- April 7, 2025
- 4:49 pm
- Video
In this video interview from April 6, 2025, available on the Menorah channel, two outstanding individuals — Dmitry Gordon, a renowned Ukrainian journalist and philanthropist, and Shmuel Kaminetzky, the Chief Rabbi of Dnipro (Ukraine), discuss important topics concerning Judaism, destiny, and Ukraine’s role in the lives of Jews. The meeting is filled with profound reflections on how Jewish tradition helps people overcome life’s hardships and how Ukrainian culture and history intertwine with Jewish heritage.
What is this video about?
Dmitry Gordon and Shmuel Kaminetzky discuss whether it is truly possible to change the world and how events in Ukraine and personal experience influence perceptions of justice. How do Jewish culture and philosophy help people find light in a world full of darkness? What values give strength to fight through life’s difficulties, and how do the history of Ukraine, the Jewish people, and their interaction affect the future?
Interview Participants
- Dmitry Gordon — a Ukrainian journalist, TV host, and philanthropist who shared his thoughts on fate, luck, and Jewish identity. Dmitry grew up in Ukraine and is deeply attached to its culture and history.
- Shmuel Kaminetzky — the Chief Rabbi of Dnipro (Ukraine) and an influential spiritual leader who shared his reflections on how Jewish tradition is preserved in Ukraine and helps people live through difficult times.
The Menorah Channel: A Source of Wisdom and Joy in Life
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Main Points of the Interview:
1. Is it possible to change the world?
Dmitry Gordon believes that the world cannot be improved in the fullest sense, but every person can make a contribution to its improvement. In Ukraine, according to him, it is especially important to strive for change because the country is going through difficult times, and every step towards a better future is already a victory. The war with Russia and the tragic events taking place in the country leave their mark on the perception of the world. Ukraine, as a country, finds the strength to continue fighting and striving for better, despite both external and internal challenges.
2. Why are Jews charismatic?
Dmitry Gordon asserts that Jews possess unique character traits. He notes that Jews are either very smart or very foolish, but this extremity sometimes makes them incredibly charismatic and successful in various areas of life. According to him, this statement is true both for Jews around the world and for Jews living in Ukraine, where charismatic personalities often play an important role in cultural, social, and political life.
3. The story of family and Jewish identity in Ukraine
Shmuel Kaminetzky shares personal memories of how Jewish tradition was preserved in Ukraine, despite historical hardships. He talks about the importance of preserving identity and not losing touch with one’s roots, especially during difficult historical moments. For example, in Dnipro, the city where he works, the Jewish community continues to preserve its traditions despite years of social and political changes.
4. Jews in arts and science: Ukraine’s role
Gordon mentions outstanding Jews like Sylvester Stallone, Harrison Ford, and Scarlett Johansson, who have changed global culture. However, another key aspect of the interview is how Jews of Ukraine contribute to culture, science, and public life, despite the difficult historical conditions. Ukraine has many cultural centers, theaters, universities where Jews play a key role in preserving and developing cultural traditions.
5. How does Judaism affect life?
In Ukraine, the Jewish community is an integral part of cultural life, and Dmitry Gordon shares his thoughts on how Ukrainian Jews preserve their traditions and why it is important to pass them on to the next generations. The traditions and philosophy of the Jewish people have become the foundation for many important changes in Ukrainian culture and society, influencing the lives of even those who do not have Jewish heritage.
6. Ukraine in the context of Jewish tradition
Shmuel Kaminetzky views Ukraine as a country where various cultures, including the Jewish one, intertwine. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining these connections and values that will help strengthen the country in the future. His words about how Ukraine could not be what it is today without the contribution of Jews, especially in cultural development, resonate deeply. Jewish culture has had a significant impact on the development of Ukrainian theater, music, literature, and art.
7. How to raise children in the spirit of Jewish tradition?
Dmitry Gordon shares his views on raising children, focusing on the importance of education and love. He believes that Jews should pass on not only knowledge but also an understanding of their roots, which is the foundation of their strength. In Ukraine, where Jews have endured historical persecution, raising children with respect for their people and culture plays a key role in preserving their identity.
8. Why did Hitler hate the Jews?
Gordon reflects on why Hitler hated Jews so much, explaining it as a battle of light against darkness. He believes that Jews represent light in the world, and this interferes with evil and dark forces. This is especially tragic in the context of Ukraine, where Babi Yar and other tragic events of World War II have left an indelible mark on the history of the Jewish people.
9. What profession would Dmitry choose?
Dmitry Gordon admits that if he were not a journalist, he would have become a taxi driver to avoid being dependent on a boss. This highlights his desire for freedom of choice and independence, which is especially important in these times for Ukrainians going through significant changes and challenges.
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For those interested in deeper questions about Jewish philosophy, traditions, and culture, especially in the context of Ukraine, subscribe to the Menorah channel. It is a source of wisdom, joy, and inspiration for anyone who wants to better understand their connection to the history and traditions of the Jewish people.
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