American Jews with roots in Syria followed the recent revolution there and dreamt of returning, if only to visit. Some also hope it heralds a change in Syrian policy toward Israel.
Rescuing Hidden Treasures: Surprises Found Inside Book Bindings
The practice of bookbinders repurposing worn-out pages as binding material has, paradoxically, played a crucial role in preserving rare texts. One such example—a 16th-century manuscript—was recently uncovered inside a book binding kept at the National Library.
When Ofra Haza Took America by Storm
The Israeli singing legend embraced her Jewish-Yemenite roots through her music and managed to connect with a vast global audience, particularly in the United States.
Seven Torah Scrolls in the Mosque Wall
Forced conversions of Jews are often associated with the Middle Ages, yet the case of the “Anusim” (forced converts) of Mashhad in northern Iran occured in the 19th century. Some of them even made their way later to the Land of Israel. This is a story of secret identities put to the test and a community that defied the odds to survive.
What Happened to the Thorny Lovers’ Garden of Kibbutz Nir Oz?
A 50-year-old news article illuminates the deep bond between Oded and Yocheved Lifshitz from Nir Oz, who nurtured not only their love but also a unique and remarkable garden in their kibbutz. Both were abducted from their home on October 7, and now Yocheved waits for her beloved Oded’s return.
The Baal Shem Tov, Rabbi Joseph Knafo, and Moses Montefiore Meet in Morocco
No, this isn’t the start of a joke but rather an inspiring story about the meeting between the famous British-Jewish philanthropist and the Moroccan rabbi—and how it all connects to a letter preserved at the National Library of Israel.
Did It Exist or Not? The Missing Order of the Jerusalem Talmud
Discoveries and disappointments, rumors and accusations, fraudsters and conspiracies—along with an adventurous journey across the dusty roads of Turkey. This is the story of a controversy that shook the world of Torah study and academic research 120 years ago.
Walter Trier: The Jewish Illustrator Who Depicted Germany at Its Best
You likely know Walter Trier’s illustrations—even if his name doesn’t ring a bell. For many, the characters and landscapes he brought to life have been etched into memory through countless childhood readings of “Emil and the Detectives,” “Lisa and Lottie,” or “The Flying Classroom.” This is the story of the talented illustrator who breathed life into Erich Kästner’s characters.
