Israel’s Chief Rabbi Advises Rabbi Zarviv to Avoid Politics, Comparing It to Challah Stew

At a "Lema'an Yilmedu" conference marking the conclusion of the 5786 rabbinical training program for wedding officiants, Israel's Chief Rabbi Kalman Bar shared advice he gave to Rabbi Avraham Zarviv regarding politics. Rabbi Zarviv, who spoke at the event attended by many reserve soldiers and rabbis, had been approached about entering politics. Rabbi Bar cautioned him, saying, "Politics is like cholent (a traditional Jewish stew) - you know how you enter, but you don't know how you get out." Rabbi Zarviv confirmed this advice and revealed that his wife played a crucial role in his decision to stay out of the political arena. He likened his situation to the biblical story of On ben Pelet from the Korach episode, noting, "On ben Pelet - his wife saved him," a statement that received applause from attendees. The event focused on the mission of wedding officiants within the "Tekhelet" organization, emphasizing their role and responsibilities.