As a pulpit rabbi and as an Orthodox Jew, I am deeply distressed by the harassment and violence that has been perpetrated by the hooligans of Beit Shemesh, Israel (“In Beit Shemesh, Modesty Wars,” Dec. 30).
All of their despicable actions are diametrically opposed to our Torah, Jewish tradition and the teachings of any and all Jewish leaders.
So that my silence not be misconstrued as passive acceptance of their horrid behavior, I condemn it in the strongest terms — as do the vast, overwhelming majority of Orthodox Jews all over the world.
I sincerely hope that one day very soon Jews of all stripes will learn how to peacefully coexist with one another.
Kesher Israel Congregation Harrisburg, Pa.
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