Top Rabbi Argues Clergy Must Engage in Politics

Rabbi David Fendel, Rosh Yeshiva of Sderot, stated at the "Hineni" conference that rabbis have a duty to discuss politics, "Torah of Israel, and the Land of Israel." He explained that engaging in elections is tied to public responsibility and commandments concerning the Jewish people and the land. Rabbi Fendel cautioned against voting for parties that might not pass the electoral threshold, arguing that such votes would not translate into Knesset representation and would thus negate their public and religious benefit. He also warned of the possibility of a left-wing government, describing it in religious terms as a "desecration of God's name," and emphasized that these issues relate to the public's destiny, not just partisan struggles.

Rabbi Fendel drew a parallel to the Hanukkah commandment, which he characterized as having an all-encompassing public dimension, stressing the importance of individuals engaging with public affairs as part of their religious life. When addressing students who question the connection between the study hall and politics, he differentiated between the rabbis' obligation to voice their views and the students' freedom to make their own decisions. "First of all, you are independent people, do what you understand," he told them, while reiterating the rabbis' duty to address public matters related to Torah, the people, and the land.

Furthermore, Rabbi Fendel expressed sorrow over the lack of political unity within the Religious Zionist community. "It is very sad that we have not managed to unite in Religious Zionism," he said. He highlighted the strength of the Religious Zionist public and linked public responsibility to the heavy price paid during wartime, noting that eulogies for fallen soldiers promised continued action for the values they fought for. The rabbi concluded by emphasizing that his focus remains on "the entire Land of Israel, complete Torah, Jewish identity," asserting that these are not merely political matters.