Haredi TV Hosts Tackle Fake Rabbinic Endorsements, Political Representation

In a recent episode of the program 'Davar Rishon,' hosts Moshe Mans and Shuki Salomon delved into controversial issues within the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) community. They discussed the disturbing practice of using the names of deceased prominent rabbis on street flyers, citing an example in Bnei Brak that used the names of figures like Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky and Rabbi Shalom Cohen to advocate against wearing tight or low-cut pants. The hosts criticized this tactic, especially when the flyers were dated for a future holiday, Rosh Hashanah 2027, and used the names of rabbis who had already passed away.

Salomon shared a personal and distressing account of witnessing how a video recording of a prominent rabbi's words was deliberately edited and distorted by 'operatives' to suit their agenda. He explained that the operatives prevented the true message from being broadcast, replacing it with a twisted version that served their interests, thereby misleading the public. Mans acknowledged the historical existence of such manipulative figures but cautioned against using 'the operatives' as an easy excuse to dismiss inconvenient teachings.

The discussion also turned to Haredi politics, with the hosts analyzing the emergence of new political entities. Salomon expressed dissatisfaction with the current Haredi Knesset members from parties like United Torah Judaism and Shas, stating they do not represent him or many other working Haredim. He praised the new party led by Leitner, which aims to support those seeking employment or secular studies and combat discrimination in seminaries. Mans agreed, emphasizing the need for politicians who support Haredi men who choose to enlist in the army.

Furthermore, the program addressed mental health, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the wake of the ongoing conflict. They discussed the tragic death of a former combatant suffering from PTSD and highlighted the work of the 'B'Gova HaEinayim' organization, which assists individuals dealing with trauma. Businessman Yoni Kahana, based in Cyprus, was lauded for his extensive charitable work supporting reservists and those affected by the war, with Salomon calling him the 'Haredi King of Cyprus.' The hosts also touched on lighter topics, including a rare brain-eating amoeba found in the Kinneret (Sea of Galilee) and the humorous nature of fringe political parties.

Finally, the hosts offered New Year's wishes and concluded with Mans's signature slogan, 'Remember, yoga is not a sport!' to which Salomon quipped, 'Reading a book isn't a sport either, check it!'