World Views
Beyond Fluency: How Hebrew is Redefining Identity for American Jews
For many American Jews, the relationship with the Hebrew language is one of deep complexity—a mix of cultural longing, academic struggle, and profound personal meaning. New research suggests that the struggle for fluency is less important than the language’s ability to serve as a vital tool for self-definition and community building. Sharon Avni, a linguistics professor at CUNY, details this nuanced dynamic in her book, ‘Speaking of Hebrew: What Language Does for American Jews,’ drawing on extensive interviews with over one hundred language enthusiasts.
The Functional Role of Language
Avni’s central argument challenges the traditional view that linguistic proficiency is the ultimate measure of Jewish engagement. She posits that Hebrew performs crucial work for her subjects, helping them process their values, discuss their concerns, and ultimately figure out what kind of Jewish person they wish to become. The study moves beyond the notion of a simple ‘deficit’—the perceived lack of proficiency—to explore the diverse ways individuals access and appreciate the language. Avni notes that for some, the act of engaging with Hebrew, even imperfectly, provides a necessary space for their American Jewish life, independent of formal synagogue affiliation.
Historical Pressure and Modern Tensions
Historically, Jewish thinkers have long championed the necessity of Hebrew, viewing it as the essential linguistic thread connecting American Jews to their ancient traditions. Scholars have warned that without this language, much of Jewish heritage risks fading from American life. This emphasis has often been tied closely to the modern state of Israel. Avni points out that any discussion about American Jews and Hebrew cannot be separated from their relationship with Israel itself. Furthermore, the language is currently caught in modern ideological tensions; while traditionalists champion its primacy, some anti-Zionist groups have embraced Yiddish, while others have even questioned the cultural significance of Hebrew’s grammatical structure.
A New Definition of Belonging
Avni highlights a shift in motivation among her participants. While previous generations viewed the language primarily through a religious or historical lens, many contemporary learners are driven by a desire for community and intellectual curiosity. These individuals seek connection through Hebrew clubs and classes, finding kinship in shared study. For these enthusiasts, the value is not always in perfect grammar, but in the shared experience. Even the use of a few specific Hebrew phrases—what linguists might call ‘smatteracy’—can create a powerful sense of belonging, acting as a secret handshake that affirms their shared identity.
Ultimately, Avni suggests that insisting on a singular, perfect way of practicing Jewish life—whether through immersion schools or strict adherence to tradition—can be limiting. The modern engagement with Hebrew demonstrates that for many, the language is a flexible, dynamic vehicle for building a meaningful and authentic life in America.
World Views
Jewish Athletes Shine Amid NBA Breakout and Major Sports Transitions
As the calendar approaches the close of 2026, the spotlight is shining brightly on Jewish athletes who are achieving significant milestones across multiple professional sports. The momentum is particularly strong in the NBA, where Israeli forward Deni Avdija is demonstrating that his exceptional performance last season was not a fleeting success. Playing for the Portland Trail Blazers, Avdija is spearheading the team’s offensive charge, leading the squad in scoring, minutes, and field goal attempts.
The Ascent of Avdija and Portland’s Surge
In the early stages of the young season, the Blazers are enjoying a stellar 6-1 record, ranking as the top team in the Western Conference. Avdija’s impact is profound, averaging 23.4 points, 6.4 assists, and 6.3 rebounds per contest. Despite having teammates like Ja Morant and Damian Lillard on the roster, Avdija has solidified his role as the primary offensive catalyst. Sources indicate that the team’s new head coach, Micah Nori, actively worked with the 25-year-old Israeli during the summer to ensure his continued development. Avdija stated that he felt the coach was keenly aware of his specific strengths and desired his continued progression, affirming that he felt the leadership understood what was best for the team’s overall success.
Shifting Landscapes in MLB and Legacy Sports
Beyond the hardwood, significant transitions are occurring in Major League Baseball. Team Israel veterans Joc Pederson and Garrett Stubbs have both entered free agency. Pederson opted not to exercise his $18 million mutual option with the Texas Rangers, while Stubbs concluded his tenure with the Philadelphia Phillies. Meanwhile, Chicago Cubs player Alex Bregman is receiving significant recognition, having recently secured his second career Gold Glove and being named a finalist for the National League Silver Slugger Award after hitting 28 home runs in his debut season with the club.
Broader Context and Weekend Action
The sports world continues to feature figures of historical importance. Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots, has been named another finalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame in the contributor category, continuing his bid for induction in the 2027 class. As the year draws to a close, the focus shifts to major decisions within the Jewish community, from Knesset campaigns to American midterm elections. For those tracking the action, this weekend offers a packed schedule, featuring Avdija’s Blazers taking on the Lakers in the NBA Cup group stage, alongside high-profile matchups in hockey, soccer, and racing.
World Views
From Tragedy to Triumph: How a 1956 Attack Sparked a Global Philosophy of Jewish Resilience
In the midst of post-war fragility, the small village of Kfar Chabad faced a terrifying moment on April 11, 1956. Palestinian fedayeen terrorists infiltrated the community, opening fire on students during a prayer service and resulting in the deaths of five individuals and their teacher. The community, composed largely of refugees who had escaped the devastation of the Holocaust and Soviet oppression, was suddenly overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty. For these young immigrants, who were struggling merely to rebuild their lives, the violence threatened to extinguish their hope.
A Radical Response to Crisis
In the wake of the massacre, the community turned to Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, known as the Lubavitcher Rebbe. Instead of directing resources toward immediate confrontation with hatred, the Rebbe offered a profound, counter-intuitive directive. He sent a message urging the village to focus on ‘continued building,’ suggesting that spiritual solace would come through the expansion of their community life. This philosophy shifted the focus away from persecution as the defining characteristic of Jewish existence, insisting instead on the cultivation of a meaningful, vibrant life.
A Global Mission of Empowerment
To implement this vision, the Rebbe dispatched a delegation of rabbinical students. These young emissaries traveled extensively, first through devastated European Jewish communities, before arriving in Israel. Their mission was to engage with Jews worldwide, encouraging them to strengthen their faith and embrace their heritage. In Kfar Chabad itself, the students worked to coordinate gatherings dedicated to Torah study and spiritual reflection, ensuring that the tragedy did not dictate the community’s future. The Rebbe’s mandate was clear: empower people through education, anchoring their identity in living knowledge.
Enduring Value Over Defending Borders
Decades later, the story of Kfar Chabad stands as a powerful testament to this philosophy. What began as a small, vulnerable settlement has flourished into a robust community, now supporting over 2,000 families and serving thousands of students. The village, once dominated by grief, now pulses with life, marked by continuous Jewish celebrations.
This historical precedent holds immense weight in modern discussions surrounding antisemitism. While contemporary discourse often centers on how to confront hatred, the Rebbe’s approach suggests that even the most successful defense campaign cannot guarantee a fulfilling existence. The community must be given the knowledge, the values, and the tradition that give life meaning. As the global Jewish community navigates current political and social challenges, the lesson from Kfar Chabad remains: true survival is not merely the ability to withstand external attacks, but the conviction that Jewish life possesses an enduring value worth building, day after day.
World Views
Trump Announces Major Staff Shakeup, Installing Hardline Figure Stephen Miller
Former President Donald Trump has announced a significant change in his senior staff, naming Stephen Miller to replace Susie Wiles as his chief of staff. The move, detailed via a social media platform, signals a potential shift in the administration’s policy focus, bringing in a figure known for his staunch adherence to conservative principles. While praising Wiles for her service, Trump confirmed that she would be transitioning to the Trump Political Operation.
The Appointment and Its Implications
Trump characterized Miller, who is Jewish, as one of his most reliable political advisors. Miller has long been a prominent advocate for extremely strict immigration measures. His history includes the use of nativist language, and during a 2024 campaign event, his remarks drew comparisons to historical rallies from 1939. This appointment is viewed by political observers as a strategic move to reinforce the hardline elements of the political platform.
A History of Political Ties
Miller is a long-time associate of the former president. His personal life also reflects deep ties to the political and religious spheres. He married Katie Waldman, who is also Jewish, at a D.C. hotel during Trump’s initial term. The ceremony was conducted by Rabbi Aryeh Lightstone, a figure connected to the Abraham Accords, which facilitated peaceful diplomatic relations between Israel and several Arab nations.
Wiles, in her own statement, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve in the White House. She highlighted her pride in the accomplishments of the administration, including efforts to enhance the economy, strengthen the nation’s borders, and implement tax reductions. Trump acknowledged her contribution, stating that she had performed an excellent job during her tenure.
Political Context and Community Observation
This personnel change occurs amid a period of intense political deliberation across various communities. Jewish communities, in particular, are currently assessing the direction of global and domestic politics, balancing considerations from the Knesset campaign to upcoming American midterm elections. The installation of Miller, with his known rhetoric, places a spotlight on the ideological direction of the political movement.
The shift from Wiles to Miller suggests a deliberate prioritization of highly ideological policy advocacy. Analysts suggest that the new leadership will intensify the focus on border security and immigration restriction, aligning with Miller’s established political philosophy. This transition underscores the importance of ideological loyalty within the inner circles of the former president’s political machinery.
