Obama Wins, Jews Got Over Obamaphobia
Wednesday November 5, 2008
Jewish voters went with their consciences and not with their fears in selecting Barack Obama as the next President of the United States. Exit polling indicates that about 77% of the Jewish vote went to Obama, which is a wonderful...
Filed Under: barack obama, election results, hope over fear, jewish values, jewish voters, religious values in the election, the jewish vote
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About Windows & Doors
Author, radio and TV talk show host, and President of CLAL-The National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership, Brad Hirschfield is the author of You Don’t Have To Be Wrong For Me To Be Right: Finding Faith Without Fanaticism. Listed as one of the nation’s 50 most influential rabbis in Newsweek, and a regular commentator on Court TV, he is the creator of the popular series, Building Bridges, airing on Bridges TV, and the co-host of the weekly radio show, Hirschfield and Kula. More About Brad
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Interesting statistic on hom many Jews went for Obama. This Jewish lady and her Jewish husband went with Obama, ignoring the hysteria that some tried to generate about him.
I expect, as well as hope and pray, that it's for the good of the nation, and for us as a people.
"Jews got over Obamaphobia"? Aren't citizens supposed to vote for the better of the two candidates? By invoking "Obamaphobia", then, one is calling up the spectre of racial prejudice as a reason to cast one's vote.
This time, dear Rabbi, I really disagree with you regarding your premise of "we all better hope" that Obama will be a good president.
I do NOT "hope" anything about the future. That anyone "hopes" for anything is what I am concerned about, what I truly fear, not only for us in the USA, but for the world. "Hope" doesn't get things done. It is illusion and delusional. "Hope" is associated with wishful thinking. Action gets things done. If President Obama is only going to inspire "hope", if we as a people have to base our future on "hoping" he will be a good president, we are doomed as a nation. If he is going to roll up his sleeves and get something "done", help get people working rather than "spreading the wealth around" which encourages people to continue with the "the world owes me and should do it for me" welfare attitude and discourages creative thinking and hard work, help teach people to live within their means, help to empower and inspire individual thinking and DOING, rather than the mindset that we need "nanny" to take care of us because we are basically incapable of taking care of ourselves; if he is going to really help us to "walk the talk" instead of doing what just about every politician does, which is listen to themselves talk and blow a lot of self-serving, bad-smelling hot air, then maybe we will still have a country that is "of the people, by the people." If he just spouts rhetoric of "hope", and we sit on our duffs and and we sit on our duffs and “hope” he will do a good job, we are finished.
The last time I looked, G-d doesn't ask us to "hope". He asks us to DO and DO NOT. He asks us to connect with Him personally, communicate with Him personally, struggle to understand the mitzvot, but DO THEM anyway. Our purpose as Jews is supposed to be a "light unto the world." It is not to inspire "hope". It is, by EXAMPLE - ie DOING, to demonstrate ethics and morality and the correct way to live. We need to get off "hoping". Staying in that mindset will be our ruin because it opens us up to greater disappointment and resentment when the "hope", what you wish for, doesn't happen. At least when you DO something, if it doesn't happen you can figure out another way to DO it, or have the foundation and courage to DO something different. You have trained yourself to know that you and G-d together can still get something DONE. You don’t let the disappointment get you down.
Rabbi, PLEASE, don't encourage people to "hope". That’s a waste of what you have been DOING. Encourage people to be like you. Encourage people to DO.
As an outsider (Australian) looking on I think Renard makes a very good point, hope is not enough, the new president must do his job well. I admire Obama as a good speaker, but I was also moved by John McCain's remarks. Here in Australia 11 months ago we elected a new prime minister on 'hope' and he is not doing his job in the opinion of some so I am concerned that Obama does not do the same.
Jo
I am just sad.......but Happy for you whose canidate won.
Glad to see you eastcoastlady,Blessings and Shalom to you and your house :)
I am proud of the voter turnout and appriciate your comments. In my state turnout was above 85%, a state record. The new President-elect faces allot of challages and carries the hopes and prayers of a nation for fixing the things that are fouled up. Hashem, give him strength.
Jews never had Obamaphobia; a few people though, have extreme levels of voter manipulation in their hearts. As Jews, or any other group for that matter, do not vote as a block, the idea of pasting this attitude on the group is ludicrous, divisive and perpetuates stereotypes. FOR ALL GROUPS!
This election showed that people vote the way they usually do, unless they have a stronger imperative than usual. Their usual imperative is for what they believe will benefit themselves or their country. Enough people were concerned about their country to ignore the hyperbole, rumors and lies put out there by self-serving ideologues.
The fact that there were these lies put out there is more bothersome.
Rabbi, the title of this piece speaks more to those lies than it does to the truth. You are using hyperbole to get the reader riled enough to read. Sadly, if you only read the headline, as some/many might, you only get the hype; the meat of the article goes undigested.
Give us titles that pique our curiosity, not our rage.
The RJC or AIPAC are two right wing groups who have little effect on how most of the Jews vote. I hope the American public and politicians take notice of that and treat those groups according to their real voting power which is quite modest.
My daughters go to an ortodox Jewish school and in the poll there McCain won big time. The orthodox Jew stnad out because of dress code and streotypes, yet can not serve as a barometer for the Jewish vote.
I'd argue that a poll amongst birth right program participants will provide a better gauge of where things are going with the future of the Jewish vote.
There are a few O Jews that did go for Obama - I met quite a few and am one of them. Those that were choosing McCain had a lot of reservations about Sarah Palin. A Chabad Rabbi, who liked McCain, said after the election, - "it's all for the good."
There was a lot of "finger pointing" at Obama with regards to his background, associations, etc. One of many comments towards him was his position towards Israel and Palestine and the acquaintance of a Professor - not Ayers! That's enough to trigger concern and a desire to know if he will support Israel and as you suggested--the outcome of the election speaks clearly. It's hard for me to conceive that a President of the United States of America would do nothing less than to support Israel? I also must remind myself that although we elect a President to represent our country there are many that stand behind him--while he may be the final voice heard on a decision there are many opinions set forth. An important observation is to watch those that he positions as his mentors in key positions. Hopefully his foundation will be as strong as those that led his campaign..
To Rabbi Brad,
You are truly the north end of a south bound horse!
A phobia, by definition, is an irrational fear. There is nothing irrational about concerns with Obama. What is irrational is the self-destructive behavior of Liberal Jews.
ever heard of SAFAM a great group of guys who sing Jewish songs some of which they write and perform and sell their music?
To quote one of their songs "WE ARE ONE"
it is supposed to be about Jews
it can be used for our country
heck in this smaller and smaller blue marble we live on it can go for the world
"WE ARE ONE"
let us start acting like we are!
hugs
Laura
1/ 77% of Jews voting for a winning Dem candidate is low. Clinton got well into the 80's while never winning over 50% of the general population.
2/ That super right wing newspaper the Forward said that proportionally more younger Jews voted for McCain than older Jews-the reverse of the general population.
3/ With the O's grwoing much faster than any other part of Jewry, we may start seeing over 50% for the GOP among Jews.
I hate that he and his pals put the AFRO in front of AMerican...Do I say Jewish American???
He had no experience and I am ashamed that so many Jewish people ignored the anti- semitism of his friends. May God help us.
The Jewish People should be tired of fuhrers by now.
McCain was no prize, but he loves Israel and would have protected her.
The Obama worshippers don't yet know it, but they have just brought a terrible curse upon America and upon Israel--worse than Rehoboam.
For generations, the 'Obamaniacs' will suffer the reproach:
"How could you have done that to your own Country!"
I think your position is that of the far left -Voting for president should have been based on facts, integrity,accomplishments,and honesty.Not to show you aren't afraid of a person's heritage or because of it. Obama's personal history should frighten Jews-he is not Pro Israel and yes we should use that as a basic concern in voting a US president. He lied about so many issues starting with public finance,personal association-with many Jew haters, and this is his first big accomplishment. Being articulate and writing autobiographies is just Narcissistic. You don't have close personal associations with Anti Semites unless you agree with them.And let us not forget his promises to AIPAC retracted to a Palestinian group the very next day.
Obama is not fit to lead America. When he finish with America and Israel....(the writing was on the wall and people just too blind to read it)...the voters will get their just rewards. I want feel guilty for voting for McCain and Palin. Lets see how much money he drags out your pocket to put in welfare roll..how many jobs be lost. Lets see what administration he brings in. Market already going down since the election. HELLO PEOPLE, did you lose a bit brains in "worshipping Obama". What I saw on TV was people looking at Obama and in trance...wow. just as if he was a messiah. oh well...I hope and pray God Almighty steps into this and do His Will.
By the way...what you say when Obama turn his back on Israel and remove our troops from Iraq...etc causing more tension in Middle East.
David, we can agree to have differences in opinions, especially here in the USA for that is part of our rights! It's obvious that you see Obama as some sort of tyrant by the use of the word "fuhrer"..
He was voted into office through a process that has been on-going in our country A process based upon the vote of constituents. We heard the arguments and made decisions through a democratic process! The numbers and the decision indicates that more folks felt a need for change and are of the opinion that Obama was the better of the two candidates to lead our nation. It won't be over night and it won't be easy. He can not stand alone but rather needs each of us to rally behind him or to speak otherwise as the days and months and years move forward... We've voted before for Presidents that did not live up to expectation---just look at the last eight years!
He has stimulated a lost sense of hope and new energy. He can't move us forward all by himself but he does have the ability to reach something within the core of those of us that listen to him...JFK did the same. Some have used the "Hitler" analogy--and I did not turn my ear away without questioning. Our country has a "check & balance" system or as noted before--A DEMOCRACY! Fears can be ones worst enemy. David, wish no harm on others choices and know that our President needs our unity in order to move forward. Four years will pass before your eyes ever so swiftly and another opportunity will come to judge the merits or lack there of-- of our President!
I did not type in http://
This election was stolen. My friend went to vote and there was no card for McCain/Palin. Only Obama /Biden was there. Explain that! They had no way to vote for McCain/Palin.
Did Obama campaign try to beat around bush with Southwestern Native's through letters/ballots. Did they screw that up by giving them part of it without an envelope..so when they bring it in...it would not be counted. Was our troops votes counted. And everytime republican is ahead..oh the democrat come out swinging and crying asking for a recount. Just like what happen here in my area. Dishonest people have no place in Government.
I am disappointed that so many of my fellow Jews, and fellow Americans, have been hoodwinked into thinking that we should vote for a man who "coincidentaly" had the name Hussein (no name is a coincidence), and whom many think is Black. Barack Obama is the first President since the revolution who only had one American parent. His father is Kenyan. His mother is an American of Caucasian ancestry. He shares nothing in common with American Blacks, the decendants of slaves. His culture is that of his White Grandparents. To see that Americans voted for him because he "looks" black is to see true racism in action.
Obama is no prize for the Jews. I am shocked that Jews would come out for Obama, choosing to ignore his associations with virulent anti-Semites such as Rev. Wright, Rezko and Khalid Rashidi. I am shocked and disappointed that Jews would come out for Obama who lied so many times, especially to AIPAC regarding his support/non-support (which is it?) for a united Jerusalem. Would you have been so forgiving of a Republican/conservative candidate who did the same? I now understand how a holocaust could have happened in Germany: it didn't happen immediately but over time with concession after concession, turning a blind eye to signs and portends, thinking that even more identification with the prevailing culture will buy you approval. Look what happened to Jews when they opened their arms to the Communist revolution in Russia, thinking that finally they will be accepted. Wake up and start voting your true interests and to hell with the popular culture that you live in. It isn't thinking about your welfare, believe me.
Bob Singer--you have not done your homework! Too bad we can not just consider ourselves to be HUMAN beings but there is a law which says that ONE ounce of Black blood defines one as being black. A bi-racial person can make their own decision but facts are facts. Unlike the laws of Judaism where a child is born of the Jewish faith if the Mother is Jewish it is just not the same when it comes to color. Yes, he does share much in common with black Americans in that the racial slurs were much a part of his life and can be observed as recent as this election and the slander slung at him from crowds. Those that cried in the crowds saw a color, indeed, and finally felt that all that they had ever wanted or aspired for in this country had now become their reality as well...is that a bad thing? He not only represents that success is based upon character and hard work but also that a child raised with only a single parent or by grandparents can still achieve their hearts desire. Please don't be so foolish as to think society took him in as white. What he can offer in his tenure is an open mind based upon his own diversity.
The race is over--let it go and move forward. This being a religious site should have each of us reflecting and trusting and not throwing stones!
I am disappointed, but not surprised, that so many Jews are apparently awestruck by Obama. Throughout the campaign, many of my Jewish friends chose to ignore facts i.e. who Obama is, his background, associations and core philosophy.
Believe it or not, in an interview last week Tom Brokaw and Charlie Rose discussed how little we know about Obama.
Watching the faces on the crowd gathered in Chicago Tuesday evening, I could not help but think of the book, THE TRUE BELIEVER. Author is Eric Hoffer.
Book discusses the psychology of a mass movement. Very reminiscent of Germany, 1929-1933.
WHAT DOES THE NAME, barack hussein obama.
I think we all just need to pray for Obama since he is our next President (even though he wasn't my choice) that he will put America and Israel first. Whatever happens....God Is In Control!!! We just have to see what happens during his years in office but I would bet you it be no better than Bush. He will have to prove what he can do for Americans. Not just talk but act!
There is so much that has been said here. First, and most importantly, G-d does not ask us to hope; he asks us to do. Hope is fine, but gets you nowhere. Secondly, I want to respond to those who think McCain would be a better friend to Israel.
Every president elected has to come to grips with a fact about US-Israel relations. US support for Israel began because of the holocost; support for a Jewish homeland and refuge was the ONLY moral choice possible. The British knew of the hornets' nest that would evolve from the Palestinian/Jewish conflict. The two groups could not live together. Either the Palestianans would have to go, or a Jewish homeland culd not be formed. We are still living in that hornets' nest with no end in sight and no way out.
Jewish groups have done a most remarkable job of maintaining support for Israel. This task is made easier because Israel today is a beacon of a Western First World country in an less open Arabic middle East. It can be called a "democracy" because it does boast Arab citizens, but the term must be qualified. Israel, is, in fact, a theocracy. ISrael provides the US a safe, secure partner in the middle east, security information, and top espionage methodology.
Christian Fundamentalists believe that the Second Coming will happen when all of the Jeews have returned to their homeland. Christ will return to a designate spot in Israel. Jews, of course, must be converted to be saved. In fact, as long ago as the seventeenth century, John Adams wrote of the very beginnings of Zionism, praising the idea. He hoped that Zionism would lead to conversion. Christian Fundamentalists are the most ardent supporters for the state of Israel.
The fact is this: NO PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES IS CURRENTLY ABLE TO ARGUE WITH OR CHANGE IN ANY WAY OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH ISRAEL. Obama, indeed, WAS someone who supported functions that gave humanitarian assistance to Palestinians. I truly believe he attended functions that offered humanitarian support out of a wish to help the downtrodden and not out of an anti-Israel sentiment. He gave that up quickly once he was canpaigning for the presidency.
Frankly, if Obama were "left alone" to "do the right thing," he might "placate" the Palestinians. His plan would most likely require Israel to make huge changes, such as acknowledging that the Arab population of Israel will someday pass the Jewish population in numbers, and that Palestians needed some kind of "right of return." Hence, an Israel with a majority of Arabs would turn into a true democracy. Obviously, Israel wants to remain a theocracy and a place primarially for Jews. So it will never happen.
Nothing will be different.
Lucy
In Swahili, Arabic and Hebrew, Barack means blessing. We faced a choice on Tuesday as clear as any nation ever has. Choose life or death, blessing or curse. G-d did bless America as did we. Crown thy good w/ brotherhood, indeed.
What is in a name? Barack means blessing? Well he have to give up agreeing with "abortions" (sacraficing babies) for God's eye is on us all. Like I said I will pray for him..but I will not excuse his wrong. With killing of innocent babies...he is "guilty" in God's eyes if not man's. Where is his blessing at this time?
BRAD-the election is over the same people are spouting the same stuff and making this a more boring place to go.
Lets get some new subjects-any subject.
Hugs
Laura
Cher is your name really Sarah?
Give the guy a chance. He has a sensible attitude about abortion.
Can't you see that??
if you truly think about this........this will let you know that obama was the wrong choice! jewsi will regret this choice. are you al in a transe or soemthing? obama was never for israel. christians and evanagelists are the closest friends to israel...wake up and smell the ruach!
also did you hear that the lottery numbers in IL on nov5 after election were 6-6-6
heres the proof
Rod R. Blagojevich, Governor
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Shoshana,
Thank you so much for your greeting to me. They truly give me a warm feeling and a smile. Blessings and happiness to you and yours, as well.
Now. Sheesh. Having voted for Obama does not mean I "worship" him. I just felt him the better choice of the two candidates.
I truly don't get the hysteria and ranting and fear-mongering and name-calling and all the other unbridled negativity and comments. A president can't work without Congress and I just don't see the disasters coming that so many here are talking about. One day at at a time, folks, and in the mean time, take a chill pill!
I AGREE 100% WITH LAURA. LET'S MOVE ON. THE FUTURE WILL SPEAK FOR ITSELF AND NO ONE HERE IS A PROPHET. IT'S GETTING BORING AND I AM ABOUT TO UNSUSCRIBE.
Liberals are liberals first. Jews are liberals before they are Jews. Perhaps they "hope" Rev. Wright will now accept them because they helped his close friend, Obama, win the election?
Steve....sensible attitude toward abortion???
Ask God that same question! It is wrong to agree with the killing of innocent children in womb. If all babies were living today that have been aborted (we have a lean mean fighting machine)...if all babies were living today that has been aborted, we would not have to be concerned for a broken social security system. Judgement comes on a rebellious nation ...that goes against God's Holy Authority.
Give the guy a break....it's not up to me. But God will deal with it.
eastcoastlady :
Who has control of congress? It sure isn't republicans. So, Obama would have no problem with his decision. Need a balanced house, senate and congress. If majority are democrats and from what I have seen in past (they approve of awful life styles.)
Lets see what happens as he begin his Presidency. Iran's leader congratulated Obama ..the first President elect he ever congratulated. (Do that tell you anything?)
I don't have what Rabbi Hirschfield inappropriately calls Obamaphobia. I have perfectly legitimate reasons to be worried that a portion of the U.S. voters elected this man to be President of the United States. Just in case anyone has forgotten, here are some of the reasons why I'm worried:
Jeremiah Wright
Bill Ayers
Rashid Khalidi
Khalid al-Mansour
Edward Said
Tony Rezko
Franklin Davis Marshall
ACORN
and many more we don't even know about - yet.
Other than "community organizing," what has he done to earn the honor and privilege of living in the White House? And what kind of future First Lady spends her leisure time with the woman pictured front and center in this photo?:
http://eforum.reviewjournal.com/lv/showthread.php?t=24270
Thanks eastcoastlady.
Cher,
You are right, it is wrong to agree with the killing of innocent children in the womb. It is also wrong to kill people of all ages just because of their race, gender, ethnic origin, religious affiliation, etc. Too many people have used the platform, "pro-life" and "stop killing babies" to carry out ethnic cleansing across the world. I did not hear Obama say he agrees with the killing of innocent children. He is against abortion, but he also believes that the states should be the ones to mandate that matter.
There are so many critical issues on the agenda that involve millions of lives, so before you judge him too harshly, wait and see just how he intends to handle the matter. You can definitely catch more bees with honey than with vinegar.
Okay, so, hope without action is useless but people are more likely to act if they have hope. Those who feel they have no control and no chance of changing a bad situation are often paralyzed. I am pretty sure that the Rabbi, when speaking of hope is thinking of it in the sense that hope energizes people and takes them out of apathy and into action.
Now, I voted for Obama and my husband did not. I do not worship Obama or think of him as some sort of Messiah. I simply preferred him to a McCain who had decided to pander to the religous right and made such a terrible choice for vice-president. Obama is intelligent and I believe he is a decent man who will try to do a good job for this country. It won't be easy and he does have a lot to learn, but learn he will.
For those of you who are so anti-abortion that you would force a woman who was raped to carry a resulting pregnancy to term, I say, you are cruel and lack the ability to imagine just how horrible that would be for the woman. I am sorry, but the thinking, feeling woman or girl is more important than an embryo that has been in existence for more than just a few weeks. Do you all honestly think that if you banned abortion, you would have all these healthy, happy little babies crawling around? If you ban abortion, all you'll get is dead women who were desperate to end a pregnancy, babies in dumpsters, and abused children. (I taught at a school for emotionally disturbed adolescent boys; most had been abused by parents who never wanted them in the first place. Some were so badly damaged that they will never recover. They become drug addicts, criminals and suicides. There are not enough people to care for them. It is terrible.) Oh, and women with money and connections will always find a way to get an abortion if they want it badly enough. Have any of you ever thought, that pro-choice does not mean pro-abortion? I have never had one, would not want to have one and would not insist someone should have one if she did not wish to. But the choice needs to be there.
People had many different reasons for how they voted. Now it does not matter, we must work together for the good of the nation and the world. Many people are struggling right now, so instead of moralizing, let's all do what we can to help. Food banks need donations, children need tutoring, animal shelters are overflowing...do something, don't sit around moralizing. While we do what we can, we must urge our government to drop the partisan nonsense and try to figure out what will WORK...for our economy and for the world.
Lucy G.
Revelation 13:8 And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. (9) If any man have an ear, let him hear.
Sadly it would seem that a tremendous amount of people did not hear.
Gee, Cher, I guess that makes my lifestyle awful! I mean, I'm a Democrat; I work hard for a living; earned scholarships to attend a state university; eanred an MBA with a 3.9 GPA; tell my kids they have to work for what they want; am happily married to a nice Jewish man; work very hard not to live beyond my means; etc, etc, etc.
What's so awful about that?
The only thing that's awful is your generalization.
P.S. I know (at least) two very, very good people who have had abortions in the first trimester, neither one simply for birth control. None of your business why; not your business to judge. Stay away from family planning decisions.
Lucy,
You're trying to talk sense with self-righteous people who would rather judge than accept that someone else's POV is as equally valid to that person as their own (judging) one is to them. No room for discussion there, sadly.
If you want to influence the choices people make regarding abortion, your have two venues which appropriately offer that opportunity; the seminary and medical school. Government's role is of a different nature.
eastcoastlady:
Its a known fact he agreed with same sex marriage and abortion. Now you show me if democrats have reversed that action. Same sex marriage is abomination. He may have change on that issue but he was all for it before.
I grew up in an ultra orthodox family. I no longer practice my faith but still hold dear to orthodox jewish beliefs. What gets me is this constant preaching and evangelising that goes on here by Xians
after every article. Whats with these people are they so insecure in there faith????Dont they realize that both our religions teach that
G-d is the ultimate judge?? This is getten to be a scary country.
Judge not so I may not judge you sayeth the Lord
My coment to the Rabbi, Thanks to RENARD My coment will be very short. Renard said it very well. Now you have , again, made your bed. And we all will have to sleep in it.
I wanted to copy documents from Kenya (Raila's Agreement With Muslims). Raila Amolo Odinga representing the ODM. The purpose of this was relationship between Odinga and the National Muslim Leaders. Odinga is Obama's family.
On the Memo of this Internal Document shows a gift given to them of $1 million in 2007. (from Obama)
I wish I could copy it into this forum but it want allow me to.
77% of the Jewish vote to Obama: that must be the entire non-religious sector of Judaism. No religious person in their right mind would vote for Obama. It is not a matter of voting one's conscience. The Democratic party is these people's religion. Obama has told the Arabs in Gaza that he will always side with the Arabs, told them not to tell anyone, but the Lebanese newspapers printed it anyway. Am Yisroel b'li Torah, hee k'guf b'li neshama = the nation of Israel without Torah is like a body without a soul. The non-religious have made the Democratic party their religion. That is why they voted for Obama. They are totally secular, Jewish by birth only.
The Baal Shem Tov prophesied that the Jews of Russia will suffer a long oppression. It came to pass as we all know.
I hold the safety of Israel dear to me as every Jew should. It looks like the Jews/Israel will have an era of oppression under Obama's leadership. He could not even get security clearance because of his association with Bill Ayers. Now he is being given State secrets. HaOlam hafuch kol kach = the world is so upside down.
You can dream on that Obama is a Christian. He has Islamic values and attitudes which form his world view.
I am glad that Obama is going to be our new president. We need change and he will offer it. The Bush administration offered us nothing. Let us pray to Hashem that this man succeeds.
Tikva, the 77% may not be Orthodox, but it doesn't mean they're all secular either. Contrary to your apparent opinion plenty of non-orthodox are religious in their own way. It is clear that the 77% were not so gullible as to fall for the foul rumor mongering that is lately typical of Republican campaigns.
As for Obama, I'm feeling pretty good about him at the moment. He gets elected, and his first official act as President is to appoint a member of an orthodox shul, with deep family ties to Israel, as his White House Chief of Staff. Oh and his VP pick is about as good a friend of Israel as there is in Congress. So rather than judge him by rumors planted by those seeking his defeat, I suggest you wait and see and judge by his actions. You might also want to pray for his enlightenment and success in office. He will be President of this great land of ours, and his success will make us stronger and safer. His failure will help no one but our enemies. Baruch Ha-Shem.
Jews in America should realize how Jewish values are being violated by Israel's violent and inhumane policy in Gaza and the West Bank. Having moved to Jordan last year to teach in Amman, I have been shocked to find out what is really going on here that is hidden from Americans - especially American Jews. It violates all the principles of the Torah, and the thousands of years of ethics and humanity that Jews have brought to the world. I have also travelled to visit family in Israel and discovered that Israelis are much less hawkish than American Jews, and that their consciences are compelling them to speak out for peace and justice for the Palestinians. They want the wall down, especially since it creates an environmental disaster here. There is a genocide going on now in Gaza, that will come back to haunt Jews and is mindful of the psalms that beg for forgiveness for the sins of their fathers. Religious Jews need to re-read the Prophets! If he works for peace and Justice, perhaps they will accuse Obama the same way they accused the prophets.
THERE YOU GO LLOYDS - TIKVA'S CASE HAS BEEN MADE BY JTAYLOR, AMMAN - "Jews in America should realize how Jewish values are being violated by Israel's violent and inhumane policy in Gaza and the West Bank. Having moved to Jordan last year to teach in Amman, I have been shocked to find out what is really going on here that is hidden from Americans - especially American Jews."
I DON'T THINK MORE COMMENTS ARE NEEDED. ACCORDING TO MANY OF YOU IT SEEMS OK FOR SUICIDE BOMBERS TO KILL OTHER HUMAN BEINGS, TO KIDNAP SOLDIERS AND KILL THEM INHUMANELY WITHOUT THEIR RIGHTS, ETC...
BUT YES LLOYD, WE ALL PRAY FOR AMERICAS SUCCESS THAT EVIL SHALL NOT PREVAIL - SINCE MANY SEEM TO BE HIPNOTIZED BY ARMILUS!!
HAZACK, HAZACH - TIKVA AND TO OUR PEOPLE BECAUSE A TIME OF TROUBLE SEEMS TO BE COMING.
Dear Tikva - You are so wrong to assume a seriously religious Jew would not vote for Obama. What, you think we are all filled with hate and fear? Obama is a righteous Gentile and those of us "religious Jews" who voted for him, and there are many of us, did our research and understand what political smarts he has. He will be a capable and intelligent leader who cares about the common person, keeping us save, working for the best interest of main street and supporting Israel.
Shame on you for being so judgmental of your fellow Jews just because you disagree with us.
I suppose you think Pres. Bush's Road Map for Peace was pro-Israel, and that the right-wing Christian coalition has our best interest at heart? I so totally disagree with you. But I can say let us RESPECTFULLY agree to disagree.
People are INSANE when it comes to Obama.
Sheer terror over a black man – and that’s exactly what it is.
You think he’s so bad for Jews?
He picked RAHM EMMANUEL, an Orthodox Jew, with dual citizenship with ISRAEL as his Chief of Staff. His father was Irgun and worked with Menachem Begin (Z”L).
But don’t let the facts get in your way. It’s so much easier to be DERANGED and IGNORANT.
A real shander fer der goyim.
All I have to say for Tuesday’s results are
GLORY, GLORY HALLELEUGAH!
Thank You Scott. I would like to make something I said in my post to Tikva read a little better. "What, you think we are all filled with fear and hate?" I am meaning the Religious Jews of us who have voted for Obama have refused to believe the slanderous propaganda and Lashon Hara aimed at him, because we did our research. I am not meaning because she does not think a religious Jew in their right mind would vote for Obama, that she is filled with hate and fear. I scolded her for her statement and for being so judgmental to her fellow Jews, so I do not want to say something that sounds judgmental towards her in assuming she must be filled with hate and fear.
I also said I disagree with the concept that the right-wing Christian voting block has our best interest at heart. They have THEIR best interest at heart, not that I am not thankful for their support of Israel. I do appreciate it - their money and their prayers, however I know it is fashionable for them right now to support us and their main focus is to get the world to believe in their Messiah. As Jews, our main focus is in doing Mitzvot.
I also know there are a number of Christians out there that believe in a replacement theology that states we have been replaced because we have not accepted their Messiah and therefor Israel is theirs, not ours. I personally think we O Jews have become a little to chummy with the Christian right-wing because we see a common ground in social conservative ideals. That does not make us "buds". If given a chance and any way to convert us they would do it - and that is not mutual respect.
Yes Scott, I am saying Baroch Hashem for Tuesday's results! Thanks for your post!
Obamaphobia? HAR-DEE-HAR-HAR! Better you should have 'fessed up about your McCainaphobia. I do not understand why you leftist liberal regressives insist on putting negative labels on those whose opinions differ from yours. Especially when it comes to questioning the qualifications of a wet behind the ears Chicago Machine Politician. Many of us who have been around a Shabbos or two longer than you Obama cheerleaders looked at people he associated with. We also looked at his statements and his vague calls for "change" which really didn't say how or what would be changed.
I await with considerable trepidation Mr. Obama's first set of executive orders. I do not trust this man who a small majority of my fellow Americans deemed qualified to sit in the Oval Office. I sure hope I am wrong.
Sorry, Cher, or not, but I support a woman's right to choose, and don't have a problem with gay marriage in the civil sector. No one is forcing any religious institution to recognize these unions or to perform them.
"Leftist liberal repressives"? That's a laugh. The "leftist liberals" have been hit with more epithets and accusations the last many years than fit in the Oxford English Dictionary, and the loudest, most vitriolic talking heads on TV and on radio in fact represent the 'other" side of the political spectrum. If it makes you feel better, however, to feel like a victim and believe your delusions, have at it.
Al Eastman - I agree. Let's see how his first hundred days pan out. As for Rahm being O-Jew, are we SURE about that? I hear many MANY negative things. Among the most commonly said thing is refernces to "sharp elbows".
We'll have to wait n see.
As one who absolutely loves the jews with all my heart, I am so proud of you for choosing "hope over fear". God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of "love Power and a sound Mind".
I definately would have not voted for Obama if he was not for the Jewish people. I voted for him because I know through many months of research, listening to him speak his heart, his attitude of love for Israel and the Jews gave me the peace to vote for him.
I love Israel and the Jews greatly. I believe the Jews are God's chosen people, and that Jews are "The apple of God's eye".
I believe in the Abrahamic covenant of the old testament that was made between God and Abraham, God said, "I will bless those that bless you (Israel) and I will curse those that curse you (Israel) and in you (Israel) all the nations of the earth shall be blessed."
I have always believed in voting for a president that would stand for Israel and protect her. I know the consequences of turning our backs on Israel, as we stood by and let presidents like Bush compromise the land that was ordained to the Jewish people by God him self. Many horrible things happened to our nation because if poor decisions by Bush. God gave a direct order for Israel never to give up her land.
Distruction will come to a nation that turns it's back on Israel or that trys to hurt her or her people. God's word still stands today.
I truely pray for the nation of Israel that God will bless the Jews where ever they may live, wether in the homeland or around the world.
My heart breaks when I think of the horrible crimes against Gods people by ignorant ibasils like hitler ( I don't even want to capitalize his name).
I will continue to pray that Obama will do right by the Jews and stand by her forevermore, and I believe he will with prayer.
America (means lovable) hopfully now we will gain our lovable status around the world soon.
Barak (means, He who speaks to the people on behalf of God) messenger for the Lord. It was also the name of the Army General Barak who liberated Israel back then and who was also married to the prophetess "Debra" in the Old testament of the Bible.
Hussain (simply means "Handsome") and I believe it is his heart for all people that really makes him "handsome." Beauty that comes from within his heart for all in humility and peace.
Obama (means to "Turn" or to bend forthright, to "change".
BARAK HUSSAIN OBAMA- ONE WHO HANDSOMELY SPEAKS TO THE PEOLE ON BEHALF OF THE LORD AND BRINGS FORTH "CHANGE" OR A TURN AROUND. AND BOY DOES OUR COUNTRY NEED A TURN AROUND!
THANK GOD THAT NAMES HAVE MEANINGS BECAUSE IT GIVES US A CLUE AS TO WHO THAT PERSON MITE BE OR PERHAPS EVEN THEIR GOD GIVEN DESTINY.
LORD BLESS ISRAEL AND JERUSALEM FOREVERMORE.
I LOVE GOD'S PEOPLE!
EVANGELIST SALLY F.C.(A CHRISTIAN)
sallylovesjc@yahoo.com
P.s. My name Sally is a hebrew name, it means "Wealthy Princess" It also is the feminine form of "Solomon" and also means Peace. The final meaning of "Sally" is "Suddenly".
Lol "Suddenly a Wealthy Princess at Peace! Praise God, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob! Amen
eastcoastlady...sorry to tell you but you past illusions. Is that all you people got to state when you feel so offended. Abortion is wrong...and you lost a few peas... You say you educated???
Deal with your beloved Obama when the ......hit the fan and the glory of him has swiftly passed you by and left you and others hanging.
Wow. Can you say, "sinat chinam"?
The fear or rather the beleif that Obama, may turn tide against the Jewish nation now that he is in office. Remains to be seen, it is true that in the Muslim ,'Quran, that it is very clearly written, that in the end of time, the tress will speak and state, a , Jew; is hidding in this tree. The text goes on to say, that the ;Muslims, scour the earth, looking for non beleivers, and that Christians messiah, Jesus is accepted as accending to heaven, and sits with Allah.
No, matter if the current president is a muslim, sympathiser, there are alot already who sympathise, and little do they know, that they are targeted also, not just Jewish people, 'in the end, if you do not convert to Islam, you will be killed! The world is split on religion and religiousity, and it is commonly beleived that all religions beleive they know best. The truth is wars are yet to come, it will be politics verse religion, one or the other will win. And the common trend is that Americans are tired of over seas fights, and the neglect that our presidents give to its own countries at home needs. Sure world peace is good, but to strengthen the country comes first, and it does not appear to have much importance, already our need to purchase oil will be depleated as oil drilling will be reversed now.
However, the Jewish nation does not require the U nited states to protect it self, it has the highest power possible, the real messiah is coming in power and will lead the Jewish nation to supremancy, and if it takes all turning against them to bring about the power of Hashem, then so be it. Hashem will be the leader of the best nation on Earth, Isreal. And it does not matter what any nations leader does, Isreal will prevail! I would gladely die for that nation!
Can anybody tell me if the sir name "Kurtz"is jewish?I have heard it is but am not sure.
Dera,
I knew a non-Jewish Kurtz. Probably German.
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