Q&A: A Haredi Friend
A Haredi Friend
Question
A Haredi friend came to visit me.
Friends from way back…
We talked, and he told me that his son will not serve in the IDF because he doesn’t want him to die in battle.
He said he’s called selfish, and that I should appreciate the fact that he’s aware of it…
I was surprised he didn’t say that his son won’t serve because he’s studying in a yeshiva.
I didn’t ask—maybe he isn’t studying in a yeshiva, or maybe he isn’t even enrolled in one.
He only claimed that this is the most convenient thing, and that it’s called being selfish, and that’s what he is, and it’s a tremendous virtue that he’s aware of it.
But why doesn’t he pray for the soldiers’ safety in the synagogue?
That doesn’t put him at risk, does it?
Answer
Thank you for the compliment, but I have no knowledge of what an anonymous person you spoke to thinks. I suggest you ask him. I also don’t think it’s worth asking him here on this site, since it’s doubtful that he’s here to answer you. The one who usually answers questions here is me.
Discussion on Answer
Well, here I am. Ask, my son, ask!
The rabbi has a black kippah,
his friend has a black kippah,
His friend thinks X.
Therefore the rabbi also thinks X.
And if that isn’t enough, add the white shirt.