Recent events that directly impact the Jewish character of the State of Israel has prompted a number of prominent rabbonim in the dati leumi community to convene to discuss the matter. Rabbonim who took part in the meeting include HaGaon HaRav Dov Lior Shlita, Rabbi Nachum Neria Shlita, Rabbi Mordechai Sternberg Shlita and Rabbi Elyakim Levanon Shlita. Topics discussed included the allocation of the egalitarian prayer area near the Kosel and recent gains made by the Reform Movement in Israel.

They also discussed recent decisions of the head of the IDF Manpower Branch, especially the ban on beards among military personnel.

Rabbi Lior stated “There is an erosion in government policy pertaining to the Jewish character of the nation, the Rabbanut, kashrus and the IDF”. He stated there is a major struggle taking place over the identity of the state and he feels that religious representatives and Members of Knesset must stand firm against these efforts, citing “It is a war against Hashem and his messengers”.

Rosh Yeshivat Har HaMor Rabbi Mordechai Sternberg Shlita stated “I was unaware the Torah belongs to the state and the people. There is a Torah and it is inconceivable not to consult with rabbonim in general and the Chief Rabbinate in particular. The granting of legitimacy to the Reform Movement is grounds for dissolving the government”.

Regarding the order for soldiers to shave their beards, Rabbi Sternberg instructs them not to obey but rather go to jail.

Rosh Yeshivat Elon Moreh and Chief Rabbi of the Shomron Rabbi Elyakim Levanon Shlita added “I is clear to everyone there is a broad system that addresses the Jewish identity of the state, the desire to break it by importing non-kosher foods, the campaign against religion in the IDF, the allocation of a place for the Reform at the Kosel as it were, Reform giyur, and many other items. The voice of the Torah must be heard above all else…” The rabbi adds that action must be taken to prevent recognition of the Reform and their actions.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)