Former followers describe abuse and intimidation in Miron sect after indictment of Yosef Shubali

Former members of the closed Miron community have described years of alleged abuse, social pressure and retaliation linked to its leader, Yosef Shubali, after he was indicted about two weeks ago for harming a disciple. Five people filed police complaints, but only one case led to an indictment because the others were time-barred. Several complainants say that after speaking to police, they faced disbelief, hostility and pressure from relatives and friends who remained inside the group.

Yair, now about 40, said he had been in Shubali’s community for more than two decades and left it only a year ago. He joined after leaving the army, through an uncle who later cut off contact, hoping to study Torah. He said it was not a regular yeshiva but a life organized around Shubali, with chores for him, lessons and talks in between. Yair said Shubali made him feel trusted and part of an inner circle, which kept him deeply embedded for years. He also said the community’s demands affected his personal life, including dating and marriage, because members were expected to stay with the rabbi on weekends and holidays.

Yair said the first step out was telling his story, something he had expected to carry “to the grave.” He later contacted the Israeli Center for Cult Victims, a special rabbinical court headed by Rabbi Shmuel Eliyahu, and then the police. He said his family and former friends reacted with denial, accusations and abuse, and that even close relatives refused to listen. “I thank God I got out of there,” he said. “I warn people because I am afraid they will be harmed.” He stressed that his effort is about healing, not revenge.

Other former members described similar patterns. A man identified as Yedidya said he joined as a newly religious young man, initially believing he had discovered something unique. He said the community tried to downplay the first public complaint and that another victim later showed him a confidential mental-health report alleging sexual harm by the leader. Eran, another former member in his 40s, said leaving brought immediate social rupture, with friends disappearing, and with threats, smears and harassment, including against children. Shubali’s lawyer rejected all allegations, calling them recycled lies and saying the evidence will be tested in court. The Israeli Center for Cult Victims said the indictment is an important moment of recognition, and warned that abuse in cult-like groups grows out of power imbalances, spiritual language and obedience.