Newsroom
Kikar HaShabbat
Haredi news site covering community, politics and religious affairs. We translate its reports into English and compare them with 43 other newsrooms.
Group in the coverage barHaredi pressIts own lean is rated Right.
FundingCommercial advertising
Language and baseHebrew · Bnei BrakFounded 2009
The last 30 days
2,557reports translated
63%first to report
78 mintypical time behind the first report
100%carry a named author
1%opinion and analysis
Why not a score? These are rates we can recompute. A single number would hide whether a newsroom is slow, unnamed, or mostly reprints. How we measure
How Kikar HaShabbat writes
Kikar HaShabbat's tone this month is neutral, close to the rest of the Haredi press. On Netanyahu, the police, the IDF, the Knesset and Eisenkot its wording is in step with the other newsrooms.
From 2,544 reports this month, judged without the newsroom's name. How this is measuredOnly Kikar HaShabbat had it
Top Rabbi Asserts Torah Commandments Unchanged by ArrestsPolitics · 5h agoRabbi Machfoud Compares Yemenite Child Conversion Attempts to Current Threats to Torah WorldCulture · 6h agoTwo Men Found Dead in Tel Aviv and Haifa ApartmentsSecurity · 6h agoBig stories Kikar HaShabbat skipped
Grenade Attack Kills Woman in Northern Israel; Protection Racket SuspectedCovered by 20 newsroomsMossad Chief Met CIA Director in US Amid Iran TensionsCovered by 16 newsroomsIsraeli Arrested in Bulgaria Murder Case Linked to MillionsCovered by 15 newsroomsLatest from Kikar HaShabbat
Culture · 6h agoRabbi Machfoud Compares Yemenite Child Conversion Attempts to Current Threats to Torah WorldRabbi Shlomo Machfoud compared past attempts to convert Yemenite immigrant children to Judaism in 1949 to current threats against Torah study. He recounted how children were taken from their families and encouraged to violate Shabbat at Kibbutz Beit HaShita. Rabbi Machfoud stated that these efforts aimed to undermine religious tradition. He concluded by emphasizing that Torah study is what protects the Jewish people.Culture · 6h ago · also in 3 newsroomsCelebrity Chef Details Daughter's Religious Observance and Renewed BondA famous Israeli chef revealed her 15-year-old daughter Daniela has become more religious, attending synagogue and preparing challah. The chef stated this spiritual growth has strengthened their bond during Daniela's teenage years. This renewed connection has brought her daughter closer to her.Culture · 6h ago · also in 3 newsroomsMasterChef Judge Michal Ansky Proud of Daughter's Religious ObservanceChef and TV personality Michal Ansky revealed her teenage daughter Daniela is embracing religious observance, a path Ansky supports with pride. Daniela, 15, has been increasing her religious practices for two years, attending synagogue and preparing religious items. Ansky clarified her own religious stance, identifying as a believing woman connected to her roots, not secular. She also discussed past health-related dietary changes and a viral video of her connecting with nature.Culture · 9h agoRabbi Discusses Unusual Dating Practices and Marriage ProcessRabbi Assaf Ratzon appeared on the "Boded Line" podcast hosted by Yossi Haim Maimon to discuss the marriage process. He described unusual dating practices, including "tests" women conduct and his own response of "next." The rabbi also spoke about the idea of not enduring hardship for brief positive moments.Culture · 10h agoSinger Sharly Weinberg Releases New Hanukkah Song "Hanerot Halalu"Singer Sharly Weinberg has released a new version of the Hanukkah piyyut "Hanerot Halalu." The song features a melody by Yoeli Weiss and an arrangement by Menachem Bernstein. A new music video, filmed at "Vintage House," accompanies the release, aiming to capture the holiday's atmosphere.Culture · 10h agoRabbi Assaf Ratzon Discusses Unusual Dating PracticesRabbi Assaf Ratzon appeared on the "Boded Line" podcast to discuss unusual dating practices, including a rabbi's "next" response and women's "tests" during meetings. He also explored the idea of enduring hardship for brief moments of joy. The interview focused on the complexities of finding religious partners and the emotional dynamics involved in dating.Culture · 10h agoRabbi Assaf Razon Discusses Modern Matchmaking and Marriage ChallengesRabbi Assaf Razon discussed modern matchmaking and marriage, emphasizing flexibility and compromise over rigid checklists. He suggested that individuals are incomplete halves seeking their counterpart and that emotional attraction is crucial for a successful union. Razon also cautioned against excessive testing and judging potential partners based on minor details or societal labels, advocating for a focus on core values to build a lasting home.Culture · 10h agoRival Yeshiva Factions Pray Together for First Time in YearsStudents from rival factions within Jerusalem's Givat Yaakov yeshiva prayed together in the main hall for the first time in years, following a High Court of Justice decision. The Rabbi Kahane faction prayed upstairs while the Rabbi Markovitz faction moved to a different study hall. The Sabbath passed without violence, indicating a potential de-escalation of tensions within the institution.Culture · 1d agoRehovot Rabbi Issues Rare Directive Against City's Kashrut SupervisionRabbi Avraham HaCohen Rubin of Rehovot has issued a rare directive advising against relying on the city's rabbinate kashrut certification due to recent changes in its oversight. He stated that until a qualified Haredi rabbi is appointed, the certifications cannot be trusted, affecting businesses like bakeries. This reverses his previous endorsement of the same kashrut system, raising questions within the local Haredi community about the handling of the situation.Culture · 1d agoBiblical Tales: Isaac, Rebekah, and the Complex Legacies of Their SonsBiblical interpretations delve into the lives of Isaac and Rebekah, focusing on their infertility and the birth of twins Esau and Jacob. Rabbinic sources suggest Isaac prayed at Mount Moriah for conception, a period linked to Abraham's shortened life to spare him Esau's future sins. The contrasting characters of Esau, who divined the future using dangerous creatures, and Jacob, who lived simply, are explored. Rebekah's distress over her twins' violent struggle and the potential impact on the twelve tribes' prophecy is also discussed, alongside the revelation that Esau's lineage would produce significant Torah scholars.Culture · 1d ago · also in 2 newsroomsNorwegian Professor Denies Holocaust on Blog, Sparks OutrageA history professor at the University of Bergen, Stefan Sander-Pass, has been accused of Holocaust denial on his private blog, claiming the Nazis did not operate dedicated extermination camps. The university stated it respects freedom of speech and does not monitor private employee activities. The incident is part of a global rise in Holocaust denial cases, with recent legal actions taken in Canada and Belgium.Culture · 1d agoThousands Attend Bobov Hasidic Dynasty Celebration in IsraelThousands of Hasidim gathered in Bat Yam, Israel, on Thursday for a "Simcha Beis Bobov" celebration. The event, a major gathering for the Bobov Hasidic dynasty, featured music and dancing. The large turnout underscored the community's vibrant spirit and adherence to tradition.Culture · 1d agoNadvorna Rebbe Visits Grave of Uncle 80 Years After His DeathThe Admor of Nadvorna visited the grave of his uncle, Yitzchak Isaac Rosenbaum, in Haifa on Friday night. Rosenbaum was killed 80 years ago while attempting to immigrate to Israel on the "Knesset Yisrael" ship. The Admor prayed for the community and individuals at the gravesite.Culture · 1d agoVizhnitz Dynasty Scions Pray for Rebbe's Recovery in HebronThe sons of the Vizhnitz Rebbe and yeshiva students held a prayer service at the Cave of the Patriarchs in Hebron on Friday night for the Rebbe's recovery. Rabbi Israel Ernster urged continued fervent prayer. The event concluded with Psalms, songs, and a communal singing of 'Nar Emunah'.Culture · 1d agoRabbi Yigal Cohen Offers Daily Spiritual EncouragementRabbi Yigal Cohen is offering daily spiritual encouragement through a video series. A recent segment focused on 'doing good for the Creator of the world,' while another discussed financial sufficiency. The videos are presented by Kikar HaShabbat and aim to provide guidance and strengthen faith.Culture · 1d agoChief Rabbi David Lau Offers Weekly Torah InsightChief Rabbi David Lau is delivering weekly Torah insights on the website Kikar HaShabat, focusing this week on Parashat Toldot. The segment is dedicated to the recovery of Rabbanit Piga Tzipora bat Hadassah. Previous installments featured Chief Rabbi Kalman Bar.Culture · 2d ago · also in 2 newsroomsPonevezh Yeshiva Dispute: Eviction Delayed to August 2027 Amid Strict ConditionsA judge has delayed the eviction of a faction from Ponevezh Yeshiva until August 2027, imposing strict conditions including financial payments and a ban on using the yeshiva's name. The ruling aims to prevent disruption to the current academic year for over 1,200 students while addressing a long-standing dispute over control of the institution. The legal battle, stemming from the death of the founder, involves factions led by Rabbi Eliezer Kahaneman and Rabbi Shmuel Markovitz. The court's decision is a temporary measure as the main appeal is still to be heard.Culture · 2d agoChabad Leader Wept During Discourse on Love for God and IsraelSeventy years ago, the Lubavitcher Rebbe wept during a Chassidic discourse on "Many waters cannot quench love" amidst the Sinai War. Influencer Rabbi Asher Farkash recently explained the discourse, connecting it to Isaac and the power of Jewish commandments. The teachings explore divine "laughter" at mitzvot, the "waters" threatening Jewish love for God, and how simple blessings bring light.Culture · 2d agoNew 'Speaking in the Square' Podcast Episode Features Artists and Culinary TipsThe "Speaking in the Square" podcast's new episode features actress Shifi Kahana discussing her play "The Academy for Mothers" and Tehila Gado addressing religious violence. Culinary contributor Tamar Rosen shares a simple Sabbath recipe. Hosted by Esti Greenberg, the podcast offers weekly content blending spirituality and creativity for women.Culture · 2d agoMan's Hidden Music Taste Revealed on Date, Stuns CompanionA man struggled to answer his date Noa's question about his music taste, initially offering vague descriptions. During their second meeting, Noa revealed the question's significance, prompting the man to admit he listened to other, less palatable music genres. By their final meeting, he confessed his habits and promised to change, with Noa offering to support him, leading to a sense of clarity for the man.Culture · 2d agoFormer Student Recounts Severe Abuse by Rabbi in HederMeir, now 44, has detailed severe physical and psychological abuse he suffered as a child from his teacher, Rabbi Efraim, at a Heder. The abuse included slapping, hitting with a stick and ruler, and public humiliation for minor infractions. A pivotal moment occurred when Meir, after being beaten, rallied his classmates to confront the rabbi and the school director, leading to the teacher's dismissal. Meir continues to struggle with the lasting trauma, including anxiety and the need for therapy.Culture · 2d agoFrom Diamond Tycoon to Spiritual Emptiness: A Return to FaithA former international diamond executive shares his journey from material success to spiritual fulfillment through "teshuva," or return to religious observance. He describes experiencing profound emptiness despite wealth and fame, finding meaning in Torah study and community. The series also explores the challenges and potential pitfalls of the "teshuva" movement, emphasizing the need for balance, mentorship, and marital harmony amidst spiritual growth.Culture · 2d agoIsraeli Therapist Explains How to Overcome Feelings of InferiorityIsraeli emotional therapist Yossi Avdo explains how feelings of inferiority stem from social comparison, often fueled by envy and the curated self-presentations of others. Drawing on biblical narratives and psychological theories, Avdo illustrates how constant comparison, especially with close peers, can be damaging. He offers practical advice, including focusing on personal growth, questioning external benchmarks, and creating one's own path, to overcome these detrimental feelings and find self-worth.Culture · 2d agoUltra-Orthodox Communities Expand Beyond Kiryat Sanz in NetanyaUltra-Orthodox communities in Netanya are expanding beyond the established Kiryat Sanz neighborhood into surrounding streets and other areas like the city center and Ramat Ephraim. Limited housing in Kiryat Sanz has prompted families to seek residences nearby, while Lithuanian Haredi families are concentrated in the city center. The Ramat Ephraim area is also attracting Haredi families seeking a higher quality of life.Culture · 2d agoUltra-Orthodox Communities Expand Beyond Kiryat Sanz in NetanyaUltra-Orthodox communities are expanding in Netanya beyond the established Kiryat Sanz neighborhood. Haredi families, particularly from the Sanz Hasidic dynasty, are purchasing homes in adjacent areas due to limited space in Kiryat Sanz. The Lithuanian Haredi community is centered in the city's downtown, while Ramat Efraim is also seeing an increase in Haredi residents seeking a quieter lifestyle.Culture · 2d agoBiblical Blessings and Dietary Laws: A Deep Dive into Jewish TraditionThe weekly Torah portion, Toldot, inspires a discussion on Jewish blessings over food. The article explores the significance of biblical blessings and delves into the complexities of reciting "Borei Minei Mezonot" over pastries, depending on the ingredients and their purpose. It also examines the conditions for reciting "Me'ein Shalosh" after consuming grain-based foods and the debate surrounding the final blessing, "Borei Nefashot," when multiple food items are eaten.Culture · 2d agoRabbi Yigal Cohen Delivers Inspiring Sermon on Torah Portion ToldotRabbi Yigal Cohen delivered an inspiring sermon on the weekly Torah portion of Toldot, titled "Isaac's Blessing to Jacob." The sermon was presented to strengthen and inspire listeners. The event was filmed and shared.Culture · 2d agoChief Rabbi Kalman Bar Discusses Parshat ToldotChief Rabbi Kalman Bar shared his interpretations of the weekly Torah portion, Parshat Toldot. The discussion, filmed by Ran Eliyahu, focused on the biblical narratives and their lessons. Rabbi Bar's commentary likely explored themes from the lives of Isaac and Jacob.Culture · 2d agoLithuanian Maggid Baruch Rosenblum Delivers Torah Portion LessonLithuanian Maggid Rabbi Baruch Rosenblum presented a lesson on the weekly Torah portion, Parshat Toldot. The lecture was filmed and its duration was over an hour. The video was produced by Baruch Shamar and Mebakshei Hashem Elad.Culture · 2d agoRabbi Yisrael Reider Discusses Maintaining Connections Despite FlawsRabbi Yisrael Reider interprets the biblical story of Isaac and Esau, suggesting Isaac valued maintaining a connection despite Esau's flaws. He argues that severing ties can close doors to reconciliation and that preserving relationships, even imperfect ones, leaves room for hope. The message is to distinguish between a person and their actions, keeping connections open when feasible.More from Kikar HaShabbat