In the wake of the recent Tefillin controversy in Ramat Gan, Rav Meir Tzvi Bergman, Rosh Yeshivas Rashbi, expressed deep concern over the troubling developments in Israel.
Speaking to a delegation from Mexico, Rav Bergman addressed the incident where the principal of the Ohel Shem High School in Ramat Gan forbade a student from wearing Tefillin within the school’s premises.
Rav Bergman’s words were sharp, as he criticized the broader agenda he sees unfolding: “Anyone who pays attention can understand that they are coming with the intention to change us. Just now, we heard about a school principal expelling a child who wanted to put on Tefillin. This is truly horrifying. They want to eradicate every trace of [Yiddishkeit from] Yisroel. And this is also with the army. It’s all part of the same plan—to make Israel like all the nations.”
{Matzav.com Israel}
First, I Agree with the Sentiment of Chacham Bergman.
Second, the Mitzva of Teffilin is “all day”, now obviously not all of us can do this, but wearing teffilin is a Mitzva that can or should be done all times of the day depending on our abilities. Personally, I put on Teffilin for Mincah, but this is a shadow of what should be…
Third, when in the Army, even in “peace” time, I saw many Benai Yisrael from all backgrounds desire to pray Shachrit instead of “targilim” (exercises). Our minyan grew and grew in 1/2 sheqel ( one person) amounts, until even a Sargent commented “I see so many have done Teshuva !” in a sarcastic tone….to which we answered “BARUCH HASHEM !!!”…almost to a man that was the reply. To this day, this brings tears to my eyes, as I realize how Great Y H W H is, how he chose us from other nations, and more importantly how correct he was to do so.
Do what you can, time is short….we are 100% in the middle of Ketz Hayomin.