What is this commandment to "be holy"? Is it achievable, and if so, how? 

Welcome to The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus. Each Friday, join diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman and host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. This week, political correspondent Tal Schneider steps in for Berman. Unforgettable images of the Caracal's female tank unit crushing Hamas terrorists infiltrating southern Israel on October 7, 2023, brought home the realization that not only are women serving in the IDF, they're as eager -- and able -- to fight as their brothers in arms. Scheider describes a recent Knesset committee that discussed the phenomenon of the IDF's growing number of women warriors, which now make up almost 21 percent of all fighting forces. We review the history of battles to have female fighters in the IDF -- including several benchmark Supreme Court cases which paved the way for the next generation. Schneider, who has spent the past several months researching the contribution these women warriors made on October 7, talks about where the army stands today -- and what is on the horizon for other fighting units being opened up to women. Friday Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and the video was edited by Thomas Girsch. IMAGE: Mix-gender Caracal battalion troops at the end of their basic training. (IDF)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The source captures an audio recording of a speaker offering remarks at a special event, celebrating Rabbi Michael Haber and honoring the memory of his late father. The speaker, Rabbi Galamiti, expresses his gratitude for being present, detailing the unexpected travel difficulties he overcame to attend. He shares a personal anecdote about relying on Rabbi Michael Haber's books for guidance in rabbinic matters. The discourse then shifts to the significance of the evening, which coincides with Lag L'Omer, emphasizing its spiritual importance, the power of prayer in a community setting, and the merit of learning Torah together. Rabbi Kav also briefly touches upon the importance of the Sefirat Ha'omer period as a time for self-improvement, linking it to preparation for Rosh Hashanah.

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Celebrating every moment, our lives as Jews with the richest calender. Education, and the way our Menorah lights up our food. 

Episode 8: Join 3 of our teens as they explore the powerful intersections of community, mindset, and personal growth, reflecting on their time at Muss. From the quiet strength of kibbutz life at Kibbutz Keturah to the deep bonds formed within their kehillah (group) through the challenges they have faced, they share how this journey shaped their perspectives and helped them grow, not just as individuals, but as part of something larger.   This episode features Muss students on the Milken Tiferet program, Hana Rad, Joelle Elias, & Ella Okhovat.