Ted Belman, A Life Of Courage

Peloni:  The following was written by Ted Belman’s cousin, Yonasan Bender, which his daughter Aliza was kind enough to forward to me to share with his readers.  It the most fitting tribute I have read of Ted, and I am very thankful to his family for sharing it.

Yonasan Bender

I realize since I was late I wasn’t able to say a few words but I had prepared something and I wanted to share them with you.

Unwavering integrity, intellectual courage, and profound passion: Ted Belman exemplified these three qualities in his life and his work. Ted was a seeker, with deep conviction whose relentless pursuit of truth illuminated not only his own path with his beautiful family and grandchildren but also guided others in his political   work. His vision was broad exemplifying the best of the pasuk –

something he imbued in his daughter Aliza.

Ted was not an observer of the world—he was an engaged and a compassionate participant. Trained as both an engineer and a lawyer, he brought an analytical clarity and precision to every issue he tackled. His life’s journey, from Canada to Israel, was driven by a powerful sense of justice and a yearning to connect deeply with his heritage. Ted had a numinous curiosity only matched by his decisive views – a deep desire for his family, his people, and his nation to be on the right path and holding that difficult tension with a lighthearted smile and a willingness to agree to disagree because he put his personal relationships above big vision issues.

Those who knew Ted closely recognized a man committed not only to ideas but to moral principles. He believed passionately in the sovereignty of individuals, in justice rooted deeply in historical truth, and in the inherent dignity of all people. He was deeply concerned about the integrity and autonomy of communities, understanding that true freedom thrives when rooted in strong, clear identity and purpose.

Ted was a writer. His writings reveal a heart and mind profoundly moved by the search for authenticity. His arguments were always rigorous, grounded in history, and law, yet beneath every article was a core of compassion. Ted championed the idea that every person deserves to live freely and securely, anchored by identity and history. His work was not merely academic or political—it was deeply humane. He valued courage over conformity, truth over convenience, and he consistently challenged others to think critically and ethically, even when facing overwhelming opposition. Ted exemplified the bravery of standing firmly by one’s convictions.

His strength came not only from his sharp intellect but also from his genuine kindness, openness – his readiness to engage sincerely with others. Whether through his beloved platform Israpundit or through personal conversations. Ted invited dialogue and understanding, fostering community among diverse individuals unified by a shared desire for truth.

Ted Belman’s life teaches us about courage—courage not just to speak, but to listen – a presence that he had for his daughter and grandchildren; courage not just to argue, but to understand; courage not merely to live, but to seek meaning continually. His legacy reminds us to approach life with warm honesty, emotional openness, and curiosity. Ted believed passionately that true peace and understanding come from confronting difficult truths and that genuine dialogue, grounded in history, empathy, and authenticity, was the highest form of human interaction. That’s why he could smile after a heated discussion and ask about your day. He cared deeply.

May Ted’s memory inspire us to live with similar bravery and and unwavering commitment to passionate truth.

Ted’s intro to his Second Symposium in 2023