Investigation Alleges Coercion by Charity Promoted by Celebrities
Translated & summarized from Israel Hayom by baba
An investigation by Shomrim alleges that the Or HaRashbi association, promoted by celebrities like Natalie Dadon and Michal Hakatanah, used intimidation tactics to prevent donors from canceling contributions and imposed unauthorized charges. The association reportedly collected approximately 96.6 million shekels in 2024. While celebrities promoted products like "Blessing Honey" and "Holy Rashbi Candle," the investigation found no evidence they were aware of the alleged coercive practices. The association denied the claims, stating all charges are consensual and pledging to investigate any specific cases brought to their attention.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Or HaRashbi association accused of intimidating donors and imposing unauthorized charges, according to a Shomrim investigation.
- The association, promoted by celebrities Natalie Dadon and Michal Hakatanah, allegedly made it difficult for donors to cancel contributions.
- The investigation reported the association's 2024 income reached approximately 96.6 million shekels.
- Celebrities like Maayan Ashkenazi and Yuval Me'atuk promoted association products, including a "Holy Rashbi Candle."
- Fundraising broadcasts hosted by Menachem Toker featured celebrities sharing miracle stories and urging donations.
- The association denied the allegations, stating all charges are consensual and promising to investigate.
An investigation by the Shomrim organization, published in "TheMarker" on October 9, 2026, presents testimonies from donors to the Or HaRashbi association alleging intimidation tactics when attempting to cancel donations, difficulties in cancellation, and charges they claim were not authorized. The report details the association's collaborations with celebrities such as Michal Hakatanah and Natalie Dadon, among others.
One donor told Shomrim that when her husband requested to stop donating, an association representative stated they would lose the Rabbi's blessing at home if they ceased. According to her testimony, collections continued for several months despite repeated requests for cancellation. The investigation indicates the association's income in 2024 reached approximately 96.6 million shekels. The allegations of aggressive collection practices are directed at the association, with no evidence presented that the celebrities were aware of the specific incidents.
Michal Hakatanah and Natalie Dadon have promoted the "Blessing Honey," while Maayan Ashkenazi and Yuval Me'atuk advertised the "Holy Rashbi Candle" on Instagram. The candle's page on the association's website includes a form for contact information, and receiving the candle reportedly involves a commitment to a recurring monthly payment. Child entertainers are also mentioned in connection with promoting events at the association's compound in Meron.
According to the investigation, Menachem Toker hosts most of the association's fundraising broadcasts on Channels 13 and 14, featuring guests like Dadon, Ashkenazi, Liron Orfali (Taltil), and Tohonia Rubel. These guests reportedly share stories of miracles attributed to prayers to Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, alongside calls for donations.
The investigation also describes the story of Liron Revivo, who recounted during a Chanukah broadcast on Channel 13 her fears during pregnancy check-ups and her baby's subsequent healthy birth, which she linked to prayers to Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai. This story was also aired on a fundraising broadcast on Channel 14 about five months later. Revivo detailed her concerns, visit to Meron, and later test results in a separate interview with Channel 13 in December 2025.
In response to Shomrim, the association denied allegations of unauthorized charges and refusal to cancel donations. They stated that donation charges are made with free and explicit consent regarding the amount and duration, and that their representatives are forbidden from using pressure or manipulation. The association also claimed it had not received sufficient details to investigate the reported cases and pledged to examine any cases with appropriate details and address irregularities if found.
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