A form of insurance fraud, in which someone destroys or damages (most often by arson) their own property for the purpose of collecting insurance money. Called "Jewish" lightning because the Jews are stereotypically known as a cheap, cheatingrace.
"So apparently Goldsteinbergowitz's house caught on fire last week. With the insurance money he'll collect, he'll probably be able to buy an even bigger house!"
"Jewish lightning if I ever saw it."
noun. Disparaging. A route or path taken (as in driving or walking) from one place to another that is not the shortest and most ideal route available, especially one that is much longer than necessary.
My mom did a big old Jewish wraparound back from San Fransisco so it took her over two days to get back.