MK Uri Maklev Visits Rabbi Dov Kok in Hospital, Recalls Youthful Memories and Shares Torah Insights

MK Uri Maklev recently visited Rabbi Dov Kok, who is currently hospitalized, to offer his support and share memories from their youth. Both men grew up in Ramat Gan over fifty years ago as sons of rabbinic families and have known each other since their teenage years. During the visit, Rabbi Kok showed remarkable alertness and engagement, attentively following Maklev’s words and responding with nods and facial expressions despite his illness.

Maklev reminisced about Rabbi Kok’s early signs of asceticism, recalling how even as a young man he practiced self-discipline uncommon for his age. One poignant memory involved Rabbi Kok secretly pouring vinegar on his food to spoil its taste, a form of self-affliction he concealed from friends. Maklev initially thought it was for health reasons but later understood it was a spiritual practice to avoid enjoying food.

The conversation also included a Torah teaching Maklev shared from Rabbi Yosef Shalom Elyashiv, the late grandfather of Rabbi Kok’s wife. The teaching highlighted the order of forgiveness and healing in prayers, noting that for public figures like Rabbi Kok, healing precedes forgiveness. Rabbi Kok’s attentive reaction to this teaching moved those present.

At the conclusion of the visit, Maklev wished Rabbi Kok a full recovery and strength. The public is encouraged to continue praying for the health of Rabbi Chizkiyahu Dov ben Shoshana and all the sick in Israel.