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Now 14Politics

Hasidic Singer Mordechai Ben David Criticizes Avigdor Lieberman Over Circumcision Remarks

Translated & summarized from Now 14 by baba

Right

Hebrew · 4 newsrooms covering

Hasidic singer Mordechai Ben David criticized Avigdor Lieberman in a podcast, claiming Lieberman's circumcision was done incorrectly and expressing hope for his repentance. The comments sparked controversy online, highlighting tensions between religious and secular Israelis.

The story in 6 lines · by baba

  • Mordechai Ben David harshly criticized Avigdor Lieberman over his circumcision in a recent podcast.
  • Ben David claimed Lieberman's circumcision was done incorrectly and suggested a harsher act was deserved.
  • The podcast host noted Lieberman respects the Rebbe's wife despite opposing religious Jews.
  • Ben David cited photos of Lieberman visiting the Rebbe of Rivanitz's gravesite multiple times.
  • Ben David ended by expressing hope Lieberman will repent fully.
  • The remarks caused a social media uproar reflecting religious-secular tensions in Israel.
Hasidic Singer Mordechai Ben David Criticizes Avigdor Lieberman Over Circumcision Remarks
Editorial illustration generated by baba News, not a photograph of the event.

Hasidic singer Mordechai Ben David sparked controversy with harsh comments about Avigdor Lieberman, leader of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, during a Yiddish podcast interview with journalist Shlomi Zayanz published last Thursday. Ben David addressed claims that the late Rebbe of Rivanitz served as Lieberman's mohel (ritual circumciser) in his childhood. He sharply criticized Lieberman, saying, "I think he didn't cut in the right place. They should have cut off his head instead."

The podcast host reacted with laughter but quickly clarified that despite Lieberman's known opposition to religious Jews, he still shows some respect for the Rebbe's wife. Ben David responded by noting documented photos of Lieberman visiting the Rebbe of Rivanitz's gravesite multiple times. He concluded on a more conciliatory note, expressing hope that Lieberman will fully repent.

The remarks have stirred significant debate online, reflecting tensions between secular political figures and religious communities in Israel. The incident highlights ongoing cultural and political divides surrounding identity and religious observance. No official response from Lieberman was reported as of yet.

Now 14Right · Jerusalem

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