In today's (6/09/09) "Jerusalem
Post" online
there is a story in the "Jewish
News" section
entitled, 'Feel
the hate' for Obama.
This story includes a recording of young
pseudo-religious American Jews in Israel
expressing their political views about the
President of the United States.
Most of those interviewed in this video,
watched widely on YouTube, are drunk and
speak horrible, disrespectful, racist and
stupid things about the American President.
For the record, such behavior is evil,
sinful and a complete violation of Torah Law.
Those who acted in such a way should be
ashamed of themselves. They have embarrassed
themselves, they have disgraced Israel and
they dishonor Heaven.
Torah obligates us to show respect and honor
for political leaders, regardless of their
politics, views or relationship to Israel.
Joseph showed total respect towards Pharaoh,
as did Moses. Daniel showed total respect to
Nebuchadnezzar in spite of his destruction of
the Temple.
Our Torah Law does not allow us "freedom
of speech" to disrespect others. We call
this Lashon HaRa (evil speech).
We may dissent. We may argue and even fight,
but we do so within the framework of Torah,
with honor and dignity.
Let this serve as a warning and lesson.
We may challenge and debate Presidents and
Prime Ministers alike, but we do so as human
beings, in accordance to our Torah, with
respect and honor for all.
Like many other Jews and Israelis, I may or
may not like or approve of the polices of the
present American administration, but as a
student of Torah I know one thing. It is
G-d alone who is in charge of the world and
He alone is the One who puts individuals into
positions of political power.
Like Pharaoh and Nebuchadnezzar of ancient
days, modern political leaders, be they good
or bad, will all nonetheless serve the
purpose that is ordained by Heaven.
So too must we.
