Ultra-Orthodox Rabbis Rally in Petah Tikva for Torah Judaism Party

An emergency election rally for the Torah Judaism party was held in Petah Tikva, drawing the participation of community rabbis and led by Rosh Yeshiva Gershon Mordechai Hirsh. Yaakov Asher, chairman of Torah Judaism, opened the gathering by describing the community's feeling of being unprecedentedly persecuted over the past four years, contrasting the respectful treatment of other populations with the characterization of the ultra-Orthodox as draft dodgers. He emphasized that attacks aimed at the foundations of the ultra-Orthodox world make these elections crucial, extending beyond mere seat numbers. Asher stated that vote counts would reflect the public's strength and commitment to Torah, warning that a decline could embolden further attacks, while an increase would send a clear message of unwavering loyalty.

MK Yitzhak Pindrus followed, noting that while most parties lack distinct platforms, they all present plans for the ultra-Orthodox sector, indicating an understanding that the world's existence, not just that of yeshiva students, depends on the community's adherence to its principles. He argued that the widespread attention to the "ultra-Orthodox problem" by parties across the political spectrum underscores the critical importance of voting.

Rosh Yeshiva Gershon Mordechai Hirsh delivered the main address, characterizing life in Israel as miraculous despite challenges, and stressing the need for divine assistance and personal commitment. He urged against indifference and called for maximum effort to strengthen the ultra-Orthodox community, expressing faith that God would aid them if they fulfill their obligations. He strongly advised against voting for anyone else, asserting that even those with grievances should vote for Torah Judaism to prevent worse outcomes.

The Rosh Yeshiva and Member of the Council of Torah Sages, Rosh Yeshiva of Hebron and a member of the Council of Torah Sages, framed the election not as a choice between candidates but as a struggle for the survival of Torah and its future. He highlighted the conscription issue and concerns about the impact on seminaries, Talmud Torahs, and junior yeshivas. The Rosh Yeshiva and Member of the Council of Torah Sages stressed that voting is an expression of loyalty to Torah leaders, with representatives acting as messengers of their directives, emphasizing the principle of faith in the Sages.

Rabbi Yitzhak Rosen, Rosh Yeshiva of Ohr Yisrael, stated that even adversaries know the truth but refuse to acknowledge it, particularly regarding the community's continuation of Jewish tradition and its growing closeness to Torah. He believes this leads them to seek the destruction of ultra-Orthodox society. Rosen sees voting as a significant opportunity for Jews to express their loyalty to Torah, with the vote count serving as a public statement of the community's strength and commitment.

Rabbi Yitzhak Charoni, Rosh Yeshiva of Hebron, declared a choice for God and Torah, referencing the Chazon Ish's view that elections are a declaration of allegiance to God and Torah leaders, not just about electing representatives. He described the community as the last bastion of humanity against a world of darkness and disintegration.

Rabbi Shmuel Gottfried of Ganei Ami'shev called the election a quadrennial opportunity to support Torah, with each vote contributing to collective influence. He likened it to collecting funds for a bride's dowry, where each small contribution is essential to the overall success.

Rabbi B.Z. Rosenberg of Petah Tikva's central city communities argued that the goal is not to draft Torah students but to bring Reform Jews into Israel, which he sees as the destruction of Judaism. He urged everyone to make an effort to sanctify God's name through voting.

The Gavad of central Petah Tikva cited Rabbi Elyashiv's ruling that voting is a mandatory duty, requiring a commitment in thought, speech, and action to grasp its importance and encourage others.

Rabbi M. Roth of the Hebron community in Ganei Hadar recalled Rabbi Brisker's sixty-year-old warning that the true aim was to uproot religion, a sentiment he feels is now tragically realized. He stated that the strategy dictated by Torah leaders is to appoint loyal representatives to defend Torah.