Bob's 1957 quotes by topic
With David's Comments, links
& media
Our topics
Click to view the subjects Bob Jacobs wrote about on his 1957 trip to Israel.
Discover how much things have changed since then and explore developing interaction of Israel with the world.
Arrival in Israel
Battle for Jerusalem
Beauty of Israel
Building & Development
Bob & girlfriend Elaine
Children's Villages
Christians in Jerusalem
Dead Sea Experience
Factories & Manufacturing
El Al - Bob's Relationship
German Reparations
Hadassah Womens Organization
Holocaust Memorials - German Reparations
Israel-USA Relationship
Kfar Maccabia
Kibbutz & Emek Yizrael
Mail Service in Israel
Mandelbaum Gate
Mea Shearim
Meeting Jewish Refugees
Respect for Parents
Storybook Come True
Vocational Schools
ZOA Israel Trips
Vespa Scooters in Israel 1957
However the most popular type of transportation is the light motorcycle and motor scooter which is Israeli produced and called a Vespa. It gets about 100 miles to a gallon & 2 seats.
July 23, 1957 - Night
David's Comments
WAS THE VESPA SCOOTER ACTUALLY PRODUCED IN ISRAEL AS MY FATHER STATED IN HIS LETTER?
Vespa factory in Tzfat, Israel
Transporting Vespas arriving from Italy
to Tzfat factory for final assembly
Readying the Vespas for market
Vespa Tzfat factory closes
Could my father have been wrong?
I then began my research as to whether or not the Vespa was actually produced in Israel in 1957. The first thing I did was look up Vespa on the web. It shows Vespa as an Italian company that started producing motor scooters in 1946. I continued with my research, and found out that in the 1950’s , 1960, and 1970’s, Vespa's production facilities outside Italy were located in the following countries: India, Indonesia, Denmark, Taiwan, United Kingdom, Spain and the Soviet Union. Still no sign that Vespa ever had a production plant in Israel. Could my father be wrong? Can he have written something in his letters to his parents that was false? Even unintentionally?
I was confused; where would I go from here?
I contemplated while doing this project, leaving out the part of the letter where my father mentioned the Vespa. That way, I would not have to find an explanation as to why my dad wrote something that wasn't true - that the Vespa was produced in Israel, when in fact, they never had a production plant in Israel. But I tried to be like my dad, and did not give up. After doing more research, I googled "Vespa Israel", which took me to the "Vespa Club Israel" website. The site showed some great pictures of Vespas in Israel, including models from the 1950’s. I still did not see anything about Vespa having a factory in Israel. I then noticed a phone number on the Vespa club website – it was the number Oren Reznik, who headed the "Vespa Club".
My father was right!
I called Oren, and low and behold, he informed me that my dad was correct!
Oren's clarification
“In 1956 there was an assembly factory in Tzefat that built 500 Vespa’s. It came in a kit. Some parts were made here like the tires, seats, rubber parts and small engine parts. The color scheme was different then the European Vespas. “
The "Kaizer Fraizer" (Vespa assembly plant in Israel) factory closed in 1961. The news article states that the closure was due to a dispute between the factory and the Israeli government regarding import licensing of certain Vespa parts from Italy.
Oren added that it was also due to the Arab boycott of Israel which blacklisted companies who had production plants in Israel.
1957 vs today
In 1957, In the 1950’s, in the young State of Israel, people were proud to produce and purchase Israel-made products like the Vespa.
Today, To our knowledge, no motorcycles, mini bikes or scooters are manufactured or even assembled in Israel. Unfortunately, the concept of creating jobs in Israel and buying blue and white has become of secondary importance.
LINKS:
Video of 1957 Vespas in Israel: https://vimeo.com/446224462
The Israel Vespa Club:
BEN GURION MEETS 1957 YOUTH GROUPS
The feature speech was by Premier David Ben Gurion, who of course was in an open sport shirt & plain slacks.......
Israelis say that while he is on the Kibbutz he insists on taking his turn washing dishes & laundry like everyone else.........
It was wonderful listening to him in Hebrew & then English. The rapport he established was wonderful. Although he spoke extemporaneously he was able to repeat almost word for word in English after. I was thrilled.......
He kidded around with the boys and girls in such a plain & simple level. It was great...........
August 13, 1957
David's Comments
What was my Father's impression, as an American, meeting Israeli Prime Minister David Ben Gurion?
Modestly dressed, Ben Gurion visits
youth in Kibbutz Oren
Ben Gurion's home: A simple hut-style wooden structure in Kibbutz Sde Boker
Prime Minister Ben Gurion speaks to Foreign Students
I have read several books on David Ben Gurion and attended lectures about him. The description by my father in this August 13th, 1957 letter to his parents is one of the most interesting I have seen.
Ben Gurion's modest dress
“The feature speech was by Premier David Ben Gurion, who of course was in an open sport shirt & plain slacks. “ Ben Gurion dressed modestly. A Prime Minister isn’t above anybody else. He works on the kibbutz and sat down in communal dinning room together with all the other common workers.
Ben Gurion Spoke Hebrew then English
“It was wonderful listening to him in Hebrew & then English. The rapport he established was wonderful. Although he spoke extemporaneously he was able to repeat almost word for word in English after. I was thrilled. He kidded around with the boys and girls in such a plain & simple level. It was great.” I did not know Ben Gurion spoke English until I read my Dad’s letters.
Left in Banged Up old Car
“Not a policeman was with him. But I was even more surprised when he left. He got in the front and drove away in a beat up 41 Plymouth. Of course no one opened the door for him.” It is hard to believe that in 1957, the Prime Minister of a country would be riding in a banged up car that was 16 years old.
Ben Gurion Works with His Hands
“ He is really a great man. Israelis say that while he is on the Kibbutz he insists on taking his turn washing dishes & laundry like everyone else.” In old Israeli video clips, one can see Ben Gurion doing manual labor on his kibbutz in spite of his high office in government.
1957 vs today
In 1957, even after Ben Gurion became Prime Minister, he lived a modest life without using government funds to live a opulent lifestyle. It is also known that Prime Minister Menachem Begin also shunned an ostentatious lifestyle.
Today, our Prime Ministers and government officials have unfortunately have not learned from the examples of Ben Gurion and Begin. Today, Ministers and Knesset Members fight about who gets the Volvo and the luxury cars.
LINKS:
Short documentary of David Ben Gurion: https://youtu.be/OQMykqFASfY
Ben Gurion at his modest kibbutz home 1955: https://vimeo.com/446231311
Prime Minister Ben Gurion’s English message to world Jewry: https://youtu.be/HEaaZrQiPAo
jERUSALEM 1957: dIVIDED!
“ Today I got a real close up view of the old City. I even saw Arabs looking at us with machine guns and Spy Glasses.”
July 27, 1957
“This afternoon mass services are held at Mt. Zion overlooking the Wailing Wall.
What a pity it’s not in our hands.”
August 6, 1957
David's Comments
Do we take the Kotel and Jerusalem for granted?
Bob on the East-West Jerusalem border in 1957. In the background is the Old City, under Jordanian rule.
President Trump, the first US president to visit the Kotel under Israeli rule.
David and his daughter
meet with Senator Ted Cruz
Until 1967, Jews were banned from the Kotel
In 1957, the Wailing Wall, also known as the Kotel or Western Wall was under Jordanian rule. Under Jordanian rule, Jews were not allowed to pray at the Kotel. (Parts of the area of the Kotel were used by the Jordanians as a latrine) Nine years after this letter was written, Bob got his wish: The Kotel was liberated from Jordan by Israel in June 1967 during the Six Day War.
Recollections of US Ambassador David Friedman
In his May 21, 2020 Jerusalem Day speech, expresses similar sentiments as Bob did in 1957: "As a child, I remember my parents returning from a trip to Israel in the early 1960’s and lamenting how they were prohibited from visiting the Kotel, the Western Wall." "I remember their tears of joy in June of 1967 when they saw and heard that Jerusalem had been reunified. And I remember their pride in seeing their son have his bar mitzvah at the kotel just a few years later." "Today we are all Jerusalemites thanking God that we have lived to see the restoration of this ancient city, established by King David some 3000 years ago as the capital of Israel. As King David wrote in Psalm 122: Pray for the Peace for the peace of Jerusalem.".
Trump's US Embassy move to Jerusalem
When President Donald Trump formally recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital and moved the embassy there in 2018, it was actually the culmination of a long and hard fought struggle. Back in the early `1980's Bob was already fighting for Jerusalem. He befriended the influential Senator Jesse Helms and expressed to him the importance of recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. Senator Helms was close to President Reagan and in a letter dated May 16, 1984 (p.1, p.2) Helms urged Reagan to move the U.S. embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem: "An undivided Jerusalem is the indispensable basis of a Solomonic solution for the problems which face us in the Middle East. The U.S., as a nation should recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel."
Historical background to the move
In 1995, the Senate and Congress passed a resolution to move the embassy in a bi-partisan vote with a solid majority, but the U.S. President had a authority to veto it. Out of a fear of the Moslem reaction to such a move, the American embassy remained in Tel Aviv, despite the continued efforts by Helms and other politicians to change the status quo. For decades, appeals to U.S. Presidents to move the embassy were for naught due to the "sensitivities" of the region. This all changed when President Trump was elected in 2016. Like many other past Presidents, he pledged to relocate the embassy to Jerusalem, but Trump really meant it, and he nominated a U.S. ambassador, David Freidman, who shared that view. The embassy was finally moved to Jerusalem in May 18, 2018.
Does the US recognize Jerusalem as part of Israel?
We all know the US moved its Embassy from Jerusalem to Tel Aviv on May 18th, 2018 but what does it really mean? Despite the move, a longstanding State Department policy did not change – "Jerusalem, Israel" does not appear on U.S. Passports or birth certificates issued in Jerusalem. And so, despite U.S. President Trump's recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital, a U.S. passport only includes the location "Jerusalem", with the omission of "Israel".
The Jacobs vs the US State Department
This omission has irked David and Debra Jacobs since 1991, when he applied for a U.S. passport for their daughter Meira. David took up his complaint to the American consul:
"The passport…shows that Meira was born in Jerusalem, without stating the country, "Israel".. I hope that this obvious mistake will be corrected immediately... failure to do so promptly will lead us to the conclusion that the U.S. does not recognize West Jerusalem as Israel. A child born in Tel Aviv, Israel is stamped Tel Aviv, Israel on the passport."
The response of the Consulate General reflected the American policy that Jerusalem remains in limbo:
"The designation of Jerusalem alone as a place of birth without country specification reflects U.S. government policy as the status of Jerusalem remains to be determined…"
With the move of the American embassy to Jerusalem it was assumed that "Jerusalem, Israel" would be added to her passport and birth certificate. Unfortunately, until this day Meira Jacobs is still carrying a passport without a "country".
Turning to Senator Cruz & Ambassador Friedman
The embassy was moved n 2018, and as of this writing, there has been no change in policy. Both the birth certificate and the passport still do not list "Jerusalem, Israel" as the country of birth. Meira and the Jacobs family approached Ambassador David Friedman regarding this matter, so far, with no results. Meira also contacted Senator Ted Cruz. He agreed that this policy was wrong and needed to be changed.
Tisha B'Av in Jerusalem
Destruction of the Holy Jewish Temple 70 A.D
"...its Tisha B’av and I’m fasting."
"Last night we read ” Kinnot” on a lawn in the dark by means of a flashlight. I never knew that Kinnot should be read in a semi darkness. It really made it a touching scene. This afternoon mass services are held at Mt Zion overlooking the Wailing Wall. What a pity it’s not in our hands."
August 6, 1957
David's Comments
What is the significance of Tisha B'Av to the Jewish People?
Neve Dekalim in Gush Katif before destruction
Jewish homes destroyed by Jews
Jews forcibly evacuated from their homes
Add with Avi's story
"A Jew Does Not Expel a Jew". Bob wearing his anti-expulsion t-shirt on Tisha B'Av, 2020
On the Arch of Titus in Rome is depicted the destruction of the Jewish Temple by the ancient Romans. Today, this empire has disappeared from history however the Jews have returned to Jerusalem
Why did my father fast & read Kinnot on Tisha B'Av
The Jewish People fast and mourn on Tisha B'Av ( the 9th day of the Hebrew month of Av) to remember the destruction of the Jewish Temples in Jerusalem by the Romans and Babylonians along with the murder and the expulsion of the Jewish People from the Land of Israel.
Kinnot are Jewish lamentations which are read on the evening and morning of Tisha B'Av. These lamentations, written in a poetic form, mourn the destruction of the First and Second Temples as well as other tragedies in Jewish history.
Why were the Temples Destroyed?
The first Temple was destroyed by the Babylonians. The sages teach us that the Jews were punished for engaging in idol worship, murder, and sexual immorality. The second Temple was destroyed by the Romans because of baseless hatred amongst Jews.
The destruction of Gush Katif on Tisha B'Av
I did not live through the destruction of the Temples, the massacres of the Crusaders, the Spanish Inquisition or the Holocaust. However, I did experience the destruction of the Jewish communities of Gush Katif and Northern Samaria during the time of Tisha B'Av (August 2005). I saw Jewish soldiers and policemen dragging Jewish women and children from from their homes and destroying their life's enterprise. Many of the expelled residents, especially from Elei Sinai, were officers in the IDF.
The fact that our own Jewish brothers perpetrated this act of expulsion against their own people, makes it in a way, more painful than when done by the Babylonians or Romans.
We hope and pray that this will never happen again. Up until today, many Jews who had been expelled from their houses from Gush Katif are still living in caravans as missiles from Gaza are being launched from their former homes.
The Farchan Family: A Case in Point
Rav Bar-Chen
How can the Temple be rebuilt?
It is believed that if the Jews keep the commandments of the Torah and are reunited (as a "tikun" for the baseless hatred that caused the destruction), they will succeed in defeating their enemies. This will create the conditions for the building of the third Temple.
David's Comments
1957 vs today
In 1957, the United States under President Eisenhower was pressuring Israeli PM Ben Gurion to withdraw from the Gaza Strip which had been captured a year earlier. Ben Gurion eventually gave in to the pressure, despite mass protests warning that the “Fedayeen” terror attacks against Israeli civilians and soldiers would continue. The opponents of the 1957 Gaza withdrawal were correct, as the attacks from Gaza continued until the War of 1967, when Israel recaptured it.
Today, Israel withdrew once again in 2005 in the hope that attacks against them launched from Gaza would stop. Unfortunately, nothing has changed, and the Gaza Strip continues to be a hub of terror as missiles fly daily into Israel’s civilian population. It is difficult to have a presence in Gaza, but not being there at all is a danger to Israel’s survival.
LINKS:
Video explaining Tisha B’Av: https://youtu.be/vAoSODDghE8
Video on Elei Sinai, a Jewish community in Gush Katif destroyed on Tisha B’Av. Produced by the Jacobs Family:
Speaking Hebrew (Ivrit)
(Above) "I only speak Hebrew here" - from Bob's letter to his younger brother, Alan
“..I was met at the airport and we went by taxi to Jerusalem…“On the way I conversed with the driver in Hebrew and (to be modest) he and everyone else was amazed at my knowledge of the country…"
"My ability to speak Hebrew made me very proud".
July 21, 1957
“ I’m thrilled how easily I understand Hebrew.”
July 23, 1957
"Wednesday night I went in a border control car…we were well armed and had huge dogs that only understood Hebrew... they could kill a person in a second. The border guard introduced me to the dog, and after I spoke Hebrew, we were friends"
(Letter to younger brother, Alan)
August 16, 1957
David's Comments
Our Heritage and our Birthright: The Hebrew Language
The 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet
Elaine Jacobs (maiden name, Mirwis) received a certificate of excellence in Hebrew at 13 yrs old.
Yerachmiel (Bob) Jacobs' Hebrew Flatbush Yeshiva Diploma
Robert (Bob) Jacobs' English Flatbush Yeshiva Diploma
What are the advantages of speaking Hebrew?
To understand the culture of the country and communicate with the people, it is better to know Hebrew - the more the better. Since our Bible and prayers are written in Hebrew, an understanding of the original language deepens our connection to the land and our heritage - OUR BIRTHRIGHT.
How did my father and mother learn Hebrew?
My father started learning Hebrew at five years old when his parents sent him to Yeshiva of Flatbush, where classes in Jewish studies were taught in Hebrew. My Mom also studied and excelled in Hebrew at an early age. If children are not taught Hebrew at a young age, it will be very difficult later on.
As it is written in Pirkei Avot (Ethics of the Fathers) "He who learns as a child, to what is he compared? to ink written upon new paper. And he who learns when old, to what is he compared? To ink written on a rubbed out paper."
What is the best way to learn Hebrew?
The best way to learn is to converse and practice with others in Hebrew. My father's younger brother Alan also went to Yeshiva of Flatbush where Hebrew was taught. But learning Hebrew in the classroom is not enough. One needs to practice. The rule is, the more one uses his Hebrew, the faster he will pick it up. In one of his letters to his younger brother Alan, he opened up with a Hebrew sentence: "I speak only Hebrew", writing vowels under the Hebrew letters so his younger brother could better understand.
Hebrew speaking Dogs
"…we were well armed and had huge dogs that only understood Hebrew... The border guard introduced me to the dog, and after I spoke Hebrew, we were friends" (August 16th letter from Bob to brother Alan).
My father even used humor to impart to his little brother the advantages of knowing Hebrew when in Israel. Today, Alan's grandchildren live in Efrat, Israel, and Alan enjoys speaking to them in Hebrew. He has begun speaking to his dog "Sparky" in Hebrew as well.
Our connection is tied to Hebrew and the Bible
You can translate the holy language but you cannot translate the holiness of the language. The Hebrew language is intrinsically holy. G-d created the world and all existence using permutations of the 22 Hebrew letters.
1957 vs today
In 1957, the new immigrants absorbed into Israeli society and spoke Hebrew immediately. The kids came from all different countries and were absorbed into the newly established State of Israel, and learned Hebrew almost immediately.
Today, many of the new immigrants move into communities with the same ethnicity and continue to speak their native tongue. For example Americans move into a place like Efrat, Hashmonaim, Bet Shemesh or Raanana with other Americans and continue to speak English. Russians move into communities with other Russians and continue to speak Russian.
LINKS:
Bob quoting from the Book of Isaiah in Hebrew: Still remembering at the age of 83: https://vimeo.com/446219882
Hebrew ulpan videos: https://youtu.be/UiCzoTs1AdE
Jerusalem Post Hebrew
Children learning w/honey:
Har (Mt.) Herzl - Israel's fallen heroes
"Today I was up on Mt. Herzl where the graves of those that fell in the War of Independence are. What a pity that every now and then after some border skirmish they have to make use of this place. But one thing is for sure they haven’t died in vain."
August 20, 1957
"First we went through the Jerusalem Corridor where we saw burned armed trucks that were left as monuments from the War of Liberation in 1948."
July 23, 1957
David's Comments
"The Land of Israel is acquired through suffering"
ארץ ישראל נקנית ביסורים
(Talmud Berachot 5)
Modestly dressed, Ben Gurion visits youth in kibbutz Oren
Ben Gurion's home: A simple hut-style wooden structure in Kibbutz Sde Boker
What Sacrifices Were Made to Establish a Jewish State?
Approximately 6,000 Jews died in the War of Independence in 1948, which was ten percent of the population. Almost everybody in Israel lost a loved one. A memorial was built in Mount Herzl in Jerusalem for the fallen soldiers.
According to the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the number of Israel's casualties of war stand at 23,816 as of April 2020.
How does one pass on this message of sacrifice?
When I was five years old, I remember visiting Israel for the first time in 1970 with my family. I specifically remember my dad talking about the battles to capture Jerusalem. He stopped the car and showed us the burned trucks from the War of Independence in 1948. This horrific scene was at the battle of the Jerusalem Corridor. Every Yom HaZikaron (Israel Memorial Day) the “Bab el-Wad” song is sung in memory of those who fell in this battle.
People view Israel today as "Goliath" and forget how many died in the various wars and terrorist attacks. Jews routinely pray at the Kotel, but forget how many died to capture the Old City in the 1967 War. I was taught to never take for granted how people sacrificed themselves for the land of Israel, and I am proud to have joined the Israeli army, even though I grew up in the United States.
Never forget – What does it mean for us today?
Just remembering the fallen heroes is not enough. Each one of us, no matter where we live needs to support a strong Israel and a strong Israeli Army. Belief in G-d and not succumbing to world pressure will ensure the protection and survival of the Jewish State.
Left in Banged Up old Car
“Not a policeman was with him. But I was even more surprised when he left. He got in the front and drove away in a beat up 41 Plymouth. Of course no one opened the door for him.” It is hard to believe that in 1957, the Prime Minister of a country would be riding in a banged up car that was 16 years old.
Ben Gurion Works with His Hands
“ He is really a great man. Israelis say that while he is on the Kibbutz he insists on taking his turn washing dishes & laundry like everyone else.” In old Israeli video clips, one can see Ben Gurion doing manual labor on his kibbutz in spite of his high office in government.
1957 vs today
In 1957, even after Ben Gurion became Prime Minister, he lived a modest life without using government funds to live a opulent lifestyle. It is also known that Prime Minister Menachem Begin also shunned an ostentatious lifestyle.
Today, our Prime Ministers and government officials have unfortunately have not learned from the examples of Ben Gurion and Begin. Today, Ministers and Knesset Members fight about who gets the Volvo and the luxury cars.
LINKS:
Video of 1957 Vespas in Israel:
The Israel Vespa Club: https://israeli-vespa.org/
druze loyalty to Israel
“From there we went to a Druze Village. It was amazing what a fierce loyalty the people have to Israel. I then walked through town & had many talks with the people most of whom and all the younger ones spoke Hebrew.
I was amazed however when in house after house a picture of Chief of Staff Moshe Dayan was in the wall along with their sons in Israel’s Armed Forces.”
August 8, 1957
David's Comments
The Druze of Israel
Ayoub Kara, former Druze member of the Knesset who opposed withdrawal from Gaza.
"I was amazed however when in house after house a picture of Chief of Staff Moshe Dayan was in the wall along with their sons in Israel’s Armed Forces.”
Who are the Druze?
The Israeli Druze are a religious and ethnic minority among non-Jewish living in Israel. In 2019, there were 143,000 Druze living in Israel, 1.6% of the total population of the country. Even though the faith originally developed out of Ismaili Islam, Druze do not identify as Muslims. They are loyal to the country that they live in, and many serve in the Israel Defense Forces.
What is the Druze Religion?
The Druze faith was founded in 11th-century Fāṭimid Egypt and today its people are scattered mostly around Israel, Syria and Lebanon. The Druze believe their faith to be an interpretation of the three main monotheistic religions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. They have a fervent belief in reincarnation and see Moses, Jesus and Mohammed as prophets. Moreover, it is a highly secretive and closed off religion: no one is allowed to convert into the faith, virtually no one marries out. The holiest Druze site in Israel is Jethro’s Tomb, overlooking Lake Kinneret near Tiberias. Located in a large, mosque-like building, it is a site of annual pilgrimage.
What was my father's impression of the Druze?
My father always had empathy for the Druze community of Israel, and you can see it already in this letter. He appreciated their contributions to the State, which includes serving in the army and risking their lives. My father never understood why they didn’t get extra benefits and were treated the same as Arabs such as MK Ahmed Tibi, who is an enemy of Israel.
They often seemed more Zionist than many of the Jews. For instant, my father befriended Ayoob Kara, a Druze who at the time was a Likud Knesset member and later became Israel’s Communication Minister. Ayoob Kara strongly opposed the 2005 withdrawal from Gush Katif and Northern Shomron. He helped create a group in the IDF called "Druze don't expel Jews."
If Jews had also refused to expel Jews, the evacuation of Gush Katif might not have taken place, and we would not have missiles being launched from Gaza to Ashkelon, Ashdod, Tel Aviv, etc.
Ayoob Kara worked with me and my father within the Likud to oppose the Gaza Disengagement, together with Uzi Landau, Danny Dannon, Yoav Hurwitz and Avraham Magasie. We ended up winning the referendum in the Likud, but Prime Minister Ariel Sharon just ignored us and continued bulldozing Gush Katif.
My father helps Druze soldiers & police
Following the murder of Col. Dror Weinberg by Arab terrorists in Hebron 2002, two Druze border police assisted in capturing the terrorist. They were later accused of abusing the terrorists. My father helped pay the soldier's legal expenses, as he would have done for any Jewish soldier in the same situation.
Also, my father is proud to have donated a pool table to a Druze Army Base in the North near Um Al Fahem.
In 2014, Arab terrorists entered a synagogue in Har Nof, Jerusalem and started murdering Jews in the middle of the morning prayers. Druze policeman Zidan Tzayif raced to the scene and shot the terrorist, but was killed himself in the process. I have taken it upon myself to help the family of Zidan Tzayif. When his father was hospitalized, I helped pay his medical bills. I am also in touch with his brother who is a soldier stationed near my settlement in Hashmonaem.
Following in my father's footsteps
In 2014, Arab terrorists entered a synagogue in Har Nof, Jerusalem and started murdering Jews in the middle of the morning prayers. Druze policeman Zidan Tzayif raced to the scene and shot the terrorist, but was killed himself in the process. I have taken it upon myself to help the family of Zidan Tzayif. When his father was hospitalized, I helped pay his medical bills. I am in touch with his brother Nazel, who is a security guard stationed in my settlement, Hashmonaim.
During a time that I was bringing him and his friends food, he told that his mother had a heart attack. I helped him pay his mother's medical expenses.
Also, I was happy to have donated a pool table to a Druze Army Base in the North near Um Al Fahem.
Helping other non-Jewish communities
In the 1970’s, Lebanese Christians were being massacred daily by Muslims and/or Syrians. Not only was President Carter silent, but he called the Syrians in Lebanon “peacekeepers”. My father could not remain silent. He lobbied Congress and organized protests throughout the United States. At one protest, my brothers, accompanied by a group of Syrian and Lebanese Jews demonstrated in front of the UN building in New York. They were dressed up as Lebanese Christians. In addition, my father brought eight authentic Lebanese Christians to join them. All of them protested against the massacre of the Christians in Lebanon. It was broadcast on every TV station and newspaper but I don’t think anyone ever knew that most of the protesters were Jewish.
The abandonment of Lebanese Christians
My father was furious when Israel withdrew from Lebanon in May, 2001, and abandoned the Lebanese Christians who had fought alongside with them as part of the South Lebanese Army. Many of its members fled to Israel, leaving behind their families and property. At one protest, my brothers, accompanied by a group of Syrian and Lebanese Jews demonstrated in front of the UN building in New York. They were dressed up as Lebanese Christians. In addition, my father brought eight authentic Lebanese Christians to join them. All of them protested against the massacre of the Christians in Lebanon. It was broadcast on every TV station and newspaper but I don’t think anyone ever knew that most of the protesters were Jewish.
Helping the Christian Copts
My father worked with Senator Jesse Helms of blessed memory against the massacre of Christian Copts in Egypt. He gathered and brought evidence to the Senator documenting the crimes against the Copts. Helms, being a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, made US aid to Egypt conditional on freedom and protection of the Christian minority in Egypt.
1957 vs today
In 1957, the Israeli government designated the Druze a distinct ethnic community at the request of its communal leaders. This displayed their consistent loyalty to the young Jewish State, including risking their lives fighting against Egypt in the Sinai Campaign in 1956.
Today, While they continue to serve in the IDF, the Druze loyalty to Israel has become more complex. Before 1967, the Golan Heights was in the hands of Syria, and the Golan Druze were loyal to Syria and Assad. When Israel regained the Golan Heights, many Golan Druze continued their allegiance to Syria. This put other Druze living in pre-1967 areas of Israel (the Galilee, Carmel) in an awkward position. When Israel fought in Lebanon, the Lebanese Druze, loyal to Lebanon, fought the IDF, pitting Lebanese Druze vs. Israeli Druze.
LINKS:
Video of Druze policeman, Zayid Sarif, killed in the Har Nof Synagague Massacre: https://youtu.be/LQrjHMUeVWA
The Druze in the IDF: https://youtu.be/3Cm15cK-G3o
Druze Fallen Soldiers: https://youtu.be/tvizRRxMnqg
History of the Druze: https://youtu.be/OmD1G9BnhkA
"If you think N.Y. traffic is bad & drivers nasty just try driving over here.
It is the worst mad house you have ever seen.
The only thing is you are always moving."
August 26, 1957
David's Comments
Driving in Israel
Bob's Israeli rental car, 1968
What is a "Nasty Tel Aviv Driver?"
xxx
1957 vs today
In 1957, there were very few cars on the road, the roads were bad, and the drivers, even then, were nasty and arrogant. Even though they came from the four corners of the world, they all drove the same way: in a rush, with no “cheshbonot” (taking nothing into account, including their lives and other people’s lives).
Today, there are many more cars on the road as the population of Israel has expanded. The government has spent billions on new roads and tunnels, and has invested more millions trying to change the driving culture. Unfortunately, the fatalities from traffic accidents surpasses the fatalities in wars. The nastiness and arrogance of the drivers continues – tailgating, speeding and overall reckless driving.
LINKS:
xxx:
agricultural Innovations
"This morning I visited a farm and saw how the irrigation system works. It is composed of aluminum pipes which have a gummed part at the end. One pipe fits into the other and a slight push forming a water tight joint. It takes about a 1/10 of a second. Sprinkler attach at the joints the same way. All parts and pipes are Israeli produced."
August 6, 1957
"The land was desert, but the soil was extremely fertile having a layer of about 4 feet of topsoil. Wherever the irrigation lines reached the land it was green with stalks of corn 12 & 15 feet high."
July 23, 1957
David's Comments
Jacobs family invest in Israel's high-tech irrigation systems
Zev Jacobs, my son, works for an Israeli high-tech agricultural company
Israel's agricultural revolution
Israel has become one of the most advanced countries in the World in drip irrigation.
In 2018, the Jacobs invested in a high tech agriculture company called "Viridix". The company creates a precision irrigation support system powered by root sense soil moisture sensors. This allows farmers to make data driven decisions by gathering data and uploading it to the internet cloud. The information can be viewed on a cell phone, from which the farmer can control his irrigation system. This technology enables farmers to save water, increase crop yield, raise crop quality, and ultimately increase profits. Bob’s grandson Zev is helping to market the "Viridix" system to countries all over the world.
1957 vs today
In 1957, there were very few cars on the road, the roads were bad, and the drivers, even then, were nasty and arrogant. Even though they came from the four corners of the world, they all drove the same way: in a rush, with no “cheshbonot” (taking nothing into account, including their lives and other people’s lives).
Today, there are many more cars on the road as the population of Israel has expanded. The government has spent billions on new roads and tunnels, and has invested more millions trying to change the driving culture. Unfortunately, the fatalities from traffic accidents surpasses the fatalities in wars. The nastiness and arrogance of the drivers continues – tailgating, speeding and overall reckless driving.
LINKS:
Israei irrigation high-tech by Viridix: https://youtu.be/HvGiiEZZviE
Hadassah Medical center
“ Today I got up & walked though Jerusalem on a Hadassah tour.
I saw the Hospitals including the new medical center”
July 23, 1957 - night
David's Comments
Importance of Hadassah to Israel
My father's 1957 photo of the beginning construction of Hadassah Ein Kerem.
History of Hadassah - Mt. Scopus & Ein Kerem
My parent's group was touring the site in Ein Kerem, where the new Hadassah Medical Center was in construction in 1957.
Hadassah Ein Kerem was built after Hadassah Mt. Scopus was forced to close after 78 Jews including 23 women were killed by Arabs.
Hadassah Ein Kerem opened in 1961 and was under construction in 1957. The youth group was shown where Hadassah would be building the Ein Kerem Campus.
Israel recaptured Mt. Scopus in 1967 but it was not until 1975 when Hadassah Hospital on Mt Scopus was reopened to Jews starting with 100 beds.
It was not until 1975 when Hadassah Mt. Scopus hospital was reopened.
1957 vs today
In 1957, txxxxxx.
Today, txxxxxx
LINKS:
Hadassah Mt Scopus Massacre Virtual Library: https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/the-hadassah-convoy-massacre
Hadassah Mt Scopus Massacre Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=akDiuD1lKWM
Shabbat in Jerusalem
“I spent a very pleasant Shabbas in Jerusalem. I went to the main Shul in the morning. It was packed & only standing room could be had. The city traffic was dead except for people walking & UN & diplomats cars.”
“Last night (Fri.night) I went to a Shul in Meah Shearim ... It sure was an experience.
August 31, 1957
“The Shabbas here was beautiful. Buses weren’t running and only a few cars moved to break Shabbas”
“Today was a most thrilling day. In Yerushalaim they say “Birkat Cohanim” on every Shabbas, so today I duchened (gave the blessing of Cohen) in the Holy City. It was a great feeling” Saturday night July 27
July 27, 1957
“Now Jerusalem has arisen as the stores open & traffic begins again.”
August 31, 1957
David's Comments
Shabbat in 1957 Jerusalem
Bob under talit giving bircat kohanim.
Shabbat in 1957 - No walking to the Kotel
As a Jew, there was nothing more special to my father than experiencing a Shabbat in the Holy City of Jerusalem. As a Cohen, he was particularly thrilled to bless the congregation with the “Birchat Cohenim”, a blessing that Ashkenazy Jews can only recite in Israel.
In 1957, was there no such thing as a Shabbas stroll to the Kotel, since it was in Jordanian hands at that time. There also was no “Great Synagogue” to attend in those days. “Heichal Shlomo” just got under construction in 1958.
1957 vs today
In 1957, there were no public buses running on Shabbat and very few cars were on the roads in violation of the Shabbat.
Today, there are many neighborhoods that are completly closed on Shabbat. The Shabbat atmosphere can still be felt as there is no public transportation in Jerusalem. Nevertheless, in many parts of the city one can see many cars on the roads, and many stores are open on Shabbat.
LINKS:
Siren in Jerusalem welcoming the arrival of the holy Sabbath https://youtu.be/8UJegXGbN2c
Pride in the israeli army
Bob poses next to the "Davidka" in the city of Tzfat.
“Alan don't worry if the Arabs would start they would get a welcome I didn't believe could exist. The Jews could wipe them right off the map”
July 23, 1957
“ The Arabs seem to respect strength.”
August 5, 1957
"Three big cheers for Israel they know how to speak to Arabs in the only language they understand guns and bullets”
August 16, 1957
"During the day I again heard & saw jets roar by. It looked wonderful & reassuring. In the distance one could hear the roar of heavy artillery at a practice range. That also was music to my ears."
July 30, 1957
“Everyone here says next time Syria starts it will be another Sinai.”
July 24, 1957
"Then came the biggest thrill of all, the appearance of the captured Egyptian Destroyer now the Israel Navy Destroyer SS Haifa. She looked great and it felt great to speak to the crew, of whom a few were refugees from Nasser and Egypt. They were all ready to pay Nasser back a few things they owed him for what he did to their families in Egypt..."
August 25, 1957
"Sunday morning I am going for a ride on the captured Egyptian Destroyer, I saw it this afternoon. It is the first time a destroyer had ever been captured in modern times."
August 23, 1957
"I saw the Kibbutz Dagania yesterday & the destroyed Syrian tanks. This was one of the most remarkable feats of Israel’s army in 1948."
August 11, 1957
“Today we toured all of the North of the Galil….. also the scene of some of the hardest fighting in the War of Liberation. It was British and dominated the whole Huleh Valley and was handed by them and the Arabs. We then had to capture it with almost no weapons.”
August 15, 1957
David's Comments
The first Jewish Army
in 2000 years
The destroyed Syrian tank that penetrated Kibbutz Degania in 1948
The captured Egyptian Destroyer
Bob with his grandson Dov 2014, when Dov was serving in the Artillery branch of the IDF.
Destroyed Syrian tank in Kibbutz Degania
“I saw the Kibbutz Dagania yesterday and the destroyed Syrian tanks. This was one of the most remarkable feats of Israel’s army in 1948”
During the 1948 War of Independence, a column of six Syrian tanks reached Kibbutz Degania. The kibbutz members were farmers equipped with mismatched rifles and possessing no armored vehicles. But it was a victory of the weak over the strong. One version of the battle claims that a young man named Shalom Hochbaum hurled a molotav cocktail under the lead Syrian tank, setting it ablaze, repelling the Syrian assault. To this day, the disabled tank sits at the gate of the kibbutz, and is what Bob was referring to in this letter.
The captured Egyptian Destroyer
The Egyptian Warship Ibraham El Awal, was captured by Israel on November 1, 1956 during Israel’s 1956 war with Egypt. The Ibraham El Awal was towed back to Haifa where it was repaired, and later entered the Israel Navy as the I.N.S. Haifa.
The Davidka - Israel's secret weapon
My mother recalls: “When Bob wrote, ‘we had to capture it with almost no weapons’, I think he was referring to the City of Tzafat (Safed) and the “Davidka” weapon which we saw on display there. They explained to us that the Davidka made loud noises and scared the Arab enemy but did not really cause any damage.”
Israeli artillery: "Music to my ears"
The year 1957 was only twelve years after the Holocaust. This is why my father described the sounds of the IDF’s artillery as “music to my ears”. As a youth, during Israel’s pre-state days, my father packed weapons at his cousin Henry’s Storage facility at the Brooklyn Navy Yard. These weapons were delivered to the Jewish underground fighters. To witness his grandson serving in the IDF artillery unit gave him great pride.
1957 vs today
In 1957, Israel was still considered an underdog, and Jews took pride in a strong IDF. Prime Minister Ben Gurion gave a free hand to the IDF to do whatever was necessary in order to fight the Arab enemy.
Today, many “progressive” Jews have guilt feelings about winning, and are more concerned with what the world will say rather than being concerned about protecting the lives of Israeli soldiers and civilians. They enjoy the support of the Israeli Supreme Court.
LINKS:
Video of the captured Egyptian Destroyer: https://youtu.be/eVOpbOC8v0c
Story of the Syrian tank in Kibbutz Degania: https://vimeo.com/369879358
The Davidka Story: https://www.safed.co.il/davidka-monument.html
Culture & Fashion in 1957 Israel
”As far as clothes go I haven't seen anyone wearing a suit,
not even in Israel's Parliament.”
July 12, 1957 - night
“What is very expensive is luxury clothing, therefore, it just isn't worn.
Suits are a non- entity as are sport jackets etc.”
August 20, 1957 - night
David's Comments
Informality was the hallmark of Israel's culture and fashion
Add caption
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Differences between the USA and Israel
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1957 vs today
In 1957, Ixxxx
Today, Txxx
LINKS:
A glimpse into the culture & fashion of 1957 Israel: https://jewishbusinessnews.com/2017/05/19/a-glimpse-into-the-life-of-young-israelis-in-the-1950s
Summer in Israel
“The weather so far has been delightful with the evenings cool enough to require a blanket and the days are pretty hot but since it's not humid it's very comfortable. Of course it still hasn't rained since I'm here."
“As for clothes the most useful items I have are the short pants which I have from last year.”
“Today is the first day where you can really say the weather is hot. So — time for a swim.”
August 20, 1957 - night
“Last but not least for the day we went swimming in the Mediterranean."
August 8, 1957 - night
David's Comments
Israel's summer weather - perfect vacation weather
Add caption
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Differences between the USA and Israel
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Holy Burial Sites 1957
Grave of Hillel - Meron, northern Israel
“Today we toured all of the north of the Galil & saw some of the holiest places of our religion. The tombs of Hillel & Shammai',”
August 15, 1957 - night
“I also visited King David’s Tomb.”
August 12, 1957 - night
David's Comments
Many of today's "holy sites" were not accessible to Jews in 1957
Shammai's Tomb - Meron
Structure (left) housing King David's Tomb, Mt. Zion, Jerusalem
Structure (left) housing King David's Tomb, Mt. Zion, Jerusalem
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In 1957 Judea and Samaria were not controlled by Israel. Places like the Kotel, Shchem and Hebron were not in Jewish hands. That’s why the burial site of Shamai and Hillel in Meron were considered the “holiest sites” of that time.
In 1967, Judea, Samaria (the West Bank) and East Jerusalem were liberated. Jews now have access to the burial places of Abraham, Isaac Jacob, Sara, Rivka and Leah who were buried in Hebron. Rachel was buried in Bethlehem, Joseph in Shechem and Joshua in the Shomron.
Today, people who visit Israel’s holy sites may not even make the time to visit the graves of Hillel and Shami.
The graves of Hillel and Shamai are located in Meiron, which is a suburb of the city of Tzfat. Many famous Rabbis are also buried there, including Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai.
Hillel and Shammai were famous Rabbis who disagreed over the interpretation of the Law, but still got along with one another.
Hillel was known for his lenient views, which often conflicted with the strict stance of Shammai who was the other leading scholar of that time.
1957 vs today
In 1957, Ixxxx
Today, Txxx
LINKS:
Hillel and Shammai: Disagreements for the Sake of Heaven: https://youtu.be/aL9pok2a41o
christians in Jerusalem
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“Believe it or not, I think Jerusalem has more priests than NY. Another amazing thing; when I was in the observation tower looking down on the New City, I saw dozens of huge crosses on tops of buildings but not even one Star of David.”
“I got into a crowd of Christian Pilgrims …….. I was surprised how loyal they are to Israel. They could shame many Jews.”
“The American tourists were as surprised as I that the missionaries actually get Israel gov't support.”
August 12, 1957 - night
David's Comments
Many of today's "holy sites" were not accessible to Jews in 1957
xxxxx
xxxx
Some of the Christians are very loyal to the State of Israel even more than the Jews but my father was very concerned that some of the Christians visiting Israel were acting as Missionaries trying to convert Jews to Christianity. He also couldn’t believe that the missionaries were receiving Israeli government support.
In December 2019 the City of Jerusalem was handing out free Christmas Trees at Jaffa Gate the entrance to Jerusalem. Many Jews were being stopped and preached about Christianity.
1957 vs today
In 1957, Ixxxx
Today, Txxx
LINKS:
Hillel and Shammai: Disagreements for the Sake of Heaven: https://youtu.be/aL9pok2a41o
Southern Israel - by bus & jeep
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“From Jerusalem we turned south along lush farmlands of what had been desert. Everything was booming. We hit Beer Sheva. It looked like a Western Boom town, except along the edge of town, were some huge industrial concerns for various industries. New buildings were going up all over the place,
including beautiful parks.”
July 23, 1957 - night
"We...rented jeep. Today we are taking the jeep down South to the oil fields of Heletz and to the new oil field which was discovered this week. They are going to uncap in the morning & its potential can later be garnered. I think it will be a great thrill to watch.
We will also visit the new port city of Ashkelon, this is the terminus of the Mediterranean of the oil pipeline from Eilat. It is almost complete.
As I mentioned I would, I was down in the Negev today & saw our boundary with Egypt also the new towns & farms all the way south.
I went to the new oil field but couldn't get it but you could see the new well from afar & how they are still trying to cap it.
It was a real pleasure with the jeep stopping wherever you wanted & staying wherever something looked interesting. I saw mines etc. It is a good reason why the Negev is called Israel’s future."
August 27, 1957 - night
Food, Prices & Currency
“The food is very very good and there is plenty of it.”
“Last night. I ate a full course meat meal for the cost of $1.80 American money including tip soda etc."
July 26, 1957 - night
“So far the food is great. If you go out & eat for the than $1. You get a full course steak dinner complete. Malted 10 Cents Soda 3 CENTS ETC.”
August 20, 1957 - night
“Yesterday we went on a tour of the vicinity (the coastal plain between Tel Aviv and Haifa ). The first place visited was Zichron Yaakov & the winery where most Israel wine is produced for export. It tasted great & is sold here for about 50 cents a quart bottle. Some contrast to the price of it in the U.S.”
August 8, 1957 - night
Friendliness of Israelis
“I am amazed at the extra friendly spirit of the Israelis. Everyone we meet is willing to invite you to his home where I spent some time.”
July 27, 1957 - night
“On the way back we took a shortcut through beautiful country where acres & acres of wild edible fruits were growing. Everyone we passed invited you, gives you grapes, drinks etc, & in general is very friendly. Yet it still helps to speak Hebrew."
August 3, 1957 - night
David's Comments
Israeli hospitality
xxxxx
Strangers treated like family
One can only understand the Israeli mentality, openness and friendliness by actually visiting Israel - and not just staying at a hotel. One needs to make a connection with Israelis in their homes to experience the openness and warmth of being together in Jewish State.
Holocaust Memorials - German Reparations
“Today I visited the Hall of Destruction on Mt. Zion and saw a few of the signs of what the Nazis had done. I cried like a baby.”
August 12, 1957 - night
"I went to Tel Aviv in new trains built with German Reparations."
August 3, 1957 - night
David's Comments
Israeli hospitality
xxxxx
"Hall of Destruction" - "I cried like a baby"
“Today I visited The Hall of Destruction on Mt. Zion and saw a few of the signs of what the Nazi’s had done. I cried like a baby”
Prior to Yad Vashem, Jerusalem’s Holocaust memorial was called the Hall of Destruction, also known as the Chamber of the Holocaust. It was established in 1949 on Mount Zion, which is near David’s Tomb adjacent to the Old City.
Yad Vashem on Mt. Herzl is now the official Holocaust Center, but the Chamber of the Holocaust on Mt Zion is still open to visitors
A major difference between Yad Vashem and Chamber of the Holocaust is that Chamber of the Holocaust does not take funding from the Germans. Yad Vashem receives more than 1 milllion euro annually from the German government and substantial donations from Volkswagon and Damlier.
Israel's Trains from German Reparations
“This morning I left Haifa for Tel Aviv …….in new trains built with German Reparations.”
Another word for reparations would be compensation.
Following the establishment of the Jewish State in 1948, the Germans offered the government of Israel reparations as an apology for their country’s participation in the murder of six million Jews.
Trauma & Protest against accepting Reparationslde
Many Jews, including my father, opposed taking this “blood money.” Former Israel Knesset Member Dov Shilansky agreed with my father and was even arrested trying to stop the reparations. In October 1952, Shilansky was arrested while attempting to bring a suitcase bomb into the Israeli Foreign Ministry as a protest against the Reparations and was sentenced to two years in prison. My father’s protest against the Germans included his commitment not to buy German products.
1957 vs today
In 1957, Ixxxx
Today, Txxx
LINKS:
“Hall of Destruction” (Chamber of the Holocaust) on Mt. Zion: https://youtu.be/FEwFlA84wpk
Unique items in the “Chamber of the Holocaust”: https://vimeo.com/447458040
German Holocaust Reparations – jewish Virtual library: https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/german-holocaust-reparations
German government helps fund Yad Vashem: https://www.yadvashem.org/events/01-february-2012.html
German Companies donate to Yad Vashem Expansion: https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/borussia-dortmund-german-companies-to-fund-yad-vashem-expansion-585639