Rosh Hashanah is first referred to in our texts as Yom HaZikaron - the Day of Remembrance. It is not until the Talmud that the idea of the “new year” is even associated with the day, and liturgically speaking, many of our prayers describe Rosh Hashanah as one of memory - a reflection on the past rather than an aspiration for the… Read More
“So, let’s go around the room and introduce ourselves by saying our names, where we’re from, our most memorable Birthright Israel moment, how each of us defines our Jewish identity, a value that represents how we live our lives, and what each of us is hoping to get out of being here at Birthright Israel Fellows.” And, this is how… Read More
Has your beloved family member accepted the gift of a Birthright Israel trip? Mazel tov! He or she is one step closer to embracing the Jewish homeland. While you’re probably excited about the upcoming trip, we understand if you’re also nervous. The media and uninformed masses often spread misinformation about the Jewish state. There are many things people get wrong… Read More
It began over 20 years ago with a bold idea from Jewish philanthropists: A trip to the Holy Land will enhance and strengthen the Jewish Diaspora for generations to come. Thus, Birthright Israel was born, and Birthright Israel Foundation came soon after. You may have heard about Birthright Israel from friends, family, or media, but you’re likely less familiar with… Read More
Ashley Horine was taught about Israel and claiming her birthright by her grandfather, a Holocaust survivor she affectionately refers to as Poppy. Even so, for much of her life, she considered her Jewish heritage a “thing” without meaning. After Poppy passed away, however, Horine spoke with his rabbi who reiterated Poppy's desire to see his granddaughter go to Israel, sharing… Read More
It’s been over 21 years since Birthright Israel alumnus Daniel Samoohi was gifted with a trip to Israel, and he still remembers every moment. Not only was he able to feel “the mystique and history of Israel,” but he also felt close to his grandfather, an Israeli citizen who had passed away. “As I prayed on the Kotel, I could… Read More
Do you know what a spiel is? Or the name of the largest desert in Israel? Or how about what delicious fried treat is eaten on Hanukkah? Not quite sure? Well, then it's time to take our pop quiz and test your Jewish knowledge! We can't wait to see how you score! When you're done with the quiz, be sure… Read More
Did you recently learn that your child or grandchild is interested in a group trip to Israel? You’re likely thrilled that someone you love is eager to embrace their heritage, but you may also wonder if they’re in safe and suitable hands. When the trip is organized through Birthright Israel, there’s no need to worry. You may not know much… Read More
Every year Jews in Israel and around the world celebrate Yom Ha'atzmaut, Israel Independence Day. Yom Haatzmaut marks the establishment of the modern State of Israel. Today, in Western Jewish communities, Yom Haatzmaut is incorporated into Jewish calendars and a public celebration follows. This all marks and of course remembers the original date when Israel's Declaration of Independence was signed… Read More
How well do you think you know the Birthright Israel trip? Whether you participated or are a supporter of the program, we promise there's always something new to learn. The trip has been around for over 21 years and has over 750,000 alumni across 68 countries. And, since our program is constantly evolving to meet the needs of today's young… Read More
The two weeks I spent in Israel were nothing short of transformative and to show you how much it changed my life; I need to go back a little bit. I went to high school in Boca Raton, FL, where my mom and stepfather still live. As many people already know, Boca Raton is a very Jewish community. In the… Read More
