Top Rabbi Dov Lando Publicly Rebukes Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich
Translated & summarized from NEWSru Israel by baba
Rabbi Dov Lando, a prominent ultra-Orthodox leader, publicly responded to Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's criticisms of the Haredi community. Lando called voting a religious duty and urged support for ultra-Orthodox parties, while condemning Smotrich's remarks as "desecration of God's name." Smotrich had previously called the Haredi community "ungrateful" and questioned their lifestyle. Lando's past comments, suggesting Zionism caused Arab hostility and that Arabs should rule Israel, were also highlighted.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Rabbi Dov Lando publicly responded to Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's criticism of the Haredi community.
- Lando stated voting is a religious duty and urged support for ultra-Orthodox parties.
- He called Smotrich's remarks "intentional public desecration of God's name."
- Smotrich had previously called the Haredi community "ungrateful" and questioned their lifestyle.
- Lando's past comments suggesting Arab rule in Israel were also revealed.
- The dispute centers on differing views on Zionism, religious observance, and political participation.
Rabbi Dov Lando, a leading figure in the Lithuanian stream of ultra-Orthodox Judaism, has publicly responded for the first time to sharp criticism leveled against the Haredi community and himself by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. During a meeting with rabbis from the Rechasim settlement, who sought guidance before elections, Lando stated that voting is a religious obligation for every ultra-Orthodox Jew, especially now, as "the Torah and Torah learners are under attack and humiliation." He criticized individuals who, while observing commandments, publicly question the right of others to live an ultra-Orthodox lifestyle in Israel, calling such statements "intentional public desecration of God's name." Lando urged increased support for ultra-Orthodox parties in the upcoming elections and encouraged everyone to vote. The dispute began after Smotrich's remarks at an election conference. When asked about Rabbi Lando's criticism of Israel and religious Zionism, Smotrich expressed reluctance to engage in direct debate but stated he prayed for Lando's "repentance." Smotrich also described the Haredi community as "ungrateful to God" and questioned the viability of remaining ultra-Orthodox today. A recent recording broadcast by Channel 12 revealed Lando suggesting that Zionism caused Arab hostility and that the situation might be better under international rule, even stating it would be "quite good if Arabs ruled here today." Lando also criticized religious Zionism's stance on military service and asserted that secular Israelis have largely lost their connection to Judaism.
