Special guest Yuval Neria, a decorated fighter turned psychology researcher, discusses the impact of the Yom Kippur War on the Israeli psyche. The hosts also address incidents of spitting at Christian pilgrims in Jerusalem, highlighting the need for respect towards other religions. Plus, they talk about an unexpected find: matzo ball soup in Europe!
Israel needs to show respect for other religions and address incidents of ultra-Orthodox Jews spitting at Christian worshippers to prevent further damage to its global image.
The trauma of the Yom Kippur War still affects the Israeli psyche today, highlighting the need for recovery, resilience, and addressing internal divisions.
Deep dives
Israeli police arrest ultra-orthodox Jews accused of spitting at Christian visitors
Five ultra-orthodox Jews have been arrested by Israeli police for allegedly spitting at Christian pilgrims in Jerusalem, an incident that has gained international attention. This is not the first time such incidents have occurred, and there has been a rise in these types of incidents. It is important for Israel to show respect for other religions and address this behavior, as it damages the country's global image.
The Yom Kippur War anniversary and its lasting impact
50 years ago on the Yom Kippur War, Israel faced an existential threat as Syria and Egypt launched a surprise attack on the holiest day of the Jewish calendar. This war caused immense collective trauma and fear of annihilation among Israelis, and the memory of this event continues to resonate not only within Israel but also in the wider Jewish world. The trauma of the Yom Kippur War still influences the Israeli psyche today, especially as Israel faces internal divisions and challenges from within.
The effects of trauma and PTSD
Israeli veteran and PTSD expert Yuvall Nria shares his experiences and insights from the Yom Kippur War. He explains that while personal trauma can be addressed, the collective trauma experienced by a nation is more complex to handle. He highlights the need for Israelis to move towards recovery and resilience rather than continuously dwelling on past trauma. Yuvall's work in studying and treating PTSD has shed light on the specific areas of the brain affected by the disorder, leading to potential advancements in the field of treatment.
The current challenges facing Israel
Reflecting on the current state of Israel, Yuvall Nria expresses his concern for the internal turmoil and divisions the country is experiencing. He discusses the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the need for a resolution that allows for compromise and peace. Nria also laments the growing divide between secular and religious communities in Israel, emphasizing the importance of tolerance and acceptance. Despite the challenges, he remains hopeful that Israelis can collectively work towards a better future.
An incident of ultra Orthodox Jews spitting at Christian worshippers in Jerusalem drew widespread backlash this week, both from Israeli officials and foreign countries. Yonit and Jonathan discuss the event - which is not the first of its kind - and the varying comments that followed, including those who claimed spitting at Christians is a “Jewish tradition”.
And - as the calendar marks 50 years since the Yom Kippur War, Yonit and Jonathan are joined by Professor Yuval Neria, decorated fighter turned psychology researcher, to discuss the impact of the traumatic event on the Israeli psyche - and his own experiences from battle.
Plus, the mensch-winning matzo ball soup found in an unexpected location in Europe.