10316 —הבהרת הבעיה של גיור והשתתפות דתית בממשלה

B"H, 4th of Shevat, 5732.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

It is not entirely clear what is troubling him—whether it is the classic question of 'Why do the righteous suffer and the wicked prosper?' or the answer given by Rashi that perhaps sin causes it (Parshas Vayishlach). I was alarmed by the content of the letter.

The situation is actually the opposite—specifically when the aforementioned individual (Ben Gurion, his son, etc.) was in government, the law (according to his will) was giyur k'halachah (conversion according to halachah), and only later did things deteriorate. The reason for my demand is simple: if they resign from the government, it will nullify the frightening situation where religious people have informed him—a ruling from their rabbis—that he must resign, that this affects all of Israel, and he did not obey their ruling. He even commands all his officials not to obey either (since regarding them as well there was a clear ruling from their rabbis).

Additionally, the current situation there is such that it is almost certain they will be asked to return and add proper halachic standards; meaning that not resigning maintains influence over the law. Furthermore, when they are in government, it gives legitimacy to being religious while permitting a non-Jew to enter into Kahal Yisrael. And whoever remains silent—who admits to him—and anyone who has the ability to protest, etc.

Summary

The Rebbe clarifies that religious participation in government is vital for maintaining proper halachic standards regarding conversion. Resigning would weaken this influence and could lead to negative consequences for all of Israel.