What Do a Calendar, the Dead Sea Scrolls, and the IDF’s Second Chief of Staff Have in Common?
From the zodiac floor at Beth Alpha to a stone disc at Qumran to the oldest Hebrew calendar ever found — and the winery that put it on a bottle.
The Blue Twist of Espionage
A murex shell at Shiloh, the Spies who were sent to scout, and the blue thread meant to fix what they got wrong — from Tisha b’Av to Tu b’Av.
The Blue Twist of Espionage Read More »
Samson and the Giant from the Arbel
Blog post for Parashat Devarim 5786/2026 “Who is a giant? He who carries the gates of Gaza on his shoulders!” Caution: Giants! “What is the difference between your expectations and
Samson and the Giant from the Arbel Read More »
As Soon as the War Is Over: My New Age of Empires Tour
Here we are again, in the 17th of Tammuz. The day that kicks off all the bad stuff about Jewish history. Well, the defeats, the mistakes, the events in which
As Soon as the War Is Over: My New Age of Empires Tour Read More »
What to Do for Tisha b’Av in the Museum (Summer 2024)
This post lists detailed suggestions and information about Tisha b’Av related artifacts and exhibitions in the Israel Museum and the Bible Lands Museum. By Nachliel Selavan “The Museum Guy”. Whether
What to Do for Tisha b’Av in the Museum (Summer 2024) Read More »
Winter: A Time to Think
This famous quote has made its way into modern usage, including Batman: The Dark Knight (2008). Harvey Dent uses this line while trying to reassure the people of Gotham that
Winter: A Time to Think Read More »
Gaza, Iconoclasm, and the State of Israel
It’s very difficult to talk about anything other than the war at this time, and this newsletter is no exception. Before I get into my thoughts and contributions on the
Gaza, Iconoclasm, and the State of Israel Read More »
Discovering the Joy of Jewish Heritage: Family-Friendly Museum Tours in Jerusalem
Are you planning a trip to Jerusalem for the High Holidays or Sukkot? If you’re an English-speaking family, we have a fantastic suggestion that will not only enhance your visit
Discovering the Joy of Jewish Heritage: Family-Friendly Museum Tours in Jerusalem Read More »
Silver, Money, Coins
This is an adaptation of the Winter Break 2023 Newsletter, which you can also read here. Did you know that the word “money” comes from the name “Monetha”? That’s another
Silver, Money, Coins Read More »
Avraham: Chanukah, Ramadan and Xmas?!?
Did this title get you worked up? Upset, or curious? I’m glad you made the first step into a fun discussion. It’s about geopolitics, Parasha, and personal stories that I’m
Avraham: Chanukah, Ramadan and Xmas?!? Read More »