All Articles Byיהוסף יעבץ

Czar Nicholas implemented a policy requiring Jewish communities to provide a quota of soldiers. Skeptical of their loyalty, he targeted children with the infamous Cantonists' decree.

Before World War II, the Great Synagogue of Vilnius featured a rather curious sight: a massive cannonball lodged into the roof. Despite its intimidating presence, this relic of war sparked more intrigue than fear. So, what was it doing there?

Experts gathered around the discovery site, slowly revealing the full inscription. Found to be part of a mosaic floor of Ein Gedi’s ancient synagogue, the text carried warnings, threats, and a secret.

Rabbi Meir Shapiro painted a vivid picture of a Jew sailing from England to the U.S., studying a page a day, and upon reaching America, joining others in synagogue on the very same page... A scenario once thought imaginary that soon became reality.

A renowned Jewish leader stood firmly against Napoleon, even declaring war on the endeavor to fall under French rule.

A rare artifact slipped and broke in half, revealing its secrets. Experts debate its authenticity but agree it is at least a century old.

Herod, the outsider, tormented and suppressed the Jewish people in a manner unprecedented, disregarding the role of a king meant to protect rather than oppress.

The significance of recognizing divine will amidst challenges is vital. Ignoring the true cause of hardship, as warning texts suggest, can perpetuate the punishment. It's essential to be aware of what drives these occurrences – Hashem's desire to awaken us.

For thousands of years, numerous conquests and battles occurred over this land, yet no permanent settlement took hold. Unlike any other nation, much of it remained desolate and seemingly uninhabitable.

The survival of the Jewish people through centuries of persecution has no natural explanation. Just as Jacob and his descendants were spared from annihilation by Esau at the last moment, throughout history, when the spiritual heart of the nation was threatened, a path to salvation emerged.

From an unfamiliar brew to a morning staple, explore how coffee intertwined with Jewish life over centuries.

Delve into the rich history of Honi the Circle Maker's cave, once a pilgrimage site for rain prayers in Israel. Join us as we uncover its fascinating past and cultural significance.

Nestled near the tomb of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, an intriguing cave beckons with stories of miracles and ancient wisdom. Once a revered pilgrimage site, this cave is now accessible with improved facilities. Legend attributes its mystical past to the great Jewish leaders Hillel and Shammai.

In 1837, a devastating earthquake hit Safed. While the Abuhav Synagogue was destroyed, the southern wall with the ancient Torah remained intact.

A wild crowd of Muslims began to desecrate the body of Batto. Nissim Shmama, determined to prevent this outrage, sent his servants to toss coins from the windows. The crowd paused to gather the coins, allowing others to seize the body.

In the dead of night, while the terrorists guarded the tomb, the fighters arrived from behind, placing a great amount of dynamite in the sheikh's house at the village center, and then vanished into the darkness.

In 2005, Mazar's excavations unearthed a massive thirty-meter wall ending at a right angle. Pottery found within the wall predates King David, indicating it can't be later than his era. No more excuses...

Visitors to Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai's tomb encounter a small display case holding a piece of an ancient olive tree labeled "Idra Tree." What's the story behind it, and how does it connect to Rabbi Shimon's mystical Idra?

A ruthless king, aware of the consequences, hid foreign mercenaries behind the walls. They entered and killed many. Thousands lost their lives that day.

Amidst conflicts between Islam and Judaism, particularly affecting Jews in the Land of Israel, there were times when Muslims turned to Jews for prayers.