DEATH PENATLY
Question
Dear Rabbi Abadi and Sons: I preparing for a career in law, and I am deeply disturbed at the United States's policy (certain states only), with regards to the death penalty. There are numerous mentally-ill and juvenille's that are on death row. In an effort to deal with my emotional, internal upheaval, I am turning to what and how the Torah and the Chachamim say regarding this issue. I understand that in the time when there was a Bais Din, if I were a Talmid Chacham and dressed like people in Lakewood do, they would all be up for Capital Punishment; a Talmid Chacham with a stain on his clothes, is Chayav Mitah, correct? In any event, I am sure wearing Indian - Made - Pagan - Worshing Wigs, would not qualify for such cruel and unusual punishment, but I do want my life to be guided by the Torah - ESPECIALLY my career, educational decisions and thought processess. I have been keeping kosher for the past month in a half or so - I gain TREMENDOUSLY from the work that you, the Abadi family, does for a simple Jewess like me. Thanks again, Heather G. [email hidden]
Answer
Answered by Chaim Yisrael AbadiThere is no perfect answer to your question - You would need to deal with each case on a case by case basis. In reference to Lakewood, I live in Lakewood and I always thought that some guy in Paris designed clothes with stains and that is why we wear stains on our clothes. In all seriousness, every community has their bad apples. Please don't paint us with a wide brush. You can use a trim brush, but either way, remember, never judge the Jewish Religion by the Jews. So, who cares how they look. Yes it can be embarassing to be identified with them. That is their issue to deal with, when they go up to Hashem. There isn't enough time in the day to allow these things to effect us. Yes, I know what you're thinking, we are human......, but we can try. Trust me, it is hard for many of us in Lakewood, especially when some are made to feel lowly for some reason. CYA