Gur Hassidic Dynasty Criticizes MK Yaakov Asher Over Shabbat Interview
Translated & summarized from Now 14 by baba
Sources within the dynasty warned this could impact their support for the party in elections, stating they "will not be able to vote for the desecration of Shabbat." Asher's team claims the interview was filmed before Shabbat, but critics argue the broadcast itself sends a negative public message. The controversy also coincides with the Rebbe of Gur reportedly refusing to sign a directive to vote for the party.
The story in 4 lines · by baba
- Gur Hassidic dynasty threatens to withhold votes from Yaakov Asher over Shabbat interview.
- Critics argue the interview's broadcast on Shabbat sends a problematic public message.
- The Rebbe of Gur reportedly refused to sign a directive to vote for the party.
- The "Haredi Public" party accused Asher of "mass desecration of Shabbat."
Sources within the influential Hasidic group are demanding Asher cancel his appearance on the Channel 12 program "Meet the Press," scheduled to air on Shabbat.
These sources warn that Asher's decision to participate in a program broadcast during Shabbat could jeopardize support for the UTJ party in upcoming elections. "If Yaakov Asher wants us to vote for him despite everything happening in the political arena, at least in the realm of Shabbat sanctity, he should uphold the most basic values," stated the sources.
Asher confirmed his participation in "Meet the Press," which begins its broadcast at 6:00 PM on Shabbat, before Shabbat concludes. His associates explained that the interview was filmed on Friday and would only be aired after Shabbat ends. However, critics argue that the mere participation in a program broadcast during Shabbat sends a problematic public message.
The criticism from the Gur dynasty joins that of a senior UTJ official who called the interview a "disgrace and desecration of holy Shabbat," even if legally permissible.
The "Haredi Public" party also attacked Asher, accusing him of "deliberately desecrating God's name and bringing about the mass desecration of Shabbat." The party further criticized the UTJ leadership, claiming it prioritizes maintaining political power over the values it represents.
This crisis unfolds as the Rebbe of Gur reportedly refused to sign a "call to the public" from the Council of Torah Sages urging votes for the party, possibly linked to the dispute with Asher.
Mentioned
