Libi BaMizrach

The Hostage “Deal” is at the top of everyone’s mind here in Israel. As I write this essay, it is still uncertain whether the deal will go through, but everyone is torn by the prospect of a deal with ruthless Nazi-like monsters to bring some of our precious brethern home.  There is no one in Israel whose heart does not go out to the hostages and their families, who have undergone indescribable pain and suffering in the 470+ days since that accursed day of October 7, 2024. There is no one who would not be moved to tears of joy at seeing any of the hostages released and reunited with their loved ones. And yet, the hard reality is that the price currently on the table — the release of thousands of terrorists, including those who have killed, murdered, and raped; the granting of the ability for Hamas to claim victory and begin rebuilding; the withdrawal of the IDF from critically important areas; the agreement that two-thirds of the remaining hostages will not be released as part of t...

As I gaze at the lights of the Menorah on the eighth night of Chanukah, I wonder: Was Bais Hillel right? We all know about the famous machlokes (dispute) between Bais Shammai and Bais Hillel regarding the optimal way to light the Chanukah Menorah. The universal custom of the Jewish people is not just to light the bare minimum of one light per household per night but to mark the days in a special fashion. Bais Hillel, whom we follow, says that we should light in ascending order—one light on the first night, two on the second, and so on until we reach eight on the final night. Bais Shammai, however, argues the opposite—we should count down, starting with eight lights on the first night, seven on the second, and ending with one on the last night. The Gemara offers various reasons for the two opinions, but I want to focus on how the opinions are characterized. Bais Hillel hold that we should be מוסיף והולך "Mosif Veholech"— continual growth and increase,while Bais Shammai em...