Speaking on a Motzei Shabbos TV news magazine program, Jerusalem Chief Ashkenazi Rabbi HaGaon HaRav Aryeh Stern Shlita was asked how he feels about the condemnatory statements recently made by Rabbi Yigal Levinstein vis-à-vis the toeiva community, and the increasingly anti-religious trend in the IDF. He was also asked to comment on the letter signed by over 300 rabbonim including himself in support of Rabbi Levinstein.

Rabbi Stern explained that on an individual level, we must do our utmost to befriend each and every Jew, without exception, and there is room in shul for one and all. However, he added that as a way of life, there are prohibitions in the Torah and we cannot under any circumstances accept this, including a toeiva lifestyle.

“I don’t understand this concept of “pride” parade” stated the rav, adding “Yiddishkheit teaches us modesty and humility, not pride. This is in direct contradiction of the values we hold dear. In addition, why does Israel permit toeiva pride parades in Yerushalayim or anywhere? We do not have pride parades for chilul Shabbos and we should not have them for toeiva as there is no pride here and it is unacceptable. I stand behind the 300 or more rabbonim who signed in support of Rabbi Levinstein”.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)