60 acast.com <![CDATA[Wandering Jews: A Travel Podcast That Entertains & Informs]]> https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs en J2 adventures travel,self-help,Jewish J2 adventures Travel far enough and you meet yourself Welcome to Wandering Jews, our J2 adventures. podcast!

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Jewish experiential travel as we traverse the globe.

Whether it’s the ancient streets of Jerusalem or the historic charm of Toledo, each episode offers a fresh perspective and a deeper connection to the Jewish story.


See more at j2adventures.com

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]]> Welcome to Wandering Jews, our J2 adventures. podcast!

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Jewish experiential travel as we traverse the globe.

Whether it’s the ancient streets of Jerusalem or the historic charm of Toledo, each episode offers a fresh perspective and a deeper connection to the Jewish story.


See more at j2adventures.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> false J2 adventures connect@j2adventures.com 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs episodic https://assets.pippa.io/shows/cover/1711869293631-a6f5066dfbc34c5ba4e6ed4a279b54aa.jpeg https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs <![CDATA[Wandering Jews: A Travel Podcast That Entertains & Informs]]> Ketef Hinnom – Treasures Worth More Than Gold Ketef Hinnom – Treasures Worth More Than Gold Mon, 30 Mar 2026 12:11:05 GMT 30:59 69ca59a98fc1c62479eb2b77 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/ketef-hinnom-treasures-worth-more-than-gold 69ca59a98fc1c62479eb2b77 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b ketef-hinnom-treasures-worth-more-than-gold full 1 44 Journey with us to Ketef Hinnom, where a restless teenager, a collapsed tomb, and two tiny silver scrolls opened a window onto the oldest biblical text ever found—and a Jerusalem far more complex than skeptics imagined. This archaeological thriller reveals how memory, mystery, and the human need for blessing converge in a burial cave that bridges ancient faith and modern identity. Join as we uncover a story that proves some words - and some blessings - can survive.

 

Links for Additional Readings:

 

“In Memoriam: Prof. Gabriel Barkay, Dean of Biblical Archaeology (1944–2026)” – Armstrong Institute

https://armstronginstitute.org/1410-in-memoriam-prof-gabriel-barkay-dean-of-biblical-archaeology-1944-ndash-2026

 

“The Ketef Hinnom Scrolls: Earliest Biblical Text Ever Discovered!” – Armstrong Institute

https://armstronginstitute.org/1123-the-ketef-hinnom-scrolls-earliest-biblical-text-ever-discovered

 

“Priestly Benediction on Amulets,” Israel Museum

https://www.imj.org.il/en/collections/198069-0

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]]> Journey with us to Ketef Hinnom, where a restless teenager, a collapsed tomb, and two tiny silver scrolls opened a window onto the oldest biblical text ever found—and a Jerusalem far more complex than skeptics imagined. This archaeological thriller reveals how memory, mystery, and the human need for blessing converge in a burial cave that bridges ancient faith and modern identity. Join as we uncover a story that proves some words - and some blessings - can survive.

 

Links for Additional Readings:

 

“In Memoriam: Prof. Gabriel Barkay, Dean of Biblical Archaeology (1944–2026)” – Armstrong Institute

https://armstronginstitute.org/1410-in-memoriam-prof-gabriel-barkay-dean-of-biblical-archaeology-1944-ndash-2026

 

“The Ketef Hinnom Scrolls: Earliest Biblical Text Ever Discovered!” – Armstrong Institute

https://armstronginstitute.org/1123-the-ketef-hinnom-scrolls-earliest-biblical-text-ever-discovered

 

“Priestly Benediction on Amulets,” Israel Museum

https://www.imj.org.il/en/collections/198069-0

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]]> Berlin’s Museum Island – A Dream of Home and the Cracks in the Walls Berlin’s Museum Island – A Dream of Home and the Cracks in the Walls Mon, 09 Mar 2026 08:00:00 GMT 37:13 69ad900af6d1583bb84ccd27 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/berlins-museum-island-a-dream-of-home-and-the-cracks-in-the 69ad900af6d1583bb84ccd27 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b berlins-museum-island-a-dream-of-home-and-the-cracks-in-the full 1 43 Step onto Berlin’s Museum Island, where the Enlightenment dreamed of a universal home for human creativity—and where Jews helped shape that vision with boldness, generosity, and imagination. Yet amid its temples of art and reason, the island also reveals the cracks: the shadows of exclusion, erasure, and the breaking of the very ideals it sought to enshrine.

Join J2 Adventures’ Wandering Jews as we explore a place that inspires the human spirit, even as it exposes the profound limits of the Enlightenment’s promise.

 

Links for Additional Readings:

The James-Simon-Galerie – Official Overview (Museumsinsel Berlin)

https://www.museumsinsel-berlin.de/en/buildings/james-simon-galerie/

 

Haskalah / Jewish Enlightenment – Jewish Museum Berlin

https://www.jmberlin.de/en/topic-haskalah-enlightenment

 

“James Simon: Art Collector & Owner of the Nefertiti Bust” – The Collector

https://www.thecollector.com/james-simon-a-generous-patron-of-the-arts-and-modest-social-benefactor/

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]]> Step onto Berlin’s Museum Island, where the Enlightenment dreamed of a universal home for human creativity—and where Jews helped shape that vision with boldness, generosity, and imagination. Yet amid its temples of art and reason, the island also reveals the cracks: the shadows of exclusion, erasure, and the breaking of the very ideals it sought to enshrine.

Join J2 Adventures’ Wandering Jews as we explore a place that inspires the human spirit, even as it exposes the profound limits of the Enlightenment’s promise.

 

Links for Additional Readings:

The James-Simon-Galerie – Official Overview (Museumsinsel Berlin)

https://www.museumsinsel-berlin.de/en/buildings/james-simon-galerie/

 

Haskalah / Jewish Enlightenment – Jewish Museum Berlin

https://www.jmberlin.de/en/topic-haskalah-enlightenment

 

“James Simon: Art Collector & Owner of the Nefertiti Bust” – The Collector

https://www.thecollector.com/james-simon-a-generous-patron-of-the-arts-and-modest-social-benefactor/

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]]> Don Quixote: An Honorary Member of the Tribe? Don Quixote: An Honorary Member of the Tribe? Mon, 16 Feb 2026 08:00:00 GMT 33:03 697f53389718228b6fd38927 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/don-quixote-an-honorary-member-of-the-tribe 697f53389718228b6fd38927 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b don-quixote-an-honorary-member-of-the-tribe full 1 42 Our journey begins in Madrid’s Plaza de España, standing before the weathered bronze figures of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza as Miguel de Cervantes watches from above. We explore why this "Impossible Dreamer" became a profound symbol for the Jewish experience, from the 19th-century Yiddish schlemiel to the "Prince of Dreams" in modern Israeli pop. From the shadow of the Expulsion to the stages of Broadway, we trace the knight’s journey and the "messianic yearning" that makes this 400-year-old character feel like a member of the Tribe.

 

Links for Additional Reading

The Secret Jewish History of Don Quixote by Benjamin Ivry (The Forward, 17 February 2014)

Why You Should Read ‘Don Quixote’? by Ilan Stevens (Ted Ed, 18 October 2018)

Don Quixote: An Honorary Wandering Jews – A Spotify Playlist

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]]> Our journey begins in Madrid’s Plaza de España, standing before the weathered bronze figures of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza as Miguel de Cervantes watches from above. We explore why this "Impossible Dreamer" became a profound symbol for the Jewish experience, from the 19th-century Yiddish schlemiel to the "Prince of Dreams" in modern Israeli pop. From the shadow of the Expulsion to the stages of Broadway, we trace the knight’s journey and the "messianic yearning" that makes this 400-year-old character feel like a member of the Tribe.

 

Links for Additional Reading

The Secret Jewish History of Don Quixote by Benjamin Ivry (The Forward, 17 February 2014)

Why You Should Read ‘Don Quixote’? by Ilan Stevens (Ted Ed, 18 October 2018)

Don Quixote: An Honorary Wandering Jews – A Spotify Playlist

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]]> Architecture of Aspirations: The Jewish and Democratic Heart of Jerusalem Architecture of Aspirations: The Jewish and Democratic Heart of Jerusalem Mon, 26 Jan 2026 08:00:00 GMT 32:29 697639ab6c5100c2bb41e681 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/architecture-of-aspirations-the-jewish-and-democratic-heart 697639ab6c5100c2bb41e681 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b architecture-of-aspirations-the-jewish-and-democratic-heart full 1 41 Discover how the Israeli Supreme Court’s design serves as a "physical articulation" of the state’s democratic architecture and the values it aspires to uphold. From the "square" of human law to the "circle" of timeless justice, we explore a building rooted in Jerusalem stone yet open to the future. Join us as we discuss how this landmark translates the ancient command "Justice, justice shall you pursue" into a modern judicial shield for all inhabitants.

 

Links for Additional Reading

The Israel Supreme Court – A Virtual Tour

Jewish or Democratic? Israel’s Former Top Judge Reflects on Values, Aharon Barak, My Jewish Learning

The Israel Religious Action Center

The Israel Democracy Institute

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]]> Discover how the Israeli Supreme Court’s design serves as a "physical articulation" of the state’s democratic architecture and the values it aspires to uphold. From the "square" of human law to the "circle" of timeless justice, we explore a building rooted in Jerusalem stone yet open to the future. Join us as we discuss how this landmark translates the ancient command "Justice, justice shall you pursue" into a modern judicial shield for all inhabitants.

 

Links for Additional Reading

The Israel Supreme Court – A Virtual Tour

Jewish or Democratic? Israel’s Former Top Judge Reflects on Values, Aharon Barak, My Jewish Learning

The Israel Religious Action Center

The Israel Democracy Institute

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]]> From Bouzouki to Belonging: The Sound of Greece Heard All The Way to Israel From Bouzouki to Belonging: The Sound of Greece Heard All The Way to Israel Mon, 12 Jan 2026 08:00:00 GMT 35:37 695f8335410e1f159314931c false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/from-bouzouki-to-belonging-the-sound-of-greece-heard-all-the 695f8335410e1f159314931c 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b from-bouzouki-to-belonging-the-sound-of-greece-heard-all-the full 1 40 Greek music fills Israeli weddings, cafés, and stadiums — but why? Israel doesn’t just listen to Greek music; it needs it. Listen to ‘Wandering Jews’ as we uncover how a “foreign” sound became a cultural safe harbor, revealing the Israeli search for identity and belonging. Through stories of exile, trauma, and survival, Greek music became a borrowed and reimagined sound of a Mediterranean home. What we listen to, it turns out, tells us who we want to be.

 

Links for Additional Readings:

Rosa Eskenazi, The Shalvi/Hyman Encyclopedia of Jewish Women

Yehuda Poliker – My Eyes

The Mediterranean Israeli Identity, A.B. Yehoshua, the European Institute of the Mediterranean

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]]> Greek music fills Israeli weddings, cafés, and stadiums — but why? Israel doesn’t just listen to Greek music; it needs it. Listen to ‘Wandering Jews’ as we uncover how a “foreign” sound became a cultural safe harbor, revealing the Israeli search for identity and belonging. Through stories of exile, trauma, and survival, Greek music became a borrowed and reimagined sound of a Mediterranean home. What we listen to, it turns out, tells us who we want to be.

 

Links for Additional Readings:

Rosa Eskenazi, The Shalvi/Hyman Encyclopedia of Jewish Women

Yehuda Poliker – My Eyes

The Mediterranean Israeli Identity, A.B. Yehoshua, the European Institute of the Mediterranean

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]]> The Storytelling Tree: The Knesset Menorah and the Roots of Inspiration The Storytelling Tree: The Knesset Menorah and the Roots of Inspiration Mon, 29 Dec 2025 08:00:00 GMT 22:10 69522a0d09314afbecf127a7 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/the-storytelling-tree-the-knesset-menorah-and-the-roots-of-i 69522a0d09314afbecf127a7 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b the-storytelling-tree-the-knesset-menorah-and-the-roots-of-i full 1 39 Join us at “Wandering Jews” as we step beneath the branches of Israel’s “Storytelling Tree”—the Knesset Menorah—and uncover the roots that nourish a nation’s identity. From biblical heroes to modern pioneers, this monumental sculpture weaves centuries of struggle, hope, and renewal into bronze. Explore how art, memory, and moral vision intertwine to shape Israel’s civic heart.

 

Links for Additional Reading

The Knesset Menorah, Wikipedia (including pictures)

The Man Who Made The Menorah, Eli Abt, The Jewish Chronicle December 7, 2023 

The Story Of The Menorah: From Temple To State Seal, Yael Steiner and Jonathan Schwab, Unpacked

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]]> Join us at “Wandering Jews” as we step beneath the branches of Israel’s “Storytelling Tree”—the Knesset Menorah—and uncover the roots that nourish a nation’s identity. From biblical heroes to modern pioneers, this monumental sculpture weaves centuries of struggle, hope, and renewal into bronze. Explore how art, memory, and moral vision intertwine to shape Israel’s civic heart.

 

Links for Additional Reading

The Knesset Menorah, Wikipedia (including pictures)

The Man Who Made The Menorah, Eli Abt, The Jewish Chronicle December 7, 2023 

The Story Of The Menorah: From Temple To State Seal, Yael Steiner and Jonathan Schwab, Unpacked

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Find more at j2adventures.com

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]]> Ramle At the Crossroads: Choices Made and Challenges Ahead Ramle At the Crossroads: Choices Made and Challenges Ahead Mon, 15 Dec 2025 08:00:00 GMT 20:46 68f5db68842e1823cc27dd1a false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/ramle-at-the-crossroads-choices-made-and-challenges-ahead 68f5db68842e1823cc27dd1a 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b ramle-at-the-crossroads-choices-made-and-challenges-ahead full 1 38 *Ramle* is an ancient crossroads, shaped by numerous empires along the historic ‘Way of the Sea.’ Its history and human mosaic highlights a modern reality: it is one of Israel’s most heterogenous cities, where a diverse *Jewish majority* lives alongside a significant *Arab minority*. The city's vibrant tension yesterday and today is a microcosm of the larger challenges and potential of Jewish-Arab coexistence within Israel.


Wandering Jews will visit Ramle and probe lessons in how the past's multicultural mosaic continues to inform the present's complex politics and aspirations for a shared tomorrow.

 

Links for Additional Reading:

Migration Patterns in Mixed Cities in Israel: Socioeconomic Perspectives, The Taub Center for Social Policy Studies in Israel

The Municipality of Ramla – Financial Status and Human Capital Management, The Israel State Comptroller

Archaeology in Israel: Ramla, Jewish Virtual Library

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]]> *Ramle* is an ancient crossroads, shaped by numerous empires along the historic ‘Way of the Sea.’ Its history and human mosaic highlights a modern reality: it is one of Israel’s most heterogenous cities, where a diverse *Jewish majority* lives alongside a significant *Arab minority*. The city's vibrant tension yesterday and today is a microcosm of the larger challenges and potential of Jewish-Arab coexistence within Israel.


Wandering Jews will visit Ramle and probe lessons in how the past's multicultural mosaic continues to inform the present's complex politics and aspirations for a shared tomorrow.

 

Links for Additional Reading:

Migration Patterns in Mixed Cities in Israel: Socioeconomic Perspectives, The Taub Center for Social Policy Studies in Israel

The Municipality of Ramla – Financial Status and Human Capital Management, The Israel State Comptroller

Archaeology in Israel: Ramla, Jewish Virtual Library

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Find more at j2adventures.com

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]]> Vienna and Its Jewish Luminaries: Insiders-Outsiders in the City of Dreams Vienna and Its Jewish Luminaries: Insiders-Outsiders in the City of Dreams Mon, 01 Dec 2025 08:00:00 GMT 22:57 68f5db29888566c5b0a8844f false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/vienna-and-its-jewish-luminaries-insiders-outsiders-in-the-c 68f5db29888566c5b0a8844f 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b vienna-and-its-jewish-luminaries-insiders-outsiders-in-the-c full 1 37 Explore the dramatic irony of turn-of-the-century Vienna, a city that both nurtured titans of Jewish thought and art—from Freud to Mahler—and became the hotbed for modern, racial antisemitism. Discover how Jewish luminaries defined Viennese modernity while simultaneously facing an increasingly hostile political and social climate.

 

This episode delves into the genius and the heartbreak of the "Wandering Jews" whose contributions and fates molded and reflected the modern European experience.

 

Links for Additional Reading:

Our City! Jewish Vienna - Then to Now, The Vienna Jewish Museum

Ambivalent Modernity: the Jewish Population in Vienna by Albert Lichtblau, Issues in Contemporary Jewish History

How To Deal With Anti-Semitic Legacies And Historically Burdened Places In Public Urban Spaces? The Case Of The Lueger Monument In Vienna, OppAttune

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]]> Explore the dramatic irony of turn-of-the-century Vienna, a city that both nurtured titans of Jewish thought and art—from Freud to Mahler—and became the hotbed for modern, racial antisemitism. Discover how Jewish luminaries defined Viennese modernity while simultaneously facing an increasingly hostile political and social climate.

 

This episode delves into the genius and the heartbreak of the "Wandering Jews" whose contributions and fates molded and reflected the modern European experience.

 

Links for Additional Reading:

Our City! Jewish Vienna - Then to Now, The Vienna Jewish Museum

Ambivalent Modernity: the Jewish Population in Vienna by Albert Lichtblau, Issues in Contemporary Jewish History

How To Deal With Anti-Semitic Legacies And Historically Burdened Places In Public Urban Spaces? The Case Of The Lueger Monument In Vienna, OppAttune

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Find more at j2adventures.com

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]]> Whiskey Jews: Spirited Stories And A Different Kind Of L’Chaim Whiskey Jews: Spirited Stories And A Different Kind Of L’Chaim Mon, 17 Nov 2025 08:00:00 GMT 28:24 68f5daf480f2667740136ff6 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/whiskey-jews-spirited-stories-and-a-different-kind-of-lchaim 68f5daf480f2667740136ff6 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b whiskey-jews-spirited-stories-and-a-different-kind-of-lchaim full 1 36 From the misty glens of Scotland to the hidden speakeasies of Prohibition America, Jews have shaped the story of whiskey in surprising ways. In this episode, we trace the historic roots of Jewish involvement in the global whiskey trade, uncover the families and fortunes behind the barrels, and ask a question that blends law and spirit: what blessing do you say over a glass of whiskey? And what famous fictional whiskey Jew was created by James Joyce?

Lior Hochberg - a J2 tour educator and travel expert - will share her work as a volunteer and champion of a vocational school for women exiting prostitution and abuse. Her Academy is about empowerment and building expertise through vocational and life training. Listen to Lior and learn more about Her Academy at - https://www.heracademy.org.il/

 

Links for Additional Reading:

 

The Forgotten History of Jews in the Alcohol Industry, Joel Haber, My Jewish Learning

The History Of Jewish Bootleggers, Leah Siesfeld And Heidi Siesfeld, St Louis Light

From Bourbon to Bagels in Kentucky, Table Studios


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]]> From the misty glens of Scotland to the hidden speakeasies of Prohibition America, Jews have shaped the story of whiskey in surprising ways. In this episode, we trace the historic roots of Jewish involvement in the global whiskey trade, uncover the families and fortunes behind the barrels, and ask a question that blends law and spirit: what blessing do you say over a glass of whiskey? And what famous fictional whiskey Jew was created by James Joyce?

Lior Hochberg - a J2 tour educator and travel expert - will share her work as a volunteer and champion of a vocational school for women exiting prostitution and abuse. Her Academy is about empowerment and building expertise through vocational and life training. Listen to Lior and learn more about Her Academy at - https://www.heracademy.org.il/

 

Links for Additional Reading:

 

The Forgotten History of Jews in the Alcohol Industry, Joel Haber, My Jewish Learning

The History Of Jewish Bootleggers, Leah Siesfeld And Heidi Siesfeld, St Louis Light

From Bourbon to Bagels in Kentucky, Table Studios


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]]> Mosaic of Memory: Beit Alpha and the Questions Beneath the Stones Mosaic of Memory: Beit Alpha and the Questions Beneath the Stones Mon, 03 Nov 2025 08:00:00 GMT 24:25 68f5da35888566c5b0a83d31 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/mosaic-of-memory-beit-alpha-and-the-questions-beneath-the-st 68f5da35888566c5b0a83d31 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b mosaic-of-memory-beit-alpha-and-the-questions-beneath-the-st full 1 35 In the Jezreel Valley, a 6th-century synagogue floor reveals a people rooted in their land, inscribing faith into stone. This episode explores how archaeology affirms Jewish indigeneity, why the Binding of Isaac still unsettles us, and what these ancient treasures whisper about return and belonging.

 

Links for Additional Reading:

The Beit Alpha Synagoge at Wellesley College

The Beit Alpha Synagogue National Park

Jewish Worship, Pagan Symbols, Walter Zanger, Biblical Archeological Society

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]]> In the Jezreel Valley, a 6th-century synagogue floor reveals a people rooted in their land, inscribing faith into stone. This episode explores how archaeology affirms Jewish indigeneity, why the Binding of Isaac still unsettles us, and what these ancient treasures whisper about return and belonging.

 

Links for Additional Reading:

The Beit Alpha Synagoge at Wellesley College

The Beit Alpha Synagogue National Park

Jewish Worship, Pagan Symbols, Walter Zanger, Biblical Archeological Society

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Find more at j2adventures.com

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]]> Budapest’s Dohany Synagogue: Architecture as Storytelling and Aspiration Budapest’s Dohany Synagogue: Architecture as Storytelling and Aspiration Mon, 20 Oct 2025 07:00:00 GMT 22:33 68f561fcb5743a0a564f80c3 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/budapests-dohany-synagogue-architecture-as-storytelling-and 68f561fcb5743a0a564f80c3 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b budapests-dohany-synagogue-architecture-as-storytelling-and full 1 34 In this episode of Wandering Jews, we journey to Budapest’s Dohany Synagogue, a stunning landmark that became the architectural blueprint for grand synagogues across Europe and the United States. Built in the Neo-Moorish style, the Dohany reflects a dual vision: a nostalgic nod to the Jewish Golden Age in medieval Spain and a bold architectural statement of Jewish modernity, pride, and belonging in 19th-century Europe. When is a building more than just a pile of bricks?


Links for Additional reading

Tracing the History of Budapest’s Dohany Street Synagogue, Jewish Heritage Europe 

Moorish Style: Orientalism, the Jews, and Synagogue Architecture, Ivan Davidson Kalma

The Dohany Synagogue: History, Culture, and Sacred Rituals

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]]> In this episode of Wandering Jews, we journey to Budapest’s Dohany Synagogue, a stunning landmark that became the architectural blueprint for grand synagogues across Europe and the United States. Built in the Neo-Moorish style, the Dohany reflects a dual vision: a nostalgic nod to the Jewish Golden Age in medieval Spain and a bold architectural statement of Jewish modernity, pride, and belonging in 19th-century Europe. When is a building more than just a pile of bricks?


Links for Additional reading

Tracing the History of Budapest’s Dohany Street Synagogue, Jewish Heritage Europe 

Moorish Style: Orientalism, the Jews, and Synagogue Architecture, Ivan Davidson Kalma

The Dohany Synagogue: History, Culture, and Sacred Rituals

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Find more at j2adventures.com

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]]> Tel Hai and Yosef Trumpeldor: Did He Really Say It? Tel Hai and Yosef Trumpeldor: Did He Really Say It? Mon, 22 Sep 2025 07:00:00 GMT 19:57 68cfbc22203f72ea57cc168c false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/tel-hai-and-yosef-trumpeldor-did-he-really-say-it 68cfbc22203f72ea57cc168c 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b tel-hai-and-yosef-trumpeldor-did-he-really-say-it full 1 33 In this episode of Wandering Jews, we visit the Galilee outpost of Tel Hai – the story of a battle that became legend, and the life and death of the pioneer activist Yosef Trumpeldor. The story of Tel Hai became a foundational myth of Israeli heroism, encapsulated in the phrase attributed to Trumpeldor, “It is good to die for our country.” We trace how this narrative shaped Zionist identity and military ethos and how, over time, it has been reexamined and debated by Israelis grappling with questions of nationalism, sacrifice, and the evolving meaning of heroism in a maturing society.


Links for Additional reading

Yosef Trumpeldor, Tel Aviv Streets

The Hidden American History of One of Zionism’s Foundational Battles: Tel Hai

The Secret Agreement That Shaped the Middle East, Unpacked

Kol Galgal – Lyrics in Hebrew and English (‘Something for the Road with Hillary Menkowitz)

Kol Galgal – Spotify (‘Something for the Road with Hillary Menkowitz)

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]]> In this episode of Wandering Jews, we visit the Galilee outpost of Tel Hai – the story of a battle that became legend, and the life and death of the pioneer activist Yosef Trumpeldor. The story of Tel Hai became a foundational myth of Israeli heroism, encapsulated in the phrase attributed to Trumpeldor, “It is good to die for our country.” We trace how this narrative shaped Zionist identity and military ethos and how, over time, it has been reexamined and debated by Israelis grappling with questions of nationalism, sacrifice, and the evolving meaning of heroism in a maturing society.


Links for Additional reading

Yosef Trumpeldor, Tel Aviv Streets

The Hidden American History of One of Zionism’s Foundational Battles: Tel Hai

The Secret Agreement That Shaped the Middle East, Unpacked

Kol Galgal – Lyrics in Hebrew and English (‘Something for the Road with Hillary Menkowitz)

Kol Galgal – Spotify (‘Something for the Road with Hillary Menkowitz)

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]]> Pragmatic Dreaming: The Peres Center for Innovation and Peace Pragmatic Dreaming: The Peres Center for Innovation and Peace Mon, 08 Sep 2025 07:00:00 GMT 31:59 68b84f15d6e2cdaa265518ed false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/pragmatic-dreaming-the-peres-center-for-innovation-and-peace 68b84f15d6e2cdaa265518ed 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b pragmatic-dreaming-the-peres-center-for-innovation-and-peace full 1 32 The Peres Center is more than just an interactive exhibition. It is a showcase and lab at the center of Israel’s hi-tech industry and innovation. Visiting the Peres Center inspires us to consider the ongoing relevancy of the vision of Shimon Peres and to grapple with the challenge posed by significant Israeli communities who remain under-represented in Israel’s start-up nation success. It also challenges us to ask – what does it mean to be a ‘pragmatic dreamer’ and work to build hope?

 

Links for Additional Reading


The Peres Center for Innovation and Peace

Shimon Peres – A Biographical Sketch

Employers On The Front Line: The Labor Market Put To The Test, Tasneem Na’ara, JPost

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]]> The Peres Center is more than just an interactive exhibition. It is a showcase and lab at the center of Israel’s hi-tech industry and innovation. Visiting the Peres Center inspires us to consider the ongoing relevancy of the vision of Shimon Peres and to grapple with the challenge posed by significant Israeli communities who remain under-represented in Israel’s start-up nation success. It also challenges us to ask – what does it mean to be a ‘pragmatic dreamer’ and work to build hope?

 

Links for Additional Reading


The Peres Center for Innovation and Peace

Shimon Peres – A Biographical Sketch

Employers On The Front Line: The Labor Market Put To The Test, Tasneem Na’ara, JPost

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]]> Beyond Schmaltz: The Essence of Yiddish Beyond Schmaltz: The Essence of Yiddish Mon, 25 Aug 2025 07:00:00 GMT 23:28 68ab99ae982c36846e3e2729 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/beyond-schmaltz-the-essence-of-yiddish 68ab99ae982c36846e3e2729 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b beyond-schmaltz-the-essence-of-yiddish full 1 31 For many of us, a Yiddish phrase or word reminds us of parents and grandparents who may have not been Yiddish speakers but held on to a taste of Yiddish that they inherited from their own parents and grandparents. Even when visiting Warsaw – what was the largest Yiddish-speaking city in the world before 1939 – Yiddish is no longer the language of the streets and markets, synagogues and theaters. Yet, Yiddish is more than nostalgia. It was the linguistic home that generations of Eastern European Jews inhabited. We’ll take a deep dive and look at the place of Yiddish in the dreams and fears, the triumphs and defeats of a Jewish civilization now gone… But is it?


Links for Additional Reading

Yiddish Civilisation: The Rise and Fall of a Forgotten Nation, Paul Kriwaczek

Learn Popular Yiddish Words with Amy Walker!

Yiddish is Making a Comeback, Robin Estrin, All Things Considered, NPR, 22 April 2025

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]]> For many of us, a Yiddish phrase or word reminds us of parents and grandparents who may have not been Yiddish speakers but held on to a taste of Yiddish that they inherited from their own parents and grandparents. Even when visiting Warsaw – what was the largest Yiddish-speaking city in the world before 1939 – Yiddish is no longer the language of the streets and markets, synagogues and theaters. Yet, Yiddish is more than nostalgia. It was the linguistic home that generations of Eastern European Jews inhabited. We’ll take a deep dive and look at the place of Yiddish in the dreams and fears, the triumphs and defeats of a Jewish civilization now gone… But is it?


Links for Additional Reading

Yiddish Civilisation: The Rise and Fall of a Forgotten Nation, Paul Kriwaczek

Learn Popular Yiddish Words with Amy Walker!

Yiddish is Making a Comeback, Robin Estrin, All Things Considered, NPR, 22 April 2025

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]]> The Enigma of Qumran: The Elusive Dead Sea Sect The Enigma of Qumran: The Elusive Dead Sea Sect Mon, 11 Aug 2025 07:00:00 GMT 20:35 6891b00d9e1c1309956d73c8 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/the-enigma-of-qumranthe-elusive-dead-sea-sect 6891b00d9e1c1309956d73c8 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b the-enigma-of-qumranthe-elusive-dead-sea-sect full 1 30 The story of Qumran – on the Dead Sea Shore – reveals a still unraveled historic riddle about the meanings of one of most important archaeological treasures discovered in the 20th century. In a unforgiving landscape, Qumran reveals the story of the Dead Sea Sect and their expansive hidden library. Join us to venture into the caves and between the dry riverbeds to explore the world of the Dead Sea Scrolls and the community who collected and wrote them. The first Reform Jews? The first kibbutznikim? Join us to find out.

 

Links for Additional Reading

Why Are the Dead Sea Scrolls Important With Dr. Jodi Magnes 

Led Astray By a Dead Sea Latrine, The Forward, 16 February 2007

The Shrine of the Book, The Digital Dead Sea Scrolls




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]]> The story of Qumran – on the Dead Sea Shore – reveals a still unraveled historic riddle about the meanings of one of most important archaeological treasures discovered in the 20th century. In a unforgiving landscape, Qumran reveals the story of the Dead Sea Sect and their expansive hidden library. Join us to venture into the caves and between the dry riverbeds to explore the world of the Dead Sea Scrolls and the community who collected and wrote them. The first Reform Jews? The first kibbutznikim? Join us to find out.

 

Links for Additional Reading

Why Are the Dead Sea Scrolls Important With Dr. Jodi Magnes 

Led Astray By a Dead Sea Latrine, The Forward, 16 February 2007

The Shrine of the Book, The Digital Dead Sea Scrolls




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]]> Toledo: The Lost Jerusalem of Spain Toledo: The Lost Jerusalem of Spain Mon, 28 Jul 2025 07:00:00 GMT 34:58 687f9615f6d4262b07723a7e false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/toledo-the-lost-jerusalem-of-spain 687f9615f6d4262b07723a7e 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b toledo-the-lost-jerusalem-of-spain full 1 29 The beautiful city of Toledo – perched on the hills above the Tagus River – was once home to a thriving Jewish community. However for the past 532 years – since 1492 – Jewish children do not run home to the Jewish Quarter, and shabbat hymns do not ring through the streets on Friday evenings. When we visit Toledo, we need conjure through our stories the lives that once were. In this episode, we will visit the synagogues of Toledo – no longer in the hands of a Jewish community – recall the glory that was… as well as the meanings of ownership and remembering.

 

Links for Additional Reading

Toledo: The Cultural Guide to Europe, JGuideEurope 

The Many Lives of the Synagogue El Transito, National Library of Israel 

Córdoba and Toledo: The Last Synagogues of Sepharad, SLICE

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]]> The beautiful city of Toledo – perched on the hills above the Tagus River – was once home to a thriving Jewish community. However for the past 532 years – since 1492 – Jewish children do not run home to the Jewish Quarter, and shabbat hymns do not ring through the streets on Friday evenings. When we visit Toledo, we need conjure through our stories the lives that once were. In this episode, we will visit the synagogues of Toledo – no longer in the hands of a Jewish community – recall the glory that was… as well as the meanings of ownership and remembering.

 

Links for Additional Reading

Toledo: The Cultural Guide to Europe, JGuideEurope 

The Many Lives of the Synagogue El Transito, National Library of Israel 

Córdoba and Toledo: The Last Synagogues of Sepharad, SLICE

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]]> Funny, They Don’t Look Jewish: Jewish Pirates, Sailors, and Navigators of the Mediterranean Funny, They Don’t Look Jewish: Jewish Pirates, Sailors, and Navigators of the Mediterranean Mon, 23 Jun 2025 07:00:00 GMT 32:32 68545d066800be9634248759 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/funny-they-dont-look-jewish-jewish-pirates-sailors-and-navig 68545d066800be9634248759 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b funny-they-dont-look-jewish-jewish-pirates-sailors-and-navig full 1 28 Seafaring and piracy are not the first associations that come to mind when we think of the Jews. In this episode, we will travel the Great Sea – the Mediterranean – in search of Jews who had salt water in their blood. We will sail from ancient Israel to the Middle Ages – and even revisit the question often asked – Columbus? Funny, he does not look Jewish!

 

Links for Additional Reading 

The Great Sea, David Abulafia – a Book Review (The Guardian, May 1, 2012)

Jewish Pirates of the Mediterranean, Yaakov Landman (Kankan, April 3, 2020)

Columbus and the Jews, Jonathan Sarna (Commentary, November 1992)

Fado with Lior Hochberg – A Spotify Playlist mentioned in Something for the Road

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]]> Seafaring and piracy are not the first associations that come to mind when we think of the Jews. In this episode, we will travel the Great Sea – the Mediterranean – in search of Jews who had salt water in their blood. We will sail from ancient Israel to the Middle Ages – and even revisit the question often asked – Columbus? Funny, he does not look Jewish!

 

Links for Additional Reading 

The Great Sea, David Abulafia – a Book Review (The Guardian, May 1, 2012)

Jewish Pirates of the Mediterranean, Yaakov Landman (Kankan, April 3, 2020)

Columbus and the Jews, Jonathan Sarna (Commentary, November 1992)

Fado with Lior Hochberg – A Spotify Playlist mentioned in Something for the Road

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]]> <![CDATA[Indiana Jones and the Buried City: Digging Tel Maresha & Beit Guvrin]]> Mon, 09 Jun 2025 07:00:00 GMT 38:52 684599f2b5ac093b0c6d0520 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/indiana-jones-and-the-buried-city-digging-tel-maresha-beit-g 684599f2b5ac093b0c6d0520 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b indiana-jones-and-the-buried-city-digging-tel-maresha-beit-g full 1 27 Who doesn’t love an Indiana Jones flick? The excitement of the search for treasure, the trepidation before the unknown, and encounter with long-buried stories. At Tel Maresha and Beit Guvrin – UNESCO World Heritage Sites – we will uncover the underground city and its caves, tunnels, and chambers – and share the stories of the archeological excavations and the Dig for a Day program. Join us for an adventure above and below ground… and bring your fedora. And this time – we will host a special guest – Dr. Ian Stern of the Israel Antiquities Authority and Haifa University – the archeologist responsible for the excavation and one of the founders of the Dig for a Day program.

 

Links for Additional Reading

A Dig Full of Holes, Sara Jo Ben Zvi (Segula – The Jewish History Magazine, September 2023) 

Beit Guvrin National Park Israel Nature and Parks Authority 

Israel Museum Receives Stone 'Letter,’ Etgar Lefkovits (The Jerusalem Post, May 7, 2007)

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]]> Who doesn’t love an Indiana Jones flick? The excitement of the search for treasure, the trepidation before the unknown, and encounter with long-buried stories. At Tel Maresha and Beit Guvrin – UNESCO World Heritage Sites – we will uncover the underground city and its caves, tunnels, and chambers – and share the stories of the archeological excavations and the Dig for a Day program. Join us for an adventure above and below ground… and bring your fedora. And this time – we will host a special guest – Dr. Ian Stern of the Israel Antiquities Authority and Haifa University – the archeologist responsible for the excavation and one of the founders of the Dig for a Day program.

 

Links for Additional Reading

A Dig Full of Holes, Sara Jo Ben Zvi (Segula – The Jewish History Magazine, September 2023) 

Beit Guvrin National Park Israel Nature and Parks Authority 

Israel Museum Receives Stone 'Letter,’ Etgar Lefkovits (The Jerusalem Post, May 7, 2007)

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]]> Do You Want To Know A Secret? Belmonte, Portugal And The Legacy Of Its ‘Secret’ Jews Do You Want To Know A Secret? Belmonte, Portugal And The Legacy Of Its ‘Secret’ Jews Mon, 26 May 2025 07:00:00 GMT 23:41 6832f931d67b2139b7d07756 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/do-you-want-to-know-a-secret-belmonte-portugal-and-the-legac 6832f931d67b2139b7d07756 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b do-you-want-to-know-a-secret-belmonte-portugal-and-the-legac full 1 26 High in the Portuguese mountains lies the small, inconspicuous village of Belmonte. At first glance, Belmonte possesses the local charm of many of the villages of the Senhora da Esperança range. However, the village possesses a secret dating back nearly half a millennia – a Jewish community that went underground during the Spanish and Portuguese expulsions and inquisitions – and held onto their Jewish core for centuries. Discover Belmonte and this little-known story of steadfast Jewish resistance.

 

Links for Additional Reading

Portugal, Echoes of a Jewish Past

Belmonte: A Reporter Revisits An Anusim Community

The Converso History

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]]> High in the Portuguese mountains lies the small, inconspicuous village of Belmonte. At first glance, Belmonte possesses the local charm of many of the villages of the Senhora da Esperança range. However, the village possesses a secret dating back nearly half a millennia – a Jewish community that went underground during the Spanish and Portuguese expulsions and inquisitions – and held onto their Jewish core for centuries. Discover Belmonte and this little-known story of steadfast Jewish resistance.

 

Links for Additional Reading

Portugal, Echoes of a Jewish Past

Belmonte: A Reporter Revisits An Anusim Community

The Converso History

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]]> The Start-Up Laundry: The Ayalon Institute and the Kibbutz Laundry Room that Created the State of Israel The Start-Up Laundry: The Ayalon Institute and the Kibbutz Laundry Room that Created the State of Israel Mon, 12 May 2025 07:00:00 GMT 22:44 68207603ca72734652c41c27 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/the-start-up-laundry-the-ayalon-institute-and-the-kibbutz-la 68207603ca72734652c41c27 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b the-start-up-laundry-the-ayalon-institute-and-the-kibbutz-la full 1 25 Israel has become known internationally as the ‘start-up nation’ – one of the most successful international hi-tech hubs. The Ayalon Institute – just outside of Rehovot – may have possessed the world’s only start-up laundry – an underground factory designed to produce the crucial bullets needed by the pre-state and early Israel to fight the 1948 War of Independence. How do you keep such an operation a secret? How did the Ayalon Institute reflect something about the ethos of pre-state Israel? And does some of that same ethos survive today?

 

Links for Additional Reading

The Ayalon Institute: The Secret Facility Hidden Under a Kibbutz Laundry

Why Did American Jews Smuggle Guns Into Palestine?

Israel’s Defense Industries: From Clandestine Workshops to Global Giants

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]]> Israel has become known internationally as the ‘start-up nation’ – one of the most successful international hi-tech hubs. The Ayalon Institute – just outside of Rehovot – may have possessed the world’s only start-up laundry – an underground factory designed to produce the crucial bullets needed by the pre-state and early Israel to fight the 1948 War of Independence. How do you keep such an operation a secret? How did the Ayalon Institute reflect something about the ethos of pre-state Israel? And does some of that same ethos survive today?

 

Links for Additional Reading

The Ayalon Institute: The Secret Facility Hidden Under a Kibbutz Laundry

Why Did American Jews Smuggle Guns Into Palestine?

Israel’s Defense Industries: From Clandestine Workshops to Global Giants

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]]> From Noach’s First Vine to Israel’s Finest Wines: A Sip Through Jewish History From Noach’s First Vine to Israel’s Finest Wines: A Sip Through Jewish History Mon, 28 Apr 2025 07:00:00 GMT 30:49 680620961aabee4d38ab7614 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/from-noachs-first-vine-to-israels-finest-wines-a-sip-through 680620961aabee4d38ab7614 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b from-noachs-first-vine-to-israels-finest-wines-a-sip-through full 1 24 Wine in Judaism isn’t just a drink—it’s a ritual, a symbol, and a story poured into every glass. From the vineyards of ancient Israel to today’s award-winning boutique wineries, wine has played a sacred and celebratory role in Jewish life for millennia. But how did Israel go from kiddush wine to world-class vintages? And what makes Israeli wine so special? Grab a glass as we explore the past, present, and future of Jewish wine culture. L'Chaim.


Additional reading:

https://www.jpost.com/jewish-world/judaism/the-value-of-wine

https://www.sefaria.org.il/sheets/601017?lang=bi

https://www.timeout.com/israel/things-to-do/the-israeli-wine-list

https://www.ice.edu/blog/wines-of-israel

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]]> Wine in Judaism isn’t just a drink—it’s a ritual, a symbol, and a story poured into every glass. From the vineyards of ancient Israel to today’s award-winning boutique wineries, wine has played a sacred and celebratory role in Jewish life for millennia. But how did Israel go from kiddush wine to world-class vintages? And what makes Israeli wine so special? Grab a glass as we explore the past, present, and future of Jewish wine culture. L'Chaim.


Additional reading:

https://www.jpost.com/jewish-world/judaism/the-value-of-wine

https://www.sefaria.org.il/sheets/601017?lang=bi

https://www.timeout.com/israel/things-to-do/the-israeli-wine-list

https://www.ice.edu/blog/wines-of-israel

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]]> For All Those In Need: Agriculture, Innovation, and Working for Food Justice For All Those In Need: Agriculture, Innovation, and Working for Food Justice Mon, 14 Apr 2025 07:00:00 GMT 27:24 67ee881495247131320f1c1c false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/for-all-those-in-need-agriculture-innovation-and-working-for 67ee881495247131320f1c1c 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b for-all-those-in-need-agriculture-innovation-and-working-for full 1 23 The planet Earth may not be able to support the billions who call it home. Even in the wealthiest countries, too many people are hungry. We zoom in on the Jewish experience of issues connected with food justice – from the days of the Bible and before, to modern Israeli food innovation, and including the non-profits striving to provide those in need with that most basic of rights – the right to go to sleep and wake up without hunger. Our special guest today is Joseph Gitler, the founder of Leket – a leading NGO aspiring to implement Jewish values around food access towards a healthier society in body and soul.


Links for Additional Reading (And Ways For You To Help…)

Latet - Combating poverty and food insecurity in Israel

Leket Israel - Rescuing nutritious surplus food for those in need

Pantry Packers - Providing nutritional support to Israel's neediest families


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]]> The planet Earth may not be able to support the billions who call it home. Even in the wealthiest countries, too many people are hungry. We zoom in on the Jewish experience of issues connected with food justice – from the days of the Bible and before, to modern Israeli food innovation, and including the non-profits striving to provide those in need with that most basic of rights – the right to go to sleep and wake up without hunger. Our special guest today is Joseph Gitler, the founder of Leket – a leading NGO aspiring to implement Jewish values around food access towards a healthier society in body and soul.


Links for Additional Reading (And Ways For You To Help…)

Latet - Combating poverty and food insecurity in Israel

Leket Israel - Rescuing nutritious surplus food for those in need

Pantry Packers - Providing nutritional support to Israel's neediest families


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]]> Tel Aviv: Not Just Another City Tel Aviv: Not Just Another City Mon, 31 Mar 2025 07:00:00 GMT 30:54 67e97fe7f6fbf271933f7a34 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/tel-aviv-not-just-another-city 67e97fe7f6fbf271933f7a34 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b tel-aviv-not-just-another-city full 1 22 Tel Aviv is sometimes described as just another city with no story to call its own. Today we will pull back the curtain to share the many stories and the foundational narratives that Tel Aviv told about itself through the years and the connections between story and symbol and urban planning, architecture, and design. Whether you want to call it ‘The White City’ or ‘The Big Orange’ or ‘The City That Never Stops’ – join us for a behind the scenes look at Tel Aviv and its celebration of the Zionist new normal.


Links for Additional Reading:

How Did Tel Aviv Become a Beacon For Stunning Bauhaus Architecture? Elizabeth Warkentin, Architecture + Design, 25 September 2019,

The Mythography of Tel Aviv, Maoz Azaryahu and Jonathan Silver. Mosaic, 17 November 20222

Tel Aviv: Israel's Cultural and Financial Capital, History of Israel Explained, Unpacked

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]]> Tel Aviv is sometimes described as just another city with no story to call its own. Today we will pull back the curtain to share the many stories and the foundational narratives that Tel Aviv told about itself through the years and the connections between story and symbol and urban planning, architecture, and design. Whether you want to call it ‘The White City’ or ‘The Big Orange’ or ‘The City That Never Stops’ – join us for a behind the scenes look at Tel Aviv and its celebration of the Zionist new normal.


Links for Additional Reading:

How Did Tel Aviv Become a Beacon For Stunning Bauhaus Architecture? Elizabeth Warkentin, Architecture + Design, 25 September 2019,

The Mythography of Tel Aviv, Maoz Azaryahu and Jonathan Silver. Mosaic, 17 November 20222

Tel Aviv: Israel's Cultural and Financial Capital, History of Israel Explained, Unpacked

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]]> The Divine Peak: Hermon’s Sacred Snowy Secrets The Divine Peak: Hermon’s Sacred Snowy Secrets Mon, 17 Mar 2025 08:00:00 GMT 29:35 67cdab5855101d964431f70d false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/the-divine-peak-hermons-sacred-snowy-secrets 67cdab5855101d964431f70d 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b the-divine-peak-hermons-sacred-snowy-secrets full 1 21 Mount Hermon – the eyes of Israel – has been witness to thousands of generations telling their stories throughout the ages. This single, towering peak bears the weight of countless narratives — stories of history, culture, faith from ancient times until today. Hermon is not just a place to go skiing; it’s a place where the sacred intersects with the strategic, where ancient traditions meet the present day, and where diverse communities—Jewish, Druze, Christian, and Muslim—leave their imprints on its slopes.

 

Links for Additional Reading

Mount Hermon – A General Overview

Mount Hermon – Jewish Virtual Library

Druze Lives Matter | Real Talk Marissa Streit sits with Rania Dean and Omar Nasser


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]]> Mount Hermon – the eyes of Israel – has been witness to thousands of generations telling their stories throughout the ages. This single, towering peak bears the weight of countless narratives — stories of history, culture, faith from ancient times until today. Hermon is not just a place to go skiing; it’s a place where the sacred intersects with the strategic, where ancient traditions meet the present day, and where diverse communities—Jewish, Druze, Christian, and Muslim—leave their imprints on its slopes.

 

Links for Additional Reading

Mount Hermon – A General Overview

Mount Hermon – Jewish Virtual Library

Druze Lives Matter | Real Talk Marissa Streit sits with Rania Dean and Omar Nasser


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]]> Mahane Yehuda Market: With All Five Senses Mahane Yehuda Market: With All Five Senses Mon, 03 Mar 2025 08:00:00 GMT 22:44 67bb170186a56284d0e34c6b false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/mahane-yehuda-market-with-all-five-senses 67bb170186a56284d0e34c6b 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b mahane-yehuda-market-with-all-five-senses full 1 20 Much of our consumer experience in the 21st century is antiseptic and impersonal. Visiting Jerusalem’s open air market at Mahane Yehuda is a chance to engage all of our senses, to get out and about, and see a slice of Jerusalem as it lives and breathes in all of its colors, flavors, and tastes. In this episode, we will visit the streets and alleys of Mahane Yehuda – a bit of history, a bit of culinary, and a bit of the human mosaic that makes Mahane Yehuda an exciting classroom for understanding Israeli society.

 

Links For Additional Reading

The Complete Guide to the Machane Yehuda Market

100 Years Of Photographs At Machane Yehuda Market, Israel21C, Naama Barak, 23 July 2023

Zooming In On The History Of Jerusalem's Iconic Machane Yehuda Market, i24NewsEnglish


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]]> Much of our consumer experience in the 21st century is antiseptic and impersonal. Visiting Jerusalem’s open air market at Mahane Yehuda is a chance to engage all of our senses, to get out and about, and see a slice of Jerusalem as it lives and breathes in all of its colors, flavors, and tastes. In this episode, we will visit the streets and alleys of Mahane Yehuda – a bit of history, a bit of culinary, and a bit of the human mosaic that makes Mahane Yehuda an exciting classroom for understanding Israeli society.

 

Links For Additional Reading

The Complete Guide to the Machane Yehuda Market

100 Years Of Photographs At Machane Yehuda Market, Israel21C, Naama Barak, 23 July 2023

Zooming In On The History Of Jerusalem's Iconic Machane Yehuda Market, i24NewsEnglish


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]]> African Mountains, A Crown of Flowers, and a Warrior Queen: The Jews of the North African Berbers African Mountains, A Crown of Flowers, and a Warrior Queen: The Jews of the North African Berbers Mon, 17 Feb 2025 08:00:00 GMT 29:13 67b25186a16c1d2aa556224e false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/african-mountains-a-crown-of-flowers-and-a-warrior-queen-the 67b25186a16c1d2aa556224e 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b african-mountains-a-crown-of-flowers-and-a-warrior-queen-the full 1 19 High in the mountains in a land shrouded in mystery for most of us live the indigenous peoples of North Africa – the Berbers. And alongside these proud tribespeople who call themselves – ‘the free men’ – lived the Jews of the Atlas Mountains, of the North African Berbers. Wandering Jews shares the history and stories of this unique episode in the Jewish experience and invite you to consider the borders between history and legend, and the place where these stories become part of our own Jewish memory.

 

Links for Additional Reading:

The Muslim And The Lost Jews Of Morocco, YNET News

Habrera Hativit, World Music Central

The Caliph’s House, Tahir Shah


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]]> High in the mountains in a land shrouded in mystery for most of us live the indigenous peoples of North Africa – the Berbers. And alongside these proud tribespeople who call themselves – ‘the free men’ – lived the Jews of the Atlas Mountains, of the North African Berbers. Wandering Jews shares the history and stories of this unique episode in the Jewish experience and invite you to consider the borders between history and legend, and the place where these stories become part of our own Jewish memory.

 

Links for Additional Reading:

The Muslim And The Lost Jews Of Morocco, YNET News

Habrera Hativit, World Music Central

The Caliph’s House, Tahir Shah


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]]> The Twisted Journey of the Star of David The Twisted Journey of the Star of David Mon, 03 Feb 2025 08:30:49 GMT 21:38 67a07c0690375a81fedb49b2 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/the-twisted-journey-of-the-star-of-david 67a07c0690375a81fedb49b2 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b the-twisted-journey-of-the-star-of-david full 1 18 We define our symbols and our symbols define us. When considering the Star of David as a Jewish symbol, one has to head out on a journey through the centuries and across the globe to understand how a widespread geometric configuration became such a powerful defining image of the Jewish people – to our enemies and to ourselves. Join us from Jerusalem to Rome to Morocco to Prague to Basle, Switzerland as we explore the Star of David and our Jewish journeys.

 

Links for Additional Reading

The Curious History Of The Six-Pointed Star: How The “Magen David” Became The Jewish Symbol, Gershom Scholem, Commentary, September 1949

Star of David: Birth of a Symbol – Legends vs. Facts, ANU – The Museum of the Jewish People, 1 February 2018

Star Of David, Erin Parfet, Shalom Learning Center, 4 April 2024


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]]> We define our symbols and our symbols define us. When considering the Star of David as a Jewish symbol, one has to head out on a journey through the centuries and across the globe to understand how a widespread geometric configuration became such a powerful defining image of the Jewish people – to our enemies and to ourselves. Join us from Jerusalem to Rome to Morocco to Prague to Basle, Switzerland as we explore the Star of David and our Jewish journeys.

 

Links for Additional Reading

The Curious History Of The Six-Pointed Star: How The “Magen David” Became The Jewish Symbol, Gershom Scholem, Commentary, September 1949

Star of David: Birth of a Symbol – Legends vs. Facts, ANU – The Museum of the Jewish People, 1 February 2018

Star Of David, Erin Parfet, Shalom Learning Center, 4 April 2024


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]]> Tsfat: A City Somewhere Between Heaven and Earth Tsfat: A City Somewhere Between Heaven and Earth Mon, 20 Jan 2025 08:00:00 GMT 23:15 6783b5007ba57787eb52fe0c false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/tsfat-a-city-somewhere-between-heaven-and-earth 6783b5007ba57787eb52fe0c 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b tsfat-a-city-somewhere-between-heaven-and-earth full 1 17 Considered by Jewish tradition as one of the holy cities of the Land of Israel, Tsfat’s alleys and hills welcome visitors to explore the Jewish mystical tradition as it was formulated and taught by a unique circle of 16th-century teachers, philosophers, and visionaries, including ‘The Lion’ Rabbi Isaac Luria. The “Wandering Jews” will walk with you through Tsfat and together we will uncover the secrets of a religious approach that continues to be meaningful 500 years after Tsfat’s heyday. What is mysticism? And how did a concept drawn from Jewish texts and mystical tomes become a major calling card for Judaism in the late 20th and 21st centuries?


Links for Additional Reading:

An Introduction to Jewish Mysticism, Michael Howald, Sefaria 

Kabbalah: An Overview, Joseph Telushkin, Jewish Virtual Library

The Mystics of Safed, Dan Cohn-Sherbok, My Jewish Learning


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]]> Considered by Jewish tradition as one of the holy cities of the Land of Israel, Tsfat’s alleys and hills welcome visitors to explore the Jewish mystical tradition as it was formulated and taught by a unique circle of 16th-century teachers, philosophers, and visionaries, including ‘The Lion’ Rabbi Isaac Luria. The “Wandering Jews” will walk with you through Tsfat and together we will uncover the secrets of a religious approach that continues to be meaningful 500 years after Tsfat’s heyday. What is mysticism? And how did a concept drawn from Jewish texts and mystical tomes become a major calling card for Judaism in the late 20th and 21st centuries?


Links for Additional Reading:

An Introduction to Jewish Mysticism, Michael Howald, Sefaria 

Kabbalah: An Overview, Joseph Telushkin, Jewish Virtual Library

The Mystics of Safed, Dan Cohn-Sherbok, My Jewish Learning


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]]> The Dead Sea: A Sinking Sea Awaits Rebirth The Dead Sea: A Sinking Sea Awaits Rebirth Mon, 06 Jan 2025 08:25:07 GMT 25:12 677b915a539aba773dc65e98 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/the-dead-sea-a-sinking-sea-awaits-rebirth 677b915a539aba773dc65e98 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b the-dead-sea-a-sinking-sea-awaits-rebirth full 1 16 The Dead Sea is one of the great natural wonders of the world. And the surrounding Judaean Desert has been the backdrop for some of the most exciting chapters in the history of the Land of Israel – from King David’s Ein Gedi to Qumran’s Dead Sea Scrolls, to the heights of Masada, and the pioneers of modern times. The Dead Sea is disappearing at an alarming rate – and the question is whether or not our grandchildren will vaguely remember the ‘Salt Sea’ as they stand at the edge of a salt-encrusted crater. Our episode will explore the story of the Dead Sea and the environmental challenges facing the sea and all of us.


Links for Additional Reading:

Pollution in the Promised Land, Alon Tal, California University Press, 2002

What Can We Do To Stop The Dead Sea From Dying? With UnPacked on YouTube

Land, Water And The Changing Dead Sea Environment: A Microhistory Of Kibbutz Ein Gedi, Nir Arielli, Journal of Israeli History, 2022, VOL. 40, NO. 2, 235–256

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]]> The Dead Sea is one of the great natural wonders of the world. And the surrounding Judaean Desert has been the backdrop for some of the most exciting chapters in the history of the Land of Israel – from King David’s Ein Gedi to Qumran’s Dead Sea Scrolls, to the heights of Masada, and the pioneers of modern times. The Dead Sea is disappearing at an alarming rate – and the question is whether or not our grandchildren will vaguely remember the ‘Salt Sea’ as they stand at the edge of a salt-encrusted crater. Our episode will explore the story of the Dead Sea and the environmental challenges facing the sea and all of us.


Links for Additional Reading:

Pollution in the Promised Land, Alon Tal, California University Press, 2002

What Can We Do To Stop The Dead Sea From Dying? With UnPacked on YouTube

Land, Water And The Changing Dead Sea Environment: A Microhistory Of Kibbutz Ein Gedi, Nir Arielli, Journal of Israeli History, 2022, VOL. 40, NO. 2, 235–256

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]]> <![CDATA[Golden Age Superheroes: Spain & Portugal]]> Mon, 23 Dec 2024 08:00:05 GMT 30:13 676003efa89833ab77a32679 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/golden-age-superheroes-spain-portugal 676003efa89833ab77a32679 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b golden-age-superheroes-spain-portugal full 1 15 Join us as we step into the dazzling world of Sephardic Jewry during the Golden Age; an era of tolerance and thriving creativity. Meet legendary figures like Shmuel HaNagid, Moses de Leon, and Maimonides, whose groundbreaking works - along with the rich cultural exchange between Jews and Muslims - sparked the remarkable flourishing of Sephardic Jewish civilization. Who were these Sephardic Jewish superheroes? How did the Golden Age inspire Jews centuries after the collapse of Jewish life in Iberia? And how “Golden” was the Golden Age?


Links for Additional Reading:

The Ornament of the World: How Muslims, Jews and Christians Created a Culture of Tolerance in Medieval Spain, Maria Rosa Menocal, PBS Series

Under Crescent and Cross: The Jews in the Middle Ages, Mark R. Cohen

Hebrew Poets in Old Spain, Hillel Halkin, Commentary, July/August 2007


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]]> Join us as we step into the dazzling world of Sephardic Jewry during the Golden Age; an era of tolerance and thriving creativity. Meet legendary figures like Shmuel HaNagid, Moses de Leon, and Maimonides, whose groundbreaking works - along with the rich cultural exchange between Jews and Muslims - sparked the remarkable flourishing of Sephardic Jewish civilization. Who were these Sephardic Jewish superheroes? How did the Golden Age inspire Jews centuries after the collapse of Jewish life in Iberia? And how “Golden” was the Golden Age?


Links for Additional Reading:

The Ornament of the World: How Muslims, Jews and Christians Created a Culture of Tolerance in Medieval Spain, Maria Rosa Menocal, PBS Series

Under Crescent and Cross: The Jews in the Middle Ages, Mark R. Cohen

Hebrew Poets in Old Spain, Hillel Halkin, Commentary, July/August 2007


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]]> Where Judaism’s Future Took Flight: Tzippori Where Judaism’s Future Took Flight: Tzippori Mon, 09 Dec 2024 08:00:44 GMT 29:55 674db2cc0a5f928c930fae16 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/where-judaisms-future-took-flight-tzippori 674db2cc0a5f928c930fae16 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b where-judaisms-future-took-flight-tzippori full 1 14 In this episode, we’re heading to Tzippori, an ancient city in the Galilee that became a symbol of Jewish resilience. After the destruction of the Temple and the fall of Jerusalem, Tzippori emerged as the heart of Jewish life in the land of Israel. At the helm of this transformation was Judah the Prince, a community leader, diplomat, and confidant to the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius. He is most famous, however, for codifying Judaism’s oral traditions into the Mishnah, a monumental work of five volumes, that laid the foundation for Jewish law and life for centuries to come. Join us as we explore Tzippori and uncover how this unlikely northern hilltop city helped codify a vision for the future of the Jewish people.


Links for Additional Reading:

As a Driven Leaf - A novel by Milton Steinberg, Josh Lambert

The Orchard, Yohi Brandes

Israel's Archaeological Site Zippori Calls to Jews and Christians, i24 News

The Book of Legends/Sefer Ha-Aggadah - Legends from the Talmud and Midrash, Hayyim Nahman Bialik and Y.H. Rawnitzky


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]]> In this episode, we’re heading to Tzippori, an ancient city in the Galilee that became a symbol of Jewish resilience. After the destruction of the Temple and the fall of Jerusalem, Tzippori emerged as the heart of Jewish life in the land of Israel. At the helm of this transformation was Judah the Prince, a community leader, diplomat, and confidant to the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius. He is most famous, however, for codifying Judaism’s oral traditions into the Mishnah, a monumental work of five volumes, that laid the foundation for Jewish law and life for centuries to come. Join us as we explore Tzippori and uncover how this unlikely northern hilltop city helped codify a vision for the future of the Jewish people.


Links for Additional Reading:

As a Driven Leaf - A novel by Milton Steinberg, Josh Lambert

The Orchard, Yohi Brandes

Israel's Archaeological Site Zippori Calls to Jews and Christians, i24 News

The Book of Legends/Sefer Ha-Aggadah - Legends from the Talmud and Midrash, Hayyim Nahman Bialik and Y.H. Rawnitzky


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]]> ANU: A Renewed Museum for a Renewing People ANU: A Renewed Museum for a Renewing People Mon, 25 Nov 2024 08:00:27 GMT 35:19 673c9e7eb1e4e2505ac4f555 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/anu-a-renewed-museum-for-a-renewing-people 673c9e7eb1e4e2505ac4f555 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b anu-a-renewed-museum-for-a-renewing-people full 1 13 Tel Aviv’s ANU Museum of the Jewish People shares the unparalleled story of the Jewish Experience – yesterday, today, and tomorrow. The Museum refuses to relegate the Jewish experience to a tale of tears and fears. Instead, ANU traces the diversity and plurality of Jewish life in every corner of the world where the Jewish people lived throughout the ages. ANU strives to keep it contemporary – with exhibitions dedicated to women in Jewish history, comedy as Jewish and Israeli expression, and even Jews in popular music. Visiting ANU is not only about the past; it is mainly about how we encounter and understand our own story – and share that with others – as we use the past to fuel our future.

 

In this episode, we host a special guest – Dan Tadmor – the CEO of ANU. Dan shares his take on how the museum has grown and developed, and how he and his team have turned their vision into an internationally recognised museum milestone.

 

Links for Additional Reading:

ANU – The Museum of the Jewish People

ANU, a New Museum of the Jewish People, Opens in Tel Aviv - Izabelle Taborosky, Tablet Magazine, 22 July 2022

The Story of the Jews by Simon Schama - The BBC Series based on Schama’a outstanding two volume introduction to the Jewish Story

A Short History of the Jews - Michael Brenner, Princeton University Press, 2012

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]]> Tel Aviv’s ANU Museum of the Jewish People shares the unparalleled story of the Jewish Experience – yesterday, today, and tomorrow. The Museum refuses to relegate the Jewish experience to a tale of tears and fears. Instead, ANU traces the diversity and plurality of Jewish life in every corner of the world where the Jewish people lived throughout the ages. ANU strives to keep it contemporary – with exhibitions dedicated to women in Jewish history, comedy as Jewish and Israeli expression, and even Jews in popular music. Visiting ANU is not only about the past; it is mainly about how we encounter and understand our own story – and share that with others – as we use the past to fuel our future.

 

In this episode, we host a special guest – Dan Tadmor – the CEO of ANU. Dan shares his take on how the museum has grown and developed, and how he and his team have turned their vision into an internationally recognised museum milestone.

 

Links for Additional Reading:

ANU – The Museum of the Jewish People

ANU, a New Museum of the Jewish People, Opens in Tel Aviv - Izabelle Taborosky, Tablet Magazine, 22 July 2022

The Story of the Jews by Simon Schama - The BBC Series based on Schama’a outstanding two volume introduction to the Jewish Story

A Short History of the Jews - Michael Brenner, Princeton University Press, 2012

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]]> Moisesville: A Jewish Homeland in a Spanish Translation Moisesville: A Jewish Homeland in a Spanish Translation Mon, 11 Nov 2024 08:00:00 GMT 29:44 67317cc51f785cb5714becf5 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/moisesville-a-jewish-homeland-in-a-spanish-translation 67317cc51f785cb5714becf5 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b moisesville-a-jewish-homeland-in-a-spanish-translation full 1 12 In this episode, we journey off the beaten path to Moisésville, a small town in Argentina’s vast pampas that became a beacon of hope for Eastern European Jews fleeing persecution in the late 19th century. Founded with the support of Baron Maurice de Hirsch’s Jewish Colonization Association, Moisésville was an ambitious attempt to build a new life on foreign soil, where Jewish traditions could thrive far from the pogroms of Europe. We’ll explore how this "Jerusalem of Argentina" became a hub of resilience, culture, and adaptation, reflecting the universal Jewish quest for belonging. Join us as we uncover this forgotten chapter of history and reflect on what it means to find a home in an unexpected place.


Links for Additional Reading:

The Search for an Alternative Homeland, Jewish Chronicle

How the Orient Express’s Baron Maurice de Hirsch Changed the Track of Jewish Migration, Times of Israel

The Zionist Vision, Excerpt from Theodor Herzl’s Book, “The Jewish State.”

The (Railroad) Baron, Jewish Review of Books

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]]> In this episode, we journey off the beaten path to Moisésville, a small town in Argentina’s vast pampas that became a beacon of hope for Eastern European Jews fleeing persecution in the late 19th century. Founded with the support of Baron Maurice de Hirsch’s Jewish Colonization Association, Moisésville was an ambitious attempt to build a new life on foreign soil, where Jewish traditions could thrive far from the pogroms of Europe. We’ll explore how this "Jerusalem of Argentina" became a hub of resilience, culture, and adaptation, reflecting the universal Jewish quest for belonging. Join us as we uncover this forgotten chapter of history and reflect on what it means to find a home in an unexpected place.


Links for Additional Reading:

The Search for an Alternative Homeland, Jewish Chronicle

How the Orient Express’s Baron Maurice de Hirsch Changed the Track of Jewish Migration, Times of Israel

The Zionist Vision, Excerpt from Theodor Herzl’s Book, “The Jewish State.”

The (Railroad) Baron, Jewish Review of Books

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]]> <![CDATA[The Kinneret Farm & Cemetery: Pioneers with a Sacred Stubbornness]]> Mon, 28 Oct 2024 08:00:07 GMT 29:38 6707d56f011dc7d644f335a1 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/the-kinneret-farm-cemetery-pioneers-with-a-sacred-stubbornne 6707d56f011dc7d644f335a1 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b the-kinneret-farm-cemetery-pioneers-with-a-sacred-stubbornne full 1 11 Imagine the shores of the Galilee Sea – the Kinneret – at the turn of the 20th century – a parched, blistering landscape. And the early Zionist pioneers – young people who had left Europe and their families to build the dream of a Jewish national home - had no air conditioning. We will explore the place, period, and phenomenon of pioneering. What were the hardships? And what was the dream? And where are we at today?

 

Links for Additional Reading:

Go Cemetery Hopping — It’s Not All That Grave - Jessica Steinberg, Times of Israel

Rachel Bluwstein - Dana Olmert, The Jewish Women’s Archive

The Second Aliyah - The Israel National Library

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]]> Imagine the shores of the Galilee Sea – the Kinneret – at the turn of the 20th century – a parched, blistering landscape. And the early Zionist pioneers – young people who had left Europe and their families to build the dream of a Jewish national home - had no air conditioning. We will explore the place, period, and phenomenon of pioneering. What were the hardships? And what was the dream? And where are we at today?

 

Links for Additional Reading:

Go Cemetery Hopping — It’s Not All That Grave - Jessica Steinberg, Times of Israel

Rachel Bluwstein - Dana Olmert, The Jewish Women’s Archive

The Second Aliyah - The Israel National Library

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]]> Comfort and Be Comforted: Solidarity Missions and Tour Educators Since October 7th Comfort and Be Comforted: Solidarity Missions and Tour Educators Since October 7th Sun, 06 Oct 2024 17:00:17 GMT 38:33 66fce560687515ec9410f3c1 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/comfort-and-be-comforted-solidarity-missions-and-tour-educat 66fce560687515ec9410f3c1 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b comfort-and-be-comforted-solidarity-missions-and-tour-educat full 1 10 J2 Adventures brought to Israel over ninety solidarity missions since October 7th, 2023. Communities, synagogues, and federations all came to Israel to stand with Israel and to take Israel’s story back to their families and communities.

 

In this special episode of Wandering Jews, two of our tour educators – Doron Wilfand and Lior Hochberg - will share their perspectives on their experiences over the past year, and the difficulties of telling a story that remains ongoing and painful. How does one tell a story that all of us are so much a part of?

 

Additional Resources

Mapping the Massacre – An Interactive Map Documenting the Events of October 7th

Memory & Hope: October 7, One Year Later - the Shalom Hartman Institute

Israel at War - the Institute for National Security Studies


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]]> J2 Adventures brought to Israel over ninety solidarity missions since October 7th, 2023. Communities, synagogues, and federations all came to Israel to stand with Israel and to take Israel’s story back to their families and communities.

 

In this special episode of Wandering Jews, two of our tour educators – Doron Wilfand and Lior Hochberg - will share their perspectives on their experiences over the past year, and the difficulties of telling a story that remains ongoing and painful. How does one tell a story that all of us are so much a part of?

 

Additional Resources

Mapping the Massacre – An Interactive Map Documenting the Events of October 7th

Memory & Hope: October 7, One Year Later - the Shalom Hartman Institute

Israel at War - the Institute for National Security Studies


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]]> The Israeli Breakfast: You Are What You Eat The Israeli Breakfast: You Are What You Eat Mon, 23 Sep 2024 07:00:40 GMT 26:14 66e2a737a7fe2edc9b9ea85c false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/the-israeli-breakfast-you-are-what-you-eat 66e2a737a7fe2edc9b9ea85c 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b the-israeli-breakfast-you-are-what-you-eat full 1 9 The Israeli Breakfast with its array of cheeses, spreads, breads, fresh fruit and veg is a tasty and important symbol of culinary national pride. Foodies since the 1950’s have celebrated the nearly sacred status of this buffet feast. Join us to consider the origins and contexts that cooked up this gastronomic tribute to all good things Israeli – from the kibbutzim and moshavim of the pre-state period, to the bounty of ethnic identities, to a recipe that you can make at home with a taste of Israel.

 

Links for further reading:

The Best Cookbooks for Israeli Food - Israel21C, Jessica Halfin

A Culinary Renaissance in the Israeli Countryside - Smithsonian Magazine and Travel & Leisure, Saki Knafo

Israeli Breakfast – What’s So Distinctive about It? - Israel Inside Out

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]]> The Israeli Breakfast with its array of cheeses, spreads, breads, fresh fruit and veg is a tasty and important symbol of culinary national pride. Foodies since the 1950’s have celebrated the nearly sacred status of this buffet feast. Join us to consider the origins and contexts that cooked up this gastronomic tribute to all good things Israeli – from the kibbutzim and moshavim of the pre-state period, to the bounty of ethnic identities, to a recipe that you can make at home with a taste of Israel.

 

Links for further reading:

The Best Cookbooks for Israeli Food - Israel21C, Jessica Halfin

A Culinary Renaissance in the Israeli Countryside - Smithsonian Magazine and Travel & Leisure, Saki Knafo

Israeli Breakfast – What’s So Distinctive about It? - Israel Inside Out

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]]> Herstory: Jewish Women of Berlin Herstory: Jewish Women of Berlin Mon, 09 Sep 2024 07:00:52 GMT 26:23 66d07c07f16c66f62d09438d false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/herstory-jewish-women-of-berlin 66d07c07f16c66f62d09438d 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b herstory-jewish-women-of-berlin full 1 8 The streets and parks and monuments of Berlin reveal all kinds of Jewish stories – including those of women who were pioneers and innovators in a vast breadth of fields. Join us to hear about their stories as we return ‘herstory’ to Jewish history as we walk Berlin.


Links for further reading:

The Literary Salons Of Berlin Petra Wilhelmy-Dollinger traces the history of Berlin’s salon culture from the 18th-20th century…

Hannah Arendt Stephen J. Whitfield tells the story of one of the leading intellectuals of the Twentieth Century.

As a Burning Flame: The Dream of Regina Jonas by Noa Mishkin A graphic novel exploring the life and impact of the first female ordained rabbi in Ashkenazi Jewish history.

Wandering Jews - Famous Jewish Women – A Google Map A number of sites in Berlin connected with famous Jewish women who have played key roles in writing the history of Berlin and the Jewish 'herstory' in modern times. 

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]]> The streets and parks and monuments of Berlin reveal all kinds of Jewish stories – including those of women who were pioneers and innovators in a vast breadth of fields. Join us to hear about their stories as we return ‘herstory’ to Jewish history as we walk Berlin.


Links for further reading:

The Literary Salons Of Berlin Petra Wilhelmy-Dollinger traces the history of Berlin’s salon culture from the 18th-20th century…

Hannah Arendt Stephen J. Whitfield tells the story of one of the leading intellectuals of the Twentieth Century.

As a Burning Flame: The Dream of Regina Jonas by Noa Mishkin A graphic novel exploring the life and impact of the first female ordained rabbi in Ashkenazi Jewish history.

Wandering Jews - Famous Jewish Women – A Google Map A number of sites in Berlin connected with famous Jewish women who have played key roles in writing the history of Berlin and the Jewish 'herstory' in modern times. 

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Find more at j2adventures.com

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]]> The People of the Book: Israel’s National Library The People of the Book: Israel’s National Library Mon, 26 Aug 2024 07:00:57 GMT 30:34 66ca1c321ce1e04f3de83439 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/the-people-of-the-book-israels-national-library 66ca1c321ce1e04f3de83439 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b the-people-of-the-book-israels-national-library full 1 7 A library is often seen as a quiet space, but Israel’s National Library defies that stereotype. It is a vibrant space that not only highlights the role of books in the centuries-old Jewish story but also shines a light on Jewish identity and resilience. Join us for a glimpse into this dynamic setting and explore the questions it raises about the People of the Book in our time.


Links for further reading:

The National Library of Israel

Stories from the Israel National Library on Google Arts and Culture

The Cultural Revolution at the National Library of Israel by Ruth Ebenstein

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]]> A library is often seen as a quiet space, but Israel’s National Library defies that stereotype. It is a vibrant space that not only highlights the role of books in the centuries-old Jewish story but also shines a light on Jewish identity and resilience. Join us for a glimpse into this dynamic setting and explore the questions it raises about the People of the Book in our time.


Links for further reading:

The National Library of Israel

Stories from the Israel National Library on Google Arts and Culture

The Cultural Revolution at the National Library of Israel by Ruth Ebenstein

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]]> A Never-Ending Journey: Uncovering Family Roots With David Magen A Never-Ending Journey: Uncovering Family Roots With David Magen Mon, 29 Jul 2024 07:00:30 GMT 17:12 66a634cf1ce75694ad8f1c24 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/a-never-ending-journey-uncovering-family-roots-with-david-ma 66a634cf1ce75694ad8f1c24 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b a-never-ending-journey-uncovering-family-roots-with-david-ma full 1 6 David Magen set out on a journey to uncover his family’s history. His journey spans continents, from the historic cities of Vienna and Prague to the bustling streets of Shanghai, the serene Isle of Man, and the heart of Israel. David’s dedication to tracing his family tree is not only inspiring but also highlights the intimate connections between personal histories and the broader tapestry of the history of the Jewish people. David’s excitement and commitment invites each one of us to take a journey into our own family history and memory.


Links and resources:

MyHeritage.com Family Tree Builder

Ancestry.com The world's largest collection of online family history records

JewishGen.org The global home for Jewish genealogy

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]]> David Magen set out on a journey to uncover his family’s history. His journey spans continents, from the historic cities of Vienna and Prague to the bustling streets of Shanghai, the serene Isle of Man, and the heart of Israel. David’s dedication to tracing his family tree is not only inspiring but also highlights the intimate connections between personal histories and the broader tapestry of the history of the Jewish people. David’s excitement and commitment invites each one of us to take a journey into our own family history and memory.


Links and resources:

MyHeritage.com Family Tree Builder

Ancestry.com The world's largest collection of online family history records

JewishGen.org The global home for Jewish genealogy

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Find more at j2adventures.com

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]]> The Country As Your Classroom: The Hike – the Tiyul – and Israel’s Culture of Connection The Country As Your Classroom: The Hike – the Tiyul – and Israel’s Culture of Connection Mon, 15 Jul 2024 07:00:20 GMT 27:44 668fd4a46b0a04aa58ecb965 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/the-country-as-your-classroom-the-hike-the-tiyul-and-israels 668fd4a46b0a04aa58ecb965 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b the-country-as-your-classroom-the-hike-the-tiyul-and-israels full 1 5 Few peoples traverse their homeland as Israelis do. The hike, or tiyul, is integral to the narrative of a people returning from exile, yearning to reconnect with their land. In this episode, we delve into the tiyul as a key aspect of Israel’s tradition of knowing the land, “Yediat Ha’Aretz,” and explore the profound connections between walking and memory.

 

Links for further readings:

Hiking in Israel: Why Are These Trails Different? Shay Rabineau, AJS Perspectives – The Magazine of the Association of Jewish Studies

From Backpacks To Trailblazers: A Visual History Of Hiking In Israel Gilad Carmeli, Ynetnews.com. 20 April 2023 

The Israel National Trail

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]]> Few peoples traverse their homeland as Israelis do. The hike, or tiyul, is integral to the narrative of a people returning from exile, yearning to reconnect with their land. In this episode, we delve into the tiyul as a key aspect of Israel’s tradition of knowing the land, “Yediat Ha’Aretz,” and explore the profound connections between walking and memory.

 

Links for further readings:

Hiking in Israel: Why Are These Trails Different? Shay Rabineau, AJS Perspectives – The Magazine of the Association of Jewish Studies

From Backpacks To Trailblazers: A Visual History Of Hiking In Israel Gilad Carmeli, Ynetnews.com. 20 April 2023 

The Israel National Trail

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]]> If Walls Could Talk: Exploring Ezrat Yisrael, the Kotel’s Egalitarian Enclave If Walls Could Talk: Exploring Ezrat Yisrael, the Kotel’s Egalitarian Enclave Tue, 21 May 2024 17:39:31 GMT 21:35 664cdc542830620012ed24f3 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/if-walls-could-talk 664cdc542830620012ed24f3 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b if-walls-could-talk full 1 4 Join us for a captivating exploration of Jerusalem's Western Wall, originally a retaining wall of the Temple Mount and today one of Judaism’s holiest sites, acting as a magnet for Jews and non-Jews alike from across the globe. We will be zooming in on Ezrat Yisrael, the egalitarian section that symbolizes the ongoing quest for inclusivity at this sacred site. Sorelle shares her personal journey, finding solace and connection amidst the ancient stones of the Kotel, while Scott describes the profound impact of Ezrat Yisrael on J2’s groups. Through poignant narratives, we uncover the complexities of the Kotel's role as a unifying and/or divisive force for all Jews, highlighting the challenges and aspirations of creating a space that truly belongs to all.

In today’s “something for the road,” J2‘s Rivka Brama, Head of Content and a Jerusalemite herself, shares her favorite place to hang out in Jerusalem’s city center.


Links for further reading:

How the Western Wall Became One of Judaism’s Holiest Sites: When and how did Jews begin praying at the Western Wall? Amit Naor, The Israel National Library

Welcoming Israel: A Blessing for New Jews: A Visit to Azrat Yisrael - Scott Copeland, Times of Israel

Equal Access For All Jews at the Western Wall - Israel Religious Action Committee

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Find more at j2adventures.com

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]]> Join us for a captivating exploration of Jerusalem's Western Wall, originally a retaining wall of the Temple Mount and today one of Judaism’s holiest sites, acting as a magnet for Jews and non-Jews alike from across the globe. We will be zooming in on Ezrat Yisrael, the egalitarian section that symbolizes the ongoing quest for inclusivity at this sacred site. Sorelle shares her personal journey, finding solace and connection amidst the ancient stones of the Kotel, while Scott describes the profound impact of Ezrat Yisrael on J2’s groups. Through poignant narratives, we uncover the complexities of the Kotel's role as a unifying and/or divisive force for all Jews, highlighting the challenges and aspirations of creating a space that truly belongs to all.

In today’s “something for the road,” J2‘s Rivka Brama, Head of Content and a Jerusalemite herself, shares her favorite place to hang out in Jerusalem’s city center.


Links for further reading:

How the Western Wall Became One of Judaism’s Holiest Sites: When and how did Jews begin praying at the Western Wall? Amit Naor, The Israel National Library

Welcoming Israel: A Blessing for New Jews: A Visit to Azrat Yisrael - Scott Copeland, Times of Israel

Equal Access For All Jews at the Western Wall - Israel Religious Action Committee

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Find more at j2adventures.com

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]]> The Golem of Prague (and Rehovot): Mystery, Marvels, and Modern AI The Golem of Prague (and Rehovot): Mystery, Marvels, and Modern AI Tue, 21 May 2024 17:33:39 GMT 21:11 664cdaf3ef9f82001221555d false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/the-golem-of-prague-and-rehovot 664cdaf3ef9f82001221555d 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b the-golem-of-prague-and-rehovot full 1 3 Today we're embarking on a thrilling journey into the timeless legend of the Golem of Prague and its contemporary counterpart, the Golem of Rehovot. Along the way, we'll traverse through the captivating realms of graphic novels, cinematic masterpieces, and the ever-evolving landscape of artificial intelligence. Sorelle recounts her mesmerizing encounter with the Golem of Rehovot at the prestigious Weizmann Institute of Science. Along the way, we confront profound questions surrounding control and Jewish power and responsibility from the vantage point of AI, contemporary technology, and the ongoing Hamas-Israel war.

In our “Something for the Road,” J2‘s very own Yoni Millo shares his favorite Israeli book – which can also be enjoyed as a movie!


Links for further reading:

The Golem of Prague & The Golem of Rehovoth - Gershom Scholem, Commentary Magazine, January 1966

The Maharal’s Robot - Ro Oranim

Golem - Jay Michaelson, My Jewish Learning

The Golem - Y.L. Peretz

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]]> Today we're embarking on a thrilling journey into the timeless legend of the Golem of Prague and its contemporary counterpart, the Golem of Rehovot. Along the way, we'll traverse through the captivating realms of graphic novels, cinematic masterpieces, and the ever-evolving landscape of artificial intelligence. Sorelle recounts her mesmerizing encounter with the Golem of Rehovot at the prestigious Weizmann Institute of Science. Along the way, we confront profound questions surrounding control and Jewish power and responsibility from the vantage point of AI, contemporary technology, and the ongoing Hamas-Israel war.

In our “Something for the Road,” J2‘s very own Yoni Millo shares his favorite Israeli book – which can also be enjoyed as a movie!


Links for further reading:

The Golem of Prague & The Golem of Rehovoth - Gershom Scholem, Commentary Magazine, January 1966

The Maharal’s Robot - Ro Oranim

Golem - Jay Michaelson, My Jewish Learning

The Golem - Y.L. Peretz

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Find more at j2adventures.com

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]]> <![CDATA[One Degree of Separation: Tel Aviv's Hostages Square]]> Tue, 21 May 2024 17:24:51 GMT 28:19 664cd8e39d6f810012b03719 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/one-degree-of-separation 664cd8e39d6f810012b03719 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b one-degree-of-separation full 1 2 In this episode, Sorelle visits Hostages Square in Tel Aviv for the first time, sharing her perspective as an Israeli. We explore the crisis&#39;s impact on daily life in Israel, from bumper stickers to posters, and discuss the private versus collective pain felt during this year’s Jewish holidays. The episode touches on the tradition of pidyon shvuyim (redeeming captives) and global prayers, showcasing civilian resilience and hope. May all our brothers and sisters be returned safely from captivity.

On a lighter note, in today’s “something for the road,” Rabbi Don Goor, J2’s rabbinic liaison, shares his favorite Tel Aviv restaurant.


Links for further reading:

Redemption of Captives – Jewish Sources - Sefaria - A Living Library of Torah

Bring Them Home Now - The Hostages Forum

A Majority of Jewish Israelis See a Hostage Deal as a Higher National Priority Than Military Action in Rafah - Israel Democracy Institute

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Find more at j2adventures.com

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]]> In this episode, Sorelle visits Hostages Square in Tel Aviv for the first time, sharing her perspective as an Israeli. We explore the crisis&#39;s impact on daily life in Israel, from bumper stickers to posters, and discuss the private versus collective pain felt during this year’s Jewish holidays. The episode touches on the tradition of pidyon shvuyim (redeeming captives) and global prayers, showcasing civilian resilience and hope. May all our brothers and sisters be returned safely from captivity.

On a lighter note, in today’s “something for the road,” Rabbi Don Goor, J2’s rabbinic liaison, shares his favorite Tel Aviv restaurant.


Links for further reading:

Redemption of Captives – Jewish Sources - Sefaria - A Living Library of Torah

Bring Them Home Now - The Hostages Forum

A Majority of Jewish Israelis See a Hostage Deal as a Higher National Priority Than Military Action in Rafah - Israel Democracy Institute

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Find more at j2adventures.com

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]]> David Ben Gurion’s Negev: Israel’s Now-Blossoming, No-Longer-Forgotten, Backyard David Ben Gurion’s Negev: Israel’s Now-Blossoming, No-Longer-Forgotten, Backyard Tue, 21 May 2024 17:19:48 GMT 30:33 664cd7b5ef9f82001220b2ae false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/david-ben-gurions-negev 664cd7b5ef9f82001220b2ae 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b david-ben-gurions-negev full 1 1 In this episode, we uncover the remarkable life and legacy of David Ben Gurion, a towering figure in Israeli history whose visionary leadership continues to shape

the nation to this day. From his humble beginnings to his pivotal role in founding the State of Israel, we explore his incredible achievements. We also reflect on Ben

Gurion&#39;s profound vision for the Negev, Israel's once "forgotten backyard," that is now flourishing but still faces ongoing challenges as we strive to perpetuate his

vision and commitment.

In “something for the road,” Shira Kleinman, J2’s Tour Educator and Senior Project Manager, shares her favorite Israeli radio station and her favorite Israeli artist.


Links for further reading:

The Vision Of David Ben Gurion In 2024 - I24News

Ben-Gurion: Father of Modern Israel – A Book Review - Fathom

David Ben-Gurion – The Man and His Legacy - Ruth Levush, The Library of Congress


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]]> In this episode, we uncover the remarkable life and legacy of David Ben Gurion, a towering figure in Israeli history whose visionary leadership continues to shape

the nation to this day. From his humble beginnings to his pivotal role in founding the State of Israel, we explore his incredible achievements. We also reflect on Ben

Gurion&#39;s profound vision for the Negev, Israel's once "forgotten backyard," that is now flourishing but still faces ongoing challenges as we strive to perpetuate his

vision and commitment.

In “something for the road,” Shira Kleinman, J2’s Tour Educator and Senior Project Manager, shares her favorite Israeli radio station and her favorite Israeli artist.


Links for further reading:

The Vision Of David Ben Gurion In 2024 - I24News

Ben-Gurion: Father of Modern Israel – A Book Review - Fathom

David Ben-Gurion – The Man and His Legacy - Ruth Levush, The Library of Congress


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]]> Welcome to Wandering Jews: Travel the world and discover yourself Welcome to Wandering Jews: Travel the world and discover yourself Tue, 21 May 2024 17:09:32 GMT 1:08 664cd54d4f58ea0012dd4d07 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/welcome-to-wandering-jews 664cd54d4f58ea0012dd4d07 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b welcome-to-wandering-jews trailer 1

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]]>

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn!


Find more at j2adventures.com

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]]> The Road Less Traveled: Confronting Our Inner Goliath The Road Less Traveled: Confronting Our Inner Goliath Wed, 10 Apr 2024 18:48:14 GMT 22:22 66093446d82156001622b798 false https://shows.acast.com/wandering-jews-a-travel-podcast-that-entertains-informs/episodes/the-road-less-traveled-confronting-our-inner-goliath 66093446d82156001622b798 66090fcf7aefcb0016583e6b the-road-less-traveled-confronting-our-inner-goliath bonus 1 In this episode, we're flipping the script on travel with a wild journey of self-discovery down the road less traveled. We're veering off the beaten path and, through the lens of famous Biblical figures, like Abraham and Sarah, David and Goliath, we uncover surprising insights about ourselves. In “Something for the Road,” Scott shares a gem from his bookshelf while Sorelle offers an unconventional addition to your travel toolkit. Join us as we unearth the hidden quirks of our ancestors and ourselves, revealing layers of Jewish identity and connection along the way.


Links for further reading:

J 2 Adventures – Resources

Jewish Journeys by Jeremy Leigh – A Book Review - Maron L. Waxman, The Jewish Book Council

Jews and Journeys: Travel and the Performance of Jewish Identity - Joshua Levinson & Orit Bashkin, 2021

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Find more at j2adventures.com

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]]> In this episode, we're flipping the script on travel with a wild journey of self-discovery down the road less traveled. We're veering off the beaten path and, through the lens of famous Biblical figures, like Abraham and Sarah, David and Goliath, we uncover surprising insights about ourselves. In “Something for the Road,” Scott shares a gem from his bookshelf while Sorelle offers an unconventional addition to your travel toolkit. Join us as we unearth the hidden quirks of our ancestors and ourselves, revealing layers of Jewish identity and connection along the way.


Links for further reading:

J 2 Adventures – Resources

Jewish Journeys by Jeremy Leigh – A Book Review - Maron L. Waxman, The Jewish Book Council

Jews and Journeys: Travel and the Performance of Jewish Identity - Joshua Levinson & Orit Bashkin, 2021

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn!


Find more at j2adventures.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]>