Rabbi Shachar Imber Praises Finance Minister Smotrich, Comparing Him to Joshua and Ben-Gurion

Rabbi Shachar Imber, head of the Alon Moreh Yeshiva, publicly praised Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich for his efforts in settlement development and economic management during wartime. In his weekly lecture focused on gratitude, Rabbi Imber placed Smotrich alongside historical figures Joshua ben Nun and David Ben-Gurion, highlighting their shared commitment to the biblical commandment "and you shall inherit it and dwell in it."

Rabbi Imber explained that Joshua was the first to fulfill this commandment gradually by conquering the land, while Ben-Gurion implemented it swiftly upon declaring the state of Israel. He then identified Smotrich as the third significant figure continuing this legacy, emphasizing Smotrich’s unprecedented role as a finance minister managing the economy during a time of war with what he described as divine assistance.

The rabbi also commended Smotrich’s inclusive approach toward various segments of Israeli society, including rabbis, liberals, secular communities, and the general public, calling him a unifying figure deserving of gratitude. Rabbi Imber concluded by urging everyone to recognize and appreciate Smotrich’s contributions to Israel’s settlement and economic resilience.