When Israel Won't Let a Jew Make Aliya: The Saga of David Ben Moshe (70)

When we look at the State of Israel, we can sometimes be overwhelmed with how incredible, miraculous, and wonderful it is, while simultaneously being completely flustered with how difficult the bureaucracy and other aspects of life are experienced. Very few people have experienced this as acutely as David Ben Moshe. David's story is fascinating. He was in federal prison in the United States for drug distribution and unlicensed dealing of firearms. After he was released early for good behavior and then sent to a halfway house, he became deeply involved in Baltimore's Orthodox community, and eventually converted to Judaism and moved to Israel. But despite the fact that it recognized his conversion as valid - he married in Israel under the auspices of the Rabbanut - the Israeli Ministry of the Interior has not yet allowed him to make aliya because, they say, of his criminal past. His story is equal parts fascinating, disturbing, and inspiring. Scott talked to David about how he first became interested in Judaism, his ongoing attempts at making aliya, his love for the Land and People of Israel, his life before converting, the problems of cancel culture, and more. To read David's recent article in Newsweek, go to https://www.newsweek.com/im-black-ex-felon-i-have-message-about-cancel-culture-opinion-1604846. Please listen to and share the podcast, and let us know what you think on the Orthodox Conundrum Discussion Group on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/groups/432020081498108). Thanks to all of our Patreon subscribers, who have access to bonus JCH podcasts, merch, and more - we appreciate your help, and hope you really enjoy the extras! Visit the JCH Patreon site at https://www.patreon.com/jewishcoffeehouse. Check out https://jewishcoffeehouse.com/ for the Orthodox Conundrum and other great podcasts, and remember to subscribe to them on your favorite podcast provider. The site will also help you learn about creating your own podcast. Music: "Happy Rock" by bensound.com