Chief Rabbi Goldstein announces a new Counter Terror Task Force that will be coming to South Africa to assist with the investigation into the recent attack with an explosive device on a Cape Town Jewish community center.

In it the Chief Rabbi outlines the proactive steps being taken to ensure the safety of Jewish life in South Africa and beyond.

🔍 Key Highlights:

▪️The terror attack in Cape Town and its connection to a global pattern of terror attacks against Jewish communities.

▪️Formation of a world-class counter-terrorism task force, including:

▫️Andre Pienaar, co-founder of the Scorpions in South Africa.

▫️Dean Haydon, former Senior National Coordinator for Counter-terrorism in the UK.

▫️Admiral Mike Hewitt, former Deputy Director for Global Operations, US Defense Department.

▫️Maj. Gen. (Ret.) David Tsur, former Commander of Israel's elite counter-terrorism unit, Yamam. 

▪️The broader implications of these threats for the Jewish community and society at large.

▪️A powerful message inspired by the Book of Genesis—shedding light on terror to counter darkness.

👉 Watch 'New Counter Terror Task Force announced by Chief Rabbi' now to learn about the steps being taken to protect Jewish communities and uphold civilized values that safeguard everyone.

📢🔔Stay Updated: Subscribe for updates on community security initiatives. Share this episode to spread awareness about the global fight against anti-Semitism and terrorism.

#TaskForce #JewishCommunity #CounterTerrorism #ChiefRabbi #SafetyFirst #CapeTownAttack

We are living in historic and miraculous times.

The world has been transformed in ways we could hardly imagine a year ago. Israel's remarkable military victories have realigned the balance of power in the Middle East. With shifts in South Africa and the United States, we have witnessed a year of extraordinary transformations. As we light our Chanuka candles this year, let us take a moment to give thanks to God for how far the world has come since this time last year.

Join in honoring the courage of Israel's soldiers who defend freedom, and let us embrace the timeless lessons of Hanukkah—gratitude, moral clarity, and faith.

May this festival of light bring blessings, hope, and strength to us all.

Hanukkah Sameach.

#Hanukkah #Israel #Faith #ChiefRabbi #JewishHistory

Highlights:

• Reflecting on Last Year's Hanukkah.
• Israel's Transformation in the Middle East.
• South Africa and America's Political Realignment.
• Gratitude and Miracles of Hanukkah.
• Tribute to Israeli Bravery.
• Hanukkah's Lesson of Light and Hope.

I had been feeling conflicted on how to respond to an invitation from the government of national unity to deliver a prayer at the presidential inauguration today.

On the one hand, as I have said publicly on this platform, a government of national unity, anchored by the two largest parties in South Africa, the ANC and the DA, has the potential to usher in a new era of peace and prosperity.

It represents the best prospects for the success of our country: economic development, political stability, poverty alleviation, and the upliftment of more than 60 million South Africans - among them, of course, our precious Jewish community.

This is especially clear when one considers the alternative that could have been. For the sake of the welfare of all South Africans, it is crucial for our government of national unity to succeed. And therefore we have a moral imperative to support this bold endeavour, and help it do so.

On the other hand, it is a government that includes the same president and party who behaved in such an unforgivable and reprehensible way since October 7, supporting Hamas and Iran against Israel.

And they remain unrepentant. More than that, there are strong indications that the ANC will continue to set the government agenda when it comes to international relations and foreign policy. So that is the conflict.

To support the government of national unity or not? To pray for it at the inauguration or not? To be part of helping it succeed or not? I found clarity from a time in history, when a Jewish leader faced a similar dilemma.

There are moments in the history of nations which are not merely events – they are historic turning points. The announcement of a government of national unity anchored by the two largest parties in South Africa – the ANC and the DA – has the potential to be such a moment.

After 15 years of progress in repairing the ravages of apartheid post-1994, followed by 15 years of corruption and incompetence that have caused untold human suffering – the country is at a pivotal point.

The South African electorate have sent a clear message – that things cannot continue as they have, that we need a new beginning. To their great credit, the country's political leaders have heard this message, and responded accordingly.

Cynics who claimed that our democracy would not survive an election that dethroned the ruling party were proved wrong. Things did not fall apart. The constitution held. Democracy held. The center holds - and now we have a government of national unity that has within its grasp the power and promise to usher in an era of national renewal and healing.

Now we must help them succeed.

The South African people must come together to support the government of national unity and hold them accountable, to ensure this turns out to be not simply a fleeting moment of hope, but an historic turning point that puts our country on a path of prosperity and peace.

This new world of power-sharing can be the dawn of an era of great prosperity and success and happiness for South Africa – provided our politicians show true, principled leadership.

Post-elections South Africa is a completely different country. For the first time since the advent of democracy, voters have decided not to give one party – the ANC – an absolute majority. The South African people have said that it is enough of one party exercising absolute power. The corruption must end. It's time to share the power.

The place to begin is for the country's two biggest parties – the DA and the ANC – to form a government of national unity, with other smaller parties with shared values joining the coalition. Together, the ANC and DA represent over 60% of South Africans, and SRF opinion polls show that the majority of the voters of both parties want this coalition.

But it's more than just the numbers – the ANC and DA also represent the widest diversity of South Africans, across all the so-called barriers of race, culture, language, ethnicity and economic status. And so, if this coalition is established, it will be a true expression of the South African dream of unity in diversity.

The coalition-building process will not be easy. For the partnership to work, the ANC will have to repent for its moral failings, set aside its obsessive anti-Israel politics that cost it many votes and focus wholly on improving the lives of the people of our country.

The suffering and humiliation of unemployment and poverty is a moral affront, and must be addressed with judicious policies that will set us on a path to economic growth. Service delivery must be in the hands of those who are most competent, not those with the best political connections. Above all, the leadership of the ANC and the DA are going to have to exhibit the highest form of leadership.

The Talmud's vision of leadership is captured by this teaching: "I give you not power, but service." Service is the essence of great leadership. Political power must not be for self-enrichment or party patronage, but for serving the people.

The Talmud also teaches: "Any community dedicated to Heaven will endure, and one which is not dedicated to Heaven will not endure." This means, for a society to be successful, its leaders must act not out of self-interest, but "for the sake of Heaven", for a higher cause, for the greater good. If our politicians work together, setting aside self-interest and party interests, acting for the sake of Heaven, it can be a new beginning for South Africa – a chance to build a true rainbow nation, unified in all our diversity.

Through our votes we have spoken.

Now it's the task of our political leaders to rise to the occasion.

And make history.

May God bless South Africa. Nkosi sikelel' iAfrika.

On the eve of South Africa's national elections, Chief Rabbi Dr Warren Goldstein had an in-depth conversation with renowned political analyst, Dr Frans Cronje – whose cutting-edge thinktank, the Social Research Foundation, has been running a daily tracking poll that is the go-to place for much of the country's election analysis.

Find out everything you need to know about the elections – the different possible and probable outcomes, coalition options, and what we can expect moving forward into the future. Gain a deeper understanding of the country's current trajectory and future outlook, including the various socio-economic challenges and the political landscape.

It's not about optimism and pessimism – it's about gaining the knowledge and insight we need to assess the various issues we're facing as a country, in an informed way.

The SRF employs real-world analysis and hard data to provide authoritative insights on South Africa that local and international media refer to often.

This episode "What's next for SA? Dr Frans Cronje on elections 2024 and beyond" is the latest in a series confronting key issues in South Africa, aimed at providing analytical tools and a rational framework for facing the future.

Chapters:

0:00 Intro

2:30 The political system is working

8:58 What do the polls say?

10:31 SA public opinion is moderate, not radicalised

16:17 South Africans by large share the same values

16:46 Rationality over emotion (data vs hope/fear)

21:52 The end of loadshedding

29:03 How polling works

36:06 A new era of coalitions

52:55 State-proofing your life and business

55:50 The potential of private players and communities

58:00 Saying "No" to government

1:07:15 NHI

1:12:47 Advice to the Jewish community

1:15:43 Closing remarks

In expressing commitment to "never again", Western leaders contradict themselves. The only thing that stands between Jews in Israel and another Holocaust is the immense strength of the IDF.

By seeking to weaken the IDF, those leaders are placing the Jewish people in mortal danger. In their relentless pressure on the IDF, and in withholding the weaponry Israel needs to fight the genocidal forces that pledge its destruction, Western governments are repeating their sins during the Holocaust, when they stood by as six million Jews were murdered by the Nazis.

President Biden halted a shipment of weapons to Israel. This follows his regular sanctions waivers for Iran releasing billions of dollars to that genocidal regime.

Let's be clear. The war in Gaza is not one of retribution for October 7. It is to prevent the next October 7. And it's part of a regional war with Iran to prevent the next holocaust. Iran and its proxies have made their intentions clear. The only thing that stands between Jews in Israel and another Holocaust is the immense strength of the IDF.

Those that seek to neutralize or weaken the IDF are placing the Jewish people in mortal danger. The days of Yom Hashoah, Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha'atzmaut are bound together in a covenant of blood.

On Yom Hazikaron we remember the sacrifice and bravery of IDF soldiers who have given their lives defending the Jewish people. On Yom Ha'atzmaut, we give thanks to God for the blessing of a sovereign Jewish State.

And together, with God's help, they ensure we will not have another Yom HaShoah.

Pesach is our moment to discover meaning in the utter bewilderment and shock that we as Jews have experienced since October 7. The barbaric attacks themselves. The Iranian bombardment. The massive surge in global antisemitism. Israel's ongoing demonization.

The global obsession with the Jewish state. None of it makes rational sense. The very existence of the Jewish people is a mystery – we're the only nation in recorded history to have survived mass exile, been scattered to every corner of the globe, and then regrouped and returned to their ancestral homeland. The clue to solving these mysteries is a single astounding fact: it was all predicted. Everything we have witnessed in Jewish history – even as it defied all conventional laws of history – was actually foretold to us thousands of years before it happened.

When we try to impose a rational explanation on our history – and on current events, October 7 and its aftermath – we get stuck. Because there is no rational explanation. Only a supernatural one. Foretold to Abraham, recorded in the Torah, imparted by our Prophets – and discussed at our seders for centuries.

We all know the famous words of vehi sheamda in the Haggadah: "Not only one arose to destroy us, but in every generation they rise up to destroy us – and the Holy One Blessed Be He saves us from their hands." The message of the seder, and of vehi sheamda in particular, is that we are a miraculous people, born in Egyptian slavery and then liberated – amidst great miracles, signs and wonders – by God, Himself.

Any attempt to process Jewish history and Jewish destiny through the normal laws of history and politics leads to nowhere. The Divine framework as set out in the Torah is the only way to make sense of our supernatural history.

Within the texts of our Torah, we will find all the answers we seek. We'll understand the Divine meaning and purpose of Jewish identity, the essence of antisemitism, the terrible pain and miraculous triumphs of our remarkable history and our even more remarkable destiny. At our seder tables we remind ourselves, like all the Jews who came before us, that our history isn't haphazard. That there is a Divine plan.

That the pain and the redemption, the suffering and the miracles, the persecution and the liberation, are bound up with our Divine destiny.

Let this Pesach be a watershed moment for all of us. Let us rediscover the clarity, the understanding, the moral vision and spiritual memory we received from our Creator at Sinai – and that we need to navigate this post-October 7 world.

I just got back from Washington DC where I met with congressmen and senators, held engagements with media and think tanks, and spoke with key opinion makers and Jewish community leaders.

A centerpiece of my mission was to deliver a key opening address at the AIPAC congressional summit, drawing global attention to one of the most unnoticed stories in the world today – yet one of vital national security interest to Africa, the United States and Israel.

As chief rabbi of South Africa, I undertook a recent diplomatic mission to Israel amidst the hostility of the South African government and a breakdown in communications between the two countries. I met with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and other senior government officials, assuring them of the support of the Jewish community and millions of non-Jews in South Africa.

The purpose of my trip was to establish a strong, parallel diplomatic channel between the people of South Africa and the Jewish state. I conveyed a message to the government and the people of Israel on behalf of the South African Jewish community, as well as millions of our fellow citizens throughout the country. I told them that the African National Congress government does not speak in our name and we stand shoulder to shoulder with Israel in its battle against the forces of evil. When I met with President Herzog, Foreign Affairs Minister Yisrael Katz and Minister of Diaspora Affairs Amichai Chikli, I reassured them that despite the ANC government's morally repugnant support for Hamas and Iran, most South Africans have distanced themselves from the ANC's position.

Millions of South African Christians pray for and support Israel. Israel has many allies and friends here in South Africa who are ashamed of their government's support for terrorist regimes and despots. Moreover, the ANC's support has sunk to 40% and is still falling. I sought to tell the government and people of Israel that the bond between the Jews of South Africa and Israel can never be broken, no matter what the ANC does.

As Jews, we speak the name of Jerusalem at every funeral, saying a special blessing to mourners: "May the Almighty comfort you amongst all the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem." At every wedding, we recite the immortal verse, "If I ever forget thee, O Jerusalem." Three times a day in our prayers, we pray for the redemption of Israel and Jerusalem. When we pray, we face in the direction of Jerusalem.

Zionism is an essential part of our Jewish identity. It's part of our soul. Our connection to Israel began almost 4,000 years ago when God spoke to Abraham at the dawn of Jewish history. As a nation, we have maintained an unbroken presence in the land for more than 3,300 years—since the time of Joshua. Our connection to our land is older than that of any people on earth. Our bond with Israel is unbreakable.

Going forward, great efforts will be invested in building this informal diplomatic channel between Israel and South Africa until such time as a sound official diplomatic relationship can be re-established.

I undertake this task for the sake of our Jewish community, but also for the sake of South Africa, which will only benefit from a closer bond with the only democracy in the Middle East. In numerous areas of life in which the South African government has failed its people, citizens have stood up and come forward to make a difference. Here, too, with the country's connection to Israel under threat, we must come forward, speak up and reinforce our connection with Israel. Those who can should visit to express solidarity.

The current foreign policy of the ANC government, which associates our country with the world's worst terrorist states and tyrants, is not in the interests of the South African people. South Africa can benefit greatly from Israel's innovation, people, technology and economy.

Most of all, it can benefit from the Divine blessings that flow into South Africa from Israel: The promise made to Abraham that those who bless Israel will be blessed. In our time, we have witnessed these Divine promises fulfilled. After 2,000 years of exile—no nation on earth has ever survived such a protracted exile—we returned to our biblical homeland.

Just as promised in the book of Deuteronomy: "Then G-d will gather you in from all the nations. … If your dispersed will be at the ends of heaven, from there the L-rd your G-d will gather you in and from there He will take you … and bring you to the Land that your forefather possessed and you shall possess it." Our bond with Israel, forged in exile and sanctified by Divine promise, will never be broken. Am Yisrael Chai.

The International Court of Justice has delivered its interim judgment. Even a political body appointed by the United Nations General Assembly, whose members are mainly non-democratic states, couldn't bring itself to order Israel to ceasefire, but we should not be grateful for that.

They had no moral right to order Israel to cease its just war of self-defense in the first place. What these so-called judges should have done is express the gratitude of the international community of civilized nations for the bravery and sacrifice of Israel's young soldiers, who are going door to door to fight war to defeat the forces of barbarism in the Middle East, so that many of you listening to this, who live in the free world will not one have to do it yourselves in your own cities to protect your own children and grandchildren.

This is not 1938. It is 2024 and the Jewish people do not have to go on our knees to beg for the right to defend ourselves against those who seek to exterminate us.

On December 5th, an explosive device was thrown at the Jewish Community Center in Cape Town, South Africa, in an attempted terror attack. Thank G-d, it did not detonate, but the intent was clear: to cause harm and incite fear. In this video, Chief Rabbi Warren Goldstein delivers a powerful response, addressing the global rise in anti-Semitism, the need for leadership in South Africa, and the resilience of the Jewish community.

Watch to learn:

• How global stigmatization of Jews contributes to terrorism.

• Why silence from political leaders is unacceptable.

• The Chief Rabbi's plan to ensure safety and justice.

🔗 Stay informed and join the conversation about fighting terror and defending freedom. #CapeTown #AntiSemitism #JewishCommunity #Terrorism #SouthAfrica

The United Nations and its institutions have a credibility they do not deserve, and have become a threat to freedom and democracy in the world. Israel's case before the UN's International Court of Justice, brought by South Africa, should be used to expose this fact and begin the process of placing clear boundaries on the UN.

The UN's gross bias against Israel places it in breach of the agreements signed at the establishment of the Jewish state to accept the authority of the ICJ to adjudicate its actions. Now, I believe, is the time to walk away from this dangerous farce.

I'm Warren Goldstein the Chief Rabbi of South Africa and here is why I say that.

In a widely reported conversation with Israel's President Isaac Herzog, the head of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis, chastised Israel's war on Hamas saying it is "forbidden to respond to terror with terror".

In comparing Israel's just war of self-defense to the barbarism of Hamas, Pope Francis repeats the sins of Pope Pius the XII, from the Nazi era, of surreptitiously supporting the forces of evil who seek to annihilate the Jewish people.

And betrays his fiduciary duty as the head of the Catholic Church to protect Christians throughout the world from the same murderous hatred directed against the Jews, not realizing that we are in this war together.

I'm Warren Goldstein, the Chief Rabbi of South Africa, and here is why I say that.

It feels like 1938 again. Iran is today's Nazi Germany. And October 7 is our Kristallnacht. Through its proxy forces Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis, Iran is on a mission to exterminate the Jewish people.

And yet the leaders of the world's elite academic institutions are unable or unwilling to condemn calls for Jewish genocide. Objective standards of right and wrong are deemed not to exist. Moral confusion is everywhere. Moral relativism abounds - a nihilistic philosophy posing a direct threat to the very foundations of the free world.

In the aftermath of Kristallnacht, Churchill said: "Is not this the moment when all should hear the deep, repeated strokes of the alarm bell?" We are at that point once again. As antisemitism surges throughout the globe, and protestors scream "gas the Jews" in Western capitals of the world, "the deep, repeated strokes of the alarm bell" are ringing out – and they're sounding not only for the Jews, but for the civilised world, and all that is good. To win this war, we must summon the courage and moral clarity to distinguish between good and evil. To push back the forces of darkness, we must recognise it, confront it - and defeat it.

Chief Rabbi Goldstein exposes the defamatory lies of the SA President in referring Israel to the International Criminal Court on charges of genocide. This libel threatens the Jewish State, and Jews around the world. Discover the strict legal and ethical standards upheld by the Israel Defense Forces, debunking allegations of war crimes and genocide.

Learn how these false accusations against Israel serve to dehumanize and stigmatize Jews, leading to a surge in anti-Semitism on a global scale, and how, when Israel is demonized, Jews around the world become targets for discrimination and persecution.

The Chief also confronts critics of Israel such as Barack Obama and Emmanuel Macron who more subtly undermine the Jewish State's right to self-defense. He explains how, by equating Israel's actions with those of its adversaries they pose a direct threat to Israel's survival and the principles of freedom and democracy, and indeed jeopardize the foundations of a world built on law and human rights.

Rabbi Goldstein challenges misconceptions, delves into historical context, and calls for a fair examination of Israel's right to self-defense. Don't miss this compelling perspective on some of the most contentious issues surrounding Israel's war for survival. Share, discuss, and stand for truth.

Across the world, we've seen a stark contrast between pro-Israel rallies – prayerful peaceful, compassionate; non-violent, non-hateful, non-threatening, and anti-israel rallies – aggressive and hateful; marred by intimidation and threats. This dichotomy is mirrored in the Israel-Hamas conflict itself and their underlying ideologies. Here's how.

In a sweeping address, Chief Rabbi Goldstein confronts what the Israel-Hamas conflict is really about – Iran's plans to destroy Israel and spread global jihad. Pinpointing how the South African government and those marching against Israel in the world's capitals are Iran's "useful idiots", he addresses multiple issues ranging from jihadi terror in Africa to the ANC's betrayal of biblical and basic moral values.

Chief Rabbi Goldstein also explains how the baseless accusations of colonialism, apartheid and genocide levelled against the Jewish state are the latest in a long line of nefarious, anti-Semitic conspiracy theories, a 21st century version of the blood libel and the "Protocols of Zion".

Chief Rabbi's speech at the SAZF's Rally for Israel.

An address delivered at a prayer gathering at Yeshiva College in Johannesburg

A talk that I gave in tribute to my late Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav HaGaon Rav Azriel Chaim Goldfein zt'"l on his 14th yahrzeit (14 Kislev) - teachings from Chazal that he would emphasize again and again have become etched so clearly into my consciousness that they accompany and guide me every day in whatever it is that I do.

5781 has been a year filled with real and unique challenges for all of us.

Like all challenges; these ones are pregnant with opportunity.

On the eve of Rosh Hashana 5782, I've recorded this essay for you that outlines what I believe is the greatest opportunity for us all.

Writing it has given me a lot of clarity, direction and hope.

I hope that hearing it will do the same for you.

Wishing you and yours, and our entire blessed community, a shana tova umetuka,

a good and sweet new year and כתיבה וחתימה טובה,

Chief Rabbi Warren Goldstein

The ICC's arrest warrant against Netanyahu is a national security threat to all democracies. The Chief Rabbi of South Africa exposes how the ICC, a tool of the autocratic regimes who dominate the UN, targets free countries like Israel for defending themselves while shielding tyrannies that exploit global institutions.

With no jurisdiction and blatant politicization, the ICC has become a farce—framing violence as law to undermine the free world. In this video, Chief Rabbi of South Africa discusses why Israel is being attacked, the implications for democracies, and why the free world must reject these illegitimate institutions.

Highlights:

1/ The ICC's illegitimacy and its use as a weapon against democracies.

2/ How Israel's fight against terrorism defends the entire liberal world.

3/ The exploitation of global bodies by autocratic regimes to weaken the free world.

4/ The urgent call for a "United Nations of the Free World" to reclaim sovereignty and justice.

Share your thoughts and subscribe for more content!

If we want to hold our communities, our families, our society together – it starts with respect, because respect is the foundation of all human interaction.

Chief Rabbi Warren Goldstein chats to world-renowned speaker, thinker and author of 'Permission to Believe', Rabbi Lawrence Kelemen.

Chief Rabbi Goldstein and Rabbi Tatz discuss key ideas on Purim and important lessons that we can take out of the Megillah for the challenging times we are living through

What we have all been going through this last year is a deeply 'Purim' experience. Will we respond as people of fate or as people of destiny?

Every Sunday night, Gina and I sit down with our children to learn the weekly Torah portion together. Our focus is exploring the big picture. We do this by sharing, debating, arguing as a family, and – most importantly – by listening to each other and making space for every question and opinion around the table. 

It's one of the highlights of our week and we thought it would be great to share.

Your Feedback please

Every Sunday night, Gina and I sit down with our children to learn the weekly Torah portion together. Our focus is exploring the big picture. We do this by sharing, debating, arguing as a family, and – most importantly – by listening to each other and making space for every question and opinion around the table. 

It's one of the highlights of our week and we thought it would be great to share. We have created this pilot for a podcast and would love to know what you think. Is it something you would like to hear every week? And if that's a yes – let us know what you think we should name our podcast! Thanks for taking the time to listen. Let me know at office@chiefrabbi.co.za

Is ours a story of freedom for its own sake? Or is there something else at play? If we look closely we begin to see the real value in freedom that is connected to a deeper purpose.

Superficially, the struggle between the Maccabees and the ancient Greek Empire looked like a political struggle for freedom, a military fight. But beneath the surface, it really was a struggle of values. The brave Maccabees confronted a world superpower in order to defend our eternal values. And when we light Chanukah candles, we fulfil that same mitzvah to publicise and proudly proclaim our faith and mission to ourselves, our families and our world.

What does love really mean? It's a powerful emotion that connects us to the people around us and to G-d, but how do we understand it? Is there a way to analyse it and look at its different dimensions?

The ladder represents our mandate to bring the Divine values of heaven to earth, and it also shows that G-d is interested in and connected to what is happening here in our world. We fulfil this mandate through fulfilling the mitzvot which bring G-d's light and wisdom to our world and guide us to form a bond of deep connection with Him.

In this speech the Chief Rabbi of South Africa delivers a powerful message of defiance, resilience, and hope. He reflects on the anniversary of the October 7th attack and emphasises how Israel's battle is more than a struggle for survival - it's a stand for global freedom and democracy. He also highlights the bravery of Israeli soldiers and civilians in the face of terrorism and oppression.

As Israel confronts Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran, it moves closer to securing a safer world for all, and the Chief Rabbi of South Africa calls for global recognition of Israel's vital role in defending the very foundations of civilization and its total victory.

What to expect:

1/ Reflections on the October 7 attack and the resilience of the Israeli people.

2/ The dismantling of Hamas and Hezbollah as a turning point for the Middle East.

3/ A call for support from world leaders: why Israel's victory is a victory for humanity.

4/ The global implications of Israel's fight against terrorism, tyranny, and violent extremists.

5/ The Chief Rabbi's powerful reminder: Israel is not seeking sympathy, but action.

If we want to live a life that is inspired and righteous, we have to believe in ourselves and our own importance. We have to believe that we are so precious in the eyes of G-d that he would have created the entire universe just for us.

Here are incredible words of chizuk and inspiration from, HaGaon HaRav Shmuel Kamenetsky shlita, HaGaon HaRav Dovid Cohen shlita, HaGaon HaRav Sholom Kamenetsky shlita, as well as Chief Rabbi Dr Warren Goldstein shlita  and  ArtScroll President Rabbi Gedaliah Zlotowitz shlita.

Listen together with others and t'nu kavod laTorah.

Israel stands poised to shift the balance of power in the world towards the forces of freedom and democracy.

In this episode, the Chief Rabbi of South Africa reflects on Israel's incredible resilience following the October 7th attack. He explores how Israel's fight is not only about its own survival but also about shaping a future for the free world. The video also dives deep into the unwavering courage of everyday Israelis, from soldiers on the frontlines to civilians risking everything for the cause of liberty.

Highlights include:

1/ Uplifting stories of Israeli bravery during and after the October 7th attack.

2/ How Israel's tactics have crippled Iran's proxies, including Hamas and Hezbollah, marking a pivotal moment for the Middle East.

3/ Israel's unmatched commitment to ethical warfare, maintaining the highest civilian-to-combatant ratio.

4/ Why Israel's victory matters for the global fight for freedom.

5/ Israel's enduring role as a "light unto the nations," refusing to be seen as victims.

A ceasefire in the Hamas-Israel war is not just misguided, but a dangerous betrayal of justice. The international community's calls for negotiation ignore the harsh reality of Hamas' violent extremism and Israel's right to defend itself. True justice demands not compromise, but the defeat of those who seek to destroy peace and freedom.

The Chief Rabbi argues against the international push for a ceasefire, insisting that it not only legitimizes Hamas' violent actions but also abandons Israel at a critical moment. Instead, global institutions and governments should call for unconditional surrender and the release of all hostages, ensuring that Hamas is held accountable.

Highlights include:

1/ The dangers of treating Hamas and Israel as moral equals, and why the concept of a ceasefire undermines Israel's right to defend itself.

2/ The Chief Rabbi's urgent call for the international community to demand Hamas' unconditional surrender, rejecting any compromises.

3/ A critique of Western nations, including the US and UK, for limiting military support to Israel while pursuing misguided ceasefire negotiations.

4/ A comparison between Hamas' actions and historical examples of evil that demanded total defeat

5/ A strong warning to the West: failing to support Israel unequivocally in this war could lead to dire consequences for the Western world itself.

Now is the time for religious leaders to be bold - to come to the defence of society, to speak up for Western values and freedoms.

The Chief Rabbi of South Africa critically discusses how Pope Francis and the Archbishop of Canterbury have responded—or failed to respond—to threats against Christianity and Western values, particularly in the context of their positions on Israel and the recent ICJ ruling that challenges Israel's legitimacy.

Highlights include:

1/ The quiet response of Pope Francis and Archbishop Welby to the growing threats of radical ideologies and global unrest.

2/ The Archbishop's endorsement of the ICJ ruling against Israel and its contradiction with Biblical teachings.

3/ The Chief Rabbi's critique of religious leadership in the face of modern-day challenges, comparing current leaders with historical figures like Pope John Paul II.

4/ The rising danger to Europe's values due to the passive stance of its religious leaders, especially regarding Israel's struggle for security.

5/ A powerful call to action urging Pope Francis and Archbishop Welby to defend Christians, Israel, and Western civilization before it's too late. 

#ChiefRabbiOfSouthAfrica #PopeFrancis #ArchbishopOfCanterbury #ChurchOfEngland #ICJRuling #IsraelAndBible #MiddleEastConflict #LandOfIsrael #UNAndIsrael

Chief Rabbi of South Africa reacts to Israeli Prime Minister, Netanyahu, speech to Congress on the Iran threat. The video covers Israeli military strategy, US Congress reaction, and the Iran-Israel conflict.

During his speech to Congress, Netanyahu highlighted the pressing concerns regarding Iran and stressed Israel's imperative to take action. The Chief Rabbi delves into an analysis of Netanyahu's address discussing its impact on military tactics and the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict.

Highlights include:

1/ The impact of Netanyahu's address on the Iran Israel conflict

2/ Insights from the Chief Rabbi on Israeli military strategy

3/ Reactions from the US Congress and their effect on Israel

4/ Contextual analysis of past Israeli prime minister speeches

A recording of the prayer delivered by Chief Rabbi Dr Warren Goldstein at the inauguration of President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on 19 June 2024. Chief Rabbi Goldstein was among four other national religious leaders, representing the country's major faith communities, delivering prayers at the ceremony. The inauguration followed the national elections held on 29 May 2024, and the National Assembly elections on June14 2024 appointing President Ramaphosa as the head of a new Government of National Unity.

A house protects us from the elements. A home provides something far deeper. 

What is it about the human soul that refuses to settle for shelter alone?

In the Parsha of Terumah, the Torah commands the building of the Mishkan, a sanctuary that becomes a dwelling place for the Divine Presence. Redemption from Egypt is followed not only by freedom, but by the act of building a home for Hashem.

Why?

Why does the Torah describe the Mishkan in the language of home?

And why is exile so often defined as being sent away, not merely from land, but from belonging?

There is a deeper pattern woven through the Parsha of Terumah. Even in comfort, many people carry a quiet sense of displacement. Even surrounded by walls, something can feel missing.

Drawing on the Ramban, Pirkei Avot, and the inner meaning of the Mishkan, Chief Rabbi Dr. Warren Goldstein explores a question that lies at the heart of the human condition:

Where do we truly belong?

Key Questions Explored

• What transforms shelter into belonging?

• Why does exile feel deeper than geography?

• What does it mean to build a home for the Divine?

• Where does the human soul feel most at home?

The recent Roedean antisemitism scandal began when they refused to play a scheduled tennis match against King David. The incident generated national uproar, investigations, and fierce public debate.

But this moment is about more than a match.

At first glance, it appears to be a dispute within two respected South African schools. Yet beneath the surface lies a larger tension. It is a tension that touches education, identity, and the moral direction of our institutions.

What happens when longstanding principles begin to shift? What happens when frameworks once rooted in enduring values are replaced by new moral languages? What happens when institutions that once drew from shared foundations find those foundations quietly eroding?

What sustains a free and pluralistic society? What allows diverse communities to coexist with dignity and mutual respect?

And what happens when the moral architecture that made coexistence possible begins to weaken?

In this address Chief Rabbi Dr. Warren Goldstein examines the deeper currents exposed by the Roedean controversy, and what they reveal about the state of South Africa's moral foundations.

This is not only a moment for schools, but a moment for South Africa as a whole.

Difficult relationships and conflict are woven into so many social dynamics - within family, friendship, work community and society - causing tension, distance and pain. 

Can these relationships be repaired? Can resentments and divisions be overcome? 

In this talk on the Parsha of Vayeishev, Chief Rabbi Dr Warren Goldstein explores the roots of conflict through the story of Yosef and his brothers. Drawing on Pirkei Avot and the classical commentaries, the Chief explains that conflict does not begin with an event. It begins within us: in jealousy, ego, resentment, competitiveness, the desire to be noticed, the need to be right.

Our Sages teach that the path to peace begins with inner work: learning to see others with generosity, patience, and compassion; recognising the image of God in every person; and mastering the emotional impulses that push us toward anger or division. Peace is not avoidance. It is spiritual strength. It is the courage to rise above instinct and choose connection.

Key Insights

• Conflict begins inside us, before it ever appears between us.

• The story of Yosef and his brothers reveals how jealousy, ego, and resentment distort how we see one another.

• Pirkei Avot teaches that peace is built through inner work, not external control.

• Seeing the image of God in others changes how we relate, respond, and repair.

• Peace requires emotional mastery and the courage to rise above instinct.

• The Torah's model of peace begins with responsibility: I must work on me.

• Healing relationships begins with the heart, not the argument.

Fear is an intensely powerful and natural human emotion. It takes many forms. Fear of harm or failure or disapproval, fear of loss or rejection. 

These fears can be debilitating obstacles to our success and growth, and to fulfilling our potential.

And yet sometimes fear is an entirely appropriate response to real threats. Sometimes it warns and protects us.

Where is the balance? And how do we rise above our fears so that we can truly flourish?

In this talk on Parshat Vayishlach, Chief Rabbi Dr Warren Goldstein explores Yaakov's encounter with Esav as the Torah's model for facing fear with clarity, dignity, and faith. 

When the Torah says "Yaakov was very afraid," the danger was real, and so was his fear.

But the Torah uses this moment to reveal a deep truth: there is a way to face fear without being ruled by it.

Yaakov responds with strategy, strength, and faith, and through his example, the Torah shows us the difference between fear that protects us and fear that holds us back.

Our Sages teach that courage is not the absence of fear, but the mastery of it. Prayer becomes the training ground for trust. And the soul - light, strong, and purposeful - has the power to rise above the inertia and hesitation that come from the body.

This is a talk about fear, faith, and the quiet heroism of self-mastery. It is about discovering the courage that is already within us, and learning how to bring it forward.

Key Insights

• Fear is natural. The question is how do we face it.

• Yaakov's response: gifts, preparing for battle, prayer.

• Prayer trains us in trust. Pirkei Avot teaches faith through action.

• "Who is brave? One who conquers their inclination" (Pirkei Avot 4:1).

• Fear and laziness come from the body; courage comes from the neshama.

• "Be brave as a lion" - the Torah's call to spiritual courage (5:23).

• The Shulchan Aruch teaches: rise like a lion to serve Hashem. Lead the day.

• True bravery is overcoming inappropriate fear through self-mastery.

A few days ago I had the privilege of speaking to more than 100,000 South Africans in the National Day of Prayer at FNB Stadium. 

The moment reveals something profound about the soul of the real South Africa.

What I experienced was profoundly moving: the warmth of the crowd, the shared spirit of prayer, and the deep sense of unity that filled the stadium.

And I felt something else: the genuine love and respect towards the South African Jewish community. Because we stand for the same values: faith, family, moral clarity, compassion, community.

What happened in the stadium is a small part of something much larger. It reflects the real spirit of this country.

National surveys from the Social Research Foundation, under the leadership of Dr Frans Cronje, show that the overwhelming majority of South Africans share the very values that build thriving societies. Values that are also at the heart of Jewish life, and at the heart of the free world.

In my address, I spoke of our shared biblical heritage: the words of Isaiah, the Psalms, and the covenantal promise to Abraham: "Those who bless you will be blessed." The crowd immediately recognised and embraced these verses. Their response was powerful and heartfelt. This is a message of hope, dignity, unity and of the powerful future we can build when we stand together.

• South Africa is united by shared moral values: faith, family, community, and compassion.

• The warmth toward the Jewish community reflects a deep national bond.

• Biblical values remain alive in the hearts of millions of South Africans.

• National surveys confirm: the majority of South Africans aspire to moderation, respect, and moral clarity.

• The Day of Prayer reveals the true spirit of the nation. It is far stronger than politics or division.

• Our shared values form the foundation for South Africa's future.

• When people of faith stand together, they can shape a new national destiny.