Oyf Simches

Oyf Simches: On the Significance of Crises in Jewish History

A special online series. 

The Yiddish expression "Oyf Simches" – "let us meet on happy occasions" – first emerged among Jews who longed for a few moments of peace and happiness - a reprieve from the strife and crises that have typified much of Jewish history. Yet it also expresses the ability of Jews and Judaism itself to recover and rise again from the ashes, like a phoenix. The "Oyf Simches" series was created during the current period of crisis, in an attempt to draw strength from the inspirational struggles Jews have endured over the centuries. In each episode, Dr. Jeremy Fogel and a special guest will revisit one of these historical crisis moments that challenged the Jewish People in the past. We will examine what led to the crisis, what were its historical characteristics and how that crisis has shaped Judaism to this very day.

"When we remembered Zion" watch episode

"Console, console My people" watch episode

"Sanctifying the Name of God" watch episode

"End of a Golden Age" watch episode

"The Lure of a False Promise" watch episode