State of Modern Israel

MOSES’ SPEECH

Moses apologizes for his harshness and praises the people of Israel in the wake of October 7 for their kindness, strength, and resilience. In several other sketches, Moses calls the Israelites “a nation of s***heads” for their obstinacy. But now, having seen how Israel came together to mourn and recover from the trauma of October 7, he recognizes that the Israelites are actually “a nation that went through s***.” The wallet that is referenced at the end of the episode is part of a joke that runs through many of their Bible stories. (See: Why Follow Moses?)

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SAMSON AND THE PHILISTINES

At the Gaza border, while Samson fights to keep the Philistines away, he anxiously awaits military support from his brethren in a gut wrenching comparison to post-October 7 life. But when they arrive with nothing more than a “warm embrace” and some words of encouragement, Samson feels more alone than ever. Even as the Philistines hurl death threats in his direction, all that the two visitors from the tribe of Judah can think about is how Samson’s death will help their cause.

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KIND OF AN ARAB

The first Druze man is drafted to serve in the IDF, but his name and accent cause some confusion for the soldier who receives him. Caution: sketch mocks racist views of Arabs.

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EICHMANN'S EXECUTION

In 1962, Israel prepares to execute Adolf Eichmann for his crimes, but a series of technical issues delay his hanging. Luckily, Eichmann is an expert in executions. Caution: uses Holocaust humor. 

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HOLOCAUST REPARATIONS

Prime Minister Moshe Sharett prepares to sign an agreement for reparations from Germany after the Holocaust, but his complicated feelings about the agreement threaten to upend the process.

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DECLARATION OF THE STATE

David Ben Gurion declares Israel’s independence in 1948, but, as is Jewish tradition, just as quickly as the people begin celebrate, squabbling breaks out.

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