Forget you’re wearing any clothes at all! “Like nothing at all!”

Do people actually enjoy running?

The etymology of “usury” traces back to the Medieval Latin term “usuria,” meaning “interest” or “usury,” which itself comes from the Latin “usura,” meaning “use,” “enjoyment,” or “the lending at interest.” The root word “usus,” from which “usura” is derived, translates to “use” or “usage.” Initially, the term did not inherently carry a negative connotation; it simply referred to the practice of charging for the use of money, typically in the form of interest on loans.

Historical Development

Over time, the meaning of usury evolved, particularly influenced by religious, social, and economic contexts. In many religious texts, including the Bible, the Quran, and the Torah, usury was criticized or outright prohibited, especially when it involved excessive or exploitative interest rates. This perspective influenced the term’s negative connotation, as usury came to be associated with the sin or moral wrong of charging unfair, excessive interest on loans.

In the Middle Ages, the Catholic Church condemned usury, defining it as any interest whatsoever on loans. This stance was based on the belief that money itself was sterile and should not “breed” more money. The moral and ethical debates surrounding usury significantly shaped economic practices and policies in Europe during this period.

Modern Usage

In contemporary language, “usury” generally refers to the practice of charging excessively high rates of interest that are considered unethical or illegal. The exact definition of what constitutes usury can vary by legal jurisdiction, with many countries and states establishing specific interest rate caps to protect borrowers from predatory lending practices.

The etymology of usury, with its roots in the concept of “use” or “usage,” reflects the complexity of its development over time, encompassing shifts in moral, economic, and legal interpretations of lending practices.

Conquests and servitude from others

Populous land

Armies! Military virtue!

Agriculture is the mother of all wealth — meat

Fishing and hunting

Augment agriculture

Just government

Public affair … public matter

Res publica

The etymology of “republic” traces back to Latin, originating from the term “res publica,” which directly translates to “public affair” or “public matter.” The word is composed of two parts: “res,” meaning “thing” or “affair,” and “publica,” the feminine form of “publicus,” meaning “public” or “pertaining to the people.”

Historical Context

In ancient Rome, “res publica” referred to the state or commonwealth as a form of government in which affairs and interests were public, in contrast to the interests of a monarch or a private ruler. The Roman Republic, which existed from around 509 BC until the establishment of the Roman Empire in 27 BC, was characterized by a complex form of constitutional government. In the Roman Republic, power was held by the Senate, various elected officials, and assemblies of the citizens, reflecting the idea of public participation in governance.

Evolution of the Term

Over time, the concept and the term “republic” evolved to denote a form of government in which supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives, and there is an elected or nominated president rather than a monarch. The term began to be used in the context of the various city-states in medieval Italy and later was adopted by other states and political entities that established forms of government based on civic involvement and the avoidance of hereditary monarchy.

Modern Usage

Today, “republic” is used broadly to describe states and countries with forms of government where authority is derived from the people, either directly or through representatives. While the specifics of governance can vary widely among republics, the core principle remains the involvement of the public in the affairs of the state, reflecting the term’s etymological roots in the notion of the public or common welfare.

East India Company of Amsterdam— became its own republic

Companies’*‘^ have been established principally for | navigation and trade with the Indies, and in distant | seas, which once were as lucrative as they were filled | with perils, losses, and vast expenses.

Since the genovese have made peace with the Venetians, he”^ says, after that
most important war which had taken place between them many years earlier, and since their republic was unable to satisfy those citizens who had lent it great sums of money, it granted them the income from customs. The republic wished each one to participate in the income from the princi­ pal Slim, according to the amounts owed to him, in order that he might be entirely satisfied with his share of the whole.
In order for them to be able to meet to­ gether, the palace above the customs house
was consigned to them. These creditors then arranged among themselves a type of
government, forming themselves into a coun­ cil of one hundred”“ to deliberate upon
Tontine, a. variety of life income.
public matters, and a magistrature of
The origin of companies.
eight citizens,
all the others.
into parts which they called loughi, and they named the whole organization San Giorgio. Once their government was consti­ tuted in this fashion, new needs occurred to the communes in the city, for which they turned for new help to San Giorgio which, because it was wealthy and well managed,
was able to accommodate them. The commune, on the contrary, which had begun by conced­ ing the customs, proceeded to concede some of its lands to them as a backing for the money they had. And so the matter proceeded, born of the needs of the commune and the services of San Giorgio, under whose manage­ ment the commune placed the major part of the lands and the city under the genovese empire, which it governed and defended, and to which it sends its rectors each year for
public support, no part of which the commune toils over. As a result of this, the citi­ zens have withdrawn their loyalty from the commune, as a thing oppressed, and placed it in San Giorgio, as a thing which is well and fairly managed. This is how the easy and frequent changes of the state have come about, and why their loyalty shifts from some citi-

An “agioteur” is a French term that refers to a stockjobber, speculator, or someone who engages in arbitrage, which is the practice of taking advantage of a price difference between two or more markets. Specifically, it describes a person who buys and sells stocks, bonds, currencies, or commodities with the aim of profiting from short-term fluctuations in their prices, rather than investing in the intrinsic value or long-term performance of those assets.

The term “agioteur” carries a somewhat pejorative connotation, often used to depict someone who manipulates or exploits market conditions for personal gain, sometimes at the expense of the broader economy or the stability of financial markets. The activities of agioteurs can include speculation on government securities, currencies, and other financial instruments, potentially influencing market conditions in ways that can lead to volatility or market bubbles.

Historically, agioteurs have been associated with periods of financial speculation and crises, where their activities were believed to exacerbate market instability. Their actions are often under scrutiny for their potential to distort market mechanisms, leading to calls for regulation to prevent manipulative practices and ensure market integrity.

In modern financial markets, the activities akin to those of agioteurs are subject to regulatory oversight to prevent excessive speculation and market manipulation, ensuring that financial markets function smoothly and transparently.

Private individuals are their own creditors?

Money to be multiplied — multiply your money *AND* children?

Cash fund

Convert the price of daring into gain

Cannot refuse

A good bank is one that which does not pay —

Fears of the greedy?

***

“Agio di banco” is an Italian term that historically refers to the premium or exchange rate difference charged by bankers for exchanging one currency for another. This term breaks down into two parts: “agio,” which means premium, benefit, or advantage, and “di banco,” which translates to “of the bench/bank.” It reflects the practice in medieval and Renaissance banking where money changers and bankers would set their rates for exchanging currencies, often incorporating a fee for their services.

Historical Context

During the times when banking was taking its modern form in places like Italy, currency exchange was a crucial service. Cities and states issued their own currencies, and with the flourishing of trade, both within the Italian city-states and internationally, there was a constant need to exchange currencies. The “agio di banco” covered not just the service charge but also accounted for the risk and the differences in value between various currencies.

Modern Interpretation

In contemporary financial terminology, similar concepts are still in use, though the terms have evolved. Today, we talk about exchange rate spreads, service fees, or transaction costs when converting one currency to another. These costs can vary based on the currencies involved, the amount being exchanged, and the financial institutions or exchange services used.

The historical concept of “agio di banco” encapsulates the beginnings of what would become a sophisticated global financial system, highlighting the enduring nature of currency exchange as a fundamental economic activity.

Double the volume of money

“Banchieri” refers to bankers in Italian, indicating individuals or institutions involved in the business of banking. The term historically signifies not just modern-day banking practices but also the rich history of banking innovation that Italy, particularly cities like Florence, Venice, and Genoa, contributed to during the Renaissance period. These cities were centers of commerce and finance, where some of the foundational aspects of modern banking—such as double-entry bookkeeping, bills of exchange, and state bonds—were developed.

Bench … and broken bench

The etymology of “banchieri,” the Italian word for bankers, traces back to the Middle Ages and is closely tied to the historical practices of money exchange and lending. The term derives from the Italian word “banco,” meaning “bench” or “counter.” This term itself has origins in the Germanic word “bank,” meaning “table” or “bench.” The etymology reflects the early practice of money-lenders and changers conducting their business from benches in public marketplaces.

In medieval and Renaissance Italy, these bankers operated from benches or tables set up in the streets or in bustling marketplaces, where they would exchange currencies, offer loans, and conduct other financial transactions. When a banker’s business failed, his bench was physically broken up, a practice symbolized by the term “bancorotto” in Italian, from which the English word “bankrupt” derives. “Bancorotto” literally means “broken bench,” indicating the collapse of a banker’s business.

The transition from “banco” to “banchiere” (singular for banker) and “banchieri” (plural for bankers) signifies the evolution from a focus on the physical space where banking transactions took place to the individuals conducting these transactions. The evolution of the term reflects the increasing sophistication and institutionalization of financial activities over time, moving from simple currency exchanges to more complex banking operations.

The history of banking, particularly in Italy, is a fascinating journey that intertwines with the broader narrative of European economic, political, and cultural development. Italian “banchieri” (bankers) played a pivotal role in the evolution of banking, introducing innovations that laid the groundwork for the modern financial system.

Origins in Medieval Italy

The origins of modern banking can be traced back to medieval Italy in the 11th and 12th centuries, with the rise of trade and commerce necessitating new forms of financial transactions. Italian cities like Florence, Venice, and Genoa became bustling centers of trade, leading to the emergence of the first banks. These early banks were initially simple money-changers’ tables (banco), where currencies were exchanged to facilitate trade across different regions with various coinages.

The Renaissance Banking Boom

During the Renaissance, Italian bankers and their institutions rose to prominence, spearheading innovations in finance. The Medici Bank, established by the powerful Medici family in Florence in the 15th century, became one of the most influential institutions of the era. It introduced or perfected many banking practices still in use today, such as double-entry bookkeeping, which allowed for more accurate tracking of credits and debits.

Bills of Exchange and Letters of Credit

Italian bankers developed the bill of exchange, an instrument that allowed merchants to trade without the need to carry large quantities of gold and silver. This not only made long-distance trade safer but also facilitated the flow of capital across Europe. Letters of credit, another innovation by Italian bankers, enabled merchants to borrow money in one city and repay it in another, significantly aiding international trade.

Government Bonds

Italian city-states, in their efforts to raise money for wars or other projects, began issuing government bonds, an idea that was revolutionary at the time. These bonds were sold by bankers to the public, marking the beginnings of the bond market.

Decline and Legacy

The dominance of Italian bankers began to wane by the end of the 16th century, as wars, competition from northern European bankers, and the discovery of new trade routes shifted economic centers of gravity away from Italy. Nonetheless, the innovations developed by Italian bankers laid the foundational principles of modern banking, influencing the establishment of banking systems in other parts of Europe and the development of global finance.

The legacy of the “banchieri” is still evident today in the practices, instruments, and even the very structure of the banking industry. Their contributions to the development of financial accounting, risk management, and international finance are integral to the operation of the modern global economy.

Which has no intrinsic value

Gems used as money in Asia— beauty of natural creations

Faith alone bestows value ***

Papers are sheets which are otherwise worthless

Settlements

Wherever the govemmqnq of a prince was just and people virtuous, it has oc-^ ^
curred to them to represent money with some token whicg though without intrinsic value, was impossible,

Leases in Spanish —

The birth of banks

All of these bills’“® originated either from depo­ sits, loans which have been made, or unions of socie­ ties. This is how banks’ revenues (which are known^by the Spanish term arrendamenti*”®), and companies
were bom.

the simple statement of a Quaker is equal to the solemn oath given by others not in
this sect.

Paper money?

They only trade with England, which they can watch carefully and attentively.

Private vs public debt

Profitable or barren?

The debt of public individuals

Pennsylvania — Quakers

We may set against what I have said of such coins,
namely, that they cannot be used except for a short
time’, the examples of the English colonies in America. For many years, only paper money**”® circulated there,
the esteem for it never faltering. But such an event is very strange indeed, and it must first be shown to be true. Its cause must also be-explained.

Hmmm

These colonies are so large, so rich and populated, that they do not even use me­ tallic money; instead, they use paper money, similar in appearance to ordinary money. These are made of two small rotmded pieces of paper attached together and signed with England*s coat of arms. All money, from
‘the lowest to that of the greatest value, is made in this fashion. Trade is carried on with them without any need for silver or gold. In accordance with how they are xised up or damaged, there is a place where
new ones are stamped. For all practical purposes this is their mint. Then, in each city, or land, there are locations where they are distributed, new ones be­ ing exchanged for old which are left there and burned. The ministers’ faith and lo­ yalty in this matter is marvelous; they commit no frauds by multiplying their pro­ fits on such money. But one thing, which seems strange and incredible, will cease to be so when it is remembered that the
Pennsylvania colonies are for the most part populated by Quakers, so much so that the colony, which is still flourishing, con­ tinues to be governed by their laws. Qua­ kers are a class of sectarians who, in the midst of many ridiculous and strange rites, are likeable for the exactness with which they observe natural laws, to which they are a3jDOSt superstitiously committed. Nor
were all the torments imagined in England sufficient to make them swear an oath in any instance in which the laws of that go­
vernment required taking an oath. The Qua­ kers have resisted so fiercely that Parlia-

The Siege

obsidionali

Under siege —

The term “obsidionalis” (or “obsidional” in English) originates from Latin, referring to something related to a siege. Historically, this term is often found in the context of coins or medals—known as “obsidional coins” or “siege coins.” These were emergency currency minted by cities under siege, made from whatever materials were available, to ensure the economy within the besieged area could continue to some extent. They are a fascinating part of numismatics (the study or collection of currency, including coins, tokens, paper money, and related objects) because they not only served as currency but also as historical records of the siege conditions, the resilience of the inhabitants, and the duration of the siege.

From a broader perspective, the concept of “obsidional” can be interpreted in several ways, especially when considering your interests:

1. Aesthetics: The design and production of obsidional coins can be seen as a form of innovation under duress. These pieces often carry unique aesthetics, reflective of the circumstances of their creation. They embody a raw, pragmatic beauty born from necessity, aligning with a Spartan aesthetic of simplicity and functionality.
2. Philosophy: The circumstances leading to the creation of siege coins can serve as a metaphor for Stoic philosophy. They represent resilience, adaptability, and the stoic acceptance of circumstances beyond one’s control, while still striving to maintain some degree of autonomy and order.
3. Innovation and Entrepreneurship: The creation of a new form of currency under siege conditions is a testament to human ingenuity and the entrepreneurial spirit, even in the face of adversity. It underscores the idea that necessity drives innovation, as people find novel solutions to pressing problems.
4. Stoicism: The creation and use of obsidional coins can be interpreted through a Stoic lens as a physical manifestation of enduring and overcoming hardships. The Stoics valued the ability to remain unperturbed by external circumstances, and the existence of these coins is a testament to the resilience of those under siege.

These coins, therefore, are not just historical artifacts; they are symbols of human creativity, resilience, and the enduring will to find solutions in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Nowadays people delight in being ugly and looking ugly?

Don’t hate me because you hate your body and how your body looks!

We preach all this fakeass woke shit about equality, being open minded and tolerant etc … yet you are not tolerant of me, how I speak, behave and talk to you or about you?

Also — we are told to “serve others”… but why don’t you serve me?

For example … people seem to be intolerant of the fact I walk around topless all the time … why do you care? I’m ain’t breaking no law.

Declare your debt?

Representations which become money?

men value the present as much as the future which, of course, becomes the present with every act of will.

Present vs the future

Representations of money are nothing but manifes— tations of debt.

Faith and good name of debtor

The certainty of the debt?

If you have *POSITIVE* money ,,, then you are a creditor)

Punctuality of debtor ?

Veracity of the token on hand

The history of Ethiopian Jews, also known as Beta Israel, is a fascinating and complex narrative that spans over millennia, intertwining religious traditions, migration, and the struggle for recognition. Their story is a testament to the diversity and perseverance of the Jewish diaspora.

Ancient Origins

The origins of the Beta Israel are shrouded in mystery and are the subject of various theories. Some traditions claim descent from Menelik I, the son of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, suggesting a connection to ancient Israelites that dates back to the 10th century BCE. Another theory suggests that they are descendants of the tribe of Dan, one of the Ten Lost Tribes of Israel. However, historical evidence supporting these claims is scarce.

Middle Ages

The Beta Israel community flourished in the Ethiopian highlands from the Middle Ages onwards, developing a unique religious tradition that includes the Hebrew Bible and other Jewish texts, but not the Talmud, which is central to rabbinic Judaism. They observed the Sabbath, maintained dietary laws, and celebrated Jewish holidays, albeit with some differences from rabbinic Judaism.

During the Middle Ages, the Beta Israel held a number of territories in the northwest of the Ethiopian Empire, but they faced periods of persecution and were often forced into difficult and isolated living conditions. Despite these challenges, they managed to preserve their religious and cultural identity.

Contact with European Jews

The Beta Israel came to the attention of Europeans in the 15th and 16th centuries. In the late 18th and 19th centuries, Christian missionaries and European Jews, upon discovering the community, sought to make contact. These interactions were sometimes based on religious solidarity, but they also led to external influences on Beta Israel practices and increased awareness of the community’s plight.

The 20th Century and Aliyah

The 20th century brought significant challenges and changes for the Beta Israel. Famine, civil wars, and political instability in Ethiopia made life increasingly difficult. The Israeli government officially recognized the Beta Israel as Jews in 1975, paving the way for their immigration to Israel under the Law of Return.

The most dramatic moments in this migration history were Operations Moses (1984) and Solomon (1991), during which thousands of Beta Israel were airlifted to Israel in secret operations. These operations were monumental, both logistically and symbolically, representing the commitment of the State of Israel to the ingathering of exiles but also raising complex issues of integration, identity, and racism.

Contemporary Times

Today, the Beta Israel community in Israel numbers over 140,000 people. While they have made significant strides in Israeli society, challenges remain, including socioeconomic disparities and issues of racial and cultural integration. The community maintains a vibrant culture that combines Ethiopian traditions with mainstream Jewish practices, contributing to the rich mosaic of Israeli society.

The history of the Beta Israel is a profound example of the diversity within the Jewish world and the enduring nature of Jewish identity under the most challenging circumstances. Their journey from the highlands of Ethiopia to the cities and towns of Israel is a testament to resilience, faith, and the complex interplay of history, religion, and identity.

What’s Aliyah?

Aliyah is a Hebrew term that literally means “ascent” or “going up.” In the context of Jewish history and culture, it refers to the immigration of Jews from the diaspora (Jewish communities outside of the Land of Israel) to the Land of Israel (Eretz Israel). This concept is deeply embedded in Jewish religious, cultural, and historical narratives and has been a central theme throughout Jewish history.

Historical Context

Historically, Aliyah has occurred in waves (Aliyot) at various times, driven by religious motivations, Zionist aspirations, persecution, or seeking economic opportunities and safety. Before the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, these waves of Aliyah were primarily motivated by the Zionist movement, aiming to establish a Jewish homeland in response to widespread antisemitism and persecution in Europe and elsewhere.

Modern Aliyah

Since 1948, the State of Israel has legally defined Aliyah as the right of any Jew (and eligible non-Jewish family members) to immigrate to Israel and acquire Israeli citizenship. This right is enshrined in Israel’s Law of Return, passed in 1950, which reflects the Zionist ideology of gathering Jews from the diaspora to Israel.

The Process

Making Aliyah involves a formal process where individuals apply through the Jewish Agency for Israel or directly through Israeli consulates abroad. Upon approval, immigrants receive various forms of government assistance, including financial aid, tax breaks, and help with integration into Israeli society, such as Hebrew language courses (Ulpan).

Significance

Aliyah is seen by many Jews around the world as a fulfillment of the biblical promise of return to the ancestral homeland. It has significant cultural and religious connotations, symbolizing not just a physical move but a spiritual journey or ascent, hence the term “going up” to the Land of Israel. For the State of Israel, Aliyah is a foundational principle, contributing to the country’s demographic growth, cultural diversity, and economic development.

Throughout its history, Israel has seen significant Aliyah waves from Europe (particularly around the time of its founding and after the fall of the Soviet Union), the Middle East and North Africa (following the establishment of the state and in subsequent years due to rising antisemitism), Ethiopia (in Operations Moses and Solomon), and other parts of the world. Each wave of immigrants has brought its unique cultural and historical background, shaping the modern state of Israel into a diverse mosaic of Jewish traditions and cultures.

• It is forbidden to dwell in the vicinity of any of those with an evil tongue, and all the more to sit with them and listen to their words.
  • Chapter 7, Section 6, pp. 51-52

as translated by Eliyahu Touger Full text online

Silence is a fence around wisdom

• There is one [disease] which is widespread, and from which men rarely escape. This disease varies in degree in different men … I refer to this: that every person thinks his mind … more clever and more learned than it is â€¦ I have found that this disease has attacked many an intelligent person … They … express themselves [not only] upon the science with which they are familiar, but upon other sciences about which they know nothing … If met with applause … so does the disease itself become aggravated.
  • Aphorisms. Quoted in Bulletin of the History of Medicine, Vol. 3 (1935), p. 555
  • Chambers Dictionary of Quotations(1997), p. 640

It is better and more satisfactory to acquit a thousand guilty persons than to put a single innocent one to death.

Maimonides, also known as Rabbi Moses ben Maimon, was a preeminent medieval Jewish philosopher, astronomer, and one of the most prolific and influential Torah scholars of the Middle Ages. His works in Jewish law, ethics, and philosophy have left a lasting impact. Here are some notable quotes attributed to Maimonides:

1. On Wisdom and Understanding: “Teach thy tongue to say, ‘I do not know,’ and thou shalt progress.”
2. On Compassion: “The risk of a wrong decision is preferable to the terror of indecision.”
3. On Health and Well-being: “No disease that can be treated by diet should be treated with any other means.”
4. On Giving: “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.”
5. On Character: “The test of good manners is to be patient with the bad ones.”
6. On Knowledge: “Do not consider it proof just because it is written in books, for a liar who will deceive with his tongue will not hesitate to do the same with his pen.”
7. On Ethics and Morality: “You must accept the truth from whatever source it comes.”
8. On Humility: “The wise man’s eyes are in his head; but the fool walks in darkness.”

These quotes reflect Maimonides’ broad intellectual pursuits, from ethics and law to medicine and philosophy. His work continues to influence not only Jewish thought but also the fields of ethics, philosophy, and medicine globally.

The history of North African Jews is a rich and complex narrative that spans over two millennia, marked by periods of prosperity and persecution, integration and isolation. Here’s an overview of their history, focusing on key points and contributions.

Ancient Beginnings

• Origins: The presence of Jewish communities in North Africa can be traced back to the Roman era, and possibly even earlier. These communities were established in regions that are now part of Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Egypt.

Medieval Period

• Golden Age of Jewish Culture: During the Middle Ages, particularly under Muslim rule, Jewish communities in North Africa flourished. They were involved in trade, scholarship, and the arts. The period was marked by relatively tolerant Muslim rulers who allowed Jews to practice their religion and participate in the economic and cultural life of their societies.
• Notable Figures: One of the most famous Jewish scholars from this period was Maimonides (Rabbi Moses ben Maimon), born in Córdoba, Spain, in 1135, who later lived in Morocco and Egypt. His works on Jewish law and philosophy were hugely influential.

Ottoman Rule and Beyond

• Ottoman Empire: Many North African regions fell under Ottoman rule from the 16th century onward. The Ottoman Empire generally allowed for religious autonomy within its domains, and Jewish communities often experienced a degree of protection under this system.

Colonial Period

• European Colonization: The 19th and early 20th centuries saw European powers colonize North Africa. Under French, British, and Italian rule, Jewish communities experienced changes in their legal and social status, often gaining certain rights and facing Western influences, but also encountering new forms of discrimination and antisemitism.

20th Century and the Establishment of Israel

• Aliyah and Exodus: The establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, combined with increasing nationalism and sometimes violence in North African countries, led to the mass emigration of Jews from these regions. Between the late 1940s and the early 1970s, hundreds of thousands of Jews left North Africa, with many settling in Israel, France, Canada, and other countries.
• Cultural Impact: These migrations had a profound impact on Israeli society, where North African Jewish traditions in music, cuisine, and religious practices have become integral to the country’s cultural mosaic.

Legacy and Present Day

• Preserving Heritage: Today, efforts are ongoing within both Israel and the North African countries to preserve and celebrate the rich Jewish heritage of North Africa. In some North African countries, there has been a revival of interest in the history and contributions of Jewish communities.
• Communities Today: While the Jewish population in North Africa has significantly diminished, small communities still exist, particularly in Morocco and Tunisia, where they continue to practice their traditions and contribute to the cultural fabric of their countries.

The history of North African Jews is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of these communities in the face of changing political and social landscapes. It underscores the diversity of Jewish experiences and contributions to the broader tapestry of world history.

Ashkenazi ;; the ‘white supremacy’ of Jewish people in Israel and internationally?

The tension between Ashkenazi and Sephardic Jews in Israel is a complex issue that has historical, cultural, and socio-economic dimensions. Here’s an insightful overview of the situation, highlighting key factors contributing to these tensions and how they manifest in Israeli society.

Historical Background

• Ashkenazi Jews trace their lineage to Central and Eastern Europe. They began immigrating to what is now Israel in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, primarily driven by Zionist ideology and escaping persecution.
• Sephardic Jews, on the other hand, are descendants of Jews from Spain, Portugal, North Africa, and the Middle East. They have a longer history in the region, with many living in the Middle Eastern countries for centuries before migrating to Israel.

Cultural Differences

• Cultural Practices: There are significant cultural differences between Ashkenazi and Sephardic Jews, including religious practices, languages (Yiddish for Ashkenazim and Ladino or Arabic for Sephardim), and culinary traditions. These differences sometimes lead to misunderstandings and stereotypes.
• Integration Challenges: Sephardic Jews, particularly those from Middle Eastern and North African countries, faced challenges in integrating into the predominantly Ashkenazi society of the early years of Israeli statehood. These challenges were rooted in language barriers, educational differences, and varying customs.

Socio-Economic Factors

• Early Disparities: Upon the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, many Sephardic Jews who immigrated faced socio-economic disparities compared to their Ashkenazi counterparts. They were often placed in peripheral towns and had limited access to economic opportunities, which has had long-lasting effects on socio-economic status and opportunities.
• Current Situation: While there has been significant progress in reducing these disparities, gaps still exist. For example, Ashkenazi Jews are generally overrepresented in high-paying professions and political leadership positions. However, it’s important to note that these trends are changing, with increasing numbers of Sephardic Jews achieving success in various fields.

Efforts to Bridge the Gap

• Cultural Integration: There are ongoing efforts to celebrate and integrate Sephardic cultural heritage into the mainstream Israeli culture, recognizing its richness and diversity.
• Educational Initiatives: Educational reforms aim to address disparities by promoting equal opportunities for students of all backgrounds. This includes scholarships and programs specifically designed to empower Sephardic youth.
• Political Representation: Over time, there has been an increase in political representation of Sephardic Jews in Israeli politics, reflecting a more diverse leadership.

Conclusion

While historical tensions between Ashkenazi and Sephardic Jews in Israel cannot be overlooked, it’s important to recognize the efforts being made to bridge these divides. Socio-economic disparities are being addressed, and cultural differences are increasingly celebrated as part of the rich tapestry of Israeli society. The path towards greater unity involves acknowledging past challenges while working pragmatically towards an inclusive future.

The funny weird thing in America and beyond:

Everyone seems jealous and envious of Jewish people, because they are so rich, successful, powerful etc.

But something I have discovered:

I don’t know any happy Jewish people?

But then again;

Do I know *ANY* happy people?

No. Besides myself!

Weird stuff?

Once again; I think people tend to hate, be anti-semetic etc because they have this weird formula:

Because XYZ race/ethnicity has all the money, power, control influence etc,,, they are so much happier than me, and they did it illicitly, with poor and sneaky illegitimate strategies.

So once again this weird bias —

We think we should hate and be envious of the happy, successful etc — but in fact,,, even *they* are not happy!

You cannot be an ‘open’ Jewish person in America

John Stewart;; had to change his last name to sound less ‘Jewish’.

I suppose the only place in the world in which you can be Jewish, openly Jewish and proud is maybe Israel? But funny enough;; Israelis consider themselves ‘Israelis’– not “Jewish”, even though technically they *are* jewish!

Also things I am not 100% certain about:

The tension between Ashkenazi Jewish vs Sephardic Jewish people in Israel

What are the consequences of this line of thinking?

Lots of takeaway points:

1. First;; we should never envy or hate or be jealous of anyone who is probably not happy.

---

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A beautiful photo:

An image which sparks joy and happiness in you and your life?

When trying to sell or resell their car,,, they insanely overvalue how much it is worth?

Nobody wants a used car,,, specifically — nobody wants *YOUR* used car

The second you don’t like it, just return it or don’t buy it!

My LINDBERG glasses frames from nearly a decade+ ago;; still work insanely great? Titanium FTW! The only things I swap out are the lenses every once in a while.

The upside of photography?

The littest life of all time?

BTC, BITCOIN x CHAINLINK (LINK)

DATA IS THE FUTURE

MONEY:

1. DELLA MONETA GALIANI PDF
2. DELLA MONETA V2

Letters from a Stoic Seneca:

1. EPISTLES SENECA
2. Seneca Letters

Slides

Photography Entrepreneurship 101

NEW+(S)

1. Bitcoin Thoughts

THOUGHTS

1. 7 Lessons Elon Musk has Taught Me
2. Introduction to Stoicism

PDF

1. LEICA MANUAL PDF // MIRROR
2. TRAVEL NOTES
3. ZEN OF ERIC
4. MASTERS VOLUME 1 // MIRROR
5. Photography Composition Manual v1
6. Zen Photography
7. STREET PHOTO CONTACT SHEETS
8. STREET PHOTO CONTACT SHEETS VOLUME II
9. Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Mastering Street Photography
10. The Street Portrait Manual
11. 100 Lessons From the Masters of Street Photography

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EK MIND STREAM.

THOUGHTS

1. THE PHILOSOPHY OF RISK TAKING — PDF
2. Why I Bought Chainlink — PDF
3. How to Become a Philosopher
4. How to Become a Stoic

ART PHOTO BOOKS

1. SUITS

ERIC KIM PODCAST

EK PODCAST ALSO ON SPOTIFY

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MODERN PHOTOGRAPHER

• DOWNLOAD FREE // PDF DOWNLOAD // MIRROR

STOICISM

Delve into the mind of EK:

BOOKS

1. THE PHOTOGRAPHER

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STREET PHOTOGRAPHY STARTER KIT

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0. What is Street Photography? (2.4gb) / Download
1. Black and White (2.3gb) / Download
2. How to Shoot Street Photography (2.2gb) / Download
3. Street Portraits 101 (1.9gb) / Download
4. Conquer Your Fears (430mb) / Download
5. Composition (460mb) / Download
6. Masters (107mb) / Download
7. Editing and Post-Processing (1.3gb) / Download
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9. Motivation (3.7gb) / Download

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PHOTOLOSOPHY

What can you become as a photographer-visual artist?

0. Introduction (830mb)
1. Street Photography (2.6gb)
2. Personal Photography (1.8gb)
3. Entrepreneurship (1.5gb)
4. Motivation: HAPTIC BOOKS (20mb)
5. Audio (100mb)
6. Presets (40mb)
7. Transcripts (29kb)

DOWNLOAD FULL COURSE (7.4GB)

See the full course here.

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