Satmar Rabbi Warns Followers Against "Impurity of Zionism"

Last weekend, the Grand Rabbi of Satmar delivered a sermon to nearly 1,700 Satmar yeshiva students from across the United States. The address, marking the start of the academic term, began with deep discourse on the weekly Torah portion and Talmudic passages from the tractate Ketubot. The Rabbi then urged the students to conduct themselves as true Hasidic students, emphasizing daily immersion in a mikvah, dedicated study of Hasidic and ethical texts, weekly recitation of "Shnayim Mikra Ve'Echad Targum" (two verses and one translation), and active participation in fundraising for charity and assisting needy peers. He also stressed the importance of observing all Sabbath meals properly, particularly the third meal, which should be a time for communal singing and spiritual longing.

The spiritual leader also demanded strict adherence to all yeshiva regulations, both in study sessions and punctuality. He specifically recalled the "sacred regulations" established by the founder of the yeshiva, the "Dovrei Yoel," which include extreme avoidance of driving, refraining from attending weddings and engagements outside the accepted framework, and maintaining complete distance from all technological devices and their "evil influences." Furthermore, the Rabbi addressed contemporary music and dance styles at celebrations, urging students to exclusively observe traditions with "valuable Hasidic melodies and pure, gentle dances."

Towards the end of his address, the Grand Rabbi sharply warned the students to disconnect from and distance themselves from the "impurity of Zionism" in all its forms. He cautioned them against being swayed by "their propaganda, their public relations, and their news," urging them to strictly adhere to the path passed down through generations from the "Dovrei Yoel." The sermon concluded with the Rabbi bestowing his blessing upon all the students for great success in their studies.