Avishai Ben-Chaim, an Israeli journalist, was on Israeli Channel 2 the other day explaining the modesty of Haredi leaders. He described how they live simple lifestyles when they have the opportunity to live in comfort and even luxury if they would so desire. The modesty and simplicity of the Haredi Rabbonim and (most of their) leaders can be compared with the lifestyles of the general public's leaders. Ben-Chaim briefly details as examples the various recent prime ministers and the money they have taken from supporters to support extravagant lifestyles.
I love the way the interviewer at the end gives his halachic opinion about "yehirut."
ReplyDeleteI heard a story about a chassidic rebbe whose kehilla wanted to buy him a bigger apartment. He refused, for the same reasons mentioned in the video: What could he say to the chassidim who came to him complaining about their problems, when he lives in a luxurious apartment instead of the three rooms he currently occupied?
yes, that is what the "mekorot" say
ReplyDeleteThis is not true about certain Chassidic Rebbes. In certain Chasidic dynasties the Rebbe lives like a King. For example see this post of mine Quarter of a million dollar Seder night where wealthy Satmar Chasidim spent a quarter of a million dollars for the Seder of the Satmar Rebbe R' Zalman Leib. including a Kos Shel Eliyahu for $80,000. The cup weighs 70kg (154 lb) and holds 26 liters (6.8 gallons).
ReplyDeleteI think that the host should go and see for himself. Then hell be a believer as well, just the like long haired fellow. There is no yehirut in RYSE or RAYLS at all. You have to see it to really believe it
ReplyDeleteI agree with bluke that it is more common among the litvishe rabbonim than among the chassidic. I suspect when it is true by chassidic, it is more of the exception.
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