Businessman Fined $1,300 for Setting Up Tefillin Stand in Mall
Translated & summarized from Now 14 by baba
Businessman Naor Baruch was fined 5,000 shekels for setting up a tefillin stand in a central Israeli mall, an act he filmed and shared online. He claims around 100 people participated before police intervened, citing mall regulations. Baruch is campaigning for a law to protect the right to don tefillin publicly and vowed to continue his fight.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Businessman Naor Baruch received a 5,000 shekel fine for setting up a tefillin stand in a mall.
- Baruch claims nearly 100 people donned tefillin at his stand before police intervened.
- Police stated the action violated the mall's regulations.
- Baruch is advocating for a law to protect the public practice of donning tefillin.
- He vowed to continue his campaign for this right in Israel.
Businessman Naor Baruch was issued a 5,000 shekel ($1,300) fine after setting up a stand for the ritual of donning tefillin in a shopping mall in central Israel. Baruch documented the encounter in a video he posted, showing a confrontation with mall security and police officers. He stated that approximately 100 people had put on tefillin at his stand before authorities intervened.
In the video, police are seen approaching Baruch, demanding he leave and threatening him with a fine. When asked about the penalty, an officer informed him it was 5,000 shekels, to which Baruch responded he would pay it immediately. Baruch was told by the officers that the action violated the mall's regulations.
Baruch refused to leave, asserting his presence and challenging the authorities. He explained his intention was to provide an opportunity for Jews to perform the mitzvah of laying tefillin in public spaces without fear or needing permission. He clarified that he did not blame the security guards or police, as they were acting under orders.
Baruch connected the incident to his broader campaign to promote a law ensuring the freedom to don tefillin in public areas, emphasizing it as a right for Jews in Israel. He vowed to continue his struggle for this cause.
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