All Articles Fromיהוסף יעבץ

The sense of smell reveals the essence of things without analysis, much like the way the eyes perceive the mechanics of objects. This innate ability allows us to determine whether something is good or bad based simply on its scent.

It seemed like a golden age for Jews in the Seleucid Empire, as their loyalty and tenacity were recognized. But could anything go wrong?

Lamed seeks purpose, and to understand the essence of anything, we ask "Why?" The Hebrew letter "Mem" means "what" and together with "Lamed," it forms the question "Why?"

Caught between a rock and a hard place, the Jews of ancient Israel faced increased taxes as Ptolemy III demanded more funds for his war campaigns, leading to widespread discontent.

King Khosrow was the 22nd ruler of the Sasanian Persian Empire, and many considered him the greatest, undefeated in battle. Yet, within the walls of his palace, something mysterious happened. Who dared to challenge this invincible king? The answer might surprise you.

While the elevation of the Jewish people's status following the translation and the gentiles' newfound appreciation for the Torah's teachings might seem like a cause for joy, the sages felt otherwise.

Even when planning to kill him, they said, 'Behold, here comes that dreamer.' This statement carried fear: fear of Joseph's dreams. His dreams held truth; they were destined to come true.

In swift work, the elders completed the translation in about three months, striving for accuracy to ensure the text was understandable in Greek. Aside from a few alterations they had to make, they maintained precision.

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?

Ptolemy didn't order his books online or visit a local bookstore. Instead, he dispatched hundreds of messengers around the world with a limitless budget to collect and copy wisdom.

At 33, after conquering the known world, Alexander the Great fell ill and was nearing death. When asked, "Who should succeed you?", he replied, "The best of them." Though clever, this answer sparked wars, as everyone believed themselves to be the 'best'.

Reuven felt deeply betrayed by Yosef's actions, accusing him of being a true 'slanderer.' Yosef had reported Reuven to the authorities, resulting in significant financial loss. In his defense, Yosef claimed that he feared losing his owed money once Reuven's goods left the city, justifying his actions.

While Aleph symbolizes the creative energy of the universe, Kaf represents the force shaping matter according to divine needs. The Hebrew word 'koach' (strength) illustrates this: Kaf exerts power on matter, while Chet represents the matter itself.

In the ancient world, longstanding beliefs and practices were suddenly up for debate. People began comparing cultures, giving ratings, and even suggesting changes.

The team discovered only remnants of tools and broken pottery. De Saulcy's expedition left the previous day at dusk without informing anyone.

Imagine the shock on their faces: the soldiers who captured them spoke Hebrew and proudly flew the Star of David. For a Nazi soldier, surrendering to Jews at gunpoint was the ultimate humiliation, a nightmare come to life.

The hand represents control. When an army conquers a target, they declare "The target is in our hands." When Hashem promises victory, He says "I will give it into your hand," and we say to Hashem "I am in Your hand," "In Your hand are power and might." The hand symbolizes the one who controls and determines what will happen.

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.

For generations, Greeks and Persians were locked in a fierce war—until one young man tipped the scales and altered the world's course. Meet Alexander.

While the letter 'Tet' ideally symbolizes true goodness, it often reflects human desires that may not align with the righteous path. The things considered 'good' by a person are represented by 'Tet'.