Overview
- Two right-leaning outlets publish commentaries that read the Shabbat Rosh Chodesh haftorah, Isaiah 66, as guidance for Israel’s present challenges.
- The writers highlight Isaiah’s demand for humility and ethical sincerity over rote ritual, promise consolation for Jerusalem and a future ingathering, and close with a warning that redemption hinges on human choices.
- Rabbi Dr. Kenneth Brander ties the reading to the trauma since October 7 and to Yom Hazikaron, noting the Talmudic teaching that those who truly mourn Jerusalem will share in her future joy.
- An Israel National News essay uses a midrash about house leprosy revealing hidden treasure to explain how Yom Hazikaron’s grief can precede Yom Ha’atzmaut’s celebration.
- The Algemeiner piece cites a recent Pew survey showing an eight-point slide in U.S. views of Israel, reports 60% of Americans now unfavorable and American Jewish favorability down to 64%, and urges resisting delegitimization while examining Israeli rhetoric and policy.