the resistance against Hitler. And, it is the continued documentation of the horrors of the Holocaust that serve as a testimony to the horrendous crimes of the Nazis.

Flash forward to the current cultural climate, wherein the atrocities of Hamas are being ignored, denied, and overlooked in favor of ideological deception. What will it take to compel others to see the ugly truth? As awful as the evidence is to view, if this is what it takes to incline others to reconsider their support for Hamas, and vilification of Israel, then it may be a necessary step, in order to promote moral clarity.

If the Leftist ideologues and pawns are able to still have their conscience twinged, then, perhaps there is hope for some of them. They are awash in a sea of inhumanity, perhaps, without realizing that their own inhumanity is seriously at risk. Change starts within a person, inasmuch that his or her beliefs can be challenged. This is a must, to make the effort to bring the truth to those who have been deceived, as well as challenge the deceivers (read: “ideologues”).

In regard to intervening, when attempting to compel someone in a cult to “wake up to the agenda” and lies of the group, it is necessary to present the evidence that will serve as “disconfirming information,” in that person’s belief system, in order to compel that person to see the light. That is what must also be done for those who are caught up in the cult of the so-called social justice movement commonly referred to as Wokism.

©2023 all rights reserved

Taanis Esther 5783

“‘Think not with thyself that thou shalt escape in the king’s house, more than all the Jews.  For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then will relief and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place, but thou and thy father’s house will perish; and who knoweth whether thou art not come to royal estate for such a time as this?’”  – Esther 4:13-14, JPS 1917 Tanach

“There is no man who has not his hour, and no thing that has not its place.” – Pirkei Avos 4:3

Esther petitioned King Ahasuerus to spare her people.  She, her maidens, and the Jewish people fasted for three days, before she approached the King.  She was risking her life, in doing so, because, no one could approach the king without permission.  Yet, she was emboldened to approach him, after fasting, with all of her people in support of her. 

Queen Esther was given her moment: “who knoweth whether thou art not come to royal estate for such a time as this?”  H’Shem arranges the remedy, before the sickness (Talmud). Esther was made queen, before Haman hatched his plan to eliminate the Jewish people. Thank G-d. And, may we also see hidden remedies revealed as miracles, speedily in our days.

Ultimately, we have H’Shem to seek as a refuge, both then and now; we should not take His shield of protection for granted; our refuge and fortress in Whom we trust (Psalm 91:2).  We should seek Him in all of our trials and tribulations, keeping in mind that He is the Source of our well-being. Especially, at this time to remember our brothers and sisters in peril, is an obligation and responsibility of K’lal Yisrael.

Our Responsibility to the Next Generation

“And these words which I command thee this day, shall be upon thy heart; and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children.”

– Deuteronomy 6:6-7

The future will be decided by the values, attitudes, and beliefs that the next generation upholds. If we permit ourselves to take a casual stance, in regard to how the younger generation is being taught in the public education system, than we consign even our own children to the whims of the zeitgeist, unless we educate them ourselves. Moreover, we should attempt to foster the moral values, that are being diminished in the eyes of the youth, by making an effort to raise awareness, and educate those who are being led astray.

The moral values that we uphold should be passed on to our children, as per the wisdom of instilling these values in them, so that they will go in the way of their heritage, and not depart from those ways (see Proverb 22:6).  Yet, the effort being made by the indoctrination of youth into Woke ideology in the educational systems, is competing for the souls of children, whose minds are pliable. Unless they are taught the morality that has shaped the bedrock of Western civilization, they will know of no other truths, other than what they are taught by a system that attempts to usurp the truth, morality, and ethics of Judeo-Christian belief, as well as classical antiquity.

The values being instilled in the current generation will shape society down the road, more readily than is already happening today, as a result of the cultural revolution. The stance of any individual concerned for the future, must not be complacent. Consider the ramifications of Vladimir Lenin’s remark, “Give me four years to teach the children, and the seed I have sown will never be uprooted.” This is what we have to contend with, before it is too late.

© 2023 all rights reserved

Rosh Chodesh Adar 5783

Rosh Chodesh Adar 5783: 30 Shevat – 1 Adar

Reflection on the new month: Rosh Chodesh Adar 5783

This Adar will bring the globe, including, Jewish communities around the world full circle, three times over; inasmuch, that it will have been about three years since the proliferation of the coronavirus. May H’Shem have mercy on us; may He bless our lives, family, friends, and communities. May He preserve us during the days that will follow.

For the pandemic, nor the ramifications manifest in technological innovations, as well as geopolitical concerns are still in motion. How will we respond to the inherent issues that will accompany vaccine passports, Digital I.D., and eventually a social credit scoring system for individuals, as well as businesses, corporations and universities. (ESG is already in place for these latter institutions).

For myself, I have found much opportunity for reflection, writing, and kavanah (intention) throughout these past three years. I would also recomend to others, to occupy oneself with heshbon hanefesh (literally, an accounting of the soul): To examine one’s conscience in this manner, has the potential to lead to joy down the road, after rooting out unhealthy maladaptive behaviors, negative character traits, and making an effort to do better.

Personally, I count the hours of each and every day, until evening, when I hope to have fulfilled the day’s tasks, that are expected of me from Above. Yet, there is a disconnect between my quiet, reflective way of life, somewhat isolated, and removed from the changes occurring around the globe. Even so, to remain unaware of these changes will only provide a false assumption that these changes will not impact me personally.

May we all be productive in divinely inspired ways, and ask ourselves whether the future that the world is heading toward is one that we would view as ultimately of benefit to humankind. For, utopias have been promised by many movements of past history; in these cases, the promises were never realized. Why would anyone think differently in this case, where currently it may be that we are headed toward a dystopia. Regardless, trust in G-d, His will, and purpose, that His plan will be fulfilled, irrespective of any pursuit that is counter to His divine blueprint for humanity.

The Hebrew month of Adar is traditionally associated with joy (Taanis 29a).

May our joys in life increase, despite the challenges ahead. Amein.