Rabbi Blog

Dear QJC Family,

I feel it is important to state the obvious, as even that which is obvious sometimes need to be reaffirmed, as we saw in yesterday's dark events.

The attempted assassination against President Trump is deeply appalling and despicable.

Violence, including politically motivated violence, goes against basic tenents of Judaism. All human beings are created B'tzelem Elokim, and therefore, the attempt to take another person's life is both a cardinal sin and a violation of Hashem's image.

Chazal were especially concerned about violence against political leaders. Anarchy poses a threat to us all. Especially in a democracy, there is no room for vigilante violence. This is not the American way and it is not the Jewish way.

We are only at the beginning of our election season. While I never expected something to this degree, I have been highly concerned about the highly charged atmosphere that would be to come over the next few months. We must commit ourselves to civil discourse. We must commit to adding light instead of heat, substance instead of rhetoric. Our shul has a diversity of political views, and that is a blessing. It is essential that we eschew discussions of violence and focus on reducing polarization. Let us pray for the welfare of all of our leaders and our commitment to democratic values.

We wish a refuah shleimah to President Trump and all others who were injured. Our condolences to the family of the individual who was killed.

I look forward to seeing everyone on Shabbos.

With respect,

Judah Kerbel
Rabbi, Queens Jewish Center