In a letter sent to Jordan’s King Abdullah II, Chief Rabbi Yona Metzger Shlita asked the Jordanian monarch to change the policy regarding border crossings into his country, which at present, do not permit frum Jews to enter with tallis and tefillin.
In the English language letter, the Rav explains that he receives many complaints, from mashgichim, those wishing to visit Kever of Aaron Hakohen, and Israelis in general, that the attitude of crossing authorities is most degrading regarding the entry of religious articles into Jordan.
The Rav points out that Israel does not place restrictions on Muslims entering Eretz Yisrael in their traditional garb or with Korans, and the policy of Jordan regarding Jewish religious articles is unacceptable. He adds if the move is intended as a security precaution for the protection of the Jews, then a restriction can be implemented prohibiting public display of the religious articles. He states the current regulation prohibits frum Jews from entering Jordan since they require the religious articles daily.
The Rav closes with a bracha, that the king should continue on the path of peace undertaken by his later father, King Hussein, as well as the good relations between Israel and Jordan, wishing him longevity and good health.
(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)
Join the official YWN WhatsApp status
2 Responses
Bravo to the Rav, I have long maintained that Israel has no self respect by allowing religious bias against Jews in Arab countries. It is the Government of Israel who should be protesting to Jordan about this.
The fact is that as long as the Israelis do not insist on respect they will not get it!
WHY DO WE HAVE TO GO VISIT JORDAN ALL ARAB COUNTRYS ARE AFRAID OF RELIGIOUS JEWS SO IF THEY DO NOT WANT US SO BE IT