10279 —על אסיפת אגודת הרבנים ומאמצים לביטול החוק

B"H, 7 Kislev, 5732.

However—just now, Shalom u'Vrachah!

The Agudas Harabbanim has decided and publicized its decision—to call an early assembly here (and after that an assembly in Europe with participation from representatives of many countries) to repeal the law, etc. In my opinion, much effort is needed for this assembly to be most successful (since it is the first being held by a rabbinic organization, etc.), and especially members of Agudas Harabbanim should strive in this matter, particularly you as a member, etc. Therefore, in my opinion, now is not the time for the proposal you wrote—which would weaken the above, etc.

There is absolutely no concern at all regarding the Agudas Harabbanim assembly (a one-time event)—and this is not the first time such a thing has been done. If other rabbinic organizations also gather with the goal of repealing the law—may they be blessed; but one should not delay this assembly for that purpose (to join together), because in the current situation their joining is not practical at all, as everyone knows. Enough said. Any proposal to cancel or even postpone the Agudas Harabbanim assembly means only one thing: assisting those who do not want to repeal "Who is a Jew." The ministers leaving the government—since there is no agent for a transgression—this is an obligation according to Torah. And after a ruling was given by rabbis (who themselves were accepted as rabbis with full authority—and still are) and they do not uphold this ruling—this adds also an element of public desecration of G‑d's name, etc.

Further to the above—even if it were clear he would not accept it, one must protest against him, etc. Especially since silence is interpreted publicly as agreement and giving thanks for not leaving. The resignation of rabbis from their posts—in addition to the main point: according to my view I see no basis to demand this, because it was explicitly told to them (and so it is in practice—at least currently) that registration does not obligate them at all, and their ruling is clear that it is forbidden for an official to register and for a minister to remain in government; they added that since Israel separated from Judah, etc.—and so it was unanimously accepted at their meeting; yet after all this—the government continues paying their salaries as before. Furthermore—and this is essential—those sitting in government expect them to resign so others can be appointed in their place (temporarily—and afterwards etc.) who will rule that the law is a religious achievement.

In general, it makes no practical difference—because Rabbi... shiy"a (and others like him) will not resign. Now is not the time for a letter demanding that all laws be according to Torah and therefore Law of Return must be amended—because such wording cancels any chance of amending the law; supporters will seize on this opportunity claiming that your demand means—and its intention and entire content—that this should be a halachic state and therefore Knesset, Supreme Court etc., are nullified. And enough said.

Summary

The Rebbe urges unwavering support for rabbinic assemblies working toward repealing problematic laws and warns against actions or proposals that could undermine these efforts or give strength to opposing views. Strategic unity and clarity are essential for success.