JTF.ORG Forum
General Category => Ask JTF => Topic started by: admin on August 29, 2007, 02:56:40 PM
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BS"D
Note To All Posters: Only one post per person is permitted. Please make it a single, short question.
Chaim would love to answer all of your great questions but (unfortunately due to the number of questions and time constraints), if there is more than one short question, it will have to be moved to the Future Ask JTF section. We apologize for this inconvenience and only wish that every person has a chance to be heard on the show.
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Chaim has stated that only one short question or comment per poster will be answered. Please remember that even with these rules, the program is over 2 hours long every week! If you want to post a longer question, unfortunately, Chaim may or may not be able to answer it in it's entirety. In this case, you may copy and paste parts of your question for the following week.
Thank you for your kindness and respect regarding these rules.
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BS"D
Gmar Chatima Tova,
Everyone has to take at least one "Diversity" class so this semester, I'm taking "Politics of Diversity". It's more like a Sociology course than a Political Science course. The teacher is black but he speaks the way blacks used to speak before Martin Luther King started with the accent (You did this accent on a QPTV show once.). The teacher said that his wife is white and that they have been the victims of hate crimes because of that. He said there is no Scientific basis for the concept of "race". He must mean biologically but the external physical concept does exist. You have said that there is no biological reason for races acting a certain way but rather it is cultural. The teacher said people look difference based on race because of where they come from. So I asked him what he would call it if not race so he said we'll discuss that on Friday (But we didn't.). He also passed out something from the website of "The Southern Poverty Law Center" which listed the number of hate groups by state so I went to the website and looked for New York to see if they listed JTF but they only listed "JDL" (In Brooklyn and Rochester.), as if it still existed. At least they also list black groups such as The Nation of Islam. I'm not sure ADL would list black groups. The black teacher also gave us a paper about him and it said he was head of the "affirmative action department" in some college. I think it was affirmative action studies and remember that that's not JTF's definition of affirmative action so maybe they teach about affirmative action policy. It reminds me of Tonycali's "gay studies" courses. The teacher also said that most people in jail in this country are white. But he agrees that blacks shouldn't act the way they JTF believes they do but he said people shouldn't generalize. I didn't mention to him JTF. He just mentioned that rap music is bad but the same thing can be said about white "Punk Rock" music.
I also asked him what would he call the physical differences if he wouldn't call it race and he said "That's a good question." or something like that. He said the differences are because of the environment were people lived so blacks became black because it's hot in Africa and Orientals got slanty eyes because it was cold where they originated. They probably originated in Siberia. All native Arctic peoples have Orientals eyes except The Lapps in Scandinavia but The Lapps still have have an Oriental admixture.
Here's my question: How would you answer my teacher when he said that "race is an unscientific social construct"?
Yacov Menashe Ben Rachamim,
Chief Administrator.
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I'm posting this for Yacov Menashe Ben Rachamim.
The reason I picked the specific Diversity class I'm taking is because it's not just about one group. I'm a History major so if I was going to take one in my own department, it would have to be "Black History" because they don't offer "White History". So the class I'm taking goes through all the ethnic groups and at the end of the semester, it even includes White Ethnic Groups. But it lists whites last and I think it lists blacks second after American Indians. Note that I'm not using the terms the book used. The book uses "American" after every group name except White Ethnic Groups. Within the the chapter on whites, they mention "Jewish Americans" which is very offensive to Jews because it is Anti-Jewish to use "politically correct" terms for Jews. Jews are American Jews because we are Jews first and foremost. Just because blacks added American, the "politically correct" morons want to use it for every group name. "Political correctness" and Judaism are antitheses of each other.
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Lashana Tova! May you be inscribed in the Book of Life and that all your wishes come true this year..first and foremost, with a loving wife and a complete family.
Chaim, when I came back from Israel recently I realized that in MY LIFE that religion and secularism should, at least, be both practiced in moderation. The benefit of Torah law written by Gd should be for our benefit here on earth and not as much for the sake of a next world or the new messianic world. (Yes, I would rather go to heaven after death than hell and yes, I would like to be resurrected in the messianic era). HOWEVER,
I choose to follow the mitzvot of treating my fellow human being properly because, it's simply, the right thing to do.
I choose to praise Gd daily and honor my parents because it's a healthier to be humble than haughty.
I choose to learn an aspect of Torah from the eyes of wise men inspired by Gd because knowledge is good and their logic is beautiful to my brain like classical music is beautiful to my ears.
I do not want to do these things for an incentive after death.
I think one reason we are put in this world by Gd is to appreciate His Majesty and to, Gd willing, bring others into this world so that they can benefit the same thing. After all, only a few souls in this universe are lucky enough to be given a life.
What do you think of what you just read?
Shalom
Daniel
oh and to avoid any confusion with any of the Daniels on this forum, just call me "boreh meenay mizonot" for now on :P
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Shalom Chaim,
The videos you and David do on youtube are invaluable, priceless works and it is a shame that most of the older JTF videos are not on youtube anymore. What do you think of making JTF videos available for downloading? P.S I miss the hats and dark sunglasses.
Thank you always for your dedication and hard work.
Mstislav
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Shalom ve'Shana Tova, Chaim .
Do you prefer Capitalism over the Jewish economic way ?
Toda and Shana Tova again,
Ohad .
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Chaim I would like a ban on Germans on the forum, as another German has joined in the last week and was again welcomed by many people on this forum, to my great dissapointment.
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Shalom Chaim and HAPPY NEW YEAR!
I would like to know why every holiday on the Jewish calander starts at sundown? No one can give me a good answer to this question, not even my rabbi. I would also like to know why the holidays always come out on different days each year? Thank you in advance to my questions.
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Good Day Chaim,
Do you know of any other country besides the US that is Pro-Israel and a strong supporter of the Jewish State.
When you get to Israel and assume a position in government would you ever consider forming an alliance with such country?
Thanks and Happy New Year!!
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Dear Chaim,
After 6 years of waiting, Hashem finally blessed my wife and I with twins. A Ben Zachar Bechori and a beautiful Bat Yisrael.
Soon by You, Chaim.
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Shalom Chaim,
Last week, in the context of the news that the Bush Administration is allegedly planning an aerial blitz on Iran (yeah sure ::)), DownwithIslam and I jointly agreed that America, especially under a Democrat but even under Jorge, would attack Israel before any Muslim Nazi hellhole. I know you would agree. If Bush's masters (the Saudis, Chinese, and Mexicans) pressured him into waging a holocaust on the tiny Jewish state, he would at the very least think long and hard about it. How do you respond to the naive who think America would never hurt Israel?
Thanks as always, Chaimfan
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Dear Chaim:
Do you know of Rebbetzin Esther Jungreis, who runs Hineni? Is so, what do you think of her? Perhaps she might be able to help you get into Israel.
Lisa
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L'shanah tovah, Chaim, and may the new year bring you health and happiness and above all, entry into Eretz Yisroel!
You have discussed different addictions many times on your programs. Do you think that JTF can become an addiction too?
Daniel - Not the Cookie ;)
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Shalom Chaim,
To my knowledge, it seems like most of the Orthodox Jewish groups in Israel--such as Agudat Israel, the Lithuanian Jews, the Lubavitchers, etc--are either non-Zionist or Hasidic or both. Are there any Orthodox Jewish groups in Israel which are both religious Zionists and non-Hasidic?
Respectfully,
DanBenNoah
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Shalom, Chaim
In islam's twisted belief merely touching a pig-based product before death denies one entry to paradise. Why do the Israeli authorities not place pigskin in hidden places aboard buses to deter suicide bombings and will you push for such a scheme?
Toda,
Newman.
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Shalom Chaim
This Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur in the galut, millions of Jews will listen to a boring sermon about Darfur, gay marriage, or worse, the dangers of global warming. If the Rabbi is really controvoyshal, he will recommend economic sanctions on Iran.
I argue that this type of p.c. drivel is why synagogues and churches are empty throughout the year.
I wonder what sort of sermons were given in American synagogues during the Shoah. At a time when the synagogue was most likely to be full, the Rabbis were probably worried about offending or undermining the disgusting self-hating Jews working in the Roosevelt administration and their so-called efforts at persuading the president to intervene.
May Hashem give us strength to fight our battles in the coming year,
Trumpeldor
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Dear Chaim,
Sorry to trouble you again and the listeners to my personal issues relating to aliyah la’aretz. I’m finding it so difficult communicating with my mum when it comes to aliyah. She like half smiles it a derogatory way and makes me feel bad about wanting to move away. I also find it very difficult to speak to my mom about marriage & shiddichim. She knows and recognizes, though that I want to make aliyah, and is slowly accepting it.
It is so frustrating speaking and interacting with her when it comes to issues like me opening up a kleisar (tik) with the Jewish Agency or planning my Pilot Trip, please G-d late next year. Hope you can be of help and a listening hear - many Thanks Chaim. Shalom, Zev.
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Hello Chaim,
I been watching through You Tube some of Rabbi Kahane's speeches and his debate on Ted Kopel against Olmert. And All I can say is what a difference between a giant and a worm. I know he had a great deal of respect from non Jewish leaders. But how did he as well as yourself were able to convince the Christians back then and yet even till today's times, I a non Jew mention Rabbi Kahane and how he impressed me I get lip from Jews that say "extremist", even though I answer them I rather have an "extremist" as these people say telling the truth then these frauds telling lies. Even though I was very young when he was murdered I think this is a legend that went down in history.
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Dear Chaim,
I have heard that some Israeli radio stations broadcast out of the neutral waters of Mediterranean Sea to avoid certain restrictions and regulations imposed in Israel.
Are any JTF supporters in Israel capable of contacting those stations for possibly purchasing air time?
If not, do you know how costly is advertising in major Israeli media and have attempts been made to utilize it?
P.S. Having said that, I need to mention that there is a technical means to set up an online radio station with either live or recorded broadcasting.
Thank you.
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What is your opinion if someone wants to make Aliyah and there parents don't want them to. Should they should listen to their parents and not make Aliyah to not violate the commandment of honoring your parents or should they make Aliyah (perhaps you could make the argument that if you are required to risk your life to conquer the land of Israel then you may surely violate the commandment of honoring your parents). I am unsure.
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Shana Tova to all JTFers!
Dear Chaim,
while I strongly disagree with your answer regarding Israel military capabilities of going it alone in general and cooperation Germany in particular, I wholeheartedly agree that Western/German sponsorship of such organization as Shalom Ahshaf, Women in Black and creatures such as Beilin, Sarid, Peres and Olmert does much more harm than the benefits of any military/intelligence cooperation. Excellent point on your part!
However, the onus is again on Israeli Jews who tolerate such creatures in their midst.
Besides, since when in diplomacy one gives away any initiative?! Israel diplomacy under a smart leadership should strive for molding diplomatic relationship with any country, including Germany, in such a fashion so that such relationship benefits Israel the most. This is possible through constantly maintaining Political and Economical Initiative, Leverage, Competitiveness and, most importantly, a Sense of Self Respect & Jewish Pride that Israel is achingly lacking today.
Again, the problem is not Germany, but Israel!
Shalom and all the best in the New Year, may you celebrate your next year in the Holly Land!
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Hello Chaim,
Have you ever considered doing a live podcast? Maybe Ask JTF could be done in this way. You could still answer questions that are sent in and also take some live calls from JTF members.
Thank you,
Alexander
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Dear Chaim,
Do you have asthma or a sinus condition? If so, what do you do to treat it. Because, I notice on the videos you draw air through your nose rapidly. Also you may consider doing "ask JTF" once every 2 weeks to give yourself a break.
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Hello Dear Chaim,
Hope you had a great Rosh Hashanah. This week I would like to ask you a question about animals. What do you think G-d's purpose was to fill the world with an abundance of truly unique and diverse creatures? The variety in nature is fascinating and mind-boggling. What lessons was he trying to teach us? Do animals have souls and know the differences between good and evil? How should righteous Jews and Gentiles relate to the animal kingdom? I know you have said previously that animals do not belong in the home (the principle of rekanut I believe). Thanks for the time, effort, and dedication as always. Until next week, G-d willing.
Ari
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Do you think law enforcement and military should be privatized with government only controlling the Judicial system? Every current military weapon that I can think of is manufactured by private federal contractors. These private companies improved their weapons by competing with each other and as a result gained an edge over the USSR who failed to produce because of lack of competition. Just look at Lockheed Martin's F-22 Raptor (which has rendered all previous jet fighters useless) and Northrop Grumman's B-2 bomber. If it works so well with weapons why not with soldiers and police?
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Hi Chaim,
Do you ever read the comments on your youtube videos? Some pretty nasty stuff including calling you a lunatic. What's your response to this?
Thanks.
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Dear Chaim,
Someone on the forum mentioned that you consider Mike Huckabee to be one of the better candidates.
I don't believe this to be the case. However, if it's true, then you should be know the following:
In past years, Huckabee gave speeches to illegal alien lobby groups in support of amnesty.
Huckabee supported the "comprehensive immigration reform" plan in 2006. If he didn't support the recent one, it's probably because he realized what happened after McCain and some other senators like Lindsey Graham were so quick to support it.
Huckabee's rhetoric is similar to that of the pastor from the Alaberto United Methodist Church in Chicago that gives sanctuary to illegal aliens.
Duncan Hunter and Tom Tancredo are the only candidates I trust. In comparison with Tancedo, I think Hunter is more well-rounded and is better at arguing his points and in getting things done. For example, Hunter is able to cite accurate statistics and actually made sure that a border fence was built in San Diego.
I think Hunter is against an open-ended policy of having US troops in Iraq. He knows that the military will need to be ready for potential future conflicts and that an open-ended policy in Iraq would not accomplish that. He views Iran as an imminent threat and would have a rational strategy of what to do. I don't fault him for voting for the war in Iraq as the intelligence reports tried to claim that Saddam's government was a bigger threat than Iran's regime.
However, he wants to make sure the military, including the marines, get the necessary equipment that they need. He's done good work for the Armed Services committee, via the House of Representatives, over the years.
I think Hunter might be best candidate in more than the past 100 years. He's a true conservative who has had tough battles against those who don't have the courage to stand up for conservative principles. Over the years, he's voted to cut funding for excessive bureaucracies and has tried to welfare.
Hunter is retiring from the House of Representatives. So this is the time for voters to nominate him for president or else the American people will have lost one of their best--if not the best of the current ones--politicians.
Especially due to the fact that the primaries have all been bumped up sooner, rather than being pushed back much closer to the dates of the party conventions, there isn't a lot of time left. Hunter's support increases as voters learn more about him but it's been difficult for people to reach Republican primary voters. Hunter won a straw poll in Texas a few weeks ago (Giuliani, Romney and Thompson didn't show up so they'll all use that as their excuse) and of course, the media never discussed it. But when Romney won the straw poll in Iowa a week or two before then, the media gave him good exposure.
Since it's the new year, I don't want you to bash Huckabee right now on this show. Simply, I think you and others should be informed about him and how he shouldn't be trusted.
Duncan Hunter is the politician who I trust and who I think others should also trust.
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Shana tova,
Why do Jews do tashlich and kaparot to symbolically get rid of our sins? shouldn't doing one thing be enough? Also, Is kaparot in the Torah, or is it a custom and do you think its cruel to the chickens? I know the rambam was against the practice of kaparot and is said to be a pagan ritual.
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Hello dear Chaim,
First of all, I would like to thank you for the lovely warming words that you've said about me on the last program. That was really touching and unforgettable, and I was flattered deeply. :)
My question this week:
With your permission, I am forwarding the same subject from the last week:
So according to you, the Cold War hasn't ended yet. Russia's secret wish was and still has been to see America bombed by nuclear missiles and millions of American citizens dead. In fact, the whole "peace agreement" between Russia and the United States is a joke and a farce that isn't worth the piece of paper it's written on.
I have to add on this point that this picture remarkably resembles to the situation between Egypt and Israel. Egypt, too, is supplying weapons and ammunition to Israel's enemies "behind her back", although there's supposed to be a "peace agreement" (or so they say) between both countries...
Anyway, there still is a major difference: America is supposed to be the strongest nation in the world! How come Bush and his government don't stand up and say loudly to Russia "enough is enough!", before it is too late? What do they fear? If America, the strongest nation in the world, allows herself to show appeasement and weakness when it comes to her own existence, then I think it's safe to say we have pretty much to be worried about!
I see you've decided to take from US some surviving lessons. Well Jee... thanks for the compliment, but –
what a pitiful misfortunate choice to make.. :-\
Thank you Chaim, as always,
and Gmar Chatima Tova! ;)
Gam Bashan veGam Gil'ad.
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Shalom Chaim, I hope you are well. I'm posting this question on behalf of Joe Gutfeld, he would like your opinion on a problem that has arisen.
"This week, I am also involved with a forum that a board member of my co-op started. The board election is next week and I started a post about which board member should be voted off. One of them once made a statement that he will throw out all Jewish and elderly residents. He was elected 5 years ago. I haven't been kicked out yet, but I told a person who compained that I put his name down and why I hate him. I put down why and the person called me a "racist" aganist a "good christian" man. This person also threatened me by posting all over the co-op what I posted. I said, "go ahead". I was banned from that forum. I feel that I need JTF's help in my situation. Can someone help me? Please have Jimmy or Chaim answer this post. Maybe we can have a protest against this person."
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You bring up an interesting point about s*xuality. Obviously anyone who expects his girlfriend to be like a porn star will be disappointed. And of course anyone who has casual intercourse can get an STD or impregnate a woman (which can, God forbid, lead to an abortion of one's own child!). But if I (being a bachelor) keep all of this in mind and then masturbate to relieve my s*xual urges, then the main problem facing me would be guilt. And so if I accept that s*xuality is alright, then I have nothing to worry about (so long as it is in the privacy of my own bedroom). Now I'm sure you'll disagree since you're a fundamentalist therefore my question for the week is: If masterbation is so awful, then why have fundamentalists made up lies about it (e.g. the old wives' tale about masterbation causing hairy palms)?
Regards,
Hidden Author
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Umm, is Hidden Author FOTL? :o