Leora Kaufman

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Nov 21, 2022, 12:55 AM

A falafel to remember

November 2, 2022. The day after elections here in Israel. The ballots mostly counted, the results are clear, and half of the country is distraught by the outcome —a far-right coalition with Bibi as PM, again. Yet, as always in Israel,...

Jan 14, 2020, 8:46 PM

She greets me with a toothless smile. “Where have you been!” she says in Hebrew, in her deep, raspy voice, “come, come, sit down sweetie. Why are you still standing? Get yourself some coffee. I’ve missed you all week.” ...

Oct 23, 2019, 5:15 PM

The Joy Of Beginnings

Ah, the excitement of a blank page. White, pure as snow. Empty. Crisp. Fresh. I felt this sensation wash over me on Yom Kippur. Hunger deep in my belly, I stand sniffing rosemary in my palm, listening to the blessing of...

Oct 2, 2019, 8:14 PM

One Jewess, many hats

A small headband? A bulky turban-esque scarf? How much hair should I show? Can I wear pants? Should I ditch it entirely?

Jul 8, 2016, 7:25 PM

Colors of the IDF

Long before I joined the IDF, every green-clad, gun-holding, dashing young Israeli man or woman looked to me the same: a bad-ass soldier. I knew, theoretically, that under each uniform is a unique person: a brother, a sister, a friend,...

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About Me

New York expat gone Israeli lone soldier, Leora's heart was always in the East. She is an explorer of Judaism and mysticism, an observer of the human condition, a yoga enthusiast and a non-militant vegetarian. She enjoys weaving feelings into words and talking about all things Israel.