On Thursday, November 6th, a group of congregants got to discuss the text of the “Purity of Arms” and the Ethical values of the IDF with best selling author, comedian and podcaster Joel Chasnoff. Joel was born in the US, but has been living in Israel for many years. Having served in the IDF, he talked about the Torah passages that inform the “Spirit of the Israel Defense Forces.” 

Most people don’t know that soldiers have to act according to “The values of the IDF” while also maintaining the laws of the state and human dignity.” There was also a discussion on how the IDF is the military of everyone in Israel – citizens and residents. 

The discussion went past the headlines and particular partisan points of view, to include Joel’s actual experiences in combat, as well as the experiences of his children in Israel. Joel was able to discuss court cases where soldiers have been held to account for not following the code. 

Many of our attendees had very positive experiences in our spirited discussion. Bonnie Lowenstein stated, “Last night’s program was so informative.  It’s always wonderful to hear information from an Israeli’s perspective.  Our congregants are so well informed and passionate about Israel.“ 

Susan Feinberg-Greene noted, “I went to the evening program reluctantly – it was dark out, it was cold – and to my surprise and delight, I found a speaker, Joel Chasnoff,  who offered a thought-provoking discussion that involved all of us attendees. It started with the ethics of the IDF and what makes the Israeli army different; that quickly led us to talk about Israeli society and politics, our young people here, and quite a few related topics. I would encourage congregants to “try out” a program or two that they would not normally consider. I think you will be happy you did.”

Barbara Colmer added, “It was very interesting to learn a little about Israel’s Purity of Arms code as well as some of its Torah sources. Our speaker Joel Chasnoff presented the ideas in an interesting and clear way. The handout is excellent. I am glad quotes were presented in both Hebrew and English.  I would like to learn more about the topic with concrete examples.”

Lisa Roberts added how happy she was to have organized the event. “We were treated to a timely and fascinating discussion.” Also, “I have been listening to Joel’s weekly podcast for a year and a half called Inside Israel, which can be found on his website. I highly recommend it.”

We’d like to thank the Lionel and Sidel Weinstein fund for their support of the event, and the Roberts family for sponsoring the oneg.