Our first lecture to open our series of monthly lectures is on the topic of Shmita and Zionism, presented by Dr. Yizhar Hess, Vice Chairman of the World Zionist Organization.

This lecture discusses how the Mitzvah of Shmita was implemented in the early days of the Zionist enterprise, in the late 1800s. When the first settlers came back to the land of Israel after years of exile, they suddenly found themselves having to face the dilemma of observing Shmita for the very first time.

This presentation by Dr. Yizhar Hess (Vice Chairman of WZO), which accompanies his lecture - found here, showcases what is known as Pulmus Hashmita - The Shmita Dispute - how the Mitzvah of Shmita was implemented in the early days of the settlements in Israel