How does traditional Judaism define mental illness? What remedies does it prescribe to treat it? Is adhering to the halachah and espousing the ways of G-d itself a treatment, in the halachah’s eyes?
The Pope’s Good Intentions
Pope Francis’s first couple of years as pontiff have been remarkably successful. His commitment to ending child abuse in the church, his dedication to ‘radical equality‘ between men and women, and his rejection of the overwrought vestments of the papacy…
Israel-Germany relations: based on interests or on emotions?
“Every German deserves to die … their hands are covered with Jewish blood … Therefore, there is neither absolution nor forgiveness, and no normal relations will ever be possible between us.” These were not the rantings of a madman. This…
Senate Concurrent Resolution 35 and anti-Semitism
Despite its increasing presence and impact on college campuses, anti-Semitism’s definition has become inexplicably blurred and political. The Senate Concurrent Resolution 35 was proposed this March urging University of California campuses to condemn anti-Semitism and racism. Responses have varied; however,…
All in the same: a walk through four quarters in “Jerusalem 3D”
My Mother’s Day was spent visiting the mother of all lands, Eretz Israel. After a short drive to the California Science Center in downtown, my family and I were graced with a long line for the sold out screening of…
Uncomfortable questions left unanswered: Ethiopian Jews in Israel and their fight for justice
A line of policemen armed with shields and stun grenades position themselves across a mob of angry protesters. The protesters wield signs reading “Stop police brutality” and “Black is not a crime.” Their hearts are filled with anger, frustration, and…
Hiding behind progression: Jewish passivity in the 1960s and beyond in America
The 1960s marked a time of revolution and confrontation for many minorities, including Jews. However, Jews hardly addressed their experiences of anti-Semitism during this time. Why did they not respond to discrimination, and what should we should do now to solve the resulting crisis?
A farewell to Ha’Am, my Jewish home
My journey with Ha’Am began as a freshman, when I stalked about the Enormous Activities Fair, searching for clubs to join. My eye caught a young man with a clipboard, emphatically explaining to anyone with a kippah, or a typical…
What this year’s USAC election results mean for the Jewish students
Now that the results of the USAC election are in, Jewish Bruins have begun to contemplate what the upcoming 2015-2016 term will look like. For the first time since 2012, the Bruins United slate has garnered majority representation in student…
Why Jewish life at UCLA is extraordinary
If you are reading this article, you are obviously aware that UCLA has its very own student-run Jewish newsmagazine, Ha’Am! Not many universities can brag about having their own Jewish newsmagazine. Contradictory to what some might believe in light of…