Top Rabbi Urges Haredi Students to Vote, Warns of 'Desecration of God's Name'

Rabbi Moshe Hillel Hirsch, a prominent Haredi leader, visited the Reshi Yeshiva this week ahead of the upcoming 26th Knesset elections, urging students to vote for the United Torah Judaism party and to encourage others to do the same. He stressed the importance of remaining within the community, even when facing disagreements, stating, "If there is a problem in the family, and there are claims in the family, do not run away from the family, stay within the family." Rabbi Hirsch warned that a decline in voter turnout could lead to a severe "desecration of God's name," which he believes would bring about the worst possible outcomes for the community and hinder divine assistance.

He further cautioned that if secular forces gain influence, they aim to "completely cancel the Haredi Judaism of the Land of Israel." Rabbi Hirsch detailed how this could manifest through difficulties imposed on educational institutions, citing the example of the independent education system facing cutbacks and the challenges in maintaining the purity of education in Talmud Torahs and Bais Yaakov schools. He expressed concern that if these anti-Haredi elements become dominant in the coming years, it could lead to the "destruction of Yiddishkeit."

Rabbi Chaykel Meltzitzky, Rosh Yeshiva of Reshi, spoke about the ongoing connection between the yeshiva and Rabbi Hirsch, noting that he consults him on all matters concerning the students' welfare. Meltzitzky emphasized the importance of adhering to the guidance of Torah leaders, especially regarding elections, stating that their wisdom surpasses their own and that they understand the issues best.

Both rabbis encouraged the students to actively persuade others to vote, framing their participation as a way to sanctify God's name, strengthen Torah, and foster reverence for heaven. Rabbi Hirsch blessed the students, expressing hope that their efforts would bring about divine assistance and honor to God in the world.