The Rebbe of Vishnitz arrived at the residence of the Rishon L’Tzion HaGaon HaRav Yitzchak Yosef on Wednesday afternoon 22 Shevat to give chizuk to him in light of the calls against him from politicians. MK (Machane Tzioni) Tzipi Livni, a former foreign minister, was among the audible voices speaking out regarding the unfitness of Rav Yosef to serve in “any position.” On a significantly higher level, Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman has spoken out, banning Rav Yosef from all IDF bases because the rav dared to criticize the policy of the military today which includes placing men and women combatants together.

It is explained that for the rebbe to make such a trip, to travel to the Sanhedria neighborhood of Yerushalayim to Rav Yosef’s home to stand behind him but the rebbe is aware of the significance of the attacks against the Rishon L’Tzion and the nation’s batei din.

Rav Yosef also explained to the rebbe how at a recent gathering of dayanim in a forum addressing halacha, he spoke out strongly against the nation’s civil courts and how one may not adjudicate matters outside a beis din that conducts itself in accordance to halacha.

The rebbe explained history has taught him that one must remain strong and firm and not to permit fear to dictate one’s moves.

The two also spoke ongoing efforts in Knesset at present surrounding a new draft laws and concerns pertaining to this new challenge.

Rav Yosef presented the Rebbe with the latest volume of Yalkut Yosef, on Pesach.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)