Top Rabbi Warns Against Reform Judaism's Influence in Israel

Rabbi Moshe Hillel Hirsch, a prominent Rosh Yeshiva, issued a stark warning on Friday night against the growing influence of Reform Judaism in Israel, stating it would fundamentally alter the country's character. Speaking at an event in Kiryat Ye'arim-Telzstone ahead of the upcoming elections, Rabbi Hirsch urged the ultra-Orthodox community to vote for the United Torah Judaism party (Gimel) to protect religious education and the Jewish identity of the state.

He addressed concerns about potential dissatisfaction with current representatives, emphasizing that abstaining from voting would be a grave error. Rabbi Hirsch cautioned that such a move could inadvertently empower the left-wing, potentially leading to increased persecution of religious institutions. He highlighted ongoing struggles faced by independent ultra-Orthodox educational institutions, including challenges to kindergartens, seminaries, and Bais Yaakov schools, noting that the public is largely unaware of the extent of these difficulties.

The rabbi expressed particular alarm about the potential for Reform Judaism to gain official standing in Israel. He explained that while secular Jews currently acknowledge the traditional understanding of Jewish law, the acceptance of Reform practices could erode this foundation. "If the Reformers enter, it will turn the Land of Israel into something completely different!" he exclaimed, fearing that secular individuals would no longer recognize Orthodox Judaism as the definitive form of the religion.

Rabbi Hirsch stressed that significant ultra-Orthodox representation in the Knesset is crucial to prevent these perceived threats. He argued that strong representation would compel governing coalitions to include their representatives, enabling them to safeguard religious interests. He implored attendees to vote for Gimel and to actively persuade others to do the same, believing that unity would lead to divine assistance in overcoming opposition.