From Berlin to a kibbutz in Israel’s Negev desert

After many years in Germany, we decided to move to Israel, to a kibbutz in the Negev desert.
So why did we move? What was a kibbutz like in the past? What is a kibbutz like today? - All answers in the video.

[@bikerabbi]

I went to Israel in 1970 when I was 17 to Kibbutz Hulda. I was too young and dumb to properly appreciate it. On Shabbat, we Ulpan kids were sent to members' homes for lunch. A guy was there who served my meals. I was too young and dumb to appreciate who he was. His name meant nothing to me. After I'd left and a few years later, I learned who Amos Oz is... 😮 Thank you for this great series of videos. Your work is greatly needed - and I appreciate it! 😂

[@Sandra-Gibora]

Wow!

[@Iblk13]

That is insane.

[@Sandra-Gibora]

I discovered your channel after seven October and I have been slowly binge watching you. I really appreciate what you do and I liked understanding where you come from and why. Be safe, you and your family.

[@leyla2210]

😂

[@Michaelsiphophillips18]

Extremely down to earth living . Good support system . From Lemba Tribe of South Africa

[@getsebereketzemene3487]

thanks, i am new immigrant to my homeland Israel. I always watch your videos and they are very interesting.

[@Red-jl5dq]

🤮

[@healthy3074]

Arriving in August 2021. Tried to make Aliyah at 18. (HaShomer HaTzair), too immature. Been back numerous times, finally Laiyah this year! Y’all’s bye.

[@akemp2023]

@@getsebereketzemene3487 immigrant is the right word, immigrant is illegal migrant, many Zionists, actually most of them are immigrants, illegaly migrated, taken land with army, settle on other peoples land, steal land, that is what those settlers do and this is what Israel is promoting and even paying people to move on other peoples land!!! It is crime!!! Crime supported with US arms!! Israel government should be prosecuted!!!

[@atlcuff]

Fascinating - I learned a lot. I had heard of the concept of a kibbutz but had no idea how it was now. It is very impressive to me to see how you and your wife forge your own path and don't just follow the crowd. All the best in this new segment of your life adventure. Looking forward to hearing more.

[@Travelingisraelinfo]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@ullaghallstrom]

I have been working in Hatzerim and Palmach Tsuba as a volonteer 1973 1974 .loved it

[@idontspeakminecraft1475]

I have no idea where is that and I’m from Israel

[@idontspeakminecraft1475]

@gelzinna לא חחחחחחחחחחחחח

[@yakov95000]

@@idontspeakminecraft1475 If you are Southerner or have been in Army you know Hatzerim

[@Ultrapro011]

Awesome, i really wanna know how so many people from abroad knew about those kibbutzim and had the courage to travel to israel to work since that would not have worked that good as in today's world

[@eliptikon]

I‘ve been to Kibbuz Lotan in the Negev and to Geva in Jesreel Valley. Loved them both.

[@moremedia5770]

כל הכבוד. הלווי שהיו עוד ישראלים כמוך. עליתי מאנגליה ובתור יהודי מעוד גאה לגור כאן.

[@idontspeakminecraft1475]

רק ישראל י🇮🇱🥱

[@NikCan66]

Very honest video and takes a lot of guts to do this. Best wishes from Ireland 🇮🇪

[@Travelingisraelinfo]

Thank you very much!

[@NikCan66]

@@rylancorbin4840 that could be a serious violation in some jurisdictions. But why do it in the first place 🤔.

[@goodputin4324]

@@Travelingisraelinfo du ist Deutsch?

[@healthy3074]

Just curious, what takes Guts? Just being a Jew, living in the desert, leaving Berlin? Just curious. Thanks.

[@goodputin4324]

@@healthy3074 living in occupied territory

[@rotitelor]

You cleared up some misconceptions I had about kibbutz life. Really enjoyed this video as I do all yours so far, Oren.

[@christopherthompson5216]

Oren lovely video, I spent 6 months as a volunteer on Sde Boker in 1984 and had a fantastic time. I am bringing my two grown up sons to visit Israel next April. Keep up the good work and take care of yourself and family.

[@avihairapoport9521]

One of my fav places in israel. :)

[@19bendunk]

Close to the amazing ramon crater! Don't forget to go see the stars

[@1watsonwatson]

I was a volunteer at Sde Boker in 1988

[@michaeld2716]

Great closing statement. They are fortunate to have you there.

[@alihaydarnar9543]

The kibbutz is the most unique possibility of collective living /working or farming, often with children care inclusive. Thanks for upload!!!

[@hopepascacio1309]

Thank you, very much! As Agriculture Engineer is my dream come true!

[@liselotte1474]

Dankeschön für das (alle) Video(s) und Grüße aus Berlin in der Hoffnung, nächstes Jahr wieder Israel besuchen zu können

[@craigcorkill]

Fascinating video. Thank you so much for sharing about life in a kibbtutz - both historically and currently. I greatly appreciated the honesty and transparency you show in this video. I look forward to the next instalment :-)

[@ggarza]

Congratulations on moving to Israel. Blessings to you and your family!

[@hscollier]

I have not been on a kibbutz or a moshav since 1985, it would be interesting to see the changes. Our son lived on Hatzerim in the Negev, and we have friends with two young children who moved from Be’er Sheva to a kibbutz in the Negev recently. Hope to visit again after Covid restrictions are lifted. When we do I definitely want Oren as a guide in Jerusalem. Even with as much time as I’ve spent there in the past I always learn something new and very interesting in your videos.

[@PeterPanMan]

Oren, it's truly intriguing...you didn't really take us anywhere or show us anything but this might be the most insightful video you've ever done. As an American evangelical Christian, I very much enjoy your insights into BOTH contemporary AND ancient Israel. I love learning about the contemporary nation that lives on top of the ancient civilization.

[@raymondmifsud4690]

very interesting indeed. Growing up I used to imagine a kibbutz was a big community farmhouse and not a village. Thanks for sharing this honest video-journey with us. Greetings from Malta. ciao ciao - sahha.

[@seruzadok1205]

I am still living in South Germany, but I want to immigrate one day to Israel forever.

[@etrigueros]

Let's trade.

[@idontspeakminecraft1475]

You’re always welcome 🇮🇱

[@tristanuaceithearnaigh7660]

These vidos are so informative and fascinating to watch. So glad I came across your videos, You are not afraid to encompass all aspects of life in Israel including the political situations and social nuances that you experience in Israel. I first heard about the Kibbutzim as a child in the 70's in New Zealand, our school teacher was a Jewish lady who showed us things about Israeil. I was fascinated even back then that a community could be so cooperative and united idealistically..So glad to hear that the Kibbutzim in Israel are still going strong. Please keep the videos coming.

[@carllaney7897]

Thanks for sharing your story and telling about life in a kibbutz.

[@gloriouswavechurchinternat8831]

I am pastor Kingsley, I think you are so kind God bless you in advance and I want to discuss something too with you if you don't mind. Hope to hear from you shortly. Thanks

[@antonyobara8382]

Much love of the channel from Moshav ein yahav..🇰🇪🇰🇪..kenyans represented

[@ajNKaj]

My trips in the last two years benefitted very much from your videos

[@marytetreault8168]

Very insightful, Oren, as are all your videos. We appreciate you taking the time to discuss such interesting topics.

[@pamreynolds6812]

I lived on kibbutz Gonen for 6 years . We sent our children home at the end of the day . I would love to live on a kibbutz in the negev

[@acchaladka]

Every former kibbutznik and volunteer be like: 😢 sigh...I should have stayed.

[@Keith.Francis.Silveira]

Good wishes all the way from India. I love following you, and have learnt a lot as well. Thank you very much.

[@joss0214]

Life in the kibbutz is very peaceful, it's sad for the other kibbutz that was attacked and destroyed by evil, I pray for the people who lost their lives on the worst day

[@akemp2023]

Kibbutz was build by Israeli settlers. kzbin.info/www/bejne/eZyTfaCjop5-gJo

[@BarnOwl61]

Thanks very much, with your video's I can visit Israel, without going there. I wish you and your family good luck and a healthy life. Maybe, one day , when all Covid 19 problems are under control, I can come and see for myself the beauty of my mother's promised land.

[@sharonfreeman4104]

Thanks for sharing! I have always wondered how everything works in a kibbutz, so the history of yesterday through today is very interesting. Love your videos......I enjoy them and appreciate the history, education, information and honesty you put into them!

[@tiskwell]

Thanks a lot for this video! Kibbutz is a unique organization of Israel and I want to know more about it!

[@martawyszniewski7424]

i love how you explain things in all of your videos/ i subscribed to your channel after watching your long video about living in the forest - you are a great person and very honest truthfull which some people on KZbin loose after beimg on KZbin for too long

[@ajNKaj]

Marta Wyszniewski yes i followed him too and discovered his time in woods. Really something. He has an engaging style. Our two trips to israel were assisted by his videos. We hired vehicles each time and simply ticked off places he told of. We went to several in same direction in same day except dead sea we spent a day and then Masada.

[@ralphnetta4563]

Oren, I enjoyed your presentation so much that I felt compelled to watch it a second time too further grasp all the you related and said. Thank you and stay healthy and safe.

[@bettyk8105]

I just learned so much about kibbutzims! I don’t think I would make it in a kibbutz (I’m a BiBi fan) but I commend you for choosing this lifestyle for raising your family. As always, you’re very concise and informative. A good new year to you!

[@galsachar4925]

מה הקשר לזה שאת אוהדת את ביבי?

[@meirtt]

@@galsachar4925 Kibutzim tend to associate with the far left, so it is less of a fit.

[@Daha-bracha]

Thank you for your work. Love and support from Ukraine 🤍💙 ✡ 💙💛

[@jozefautersky4725]

thank you for your videos. God bless you and your family!

[@limonina1000]

Intersting and on point, as usual. Thanks!

[@pmorganworkshop]

This was an excellent video, as always. You have a really great way of explaining things and I learned a lot about kibbutzim.

[@Travelingisraelinfo]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@vicihuizinga8157]

We are traveling to Israel in September and I’m preparing myself for this trip by watching your videos and have learned so much already. Thank u 🤸‍♀️

[@aniuxka2457]

Please continue sharing !

[@erpollock]

I spent Pesach 1972 in a religious kibbutz where my college roommate was a daughter of veterans who came via the kindertransport - from Germany to England to found the kibbutz in Israel. The kibbutz had a guest house and I worked in the kitchen making pretty desserts for the guests. Now the kibbutz has a factory and makes furniture for synagogues. I think my former flatmate is an administrator in the kibbutz. She grew up in a children's house and the lady who cared for the children had the most honored job in the kibbutz. It was a very simple, utilitarian life - but in summer, since the kibbutz was paying her tuition at college, my flatmate was assigned to lead a group of 13 year old girls as a counselor. I thought - how restrictive! She can't choose freedom in summer. But I, too, had to spend my summer as my father expected in the US - working at a real office job to make the money to pay for the last year of my own college. So the same difference. I was not free myself. An interesting experience. It required responsibility and maturity to live such a life. What my flatmate most wanted - was privacy.

[@simko8665]

Kibbutz Lavi.

[@skontheroad2666]

Kibbutz Lavi I presume? Hardly "a typical kibbutz" (neither in concept or practice). But if you ever go to visit the hotel (it is a resort actually and great for families), be sure to book in the new building (it's worth the astronomical price, relatively speaking).

[@simko8665]

@@skontheroad2666 I was in the hotel there about three times in the last 20 years. Why hardly a typical Kibbutz?

[@skontheroad2666]

@@simko8665 Do you know what a kibbutz is (or is/was supposed to be?)? Is Lavi the only one you have ever been to? And when you went, did you just go to the hotel for a holiday? I am only asking so I know how to answer your question properly. (Also, if your answers to the questions were No, Yes and Yes, then I would suggest just googling what is the history of the kibbutz, as well as what is a kibbutz (2 different answer in many cases), and that will likely answer your question.

[@skontheroad2666]

@@simko8665 I will say that what definitely IS typical kibbutznik style at Lavi is the terrible food in the (depressing) cafetería! I don't know what time of year you stayed there but the prices during the Chagim (holidays) are outrageous!! If you have little kids (and can all fit in one room--we had to leave our luggage in the hallway one time, it was so tight!), one can almost justify the expense (almost!). But with some advance planning, I think there are better options, whether up north, or by the Dead Sea or Eilat.

[@carismacatalyst1289]

Thank you very much for sharing. Iam from East Berlin. I have seen Kibbutzy's. It is interesting to see how it's going to develop. Hopefully it is working out for the well being of the community.

[@skontheroad2666]

Interesting video. I think discussing moshavim would add some balance to those who likely do not even know they exist. But the most important part of the video was the last sentence!! We should never, ever, take it for granted!! Next year in Jerusalem!! Stay healthy and Chag Sameach!

[@raykleiner3151]

Thank you for posting this. Did not know you were in Berlin. One day I will return to Israel (tachana ahorna) never thought about a Kibbutz. Love the Negev. Something to think about......

[@BBRAIN1977]

stayed 4 times in Barkai visiting friends. Loved it there. People are friendly and had a great time there.

[@eyesontheprize6637]

Thank you, I enjoyed this very much.

[@barriesmith3489]

Thank you I’m a Christian and I like to hear about Israel but also like to get to know the people that make the interesting videos as I don’t travel out side. My own country this how I get. To meet people

[@ishalocke1123]

Thank you for this info! It’s great info and updates! Keep sharing your experiences!

[@ralphnetta4563]

So well said and explained! I always learn something NEW about Israel every time I watch one of your videos and look forward to seeing and hearing from you more often now that your back. As the months go by and you and your family are acclimated again and we’re ALL out of this horrific time I certainly will look too see more tour type video. Stay healthy and safe my friend. Look forward to meeting you at the end of March as you recommended. New Jersey, USA

[@Israel123]

Thank you for telling it as it is.

[@Travelingisraelinfo]

My pleasure!

[@smc3117]

Love your videos. They're always very interesting and informative. Thank you!

[@franceslock1662]

You need to tours for Jewish people who want to focus on Jewish culture, sights and history. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@MrDwanehoward]

Interesting, be glad when we can travel again.

[@ajNKaj]

Dwane Howard boy oh boy, will dance all way to every airport!! Jerusalema

[@ajNKaj]

@Dwane Howard🙋🏾‍♀️

[@OliveWeitzel]

Wow! Congratulations! I would love to live there! Two years I lived in Sderot - but it became stressy. Now I am waiting on the virus to die that I can come back!

[@kimberleywilliamson6003]

Yet another amazing video. Educational and informative as always. Thank you.🇬🇧🇮🇱🇬🇧🇮🇱

[@lsknuo]

What a great content! Please keep on doing such great videos.

[@ajNKaj]

Interesting. I wondered how your family progressed from the days in the woods in Haifa, wedding and first child. I love your videos

[@Travelingisraelinfo]

Thank you so much!

[@javyogm3927]

Oren as always, great video. Thank you for sharing 👏👏

[@petermurphy9651]

Oren and family, well explained and congratulations for being upfront and honest. May alll of your endeavours reap bounty. Thank for sharing.

[@ajNKaj]

Peter Murphy a great prayer❤️

[@petermurphy9651]

@@ajNKaj Amen

[@andrewwalton9700]

I lived on a kibbutz for 18 months between 02 /82 & 05/ 84 ! I loved the kibbutz way of life & i even considered making a life of it . Alas i returned to Thatchers dole riden GB but i still love the Kibbutzeem & Israel . Perhaps the fact that im a christian living in a jewish state played a part in my returning home to Bleighty . Years later that decisions seems a bit silly but was my choice Rearly like your channel & if i ever get to Jerusalem again i will certeinly seek you out for a tour of the city .

[@sharonlampert7452]

Brilliant! Bold! Blessed!

[@luislaplume8261]

All I can say is what a beautiful country and it interesting recent history of settlements. Thank you!

[@pintusarode8878]

Hi sir 🙏 I am Mohan India. God bless you and your family Jesus name Amen

[@anhpam9205]

Oren , very well presented, as always. So glad you decided to come back here as your closing words were so true. I wish you and your family an easy adjustment. ושבו בנים לגבולם.

[@markhirstwood4190]

Love this. I'm addicted to your videos, Oren. Keep it up. Toda raba.

[@omidiranshahri3910]

Hi thx for your videos danke für alle ihre Bemühungen תודה רבה

[@chucknewman7076]

Great video! Thank you for sharing.

[@BneiAnusim]

I really do enjoy your videos! Thanks.

[@hv0e25]

Beautiful video. Thank you!

[@deanl0]

Very good story that brings us back to the good ol days , Nice to hear that it's still happening , Always Positive..

[@marie-joelleraussou]

I like your senseof humour intge first few minutes of the video

[@danneeley7248]

Excellent, interesting video. Thank you, from Texas

[@gracavasc]

Very good information about kibbutzim! Thanks!

[@MsMamabo]

Thank you for such an informative and interesting video. I really enjoy these slightly more personal perspectives on things.

[@Travelingisraelinfo]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@dktrdaniel]

Looks amazing!

[@wagerekairari393]

I remember learning about the kibbutz in primary school many years ago. Great to hear a first hand account with a little bit of historical background.

[@Aliciafernanda100]

I liked very much your video. Thaks!

[@aribencanaan26]

Mazol tov on the kibbutz life. I know they will never be what they were but they (kibbutzim) can adapt. The sense of comradship can endure no matter how crazy the world becomes. In 1972, i climbed masada (the snake path!)at daybreak and when i looked down it was so beautiful i thought nothing bad could ever happen again! I was very young and naive! Good choice on your kibbutz.

[@wilhelmienvannieuwenhuizen4119]

May you and your family be very blessed there. I also love the dessert. ♥️ You are right, your value to tourists visiting Israel is enormous. I am glad you are there and am looking forward to the time when we can visit places in Israel with you as our tour guide.

[@briansmart2045]

Thank you for your wonderful videos , really enjoy them . Blessings to you and the family 🙏🏻 from 🇦🇺

[@EnricoOzone]

« Summer talking about Hitler, winter about Jesus »! I love you sense of humor! 😄👏👍

[@bcro83]

Super Video!

[@saritestreicher6616]

That's what I love about the videos. The open Frank "dugri" talk. I assume that the Korona days are hard especially for tourist guides. GOOD LUCK

[@Travelingisraelinfo]

Thanks and you are right..

[@BrilliantDesignOnline]

I knew nothing about kibbutz except what I heard from my American parents in the 70's. Very interesting to learn the details. I would love to hear more specifics about this lifestyle.

[@samjay1087]

Seeking for Exposure to knowledge is an invaluable quest.

[@alliel5160]

Thank you for sharing. Great info. I stayed at several kibbutzim when I traveled in Israel - in the Galilee and in the southern desert. They were both beautiful places. Blessings to you and your family.

[@linapesz313]

Thank you for this video ...I really like it

[@natalyshohat1825]

כל הכבוד על העשייה, ובעיקר על החזרה לארץ❤️🙏🏻

[@robcorrente6065]

Thanks for sharing that with all of us

[@Jewish_Whiskey]

I Love Israel 🇦🇱🇮🇱

[@lilymcnabb6621]

i have always loved the idea of a kibbutz. i am American so I prefer the less centralized version of finances, but do like the communal kitchen and responsibilities. I have considered moving to Israel though funding my way would be an issue. Another idea has been setting up a kibbutz like arrangement here. The economic reality here in the States is abysmal but most are deluded that this is a phase and not the new normal. I would like someone to walk this path with me though at the moment it looks like I am on my own.

[@annyjoseph6162]

Welcome back.

[@podatus1098]

Thank you for this video!

[@sabrinafair35]

Very nice video!

[@busybeenature9092]

Great place to come back! Thanks bless you

[@helenmcdonnell2585]

Appreciate your sharing your personal thoughts and experiences, would love to hear more, might seem boring to you is very interesting from my perspective. Wonder if anyone out there feels the same.

[@susheeldagar]

Love your story telling mate . Best of luck

[@h54h52]

Loved kibbutz life. Was a volunteer on four of them and one asked me to become a member. If you want to see real socialism visit a kibbutz! What is fascinating is that part of original kibbutz philosophy was to do away with the traditional family and marriage (hence children brought up separate from parents), make women equal so that jobs were interchangeable etc. Over time however they found that women didn’t want to be mechanics or work in the fields all the time, that parents didn’t have the joy of watching their children grow up (the children developed a group loyalty to other children!) and other stuff. So eventually they moved back to a more traditional lifestyle and more privatised life style - as he says!

[@simko8665]

At the first years of any Kibbutz they needed workers. If every woman had to watch her small child there were not enough working hands. That's why they decided of the Kindergarten at day time and separate sleeping from their parents. In that way only two women were required for 20 children instead 20 to be watched at home by not working mothers. After a hard day in the fields their parents needed a good night sleep. Anyway, that is not the situation anymore for some decades. Instead of man/woman power there are machines which is doing the hard work.

[@h54h52]

Sim Ko I wouldn’t argue with that, but once some basic supply of food and shelter had been established then basic roles such as child bearing, home building and hunting /protection began to blossom.

[@MrJm323]

Wait a minute, ....did they try to get rid of marriage?? How did men and women relate to one another? Did the kids know who their father was? Didn't men and women live as couples in their own small homes? Were they not married, typically?