Sanz Rebbe Says Most Secular Israelis Respect Torah Scholars Despite Tensions
The Sanz Rebbe met last Thursday with a young ultra-Orthodox man recently released from military prison for refusing to enlist in the IDF. During the meeting at the Rebbe's residence in Netanya, he offered support to the young man and his family, highlighting the complex reality faced by yeshiva students today. The Rebbe cited historical examples from his father, the late Klausenburg Rebbe, who also endured imprisonment for religious reasons, to illustrate perseverance in faith.
The Rebbe refrained from public statements while the young man was incarcerated but now expressed appreciation for his steadfastness. Their conversation addressed the deep tensions surrounding the draft issue and friction with authorities. While ultra-Orthodox leaders consider future protests against what they call "persecution of Torah study," the Sanz Rebbe focused much of his remarks on the relationship between the Haredi community and the broader Israeli public.
He sharply criticized government actions and media coverage for exacerbating social divisions but distinguished between agitators and the majority of Israelis. Quoting him via Radio Kol Chai, the Rebbe said, "Most Jews in the country hold a basic faith and do not hate Torah scholars." He noted his own encounters in secular cities where citizens showed respect for rabbinical institutions and religion. Regarding the security situation and ongoing war, he observed that the national crisis has caused confusion among the general public but also prompted many to seek spiritual strength.
