Early Christian mosaic is exhibited
A 230 CE mosaic floor unearthed at Megiddo illustrates Israel’s importance as the birthplace of Christianity. The mosaic has gone on view at the Bible Museum in Washington DC. It includes an illustration of two fish and a very early mention of the name of Jesus.
Color, Culture, and Contrasts in Jerusalem
Israel’s capital featured “The Awakening” about Rawan Osman’s journey from antisemite to finding Judaism; artist Zadok Ben-David’s tour at David’s Tower; Design Week at Hansen’s House; the musical “David, the Servant King”; and a wine festival. L’chaim - to life.
More on Jerusalem Art week
This year’s Jerusalem Arts week focuses on the events of Oct 7. Its theme is “The ark” - related to the biblical story of Noah, recounting a catastrophic flood where the aftermath leads to redemption and hope.
Dudu celebrates 50 years of music
Dudu Fisher celebrates 50 years in music with a nationwide tour in in 14 different Israeli cities from Aug 27 to Nov 28. He says, “People need music in times like this, and the best way to give hope is through personal stories mixed with songs of faith and prayer.”
Taste the cholent and challah in Bnei Brak
Yanky Fachler recommends a Thurs evening visit to Bnei Brak. There you can enjoy some of the best cholent in Israel. For the uninitiated, cholent is a savory slow-cooked stew prepared for Shabbat comprising meat, potatoes and beans. Many guided tours available.
Eden Golan wins Sweden’s “People Prize”
At the Eurovision song contest in May, Israel’s Eden Golan received maximum points from the Swedish televoters, but zero from the on-site Swedish jury. The Swedish people subsequently raised $20,000 to help fund some of the rebuilding of Kibbutz Nir Oz, destroyed on Oct 7.
Another MSG sell-out
Some videos of Ishay Ribo’s sell-out concert at New York’s Madison Square Garden on Sep 15th. Plenty more on the Internet – search for “Ishay Ribo live MSG 2024”
First culinary institute students
Despite rocket attacks in the North, construction on the Galilee Culinary Institute by JNF (GCI by JNF – see previously) is advanced. Students are already enrolled in the first year, beginning in November.
Beautiful new stamps
New Israeli postage stamps have been issued featuring the festival of Sukkot (Tabernacles) – etrog (citron), lulav (palm branch), hadasim (myrtle), aravot (willow); Ramat Gan Safari; Murals; YAMAM (National Counter-terror Unit); Paralympic Games; Animals from the Bible.
Eurovision singer gets IDF call-up
Israel’s Eden Golan, who came fifth singing “Hurricane” in May’s Eurovision Song Contest, has just had her summons to enlist in the IDF. She is likely to serve as a performer, showcasing her musical abilities for fellow soldiers as part of the military’s cadre of exceptional artists.