Israeli Influencers Under Fire for Promoting Dubious Spiritual Products
Translated & summarized from Israel Hayom by baba
An Israeli investigation into the "Or HaRashbi" association, which raised nearly 100 million shekels, highlights concerns about influencers promoting spiritual products with promises of salvation. Celebrities like Natalie Dadon, Maayan Ashkenazi, and Yuval Maatook are criticized for marketing items linked to the association, which donors claim uses psychological pressure and makes unsubstantiated promises. The association denies the allegations, stating donations are voluntary, while the article calls for greater influencer accountability.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Influencers Natalie Dadon, Maayan Ashkenazi, and Yuval Maatook are criticized for promoting spiritual products linked to the "Or HaRashbi" association.
- The "Or HaRashbi" association reportedly generated nearly 100 million shekels in 2024 through its activities.
- Donors allege the association uses psychological pressure and makes promises of salvation, with difficulties in canceling recurring donations.
- The association denies all allegations, asserting that all donations are made voluntarily and with free consent.
- The article argues that influencers are responsible for the promises made when marketing these spiritual products.
- The author calls for greater accountability from both influencers and the media in covering such organizations.
An Israeli investigative report has raised concerns about influencers promoting spiritual products, such as blessed honey and holy candles, which are marketed with promises of salvation and miraculous cures. The report specifically targets celebrities like Natalie Dadon, Maayan Ashkenazi, and Yuval Maatook for their involvement in promoting items linked to the "Or HaRashbi" association.
The "Or HaRashbi" association reportedly generated nearly 100 million shekels in 2024. Donors have described facing psychological pressure, receiving promises of salvation, and experiencing difficulties in canceling recurring donations. Some donors claim they were committed to three-year payment plans without their full consent, though the association denies these allegations, stating all donations are voluntary.
Natalie Dadon promoted "Blessed Honey," while Maayan Ashkenazi and Yuval Maatook advertised the "Holy Rashbi Candle." The article notes that while these celebrities might genuinely believe in the products, they are not absolved of responsibility for the promises made in their marketing. The author distinguishes between sharing a personal spiritual experience and marketing a paid product that guarantees salvation, which is described as a marketing tactic based on unsubstantiated claims.
The article suggests that when these promises target individuals seeking financial stability, relationships, or recovery from serious illness, it crosses the line into exploiting people's distress. The author calls for influencers to exercise greater responsibility, urging them to at least review the content they promote and to address claims made against the organizations they endorse, especially after an investigation has been published.
The author also reflects on the media's role, admitting that entertainment news outlets might have previously covered events involving these organizations and celebrities without critical scrutiny, thereby lending them legitimacy. Moving forward, the author states that any future coverage of the association must include references to the investigation and the organization's response.