Israeli President Reuven Rivlin departed from custom today and responded to questions referred to him by followers of his Twitter account.
The president was asked about chareidi integration in the employment market.
“How can we ensure the immortality of Israel when the ultra-Orthodox refuse to integrate and learn the core curriculum?” Rivlin was asked.
The president, who did not want to get involved in the sensitive issue, offered an evasive answer, stating that “integration into Israeli society is vital. Even when we speak of tradition, they understand that livelihood is one of the more important things, and the core curriculum also helps that.”
According to Rivlin, “talmidei cachomim are the most important thing, but no craft is demeaning, and we know that supporting the family is one of the main mitzvos.”
“What do you think of the law that the head of the largest party sets up the government?” the president was asked.
“The reality,” he said, “is that the parliamentary democratic system in Israel today requires the creation of a coalition, as many of Israel’s citizens are choosing the party and not the prime minister… I absolutely support the idea of the head of the largest party serving as prime minister after elections.”
“Where can one buy the best falafel?” someone asked the president.
“As one born in Yerushalayim, it is clear that there is no falafel like Falafel Shalom.”
“Do you have free time during the day? If yes, what do you do in your spare time?” asked another.
“I do not have enough of it,” he said, “but when I do, I mostly spend time with my grandchildren, playing football with them. Only after they do their homework, of course,” he replied.
David Steger – Matzav.com Israel
