Aryeh Deri, the leader of the Shas political party, visited Rav Meir Zvi Bergman, the Rosh Yeshiva of Rashbi Yeshiva. Rav Bergman is currently sitting shivah for his late wife, Rebbetzin Devorah. During their conversation, Rav Bergman voiced his deep concerns about the ongoing debate surrounding the military Draft Law and the status of Torah learners in Israel.
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The Conversation: A Call to Protect Torah Learners
Rav Bergman expressed his fear that the military’s influence would encroach on Torah students’ ability to continue their religious studies. “We need to do everything to save the Torah learners. This is just evil—where will they put the yeshiva students?” he lamented. His words reflect a broader worry within the Haredi community that proposed military conscription laws could negatively affect their institutions and way of life.
In response, Deri shared his perspective on the situation, claiming that the current discourse was filled with empty rhetoric. He suggested that focusing on the larger spiritual picture was essential rather than in the political squabble. “What we are seeing now is that it is all talk. We see that. Now we need to focus on Moshiach – there is no other solution,” Deri said. He ended the conversation on a hopeful note, telling Rav Bergman, “With Hashem’s help, they will not touch [it]. No one can touch those who learn Torah.”
The Role of Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara
During these discussions, Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara has made headlines for her firm stance on military conscription, particularly regarding exemptions for yeshiva students. Last month, Kikar Hashabbat reported that Baharav-Miara is demanding that any proposed draft law include limits on the number of Torah learners eligible for exemption from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). This move has sparked a backlash from religious leaders, who believe such a cap would harm their community’s core institutions.
One source from the Haredi political sphere commented on Baharav-Miara’s persistence, stating, “She knows that there’s no way we’ll agree to cap the number of Torah learners… it seems that she’s doing everything she can to bring down the government.” This reflects the growing tension between the legal system and religious leaders over the issue of military service and Torah study exemptions.
Growing Concerns Among Charedi Leaders
As the debate intensifies, Charedi political leaders have grown increasingly concerned about the Attorney General’s influence over legislation that impacts their community. During a recent meeting, some leaders expressed frustration with her actions, saying, “She wants to bring down the government.” These comments underline the mounting unease among religious leaders regarding the future of their communities and the perceived interference in their religious freedoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the concern about military service and Torah learners?
The primary concern is that proposed laws could limit the number of yeshiva students exempt from military service, potentially disrupting religious institutions and Torah study.
Who is Gali Baharav-Miara?
Gali Baharav-Miara is Israel’s Attorney General. She is known for her stance on military conscription and her involvement in legal matters affecting the Haredi community.
What is Aryeh Deri’s position on the issue?
Aryeh Deri believes that the current discourse on military service for Torah students is filled with empty rhetoric. He stresses the importance of focusing on spiritual matters and hopes that Hashem will protect Torah learners from military conscription.
Why are Charedi leaders concerned about the Attorney General’s actions?
Charedi leaders are concerned that Baharav-Miara’s legal moves are aimed at limiting exemptions for Torah students, which they view as an attack on their religious freedoms and institutions.
What is the potential impact of the draft law on the Haredi community?
If passed, the draft law could significantly affect the Haredi community by reducing the number of Torah students allowed to remain exempt from military service, potentially undermining their yeshivas and religious lifestyle.
Conclusion
The conversation between Aryeh Deri and Rav Meir Zvi Bergman highlights the deep concerns within the Haredi community regarding the proposed military conscription laws. Tensions are rising between religious leaders and legal authorities, and it remains to be seen how these discussions will shape the future of Torah study and military service exemptions in Israel.
As the debate continues, both sides appear to be standing in. Religious leaders advocated the preservation and restoration of their community’s values. At the same time, the Attorney General pushes for a more inclusive approach to military service.