Jewish history

With his powerful and penetrating voice, the Maggid inspired his listeners toward divine service. 'His kingdom is everywhere, even within the shells,' he often said, motivating his followers to repentance. Here are 10 facts about the Maggid of Mezeritch.

In 1894, Herzl began his Zionist efforts. By 1897, the 'First Zionist Congress' took place. Yet, back in 1881, the 'Lovers of Zion' societies were already established. But was the idea of a state foreseen then?

Karaites created a narrative of superiority over Jews, claiming they weren't Jewish. During the Holocaust, they sought non-Jewish certificates from the Nazi regime. Many Karaites in Europe collaborated with the Nazis, informed on Jews, and even joined the Nazi military, marking their separation from the Jewish people.

Anan's followers faced a paradox that threatened the Karaite sect: If they rejected the authority of traditional sages, then Karaite scholars had no authority either, raising questions about adherence.

Exploring the Golan Heights: A Region Rich in Biblical Heritage and Modern-Day Disputes Over Security, Sovereignty, and Legacy.

The rich history of Jewish Aleppo and Damascus: A tale of rabbis, traditions, and the challenges that shaped Jewish and Israeli identity.

In the kingdom of Judah, from King David to King Zedekiah, the monarchy's line of succession was preserved from father to son for ten generations, spanning approximately 424 years. This achievement is unparalleled in global history. How did King David's lineage achieve what no other has?

Our ancestors dedicated their lives to preserving every letter and punctuation in the Scriptures, and indeed, their precision delivers the stories exactly as they were meant to be told.

Did you know the Torah scrolls aren't punctuated? So how did people know how to read them back in the day before printed books?

Rabbi Meir saw an opportunity to establish a new Jewish settlement in Israel. He reached out to Moses Montefiore, Rabbi Nathan Adler – the Chief Rabbi of London, Rabbi Yoel Moshe Salomon, and other affluent individuals. Together, they submitted a proposal to purchase lands in Jericho. Rabbi Meir suggested naming the new Jewish city 'Petah Tikva.'

Attracting a large following, Abu Isa declared himself the messiah and led a rebellion against Persian rule. By drawing a circle in the sand and swearing protection to all within, he instilled fear of sorcery among the Persians—a tactic that elevated his status.

Hashem decreed that Abraham's descendants would be strangers in a foreign land, enslaved and oppressed for 400 years. This promise of exile formed us as a nation with a mission, not merely a tribe settling in its land, building homes, and planting vineyards, potentially forgetting its purpose.

Around nine years ago, ISIS captured the city of Palmyra in Syria. The unique history of Palmyra had been forgotten for many generations. It was only in modern times that its ancient ruins began to attract tourists and archaeologists. However, those familiar with our sources can learn about the entire history of the city, originally known as Tadmor.

In the 19th century, as secularism took hold in Europe, some Jewish communities sought refuge in the spiritual sanctity of the Holy Land.

Nations were created to influence history towards a world perfected under Hashem's sovereignty. While some had brief roles, Esau—identified with Edom—has a long, complex mission.

Discover the profound legacy of Shimon HaTzadik, the revered High Priest for 40 years. This Thursday marks the anniversary of his passing on 29 Tishrei.

On his 1839 visit, Moses Montefiore envisioned leasing land from Egypt's ruler to develop Jewish agricultural settlements in what is now Israel. Discover his ambitious plans for 200 villages!

In 1389, the revocation of the Jewish protective status led to a brutal attack on Prague's Jewish quarter during Passover, infamously known as 'The Great Prague Massacre'.

During the reign of Muhammad Ali (1831-1840), Jewish immigration increased, leading to overcrowding in Jerusalem's Jewish Quarter. The Orthodox community's population doubled in the first three years, prompting new arrivals to purchase properties in the "Bab al-Huta" area, about a 45-minute walk from the Jewish Quarter.

Life in the Venetian Jewish ghetto was densely packed. As the community expanded, the space became increasingly restricted. Residents lived in cramped apartments, and the streets were crowded and bustling.