Analyzing Piety in "Ushpizin" Film
JUDC 1035 - Introduction to Judaism
University of Cincinnati
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
Question 1: Traditional Jewish piety looks to the examples set by biblical ancestors.
Which biblical figures function as the models for Moshe and Mali? Specifically which
events and/or character actions are modeled upon biblical examples?
Moshe and Mali can be seen as a modern reflection of the biblical figures Abraham and
Sarah. Abraham had extremely strong faith and great hospitality, these are traits that Moshe
displayed throughout the film. A specific example of this is when despite their poor financial
situation, Moshe and Mali welcome unexpected visitors into their home during the holiday of
Sukkot. This part of the film is eerily similar to the biblical story of Abraham welcoming
three strangers into his tent. These acts of kindness and hospitality show the strong
commitment to the mitzvot that both Abraham and Moshe share. Furthermore, Moshe and
Mali struggled with infertility problems. Abraham and Sarah struggled similarly and had to
wait a very long time before giving birth to Isaac. The similarities between Moshe and Mali
and their biblical counterparts not only highlight their piety but also act as an example of how
traditional Jewish values and stories continue to resonate with contemporary lives.
Throughout the film, Moshe and Mali display acts that embody the virtues of faith,
hospitality and perseverance, the same virtues that their biblical ancestors displayed long
before them.
Question 2: Show how the following types of traditional Jewish piety (that is, ways of
serving God)are featured in the film: faith in God, hospitality, repentance and
forgiveness, self-control, charity, observance of Sabbath and holidays and formal and
informal prayer.
“Ushpizin” displays a multitude of different types of traditional Jewish piety through the lives
of Moshe and Mali. Firstly, their strong faith in god is displayed when they trust that god will
look after them even in the worst times. Even in the most challenging times, the faith of
Moshe and Mali does not waver and god rewards them with an unexpected donation from
yeshiva that arrives just before Sukkot. This allowed them to buy a sukkah and celebrate the
holiday. Secondly, as mentioned in my previous response hospitality is a large aspect of the
film and one of the virtues of Moshe and Mali. This is shown in the film when they welcome
two guests into their home despite struggling to make ends meet. This was an example of the
mitzvah “hachnasat orchim” Furthermore, we see repentance and forgiveness in the film
throughout Moshe’s experience with Eliyahu and Yossef. Moshe shows a willingness to
forgive by forgetting the past and welcoming them into his home. Moshe prays often
throughout the film showing a deep desire to repent for any mistakes he may have made
throughout his life. To continue, Moshe displays an immense amount of self-control when
dealing with Eliyahu and Yossef. A specific example of this is when they damage the sukkah,
instead of being frustrated or acting emotionally, Moshe takes a deep breath and repairs the
sukkah. This showed a virtue of patience from Moshe. Charity is shown in a variety of ways
throughout the film. Moshe and Mali receive a generous donation from yeshiva right before
Sukkot. Although struggling financially they decide to use the donation to celebrate Sukkot
with their guests and enjoy festive meals with everyone. Charity is displayed not only
through the donation of yeshiva but also through how Moshe and Mali use the donation.
Moshe and Mali observe the sabbath and holidays throughout the entire film. The film is set
during Sukkot itself and shows Moshe and Mali’s commitment to Jewish traditions and
practices. Moshe and Mali built and decorated a sukkah where they would recite prayers and
eat meals. In the lives of Moshe and Mali, formal and informal prayers are important. To give
an example of formal prayers, they recite the Kiddush and Hamtozi during the sabbath and
Sukkot. Moshe also often prays more personally in spontaneous moments, this is reflected
when Moshe prays during times of distress or even in times of gratitude.
Question 3: The biblical Jewish God is very involved in human life and history, having
an ongoing relationship with Jews on an individual and a corporate basis. He
communicates in different ways to humans, providing them with the opportunity to
serve him to the best of their ability. How does the film present divine communication to
everyday people in the contemporary world? That is, how do the characters in the film
know what God wants them to do? Is this presented as an easy or a difficult task?
In the film, divine communication is portrayed in a multitude of personal and subtle
experiences, reflecting the characters’ faith and how they interpret events within their daily
lives as signs from god. Moshe and Mali undertake the guidance of god through a
combination of prayer and intuition as well as the circumstances they have to deal with. An
example of this is when they receive the donation from yeshiva they interpret this as god
directly answering their prayers and a sign of divine providence. This event reinforces their
already strong belief that god is actively involved in their lives and provides for them in
tough times. The film also demonstrates that what god wants them to do is not always simple
or straightforward. For example, when Eliyahu and Yossef arrive Moshe interprets this as a
test of patience from god He must balance his deep religious values with his in-the-moment
frustrations. Furthermore, their informal prayers and dialogue with god highlight the ongoing
hunt for guidance from god. Through their dialogue they seek reassurance and direction, this
shows that divine communication is an everlasting process rather than a one-time revelation.
In the film, the task of discerning god’s will is challenging but rewarding. It forces Moshe
and Mali to keep their faith strong even when times are tough. The journey of Moshe and
Mali exemplifies that divine communication in the contemporary world involves a mix of
faith patience and the willingness to understand god’s role in everyday events. This
perspective compliments the idea that understanding divine will is not easy, it is a central part
of their spiritual lives.
Question 4: The Jewish notion of covenant is central to all traditional forms of Judaism.
According to covenant theology, one is rewarded for obedience to the biblical (613) and
rabbinic commandments by receiving the following blessings: children, health, sufficient
food and livelihood, an ongoing relationship with God and general well-being. One is
punished for disobedience by withholding or removing these blessings, if the
commandments are not followed. How does the film illustrate this notion of the
covenant through the speech and actions of the main characters?
Throughout the film, the notion of the covenant is demonstrated through the lives and
experiences of Moshe and Mali. Specifically in how they interpret and respond to the
circumstances they are dealt with. The film portrays their adherence to the commandments
and their faith in God as central to their well-being and the blessings they receive. A clear
example is their financial struggle at the beginning of the film. Despite their situation, Moshe
and Mali remain determined in their faith and observance of religious practices. They pray
for divine assistance, and their prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation. This financial
help allowed them to celebrate Sukkot properly, which they interpreted as a reward for their
faith and obedience. This moment highlighted the covenantal belief that God provides for
those who follow His commandments. The arrival of Eliyahu and Yossef serves as another
test of their faith and adherence to the covenant. Moshe views their presence as a test,
challenging his ability to practice hospitality, patience, and forgiveness. Despite the guests’
behaviour, Moshe and Mali continue to treat them with kindness and respect. Their actions
reflect their commitment to the covenant, believing that their behaviour will ultimately bring
them closer to god and secure his blessings. Moreover, Moshe and Mali’s observance of the
Sabbath and Sukkot shed light on their dedication to the commandments. These practices are
shown to bring them spiritual fulfillment and a sense of peace, reinforcing the idea that
obedience to the covenant leads to a closer relationship with God and general well-being.
Through these examples, the film illustrates the Jewish notion of the covenant by showing
how Moshe and Mali’s loyalty to God’s commandments influenced their lives. Their
experiences reflect the belief that adherence to the covenant brings divine blessings, while
challenges and tests are opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and trust in God’s
plan.
Question 5: In your opinion, what function does religion serve for Mali and Moshe?
Although the film does not explicitly tell us why, hypothesize about why they might have
chosen to leave secular Judaism for a religious lifestyle.
In the film, religion serves as a cornerstone of the lives of Moshe and Mali, it provides them
with structure, along with a sense of purpose and community. They use their faith as a way to
understand and navigate the challenges they face throughout life as well as use it as a source
of hope and comfort. Through religious practices, Moshe and Mali find direction and
meaning which helps them cope with their financial and personal hardships. In the film, we
don’t find out exactly why Moshe and Mali chose to leave secular Judaism for a religious
lifestyle but we can infer and hypothesize several reasons why based upon their life
experiences and actions. The first reason could be that they were in search of a deeper
meaning and more fufillment. We can observe Moshe’s past life as less spiritually satisfying,
therefore a turn to religiousness can represent a search for a more profound sense of purpose
and connection with his religion. A second potential reason for their choice to leave secular
Judaism could be for the sense of community that the religious lifestyle brings. The Orthodox
communities foster a supportive environment of shared values and beliefs. They offer mutual
support, this is especially prevalent during hard times which is shown in the film when
Moshe and Mila receive financial help from the yeshiva.
Question 6: Overall, in your opinion, is the ultra-orthodox lifestyle presented positively
in the film? Discuss and support your answer with specific examples from the film.
In my opinion, “Ushpizin” shows the ultra-orthodox lifestyle in a positive manner. The film
emphasizes community, faith and resilience. It showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment
that Moshe and Mali receive from their religious practices. An example of this is when their
prayers are answered by the yeshiva donation right before Sukkot. This rewards their
unwavering faith in divine providence, it also shows a strong sense of community. However,
the film is not biased and does not shy away from showing the downsides of this lifestyle. It
highlights the financial struggles that they go through as well as the need for tons of
self-control. Moshe and Misha adhere to their religious values even when it is not easy to do
so, such as when Eliyahu and Yossef become disruptive within their household. However,
they show self-control and commitment to their religious values and show a sense of
hospitality and forgiveness. To conclude, “Ushpizin” displays the challenging aspects of the
ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, however, it interprets these challenges as opportunities for growth
and a deeper faith in god. It ultimately presents it as a lifestyle of strong spiritual rewards and
a very strong community and sense of purpose.
