Top Rabbi Denounces Political Involvement, Cites Satmar Rebbe

The Grand Rabbi of Ziditshov-Vorki delivered a rare and sharp critique of participation in elections and integration into government institutions during a Saturday night gathering. He invoked the teachings of the Satmar Rebbe, the author of 'Yoel Moshe,' and his historical opposition to Zionism, lamenting the current state of spiritual decline and confusion within the Haredi public. The Rabbi drew a parallel between modern Haredim and the Mizrachi movement of the past, whom he described as internally corrupt despite their outward appearance.

He specifically criticized the Haredi representation in the Knesset, citing spiritual persecution against Torah scholars and expressing shock at the idea of including women on political lists. "If my people would listen to me, if they want to remain in purity of thought, they must not lend them a hand," he declared, emphasizing the need for separation from secular influences.

The Rabbi expressed deep sorrow over the current spiritual state, stating that if the Satmar Rebbe were alive today, he would not be able to bear the current degradation. He also suggested that great rabbis of Hungary from the era of the Chasam Sofer would have called for a new separation from "enlightened Haredim." He warned against the danger of blurred distinctions, noting that past figures who appeared outwardly religious were inwardly corrupt, a situation he sees mirrored today.

He further elaborated on the Satmar Rebbe's foresight, stating that the latter accurately predicted the current difficult reality and foresaw a time when observant Jews would not be able to live in the Holy Land. The Ziditshov-Vorki Rabbi condemned the government's decrees and the perceived ineffectiveness of Haredi representatives in the Knesset, detailing how Torah institutions are allegedly being harmed and basic rights are being denied.

Concluding his address, the Rabbi urged unwavering adherence to principles and a complete separation from political involvement, which he likened to a "foregone conclusion" that compromises religious purity. He prayed for divine guidance and the hastening of the Messianic era, emphasizing the importance of clarity and unwavering faith, drawing parallels to Patriarch Abraham's absolute conviction.