Rabbi Josh Broide returns to Behind the Bima!
After decades helping build Jewish life in Boca, Rabbi Broide reflects on what it’s actually been like starting over in Modi’in during one of the most volatile periods in Israel’s recent history. The conversation moves from missile sirens and wartime uncertainty to the quieter parts of Israeli life that rarely make headlines: crowded kiddushes, spontaneous Torah learning, one-seder Pesach, and the feeling of waking up every morning in a Jewish state.
The Rabbis also tackle one of the most emotionally charged conversations in the Jewish world right now: how should aliyah actually be discussed? Does fear motivate people — or push them away? Funny, personal, and thoughtful, this episode explores the emotional reality of building a life in Israel while remaining deeply connected to the Jewish world in America.
This season of Behind the Bima is sponsored by Julie Charlestein & Darryl Benjamin in honor of their grandparents, Morton & Malvina Charlestein, and their children, Ruby and Maccabi Benjamin.
In this episode:
Rabbi Josh Broide’s transition from Boca to Modi’in
Living through missile sirens and wartime Israel
The emotional reality of aliyah after October 7
Israeli resilience and community culture
The “aliyah snob” debate
One seder vs. two sedarim
Israeli shul culture and late-night learning
El Al travel stories and airplane-seat debates