All Articles Byיהוסף יעבץ

After the year 748 CE, Tiberias, once a vibrant center of Jewish scholarship, fell silent. What happened to its sages and rich traditions?

A letter from the King of Yemen describes a rare gift he received from "Queen Judith," a legendary ruler of a vast Ethiopian kingdom south of Egypt.

Discover the grandeur of the ancient synagogue in Alexandria, so vast that special signalers waved cloths to cue the congregation for 'amen.' Join us on a historical journey.

Traveling to sacred sites during festivals required early departures, especially given the harsh winter conditions. Consequently, most journeys took place from Passover to Shavuot.

Bentov argued that the human consciousness, the experience of thoughts and emotions, cannot be merely the result of electrical or biological processes. Scientifically, he claimed there's something beyond in the human soul.

Despite advances in neuroscience, the true nature of human consciousness remains an enigma. It's more than neurons firing; it's the essence of our joy, sorrow, and desires.

Yosef Dhu Nuwas challenged the rule of King Kaleb of Axum, destroyed the Axumite soldiers in Yemen, and burned all the churches. He then dug a vast trench, filled it with oil, and set it ablaze.

Half a millennium ago, a Jewish man found himself granted a rare audience with Pope Clement VII in Rome. This unprecedented encounter broke new ground, as no Jew had ever spoken to the Pope directly. Who was this enigmatic figure, and what prompted his meeting with the Pope?

Suddenly a young man stood behind him and shouted, "Defend yourself! Scoundrel!" Before Petliura could respond, five bullets were unleashed, and he fell dead on the spot.

Residents considered fleeing, but escape was impossible—just sea and dunes, and snipers... 17 fell to sniper fire. Arabs attempted infiltration, were spotted and shot, but how could a small neighborhood hold out, surrounded by a sea of hostility?

Tread carefully or face the wrath of the enlightened zealots, as one professor learned when his cautious words sparked fierce backlash.

Caroline pointed to her two-year-old son, stating their obligation to ensure his safety. Walter listened, and the couple emigrated to America with their child Thomas, just before the outbreak of war. Little did they know the impact their son would have on American academia in the years to come.

After traveling the world and building successful businesses, and even founding neighborhoods in Israel, is it not time to rest? Apparently not.

Samuel was a revered intellectual. Even the barbaric tribal leaders admired him, frequently seeking his wisdom and blessings. His works are still studied in Arab educational institutions, albeit without mentioning his Jewish heritage.

Discover the intriguing history of ancient synagogues. Join us on a journey to uncover their mysteries and significance.

At the age of 42, Benjamin pondered life's true purpose within the stark landscape of Russian atheism. He knew he was Jewish and questioned why he wasn't allowed to visit his homeland, Israel. How did this conflict with Russia's ideals?

A little boy, just five years old, adorned in royal regalia. This was Faisal II, thrust onto Iraq's throne amidst a global upheaval.

Joseph son of Tovia, descended from Tovia the Ammonite, aspired to the high priesthood. Through his connections, he ousted the High Priest Honio. As High Priest, he dabbled in tax collection, marking the start of the decline of the sacred role.

Rebbetzin Mazel moved to the holy city of Tiberias as an anonymous figure. Such humility it takes, to forgo status and respect, sacrificing everything to bless the land of Israel, knowing there's nothing waiting there for her.

When did the Jewish people first establish synagogues? Join us for a journey through history.