Embracing The Feminine As Part Of Feminism - YU Observer's
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SINCE 1958
ONE OF TWO INDEPENDENT, UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT-RUN NEWSPAPERS OF YESHIVA UNIVERSITY’S STERN COLLEGE FOR WOMEN,
YESHIVA COLLEGE AND SY SYMS SCHOOL OF BUSINESS
WWW.YUOBSERVER.ORG 64:9 Iyar 5781 ~ April 2021
EDITORIAL
Embracing The Feminine As Part Of Feminism
By Fruma Landa, mindset helps form a community these domestic actions may feel As I noticed that trend, I found
Editor in Chief that values stereotypical feminine like a shallow way to serve God. myself thinking of other predom-
behavior and empowers women However, these can be fulfilling inantly women’s way of inter-
exhibiting such behaviors. Tak- for the women who relate to serv- acting with religious experiences
Female empowerment ing care of one’s family, cooking, ing in this way. and noticed that those were often
has been a theme in my life since cleaning, and beautifying mitzvot devalued as well. Women who
I was young. Even before under- (commandments) are some traits Two weeks ago, the Shabbos fol- care about the flowers decorating
standing the concept of feminism, that fall into the woman’s domain. lowing Pesach (Passover), many their tables for Shavuos instead
I recognized moments of empow- Many women in the community women observed the tradition of of learning all night are seen as
erment in my life. However, these I grew up in use their creativity, making Shlissel challah, a challah less than women who do learn
moments were not necessarily another feminine trait, to serve containing a key in it. This year, all night. Women who make an
what most people I know would God. Aside from keeping the I have heard many people dis- effort to do their wigs, makeup
define as feminist. For example, Torah and mitzvos, they put their missing this predominantly-wom- and nails before Shabbos are
pushing myself into a crowded souls into ensuring their children en-performed custom. People considered fickle. Women are
room of men to serve plates of are dressed in a way which honors commenting on this tradition fail made fun of for caring more about
herring and crackers was one of the yuntif (holiday), cooking ritual to recognize the importance of the way their sukkah decorations
the most empowering moments dishes, beautifying their mishloach this in the lives of the women who look than the way the esrog they
of my childhood. To me, walking manos (ritual Purim food packag- relate to this religious practice. use looks. Women who choose
into that room full of grown men es), decking their Shavuos table Devaluing this minhag (custom) to present themselves tzniusly,
was incredibly daunting. Pushing with flowers and elaborate cheese devalues a predominantly wom- in modest clothing they consider
myself to take up space and weave cakes, getting their nails done and en’s religious experience. to be befitting a daughter of the
between the shoulders King, are said to be allowing the
of men to deposit the patriarchy to regulate their bodies.
oily plate onto the table The women who approach Juda-
— a feat unto itself — ism from a traditionally feminine
before leaving back to perspective are seen as less than
the safety of the kitchen compared to those who engaged in
was empowering. these rituals from another angle;
and often, women who do not ap-
Throughout my life, I proach Judaism from a tradition-
have found that some- ally feminine angle are deemed as
times the way women too radical and considered to be
are told to empower throwing away tradition. Existing
themselves is done in as a Jewish woman is a catch-22:
a way that devalues be viewed as a prisoner, or be
the way other women viewed as uprooting the tradition.
feel empowered. Many
people will tell you that
serving a dish to a table Some women, myself included,
full of men is not only feel empowered when breaking
unempowering, but glass ceilings and advancing
rather oppressive or de- women’s opportunities. That facet
meaning — the oppo- of feminism should be encouraged
site of my experience. and supported, yet it does not need
working on exquisite table decor to devalue women who do not re-
In more religiously right-wing le’kavod Shabbos kodesh (in hon- Making shlissel challah has late to this form of empowerment.
communities, like the one I grew or of the holy Sabbath). become like a religious ritual for It can be incredibly difficult to
up in, traditionally female gender many women. Since making the encourage women to try to explore
roles are valued and may bring Unfortunately, these actions which challah is an experience done pre- new ways of serving God without
feelings of empowerment. Thus, many women relate to and are dominantly by women to express devaluing the feminine, but it is
women use their femininity as one empowered by are often dismissed their relationship with Judaism, not impossible. The goal of female
of the ways they serve Hashem. as frivolous or shallow — in devaluing the minhag essentially empowerment should not be to
A mother making soup for her other words, they are devalued. In devalues an important religious only empower the women who are
family is said to be compared in communities where women have experience for women, especially doing what you deem as empow-
holiness to the Kohen Gadol’s other opportunities to serve God in communities where they may ered, but rather to empower all
(Height Priest’s) Yom Kippur such as through the study of Torah not feel connected to other tradi- women in doing what makes them
avoda, the service performed on SheBaal Peh (Oral Torah) or via tionally male rituals. feel empowered.
the holiest day of the year. This performing public religious rituals,
Iyar 5781 ~ April 2021 NEWS PAGE 2
2021-2022 Academic Calendar Contains Significant
Changes Compared To Previous Years
struction period may suggest that required instructional minutes semester. This is much earlier
By Fruma Landa, Editor In Chief Yeshiva University is planning on without making the Fall and than previous semesters with the
And Shoshanah Marcus, News an in-person or blended class for- Spring semesters longer.” deadline for the Fall 2020 semes-
Editor mat for the non-specified weeks. ter being on November 17, the
This has yet to be confirmed by Early Date to Drop Course With- Spring 2021 semester being April
7, the Fall 2019 semester being on
Though the Yeshiva December 2, 2019 and the Spring
University administration has yet
2020 being April 23. Spiegel stat-
to announce the school’s class
ed that “The Withdrawal date was
formatting plans for the upcom-
moved up as part of a previously
ing academic year, the registrar’s
planned change to the 2020-21 ac-
release of the 2021-2022 academ-
ademic calendar but was delayed
ic calendar may offer insight into
due to COVID.” She concluded
potential class formatting and
that the “withdrawal deadlines are
important deadlines.
now in line and consistent with
[Yeshiva University’s] peer insti-
Class Formatting
tutions’ academic calendars.
After a year of various options of
class formats due to the restric-
In the previous semester, the
tions of the COVID-19 regula-
administration faced backlash
tions, the 2021-2022 academic
from the student body when the
calendar reveals “Remote In-
deadline for dropping a class
struction” periods. These periods
without a “W” was too early. In
include between the holidays of
response, the decision was re-
Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur/
voked. One student, Sarah Brill
Sukkot, after Sukkot break, after
the YU administration. Spiegel out a “W” (SCW ‘21), shared her concerns
Purim break, and before Pesach
explained to the YU Observer that Another notable aspect of the with the YU Observer explaining
break. “During these remote days
“[YU] added in remote instruction 2021-2022 academic calendar is that, “[d]ropping classes is a very
there will be no in-person class-
days in between Rosh Hashanah the fact that the last day to drop a tough decision to make. A person
es,” shared University Registrar
and Yom Kippur to allow [their] course without a “W” (withdraw- needs to choose whether or not to
Jennifer Spiegel.
students the opportunity to travel al) on one’s transcript for the Fall
for the chaggim [Jewish Holi- 2021 semester is October 18 and
Continued on
days] and still meet the minimum February 28 for the Spring 2022
The overt mention of a remote in- PAGE 4
New SCW And SSSB Jewish Studies Requirements
Announced
By Mili Chizhik, News Editor well as taking at least one Jewish son, assuming the COVID-19 courses, 2 Judaic studies courses,
studies course every semester as a regulations allow it. 1 Jewish history course, 1 Jewish
full time student upon completing philosophy course, and the num-
The SCW Rebecca Ivry Core requirements. Three of the following twice a ber of Hebrew language courses
Department of Jewish Studies an-
week courses in Fall 2021 will based on student placement: 1
nounced this week that there will
Starting to be implemented in Fall meet in-person in-person once a course for those placed in HEBR
be new Jewish studies require-
2021, the new requirements for week for a Beit Midrash compo- 1211 or 1221, 2 courses for those
ments for Stern College for Wom-
Beren Campus students mandate nent: Rabbi Ephraim Kanarfogel’s in HEBR 1201, and 3 courses
en and Beren Sy Syms School of
a total of 22 classes, up to 10 of “Tosafist” class, Rebbetzin Penina for those placed in HEBR 1001
Business students. Registration
which can be taken in the gap Bernstein’s Navi class, and Rabbi or 1011. The remaining courses
for the Fall 2021 semester will
year/seminary, and each student Jacob Bernstein’s “Rav Solove- needed to fulfill the 22-course
be May 5 for seniors, May 6 for
must take at least 2 Jewish studies itchik on the Holidays.” Other requirement could be taken in any
juniors, May 7 for sophomores,
courses each semester. The Core students are encouraged to learn of the following categories: Bible,
and May 11 for freshmen.
program will no longer be imple- in the Beit Midrash at that time as Judaic studies, Jewish history,
mented and the “Jewish studies well. Jewish philosophy, and Hebrew
Previously, students were required
courses will no longer be bundled language.
to complete 6 semesters (without
under HEST/Core,” as described The present Jewish studies major
gap year or transfer exemptions)
in the Jewish studies program credit requirements will remain All Jewish studies department
of the Core program, the current
information session on the night the same. However, courses taken courses that count towards the
mandatory Jewish studies course
of April 21. All past grades of to fulfill the General Education distribution must be taken on the
program. Students were required
Core semesters will remain under Jewish courses requirement will Beren Campus, and every course
to take 8-9 credits of Jewish
HEST on the academic transcript, count toward the major to allow will count towards the total 22
courses which were then reduced
however, starting in Fall 2021, for the same number of courses required courses. However, not
to 6 credits on the transcript with
each class will appear on the tran- taken to complete the major. every course will count towards
the composite grade of the three
script. At the information session, distribution requirements. Cours-
courses taken. Further, students
the administration expressed hope The new Jewish studies distribu- es that count towards the Jewish
were required to take an addition-
to have all Jewish courses in-per- tion of requirements is 2 Bible
al 14 credits of Jewish studies as
CONTINUED ON
PAGE 3
Iyar 5781 ~ April 2021 NEWS PAGE 3
Vaccine Site Scheduled To Open
On Wilf Campus
By Elisheva Miller pausing to administer the vaccine ‘23), shared that “I think it’s amaz- effort and contributing to greater
on Saturdays or Jewish Holidays. ing that YU has decided to use its vaccine access and health equity for
They will be administering the Pfizer resources to help the community at Northern Manhattan residents. The
W ith New York opening vaccine, a two dose vaccine, spaced large by using its campus to expand establishment of this site is due to
up COVID-19 vaccine eligibility to twenty one days apart. According to access to the COVID-19 vaccine. our partnership with Mayor Bill de
adults 16 years and older, Yeshiva the CDC, one is only considered fully This is just one example of YU’s Blasio’s office, Assembly Member
University has become one of the vaccinated two weeks after receiving willingness to step up and take re- Carmen De La Rosa and Congress-
many sites designated to administer the second dose. sponsibility in ensuring the wellbeing member Adriano Espaillat, as well as
the highly demanded vaccine. This At this time, all appointments to re- of others, which is a characteristic Eric Goldstein and the UJA who are
Washington Heights site is one of the ceive the first dose, for those who are that YU consistently demonstrates.” helping coordinate our outreach to
five newly-opened sites in New York fully unvaccinated, are unavailable. Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman, president Holocaust survivors and other vulner-
City, according to Mayor de Blasio. More first dose appointments should of YU stated to the YU Observer able populations.”
As described in an email from YU become available, as this site will be that “as part of our mission, we are CEO of Centers Urgent Care S.
on April 5, the YU administration open for many months, so all who are always looking for ways to help the Scott Orlanski claimed that “we are
has been very motivated to slow the seeking the vaccine will have the op- community at large, especially during extremely privileged to be able to
spread of COVID-19 and stated, “as portunity to become vaccinated and these unprecedented times. This partner with the City at the Yeshiva
part of our mission, University vaccination site in
we are always looking order to keep the community safe
for ways to help the from this challenging pandemic.
community at large, Centers Urgent Care is in busi-
especially during these ness to provide the best possible
unprecedented times.” care for the community and
After offering their providing this vaccine is a vital
campus to the city of effort that we are proud to be a
New York to adminis- part of.”
ter vaccines, YU has Although YU will be a location
announced on Tues- of vaccine administration, YU
day April 7 that their has no part in the vaccine distri-
request was granted. bution process. Centers Urgent
The Weissberg Com- Care is managing the site on
mons in Belfer Hall behalf of New York City; there-
on the Wilf Campus fore, YU will not be handling the
has become an official appointments. If you are eligible
NYC vaccine site. It to receive the vaccine, an ap-
is expected that the pointment can be made at https://
newly opened vaccine vaccinefinder.nyc.gov/ or by
site will remain active calling 877-VAX-4NYC.
through the start of the
summer. Located on
YU’s uptown campus,
the vaccine distribution join the fight against COVID-19. includes opening our campus to the
is limited to Sunday through Friday, One student, Eliana Lebowitz (SCW city’s historic COVID vaccination
SEE NEW SCW AND SSSB, Fall 2022 and Spring 2023 semesters. pleased that a large group of students attended
PAGE 2 and asked on target questions, some of which
studies distribution requirements will have a Seniors who went to seminary or Israel for a we now need to research. So the meeting
label of “Fundamentals” when looking at the year will be required to take the 1 class in both was helpful for us as well as, I hope, for the
course attributes in the course catalog. the Fall 2021 and Spring 2022 semester, with students. Going forward I believe that new
the assumption that their past 6 Core semesters students will benefit enormously from a more
Fall 2021 juniors and seniors have the option were completed and only have two-three credit uniform distribution of courses over their years
to follow the new model or stick with the old courses remaining in the previously required on campus and from the reimaged courses
one, however they will no longer be having 14 Jewish studies elective credits. in Bible, Jewish Studies, Jewish History and
semesters of Core. Incoming freshmen and Jewish Philosophy that will be designated spe-
sophomores will follow the new model of Jew- However, seniors who did not go to seminary cifically to meet the new distribution require-
ish studies courses. and completed all Core semesters and only ments.”
have the 14 Jewish studies elective credits
Those in joint programs, those transferring remaining will be required to take two classes SCW senior Sarah Brill shared with the YU
from the Katz Associate Degree program, or each of their last semesters in Fall 2021 and Observer, “This new Judaics requirement will
those transferring from other universities and Spring 2022. alleviate stress off of the already stressful dual
schools may have exemptions from the total curriculum that Yeshiva University offers. I
number of courses required. Sophomores who did not complete a year in am extremely glad the Judaics department has
Israel or attend seminary and have completed made this change so that future YU students
Current rising juniors who spent a year in two semesters of Core would be required to can excel without the weight of added Judaics
Israel or seminary are required to register for take the following number of courses in the classes.”
the following number of courses per semester: corresponding semesters: 3 classes in Fall
2 classes in Fall 2021, 2 classes Spring 2022, 2021, 3 classes in Spring 2022, 3 classes in Those with questions regarding these new
and 1 class in both Fall 2022 and Spring 2023 Fall 2022, 3 classes in Spring 2023, 2 classes changes should contact the Jewish Studies ad-
semesters. in Fall 2023, and 2 classes in Spring 2023. visor, Miriam Levy-Haim via email or through
making an appointment.
Current rising juniors who did not attend a Dr. Karen Bacon, Mordechai D. Katz and
seminary or Israel program will be required to Dr. Monique C. Katz Dean of Undergraduate
take the following: 3 courses in Fall 2021, 3 Faculty of Art and Sciences, said that “I was so
courses in Spring 2022, and 2 courses in both
NEWS Iyar 5781 ~ April 2021
PAGE 4
Maccabees Men’s Basketball Team Claims Title For The
Second Longest Winning Streak In The Ncaa Division III
Men’s Basketball History
Many players have shone through CNN news report by YU player
By Aliza Weiss
In an accompanying two minute during this season. Ryan Turell Gabriel Leifer, “We’re represent-
and thirty nine second video, Car- is a key player on the Yeshiva ing the people, all of the sudden
After the Yeshiva Univer- oll captures the astonishing 2020 University basketball team who people are excited to come to our
sity Maccabees men’s basketball season that the YU basketball has recently been in the spotlight games and that’s just something
team defeated Stevens Institute team had, which abruptly came and has been the subject of a bigger than basketball.”
of Technology on March 8, 2021, to an end due to the COVID-19 recently published “LA Times”
the team tied the record for the pandemic. Caroll also brought article titled “Next ‘Jewish Jor- The Maccabees have quickly ris-
second longest winning streak in attention to the fact that this dan’? Can L.A.’s Ryan Turell be en and do not plan on letting any-
Division III men’s basketball his- year’s NCAA division III tourna- the first Orthodox Jewish NBA thing slow them down, whether it
tory at 36 games with the Univer- ment was cancelled and that the player?” Ryan’s status as a core be virtual learning, or the cancel-
sity of Wisconsin-Platteville. team has only been able to play 8 player and potential future NBA lation of the NCAA division III
games, with no fans in the audi- star is unique considering the fact tournament. Although this season
CNN’s Jason Caroll documents ence. Despite this, he relays that that Ryan is a Modern Orthodox is not ideal, head coach Elliot
footage of the YU basketball the message of the Yeshiva Uni- Jewish basketball player. As such, Steinmetz shared with CNN’s
court, while taking statements versity basketball team is much Ryan took this spotlight as a great Jason Caroll saying, “We’re not
from YU players, such as Ryan more than a purely victorious opportunity to represent the Jew- that little engine that could we’re
Turell and Gabriel Leifer, in a team, as Ryan Turell shared with ish community in basketball and that big engine that we are hoping
recent article entitled, “Meet the CNN saying, “We want to show shared with the LA Times stating, can stay consistent.”
basketball team with the longest that Jews can play basketball and “I’m ready to make history.” Sim-
win streak in the US.” The Mac- we want to make the Jewish com- ilarly, the Maccabees boys bas-
cabees men’s basketball team, munity proud.” ketball team sticks with this mon-
he reports, set a record with a 36 tra, as stated in the broadcasted
game winning streak in 2020.
SEE 2021-2022 Calendar,
PAGE 2
postpone a class or continue with allows our calendar to meet the requirements they had to meet,” as internships). Middle States is
the grade they have. With the required number of instructional shared SCWSC President Shira charged by the Federal govern-
drop date being as early as it is, hours as well as maximizing the Schneider. “We hope they and the ment with ensuring that its ac-
students are not given the oppor- full content of courses and also administration continue working credited institutions comply with
tunity to get a sense of the class does not impact scheduled breaks with us to ensure that these tran-that rule, and YU class schedules
properly. For science classes, in in the semester.” sitions are smooth and that the provide evidence that YU fulfills
particular, the second midterm students feel prepared.” its obligation to provide sufficient
test comes after the drop date According to the 2021-2022 instruction in its courses,” he
has passed, creating anxiety for academic calendar, the Fall 2021 Yeshiva University is accredited concluded. YU’s accreditation
students to either drop the class semester will have four study by the Middle States Commission was last affirmed in 2014 and
with a possibly mediocre grade days, one of them being on a on Higher Education. Accord- YU is scheduled for a self-study
or continue and risk their grades Friday. The Spring 2022 semester ing to YU Accreditation Liaison evaluation in 2023-2024. The YU
and GPA.” will only have three study days Officer Dr. Timothy Stevens, Observer has not confirmed that
prior to final exams with one of “All higher education institutions the upcoming evaluation im-
Reduced Reading Days in Spring the days being on a Sunday. This that provide Federal financial aid pacted the 2021-2022 academic
2022 is different from previous years, are required to comply with the calendar adjustments.
Spiegel shared: “We are intro- which have usually had a week of Federal credit hour rule, stip-
ducing study days instead of reading days prior to final exams. ulating at least 750 minutes of
reading week this year in prepa- instruction and 1500 minutes of
ration for finals. These days are “We, the student leaders, worked student preparation for each cred-
completely non-instructional and hard with the registrar to find it hour awarded (the calculations
allow students to prepare for their a solution that would be best are different for labs, clinical
upcoming finals. This change for the student body within the courses, and such experiences
Iyar 5781 ~ April 2021 PAGE 5
F NEWS Iyar 5781 ~ April 2021
PAGE 6
The Katz School of Science and Health Announces Master’s
PAGE 6
Program in Physician Assistant Studies
By Shoshanah Marcus, professionals, physician assis- the YU community on March 22, endowed the Mordecai D. Katz
News Editor tants diagnose disease, develop 2021, Dr. Katz was remembered and Dr. Monique C. Katz Dean-
and implement treatment plans, for his service “as a Trustee of ship of Undergraduate Faculty of
perform surgical procedures, Yeshiva University for over twen- Arts and Sciences, currently held
On April 8, 2021, The prescribe medications and often ty five years, most recently as its by Dr. Karen Bacon, a position of
Katz School of Science and Health serve as a patient’s principal health co-vice chairman [together with enduring impact on developing
announced the launch of a master’s care provider.” Paul Russo, vice his wife Dr. Monique C. Katz]. tomorrow’s leaders.”
program in Physician Assistant provost at Yeshiva University and He also served as a member of the
(PA) Studies. dean of the Katz School, stated in Boards of Overseers for the Azrieli Pre-PA advisor Mr. Jeffrey Mollin
the press release that “Physician Graduate School of Jewish Educa- shared his excitement with the YU
The announcement described some assistants have been heroes serv- tion and Administration as well as Observer stating, “Physician as-
of the details of the program. The ing on the front lines during the the Chair of the Board of Over- sistant is the second most popular
Katz School explained that that COVID crisis.” Russo continued seers of the Bernard Revel Gradu- field, next to nursing, in my areas
students can complete the master’s to explain that “PAs graduating ate School of Jewish Studies.” of advisement (OT, PT, nursing
studies in 28 months and that the from the Katz School will bring and PA) and this is a great oppor-
program “will feature comprehen- that same commitment to improv- The Katzes played a crucial role tunity for our students. The occu-
sive clinical rotations in behav- ing patient care and ensuring ac- in the development of The Katz pational therapy doctoral program
ioral health, emergency medicine, cess to high-quality health care in School of Science and Health. The at Katz is off to a strong start in its
family medicine, general surgery, every medical and surgical setting email sent to the YU community first year and I expect the PA pro-
internal medicine, pediatrics, pri- nationwide.” continued to explain that “The gram to have a similarly successful
mary care and women’s health.” family’s most recent major gift launch in fall 2021.”
This new program comes after the launched the Katz School, which
The Katz School also emphasised recent passing of Dr. Mordecai D. created new portals of entry into
the important role of physician as- Katz, after whom the Katz School Yeshiva University for students of
sistants and stated that “as medical was named. In an email sent to our community. The Katzes also
SOY Releases a Petition Against Canvassing Committee’s Election Candi-
date Requirements; Court Rules in Favor of Canvassing Committee
By Fruma Landa, Defending the practice, Can- eligible for the position they seek allow candidates at least five days
Editor in Chief vassing Committee Chairman to run for.” Poppers explained to to submit a petition signed by
Dovie Soloman stated to the YU the YU Observer that “according one-third of the body they wish to
Observer: “We feel the signature to the Canvassing Committee represent or five hundred students,
SOY President Akiva Pop- process weeds out the committed itself, students who submit in- whichever is less. Only candidates
pers, on behalf of SOY, submitted candidates and therefore ensures a tent-to-run forms are prospective who submit valid petitions may
a petition against the Canvass- better Student Government for the candidates, and not candidates.” have their names printed on the
ing Committee (SOY v. Yeshiva upcoming year. There is no per- However, the court ruled that the ballots,” the signature requirement
University Canvassing Commit- fect system but as the CC, our job “distinction between ‘prospective is constitutional.
tee) to the Wilf Student Court on is to try to find the right balance candidates’ and ‘candidates’ does
April 16. The petition contested and we are happy with the Court not Lastly, the petition argues that this
the Canvassing Committee’s (CC) ruling which allows us to continue have any basis in the Constitu- requirement is discriminatory, thus
signature/paper requirement which to do our job and focus on making tion,” and that candidate refers to a violating the Constitutional com-
“must be submitted by all students the election process as smooth as student’s pre-election status. mitment “to improve the quality of
who submit ‘Intent to Run’ forms,” possible.” life for all undergraduate male stu-
before they can appear on the dents.” “[O]n-campus prospective
student government ballot, as per On April 22, the court released The second argument brought candidates ‘must’ submit a petition
section 1, D. in the CC’s docu- their unanimous decision: “The forth is that “the CC does not have with 1/3 of students they wish to
ment titled “Election Rules Spring requirement to submit a petition the right to determine candidacy.” represent, and off-campus pro-
2021.” with signatures does not violate Rather, “The CC is charged with spective candidates ‘must’ submit
the [Wilf Campus Undergraduate ensuring that all candidates meet a 750-1500 word paper, thereby
“The Canvassing Committee’s Student] Constitution. The Can- all qualifications as laid out in the making it … harder for on-cam-
requirements for prospective vassing Committee has the ability Constitution.” While the CC is pus students running for positions
candidates off-campus to write a to set rules for elections so long as responsible for making sure that requiring hundreds of signatures,
750-1500 word paper, and those those rules do not conflict with the “students running for positions than it is for off-campus students
on-campus to get signatures from Constitution. All students seeking meet their respective requirements running for the same positions,” as
1/3 of the students whom they office in the Wilf Campus Student … and … disqualifying candidates explained in the petition. The court
wish to represent, in addition to Government are considered candi- who violate election rules or fail to ruled this to be non-discriminatory
being ludicrous and discriminatory dates and must adhere to the rules meet the respective Constitutional as the Canvassing Committee has
in nature, is unconstitutional as set forth by the Constitution and requirements,” they cannot deter- the right to require a paper peti-
well,” shared Poppers with the YU Canvassing Committee.” mine a candidate’s eligibility. Only tion, instead of a signature peti-
Observer. the student court can determine tion, from off-campus students to
The first argument in the peti- eligibility, he explains, as upheld ensure a fair election.
SOY believes “that students who tion states that “The Constitution in the 2018 Yeshiva Student Union
submit ‘Intent to Run’ forms but makes clear that the CC has the ET AL. V. Canvassing Committee The court’s complete decision can
do not fulfill this requirement can- right to disqualify candidates who case. The court ruled that in line be found here.
not be disqualified from appearing violate election rules, [ … ] stu- with the Constitution which states
on the ballot solely on the basis of dents are not candidates until they “Following the official meeting,
not fulfilling said requirement.” have been informed that they are the Canvassing Committee must
Iyar 5781 ~ April 2021 NEWS PAGE 7
YU Students’ And Employees’ Personal
Information Hacked And Released Publicly
By Erica Rachel Sultan, it has been found out by a YU The hackers’ website, which will that requires a credit check. If you
News Editor student’s personal investiga- not be linked for privacy rea- decide not to place a credit freeze,
tion. The hackers have a file of sons of the victims, has received at least consider placing a fraud
every YU student, faculty and 15,000 views at the time of publi- alert.
On Thursday, April 1, staff employee’s payroll infor- cation. Also published on the site
mation. Along with their emails, is information from other higher “Try to file your taxes early - be-
all Yeshiva University students
they have stolen and published institutions that were hacked fore a scammer can. Tax identity
received an email alert from the
online personal information such such as University of Miami theft happens when someone uses
Information Technology Ser-
as passport numbers, addresses, and University of California. It’s your Social Security number to
vices (ITS) which stated that the
social security numbers, and bank important to note that there has get a tax refund or a job. Respond
department is investigating a
account numbers of over 50 em- been a series of security breaches right away to letters from the IRS.
hacking incident involving their
ployees. The YU technical direc- beginning in December 2020.
former third-party vendor, Accel-
tor, information security manager Accellion Inc. quietly did repairs “Don’t believe anyone who calls
lion, Inc. Accellion Inc. is used by
and information security analyst on their systems in December and and says you’ll be arrested unless
institutions to transfer important
were among those whose person- January, but have been hacked you pay for taxes or debt - even
files safely online. According to
al data has been published online. since the repairs in March and if they have part or all of your
the company’s site, their goals
Further, one published online file April. Accellion Inc. has repeat- Social Security number, or they
are to “1. Coordinate and control
contained confidential admissions edly stated within the past year say they’re from the IRS.
risky third-party communications,
information about acceptances that its File Transfer Appliance Continue to check your credit
2. Monitor sensitive files shared
and rejections, the YU Observer (FTA) system has been reaching reports at annualcreditreport.com.
with customers, suppliers, and
learned. the end of its life. In a statement You can order a free report from
partners, and 3. Protect data with
from March 1, Accellion Inc. each of the three credit reporting
uniform security and compli-
One student employee whose in- CEO Jonathan Yaron stated, agencies once a year.”
ance.” YU, upon learning of the
formation has been published on “Since becoming aware of these
breach, discontinued its use of
the hackers’ site, and who wishes attacks, our team has been work- Furthermore, if one’s debit or
Accellion Inc. and has launched
to remain anonymous, frustrat- ing around the clock to develop credit card information was
an investigation. While the in-
edly stated, “This is not the first and release patches that resolve exposed, one should “Contact
vestigation continues, it has been
time I’ve had a problem with each identified FTA vulnerability, your bank or credit card company
concluded that an unauthorized
YU. I’m sick of it and I’m very and support our customers affect- to cancel your card and request
party exploited the company and
disappointed. And I hope that this ed by this incident.” a new one. Review your trans-
has stolen important university
doesn’t happen to anyone else.” actions regularly. Make sure no
files containing personal infor-
The Federal Trade Commission’s one misused your card. If you
mation of many within the YU
The YU Observer also reached website, identitytheft.gov, states find fraudulent charges, call the
community.
out to another victim, who wishes the following in the case where fraud department and get them
to remain anonymous, and told us one’s Social Security Number removed. If you have automatic
Many students received spam
that the head of communications (SSN) or Employer Identification payments set up, update them
emails from the hackers, demand-
of YU reached out to them right Number (EIN) was exposed: “If with your new card number.
ing they pay ransom because their
before Passover, offering them a company responsible for expos- Check your credit report at annu-
personal financial information
a free year trial of Experian, a ing your information offers you alcreditreport.com.”
has been stolen. One specifically
credit monitoring company. The free credit monitoring, take ad-
stated, “Good morning, your net-
trial will protect their identity and vantage of it. Get your free credit Lastly, in the case that one’s bank
work has been hacked… We have
watch out for any suspicious acts reports from annualcreditreport. account was exposed, one should
a website where we publish news
happening. When asked if they com, and check for any accounts “Contact your bank to close the
and stolen files from companies
have received any more messages or charges you don’t recognize. account and open a new one. Re-
that have refused to cooperate…
from the hackers or from random You can order a free report from view your transactions regularly
If you ignore this message, we
people, as their information is each of the three credit bureaus to make sure no one misused your
will start publishing your data
posted on the hackers website, once a year.” account. If you find fraudulent
on our website- first screenshots,
they responded that they have not charges or withdrawals, call the
then files, as well as mailing to
received any more messages. One should also “Consider plac- fraud department and get them
our list of journalists and your
ing a free credit freeze. A credit removed. If you have automatic
clients and employees. P.S. Our
YU has since sent letters to those freeze makes it harder for some- payments set up, update them
task is not to harm, but to make
whose information has been one to open a new account in with your new bank account
money.”
hacked but not published online. your name. If you place a freeze, information. Check your credit
In the letter, YU offers students a you’ll have to lift the freeze report at annualcreditreport.com.”
YU employees have turned out to
free year trial of Experian. before you apply for a new credit
be one of the most vulnerable as
card or cell phone - or any service
Good Luck on Finals!!!!
-The YU Observer Staff 2021
IYAR 5781 ~ APRIL 2021 PAGE 8
https://www.yu.edu/commencementcommencement
PAGE 9 IYAR 5781
PAGE 10 FEATURES IYAR 5781 ~ APRIL 2021
Club Profile: Health Education For
Students Society
By Bina Davidson On Behalf resources to students. happens at an appointment with a what you’re passionate about.
Of Features Staff What was your pull to get in- gynecologist. Starting a club like HESS, which
volved in the club?: Before start- What are some plans you have deals with such a sensitive range
ing this club, we had both had con- for this semester/future semes- of topics, was definitely not easy.
versations with our peers on Beren ters?: In the fall semester, we are After months of planning, we got
Each month, the YU Ob- Campus in which it had become hoping to organize a period prod- HESS approved, brought together a
server aims to highlight one club
overtly clear that many people uct drive at Stern to complement board, organized events, and we’re
available to the YU undergraduate
in our lives are dating, engaged, our period poverty awareness event proud to be looking back on a year
community. For the February issue,
or even married and still missing this past semester. We are also of amazing HESS events and look-
the YU Observer is highlighting
key aspects of reproductive health hoping to expand our club with a ing to the future. If you care about
“Health Education for Students
knowledge. Over the summer, we branch on the Wilf Campus run by bringing a cause to fruition, take
Society (HESS)”
spread a confidential survey around Wilf students! action! It might be difficult and
among YU students to learn more What is your favorite OSL-pro- you might not always get 100%
Club Name: Health Education for
about their reproductive health ed- vided food for club events?: approval from those around you,
Students Society (HESS)
ucation backgrounds. Almost 70% Unfortunately, HESS has not yet but it only takes one person to start
Heads: Shayna Herszage & Sarah
of YU students reported that they had the chance to run an on-cam- something new.
Liberow
never had an adequate sexual and pus event. For now, however, Anything else to say about your
Relevant Campus(es): Beren —
reproductive health education in our favorite event food is what- club: For those interested in join-
but hoping to expand!
their schooling. This is problematic ever snacks people bring to their ing HESS’s board (SCW) for the
What is your club’s mission
because sexual health doesn’t start screens. 2021-2022 year, apply here:
statement?: Health Education for
or stop with sexual activity, and as With COVID, how is your club https://forms.gle/
Students Society aims to educate
it is relevant to everyone regardless adjusting?: On one hand, virtual UFR9Fqw53QRYjbCm7
students about sexual and repro-
of marital status, we decided to events have been a difficult experi-
ductive health and well-being on
make this club to start addressing ence because they may sometimes For those interested in starting
both physical and mental levels.
these issues. feel impersonal. However, we have HESS’s brother branch on the Wilf
Why is this club important?:
What are some things your club found some upsides as well. For Campus, apply here: https://forms.
Issues of consent, sexual hygiene,
has done in the past?: This year, example, we feel that the virtual gle/bbJad6CsXizhTRqH7
STDs and vaccinations are kept
we’ve been so lucky to have an platform has been able to help
under the rug for fear of provoking
amazing board and an incredible people feel comfortable attending Are you a YU undergraduate club
sexual activity, when these topics
set of events as our club has gotten events they might not attend in head interested in seeing your club
desperately need to be addressed
off the ground. Our events have person. Making sure a HESS event featured in a future edition? Email
and can save and change lives.
addressed topics such as the human is a safe space is so important in us at theyuobserver@gmail.com
Therefore, HESS is important
papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine, order for students to be able to with your club name and the names
because it aims to break the silence
period poverty, development of learn more about these topics. of the club heads!
around sexual health and bring
gender and sexual identity, con- What is your advice to someone
awareness to students by connect-
traception options and halakha, looking to get involved on cam-
ing them with physicians, hosting
infertility, sexual assault, and what pus?: Don’t be afraid to go after
informative events, and providing
Staff Writer Profiles: Leia Rubinstein
two roommates. classes.
By Bina Davidson On Be- Currently reading: “The Vanishing What’s a quote/thought/or piece
half Of Features Staff Half of advice you have for your
Currently watching: Schitt’s Creek fellow students?: My advice is to
Currently listening to: Acapella! take advantage of everything YU
Each month, the YU Favorite way to social distance has to offer and not to let college
Observer aims to highlight some with friends: Getting iced coffees pass you by!
of the YU undergraduate students together.
who have written articles for us. Any cool things you’ve done/ See some of Leia’s past articles
For the April edition, the YU hobbies you’ve picked up over the here:
Observer is highlighting Leia COVID-19 pandemic?: I’ve been https://yuobserver.org/2021/03/
Rubinstein. taking lots of walks. jscreen-genetic-testing-just-got-
Name: Leia Rubinstein What do you miss most about easy/
College: SCW your pre-COVID-19 life?: Hang- https://yuobserver.org/2021/02/
Major: Biochemistry ing out with friends in a normal the-role-of-dippin-dots-in-covid-
Year: Sophomore way! relief/
Where are you for the COVID-19 What is your favorite thing about
pandemic? With Whom?: I am YU?: I love that there are so many
living in the Stern dorms with my ways to get involved outside ofIYAR 5781 ~ APRIL 2021 FEATURES PAGE 11
PAGE 6
Staff Writer Profiles: Jake Sheckter
By Bina Davidson On Be- home in Edmonton, Alberta, Cana- I also got scuba-diving certified advice you have for your fel-
half Of Features Staff da. Recently living in New Provi- recently. I also started getting more low students?: Break things into
dence, The Bahamas. involved with the stock market and smaller, manageable chunks. At
With Whom?: My family. ended up co-founding the Yeshi- some point, you will most likely
Each month, the YU Currently reading: The Peace-
maker’s Code by Deepak Malho-
va University Stock Exchange
(YUSE). I am now the President of
get stressed or feel overloaded.
Take a couple minutes to breathe
Observer aims to highlight some
of the YU undergraduate stu- tra. the club and it has become one of and relax yourself, and slowly
dents who have written articles Currently watching: The Falcon YU’s largest clubs on/off campus. break up the things you need to do
for us. For the April edition, the and The Winter Soldier What do you miss most about into small, manageable chunks.
YU Observer is highlighting Jake Currently listening to: Pink your pre-COVID-19 life?: Prob- Just take it one thing at a time,
Sheckter. Floyd (most likely). ably the interactions with friends, the important thing is to make it
Favorite way to social distance and living in New York. something reasonable that you can
Name: Jake Sheckter with friends: Go for drives, What is your favorite thing achieve, not large and daunting.
College: Sy Syms School of Busi- walks, hikes, just spending time about YU?: There are so many
ness outside. ways to get involved. So many See some of Jake’s past articles
Major: Entrepreneurship/Manage- Any cool things you’ve done/ clubs, organizations, and groups. here:
ment hobbies you’ve picked up over There’s a place for everyone. And https://yuobserver.org/2021/03/
Year: Currently Junior, Graduating the COVID-19 pandemic?: I if you see the need for something bmpl-biting-off-more-than-we-
Spring 2022 picked up a bit of gardening and new, it isn’t very difficult to make can-chew/
Where are you for the began spending more time read- it happen. https://yuobserver.org/2021/02/
COVID-19 pandemic? I was ing, writing, and taking pictures. What’s a quote/thought/piece of wall-street-vs-the-internet/
Daf Yomi At Beren: The Responsibilities Of Those
With Privilege
considered a sinner, as they are ing approximately 20% of their tax munity, and it is the responsibility
By Shayna Herszage, obligated like all other Jews.” obligations. Upon examination of of every individual within the
Managing Editor This portion of Shekalim the actions and inactions of those community to do what they can to
dictates that priests, like the rest of in positions of power, it is clear find a solution.
the nation, are obligated to give an that many are shirking their obli- Just as the privileged group
The presence of social hi- annual half-shekel (coin) donation gations and responsibilities toward in the era of the Temple was held
erarchies is an almost unavoidable to the Temple, despite the fact that the community. accountable, it is important to hold
constant. Across cultures, hierar- they often have a different set of Beyond monetary duties, it modern-day groups of privileged
chies are formed based on factors obligations and exemptions due to is important to also consider the individuals responsible for con-
such as age, education, income and their status as priests. responsibilities of those tributing to the wellbeing of the
ancestry. Along with each hier- It is not uncommon privileged individuals when greater community. On a monetary
archy comes the same question: level, the government must en-
what are the community obliga- sure that those in economic pow-
Injustice is evidence of a systemic problem within a er make adequate contributions
tions of those with privilege in the
“elite” groups, especially com- community, and it is the responsibility of every individ- such as taxes, rather than let these
pared to those in the other groups ual within the community to do what they can to find a individuals exempt themselves
within the community? solution. simply because of the power that
Mishna 1:3 in Tractate economic privilege grants them.
Shekalim emphasizes a common On a social justice level, as Leviti-
responsibility between the ko- for people in privileged positions it comes to social justice. It is easy cus 19:16 states, we may not stand
hanim (priests) and the rest of the to avoid contributing to the com- for such people to exempt them- idly by the blood of our neigh-
nation: “Rabbi Yehuda said that munity. On a corporate level, for selves from participating in a fight bors. If we exempt ourselves from
ben Bukhri testified in Yavne: example, Amazon paid no federal for social change that they could communal responsibilities, we also
Any priest who contributes the income taxes in 2018, despite view as being irrelevant to them. ignore our moral obligations to the
half-shekel is not considered a sin- being a company that makes However, we all — regardless of world around us.
ner, despite the fact that he is not hundreds of billions of dollars per privilege or lack thereof — must
obligated to do so. Rabbi Yehuda year. Additionally, research by understand that injustice for even
added that Rabban Yoḥanan ben John Guyton, Patrick Langetieg, one community member is also
Zakkai said to ben Bukhri: Not Daniel Reck, Max Risch and Ga- injustice for the community as a
so; rather, any priest who does briel Zucman indicates that the top whole. Injustice is evidence of a
not contribute the half-shekel is 1% wealthiest Americans are evad- systemic problem within a com-PAGE 12 IYAR 5781 ~ APRIL 2021
3
IYAR 5781 ~ APRIL 2021 FEATURES PAGE 13
Through The Fox News Looking Glass
By Rebecca an eight-percent increase (from Johnson hopes that even those who porting misinformation regarding
Couzens 12 percent to 20 percent), while disapprove of the network can re- the legitimacy of the election. In
Republicans had an insignificant member that the employees at Fox his article titled “Fox News Can
A Production Assistant, change from 10 percent to 12
percent, within the last four years.
“[are] people too.”
However, the judgments
Barely Admit the Capitol Riot Is
a Story,” Justin Peters, a “Slate”
who wishes to go under the alias
of “Kate Johnson,” stood on the Unfortunately, the study found that made about Fox News are not correspondent and “Columbia
New York City streets, shocked the likeliness of befriending some- without justification, and the Journalism Review” contributing
and embarrassed following a rude one with differing political views network is becoming less popular editor, criticized the views por-
awakening that made her realize did not increase for any group, and less trusted by the younger trayed on the Fox News segment
her job welcomed the judgment of demonstrating that tolerance levels generation. “Americans ages [sic] “Fox and Friends.” One of the
those who knew nothing about her. between parties have been dimin- 65 and older account for around show’s co-hosts, Brian Kilmeade,
The words “shame on you” echoed ishing over time. four-in-ten of those who say their expressed his concerns over big
in her head, said by an old wom- Johnson is one example of main source is Fox News (37 per- tech companies’ classification of
an scolding Johnson, after seeing someone caught in the trenches of cent), compared with 21 percent of former President Trump as danger-
where the Production Assistant the current heated political cli- all adults,” a 2020 Pew Research ous, in addition to Google’s Janu-
worked. Johnson was asking New mate. Her job at Fox News attracts Center study found. The same ary shutdown of the microblogging
York pedestrians questions for a unsolicited judgments and opin- study also shows that 61 percent of and networking app Parler “be-
segment that would later air on ions from complete strangers who Democrats and Democratic-lean- cause they decided they didn’t like
television. However, after this in- are oblivious to the fact ing Independents distrust it.” To this, Peters responded in his
cident, she realized she might need that Johnson strives to Fox News for political article: “This deadly riot was pre-
to get a new microphone to use ceded by two months of lies about
a ‘stolen’ election, told by Trump
for interviews, one that does not The growing issue of confirmation bias continues to
display her place of employment and a cross-section of his enablers,
control American society, only showing consumers one as well as literally decades of
in bold uppercase letters: FOX
NEWS. When I sat down to speak
side of the story, which is the side they already agree scaremongering from Kilmeade’s
with Johnson, I could still hear the with. employer about the character and
shock in her voice while recalling intentions of the Democratic Party
the occurrence. and the mainstream media.”
In recent years, the media maintain a moderate view on news coverage. Fox News is thus one Johnson recalled that emo-
has become more polarized than and politics. “It hit me; it made me of the networks at the heart of tional day of the Capitol riot: “In
ever before. With political tensions so embarrassed. [...] I think I was America’s polarization. With the [this] entire year there’s been chaos
rising significantly in 2020, along just so taken aback that someone extremist narratives that are some- and backlash and fighting and
with the detrimental effects of would just judge me right off the times preached on the network, protests of all kinds, but that kind
social media algorithms, it is easy bat from the place that I work at,” many assume that all Fox News of just hit me [when] people [were]
to judge others solely based on Johnson said while recalling her viewers are unsympathetic, radical fighting our Capitol. That is the
their political parties. The growing encounter with the old woman. zealots who praised Trump for his definition of democracy is being
issue of confirmation bias contin- After the incident, Johnson stopped victories without acknowledging fought.” Johnson believed that day
ues to control American society, sharing where she worked, since or criticizing his downfalls. This signified that the country was in
only showing consumers one side she did not know how those around assumption is in part likely due to shambles. “It was hard for me to
of the story, which is the side they her would react. She expressed the controversial stances that some watch, and it was very emotional,
already agree with. A 2020 sur- the need for people to be remind- Fox News anchors took when I think, for many journalists work-
vey conducted by YouGov aimed ed that Fox News is composed of discussing the results of the 2020 ing that day. [...] Ultimately, it just
to discover how likely it was for different types of people who do presidential election. Reporters made me feel for those who are in
the members of each major polit- not all share the same opinions and were stating that former President pain this year, and I’m just hopeful
ical party to be friends with those ideologies that are often promoted Donald Trump had the election sto- that we can move forward honestly
who had opposing political views. on the network. “Fox is not just len from him, which most Ameri- under this new administration. I’m
Twenty-four percent of Demo- one small entity; it’s not just one cans view as a conspiracy. just hopeful that we can have a
crats said they are not friends with person making a decision — it’s a This allegation led to a better America and a better, more
anyone who holds very different huge company. There are so many $2.7-billion lawsuit conducted by unified country, because ultimately
political opinions from their own, moving parts. […] People also the voting technology companies that’s what everyone wants.”
showing a 14-point increase since forget about the little people that Dominion and Smartmatic. Smart-
September 2016. The same study work at Fox, people like me. Even matic is specifically filing against SEE FOX NEWS,
showed that Independents had the interns, they just want to get anchors Maria Bartiromo, Lou PAGE 15
their foot out there…” Overall, Dobbs and Jeanine Pirro for sup-PAGE 14 FEATURES IYAR 5781 ~ APRIL 2021
PAGE 6
Moadim L’simchah: A Banner Of Love,
A Flag Of Purpose
By Benjamin Gottesman, Arts word dagul means “elevated ones in the desert — are literal, mitzvah (commandment), she
And Culture Editor like a flag.” It is interesting that not metaphorical. Malbim (Rav reveals HaShem’s presence in this
throughout Sefer Bamidbar flags Meir Leibush ben Yechiel Michel world, thereby achieving a new
are used to describe the Israel- Wisser, 1809-1879) explains the sublime reality. The flag is thus a
Much of Parshas Bam- ites, yet here the Hebrew term significance of these flags. constant reminder of HaShem’s
idbar (weekly Torah portion of is used to describe HaKadosh “At the time of lifting the existence.
Numbers) focuses on the arrange- Baruch Hu (God). flag for war, it will be called in It is now apparent why
ment of the Israelite camp in the Elsewhere in Shir HaShem’s name, for HaShem the Israelite encampments were
desert. The tribes were arranged HaShirim, HaShem responds to is the General of the army Who referred to as flags. If it were not
in a specific order based on a Di- Israel (6:4, 10): “You are beauti- walks in the front, and the flag is for the flags of HaShem wav-
vine decree. This commandment ful, my darling, as Tirzah, comely called in His name, and we con- ing overhead, they would have
is introduced as follows (Num- as Jerusalem, awesome as “nidga- tinue after the flag.” been no more than another mass
bers 2:2): los”… Who is she that shines The flag is much more than of desert nomads, wandering in
The Israelites shall camp through like the dawn, beautiful a piece of cloth. It is a rallying search of a faraway land. It was
each with his flag, under the as the moon, radiant as the sun, point that inspires courage and precisely their relationship with
banners of their ancestral house; awesome as “nidgalos”?” strength. The flag is the symbol HaShem — cultivated through
they shall camp around the Tent HaShem in turn uses the that represents the general for awareness and action — that
of Meeting at a distance. flag metaphor to laud His beloved whom the soldiers fight. It is a elevated them into a people with
HaShem (God) ordains nation. This further mud- proud reminder of the a purpose. When referring to
that each tribe must raise a spe- dles the mystery. Chazal purpose of the battle. The this holy entity, it is only fitting
cial flag, bearing its own unique that they are described using the
insignia, over their camp. These article that embodied their sacred
This expression of love and closeness is marked for greatness: the flag.
flags litter the parsha, appearing
a total of six times. These flags
eternity by the flag that flew above the Israelite camp, Shlomo HaMelech refers
are not insignificant; throughout loudly exclaiming that HaShem presides over the na- to the flags one other time in Shir
the parsha, and the rest of Sefer tion and that the nation, in turn, looks toward Him HaShirim. Bnei Yisrael describes
Bamidbar (Book of Numbers), their encounter with “the Lover,”
lovingly. HaShem, as follows (Song of
the camps of Israel are described
as “flags.” Amazingly, the word Songs 2:4): “He brought me to
“degel” (flag), which appears (our Sages) state explicitly (Trac- Psalmist is describing a victorious the house of wine and his banner
13 times in this sefer (book), is tate Brachos 33) that one must group of soldiers rallying around of love was over me.”
never mentioned in any of the be extraordinarily careful while the flag of HaShem, paying trib- The Midrash explains
other books of the Torah. In fact, praising HaShem, only using the ute to their Leader and Source of (Bamidbar Rabbah 2:3): “HaSh-
outside of Sefer Bamidbar the terms found in the liturgy. Choos- guidance. The flag is the reminder em desired greatly that the Isra-
root word degel only appears ing words to describe HaShem is that the Jewish people have a elites would establish flags in the
five other times in all of Tanach no small matter, and yet the same purpose beyond the mundanity of desert… so that they would be
(Bible). It is quite apparent that term used to describe HaKadosh everyday life. distinguished. How do we know
the word degel/flag is inextricably Baruch Hu is also used to praise Shlomo HaMelech (King that this was out of love for Isra-
linked to the nature of the Jewish Am Yisrael (the Nation of Israel). Solomon) calls HaShem “elevat- el? For Shlomo HaMelech wrote:
camp. The obvious question is To understand the true ed like a flag” because HaShem, ‘He brought me to the house of
why. Why are the encampments nature of “degel,” the following like a banner, is raised over the wine and his banner of love was
known by the pretty pictures verse from the Psalmist must be nation, serving as their source of over me.’ Rabbi Abahu taught:
hanging above them? Why are analyzed (Psalms 20:6): “May we awe and hope. Shlomo then de- What is this analogous to? To a
flags needed in the first place? shout for joy in your victory, ar- scribes the nation as using flags, wealthy man who has a store-
The emblem enigma only rayed by flags in the name of our since the thing that makes the house full of wine and he goes to
deepens when one examines God. May the LORD fulfill your nation unique and praiseworthy inspect it and finds that they [the
the word degel as it appears every wish.” is their unique relationship with barrels] are all [full of] vinegar;
in context throughout the rest In this pasuk (verse), the HaShem. What makes the Jewish as he goes to leave the storehouse
of Tanach. Shlomo HaMelech flag is ascribed to both HaShem people different from the great and finds one barrel of good wine,
describes HaShem in Chapter and his people when the Bnei conglomeration of other people he exclaims: ‘this barrel stands
5 verse 10 of Shir HaShirim Yisrael (the Children of Israel) is their acknowledgment of the for me like a full storehouse!’
(Song of Songs): “My beloved is triumphantly display flags that divine flag: when a Jew looks out Similarly, HaKadosh Baruch
clear-skinned and ruddy, “dagul” are meant to honor HaKadosh upon the world and realizes the Hu created seventy nations, and
among ten thousand.” Baruch Hu. Interestingly, unlike presence of HaKadosh Baruch
in the pesukim (verses) from Shir Hu, that person achieves unique SEE MOADIM L’SIMCHAH,
Rav Avraham Ibn Ezra
HaShirim, these flags — like the greatness; when a Jew does a PAGE 15
(1089-1167) explains that theYou can also read
