Top Rabbi Addresses Concerns of Working Haredim Ahead of Election

Just under 24 hours before elections, businessman Rabbi Yissachar Knol met with Rosh Yeshiva Rabbi Moshe Hillel Hirsch to discuss issues facing the working Haredi public and the sense of belonging among modern Haredi families. The discussion, held against the backdrop of election campaigning, focused on daily life challenges for these families, including difficulties in admitting children to educational institutions, the desire for integrated religious and secular studies, and a perceived distance from senior rabbinical leadership.

Rabbi Hirsch addressed opposition to the "Memad" (integrated education) framework, criticism of the performance of Haredi representatives, and expectations for new leadership. He also offered guidance on how a father who works to support his family can foster an appreciation for Torah and a sense of belonging in his children.

In response to questions about why working Haredim should vote for United Torah Judaism when they feel unrepresented, Rabbi Hirsch argued that a strong vote is necessary due to a "religious war" against their community. He explained that budget allocations have been restricted, hindering the ability of the Independent Education system to provide desired educational options, and that this impacts seminaries as well. He also warned of the influence of Reform movements seeking to alter Jewish tradition.

Regarding the feeling of distance from rabbinical leaders, Rabbi Hirsch stated that efforts are continuously being made to strengthen and connect with working individuals, asserting that this feeling was more prevalent a decade ago. He acknowledged that financial constraints within the Independent Education system are a primary reason for the need for alternative solutions like Memad, but expressed concern that Memad's ultimate goal is to assimilate the Haredi community into a more secular identity.

On the topic of criticism towards Haredi representatives and activists, Rabbi Hirsch indicated that new, younger individuals who have proven themselves are being chosen, with the hope of greater success. He suggested that senior rabbinical figures will be more involved to ensure closer ties and prevent past issues from recurring. He also advised working fathers to maintain a strong connection to Torah study and to speak about Torah scholars with respect to instill these values in their children.