Moderation in a Time of Extremism

Friday July 18, 2025/ 22 Tamuz 5785/Parashat Pinchas

Hevre/Friends,

I'm wiped.

The news coming from Israel as well as from other countries and especially the US is beyond draining. The stories range from dubious to heartbreaking to unfathomable to infuriating to downright terrifying. The barrage feels relentless.

And more, so many of us are worn out from trying to hold the center; to advocate positions rooted in both principle and purpose; morality and mission; aspiration and accountability.

Thankfully, my colleague Mijal Bitton found the strength to address this very moment by drawing on some deep Torah from this week's parashah, Pinchas.

With respect and gratitude for her uplifting wisdom, I invite you to read it below and hope you feel similarly re-energized.

open.substack.com

Can Moderates Win in an Age of Extremes?

Pinchas and the Daughters of Tzelofechad

With continued prayers for our ability to bring home all the hostages, protect the soldiers, heal the injured, comfort the bereaved, and build a lasting peace in Israel and around the world, and with blessings for a Shabbat Shalom,

Dini

Photo Courtesy of Ronen Avisror