Rabbi Argues Against Futile Election Runs

Rabbi Daniel Shilo has penned an opinion piece arguing against the notion that a political faction should run in elections when it is clear they will not enter the Knesset. He contends that elections are intended for the establishment of the Knesset and government, not for the dissemination of opinions. Participating in an election with no chance of success, in his view, constitutes a "falsehood" and could even be considered "dust of robbery."

The faction "Noam Le'Israel" has announced its intention to compete in the upcoming elections and encourage votes, even if it is evident they will not secure Knesset representation. This has sparked debate, but Rabbi Shilo asserts that such a run is "absolutely forbidden."

He elaborates that Israel's electoral system is designed for citizens to elect a Knesset and government they deem suitable. Opinions are presented to voters so they understand each party's platform for governing. Therefore, if a party has no realistic prospect of entering the Knesset, it has no right to use the election solely to promote its views, even if those views are considered correct and widely accepted. Rabbi Shilo likens this to posting flyers on someone else's property without permission, calling it a form of theft or at least the "dust of robbery."

Citing a Talmudic principle that one should not listen to their rabbi if there is a concern of falsehood, Rabbi Shilo states that a group knowingly running without the possibility of achieving the election's purpose is engaging in a falsehood. He concludes by invoking the principle, "You shall not fear the face of man," to justify his strong stance despite his perceived lesser standing compared to the faction's rabbinical leaders.