A delegation of esteemed rabbonim traveled to Guatemala on Erev Shabbos to assess the dire conditions faced by the children of the Lev Tahor sect; a group recently denounced as a “terror organization” due to its alleged abuse and coercive practices.
Leading Figures in the Delegation
The delegation included notable figures such as Rav Chaim Yosef Dovid Weiss from Antwerp and Rav Yehoshua Hecht from Canada, a renowned expert in dismantling cults. Both leaders voiced grave concerns about the sect’s operations and their devastating impact on families.
Rav Yehoshua Hecht did not hold back in condemning the group, stating, “They are more dangerous than any terror organization in the world.” With tears in his eyes, he described the harrowing reality faced by the sect’s children. “Families were separated, and infants were taken from their parents just days after birth,” Rav Hecht explained. He passionately appealed to Guatemalan authorities: “My heart goes out to these children. We ask to give them the help they need.”
Rav Weiss echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for urgent intervention. “I urge the authorities to do everything possible to give these children regular and happy lives. This cult is very dangerous,” he said.
Background of the Lev Tahor Sect
The Lev Tahor sect has been under scrutiny for years due to its extreme practices and allegations of abuse. In December, Guatemalan authorities launched a major rescue operation at the sect’s compound in San Rosa, successfully freeing 160 children and 40 women. Reports revealed severe abuse, malnutrition, and disturbing tactics, including instructing women to starve their children to coerce authorities into releasing sect members.
Recent Developments
Last week, Uriel Goldman, a leader of the sect, was recorded organizing staged interviews with women from the group for local media, an apparent attempt to manipulate public perception. Despite such efforts, authorities and advocates remain focused on exposing the group’s harmful practices and securing the well-being of its victims.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Lev Tahor sect?
Lev Tahor is a controversial ultra-orthodox Jewish sect widely criticized for its extreme practices, including allegations of abuse, coercion, and forced separation of families.
Why is Lev Tahor being referred to as a “terror organization”?
Prominent rabbonim have likened Lev Tahor’s destructive impact on its members, particularly children, to that of a terror organization, citing severe abuse, manipulation, and the deliberate endangerment of lives.
What actions have been taken against the sect?
Guatemalan authorities recently rescued over 200 individuals, including 160 children, from the sect’s compound. The rescue operation followed reports of malnutrition, abuse, and coercion tactics.
What role is Rabbonim playing in this situation?
Rabbonim, like Rav Weiss and Rav Hecht, are working to raise awareness of the plight of the sect’s victims, urging authorities to intervene and provide the children with safe and healthy environments.
What can be done to help the victims?
Continued advocacy, increased awareness, and legal action are critical in ensuring the victims receive proper care and protection from further harm.
Conclusion
The visit of prominent rabbonim to Guatemala underscores the gravity of the situation surrounding the Lev Tahor sect. With accounts of abuse and coercion surfacing, the international Jewish community and local authorities must collaborate to ensure the safety and well-being of the sect’s victims. As Rav Hecht and Rav Weiss stressed, immediate action is necessary to restore dignity and hope to those affected by the sect’s harmful practices.