The new giyur bill sponsored by MK (The Movement) Elazar Stern seeks to facilitate the giyur process for conversion candidates. http://www.theyeshivaworld.com/news/headlines-breaking-stories/209520/knesset-committee-discusses-sterns-giyur-bill.html Ramat Gan Chief Rabbi and prominent dati leumi posek Rabbi Yaakov Ariel Shlita opposes the bill, warning if it passes into law “it will make a mockery of giyur”.

Rav Ariel expressed harsh criticism, adding that while the Tzohar Rabbonim organization is involved in kiruv and outreach, its backing for this giyur bill is unacceptable. “Tzohar is making a serious error by involving itself in Halachic matters such as this” Rav Ariel added.

Rabbi Ariel was quite outspoken in his opposition, sending a clear message to members of the Bayit Yehudi party, warning of the dangers that will result from the passage of the bill. Rabbi Ariel feels the bill is “superfluous and it will not achieve any positive change”, explaining that there may be a need for improvement and increased efficiency but this bill does not depict an acceptable alternative.

Deputy Minister of Religious Services Rabbi Eli Ben-Dahan wants Stern to coordinate with Rishon L’Tzion Rabbi Yitzchak Yosef and obtain the chief rabbi’s approval for the bill, but it is highly unlikely that Stern will be acting on this suggestion.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)