Connecting with Israel
Physically and Spiritually

Spiritual Ways to Help Israel

A mitzvah, a G-dly deed, has the power reach deep into the core of our being--where we are all one, and the physical distance between us is of no consequence.

At this core, a positive deed on our part will help bring salvation to a brother and sister in distress. During past conflicts in the Land of Israel, and during times of danger for the Jewish people, the Lubavitcher Rebbe made practical suggestions of mitzvot that would elicit G-d's blessings and protection.

Let us not underestimate the power of good! With a single good deed on our part, here and now, we can each contribute toward the victory and safety of our fellow Jews in Israel. The Rebbe emphasized the power of a mitzvah. We can make a difference!

• www.UnityTorah.com  - a way for college students and alumni across the country to connect to Israel through a Mitzvah. It is actually a Mitzvah to have a share (hence the $1 nominal fee) in the writing of a Torah, and by pitching in together in a Torah to be given to an academic institution in Israel, we are connecting with each other and with Israel, through the Torah.
   
• Torah study - even a small increase in time spent in Torah study is a big Mitzvah - and its easier than ever before, as many online sites have a wealth of Torah texts and resources. Learning Torah about the Land of Israel, its 3,000 year history and its Holy-Sites makes the connection all the more meaningful.
   
• Say a prayer - for the safety of the soldiers of the IDF, and for all residents of the Holy Land, especially those in proximity to the greatest danger.
   
• Charity and acts of kindness - Put a coin in a pushka, contribute to a charitable cause, or extend a helping hand to someone who needs it. Supporting Israel & Israeli charities is especially appropriate.
   
• Tefillin - The Rebbe began his “Tefillin” campaign in the lead-up to the Six-Day War. A verse says Tefillin puts the fear of the Jewish people upon the nations. See photo page of IDF soldiers in Tefillin on front lines...
   
• Mezuzah - A Mezuzah provides Divine Protection. If you already do have one, it may be time to have it checked to ensure it has not faded. The Rebbe spoke about Mezuzah during “Entebbe” - this year is the 30th anniversary: July 4th 1976.
   
• Shabbat Candles - The beginning letters of Neirot Shabbat Kodesh spell ‘Neshek” or the Hebrew word for arms and weapons. Bringing light into the world is a weapon to dispel forces of darkness. Shabbos House is part of the national FridayLight campaign, and will host a special Shabbat candle-lighting event early in the semester.
   

Physical Ways to Help Israel

• Pro-Israel Activism Go to a Support Rally / Be informed, write to Media & Online - get the word out, stand up for Israel / Go to Israel Events / Buy Israeli Goods - economic resilience in war-time is crucial
   
• Visit for those who can - tourism or study abroad makes a huge impact.
   
• Moral Support Send a supportive message along with chocolate to Israeli Soldiers at NO charge to you. Send Solidarity Message to be posted on CTV screens across Israel. No charge.

Financial Support Tzedakah to Israeli charities and organizations - some established organizations include:

• JNF - Jewish National Fund which provides forestry, irrigation and other infrastructure.
• Colel Chabad the oldest continuous diaspora charity supporting Israel's needy (soup kitchens, subsidized wedding halls, pediatric dental clinics, etc...)
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Farewell Sendoff for Rabbi & Mrs. Israel Rubin to Israel, addressed by Congressman Sweeney

Report from Rabbi and Mrs. Israel and Rochel Rubin while in Tzfat

IDF with Heart - pictures you are unlikely to see in media outlets...

Stay informed - Israel News/Opinion Websites (in English):