Chassidic Rebbe: Thou Shalt Not Be Fabulous

I often wonder about the childish and immature behavior displayed by adult members of certain Chareidi groups. Violent protests, riots and other examples of hooliganism seem more like the angry tantrums of a frustrated four year-old than sincere acts of zealotry. The reason for this rank immaturity, I believe, is that these Chareidi adults (often in their thirties or forties) are treated like children by their leaders.

In that spirit, The Jewish Press reports on several recent proclamations issued by leaders of various insular Hassidic groups in New York State:

1. "A recent kol korei proclamation in several chassidishe advertising weeklies called upon ladies not to wear white jackets because they are striking and attract attention."

As a result the "ladies" Michael Jackson look-a-like contest has been canceled.

2. "The Vaad Mishmeres Machaneinu of Kiryas Yoel, organized to preserve women’s modesty, issued a full page kol korei proclamation regarding new styles of women’s shoes that are silver, gold, etc., that are 'stunning and attention-getting.'"

In other news, (one of) the Satmar Rebbe(s) fawned over a woman's flashy footwear, squealing, "Ohmygosh - your shoes are soooo stunning! And assur!"

3. "Rabbi Aaron Teitelbaum, Satmar Rebbe, issued a number of summertime guidelines [for chassidic men] ... They must attend, and never miss any, evening shiur nor should they go to sleep late. Further, when traveling to or from the Catskills, husbands must seek to take others along with them so that they do not travel alone."

In addition, the Rebbe added that they must sip, and never slurp, their soup; sit up straight in their chairs and remember to always tie their shoes before going outside. He also mentioned that they should wash their hands after using the toilet.

J.D.