(VIDEO IN EXTENDED ARTICLE)

Rabbi Eli Sadan, Rosh Yeshivat Bnei David, the first Mechina yeshiva in Israel, established some three decades ago, fired back at the media during an interview in his home in Yishuv Eli with prominent journalist Dana Weiss. The interview was aired on national television.

For those who can follow the Hebrew, the interview is a breath of fresh air as the mainstream media has been critical of rabbonim who speak out against anti-Torah policies in the IDF, particularly Rabbi Eli Sadan who heads Bnei David alongside with Rabbi Yigal Levinstein.

Rabbi Levinstein during the past year also came under attack for daring to speak out against toeiva in the military as well as the prohibition of serving in or commanding mixed gender units.

Rabbi Sadan is far from apologetic, stating firmly “We are entitled to believe is a Torah way of life, and yes, we do believe this is the correct way.” Despite maintaining IDF service is a privilege and religious Jews should serve, Rav Sadan draws the line when orders and policy are contrary to Torah and halacha. He insists the IDF or Chief of Staff have no right to give orders that contradict halacha.

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)