Letter in Defense of Son’s Decision to Attend Dark Light

A few months back, I wrote (as did others) about Robert Savit’s decision to attend Ohr Somayach, Jerusalem, noting,

Robert, beware. Ohr Somayach rejects scientific method, and Ohr Somayach, Jerusalem rejects the work ethic as well, and reports to “daas Torah” gedolim, who are quiescent fundamentalists to the core, and whom are increasingly activist.

Robert’s father, Joel Savit, has commented on The Kvetcher in defense of his son’s decision.

Mr. Joel Savit wrote,

I never even realized that this web site existed, but now that I have read some of your comments, I find I must reply. I am Robert’s father. I did not want Robert to leave for Israel, telling him he could study Torah in the U.S. instead of so far away.

I knew I would miss him dearly and I do. The only “motive” which Robert has is to be the best Jew he can be. For him that means studying in the Holy Land where he feels a greater connection with Hashem.

Robert has no agenda other than to learn as much as possible in the city of our Lord and if that is somehow evil or irritating to those who are criticizing him, I pray for you.

He has chosen his path based upon his feelings and heart and for that I applaud and congratulate him.

Just so you are aware, I attend a Conservative Shul and certainly had nothing to do with Rob’s decision to be closer to God. If that is wrong then this world is in trouble.

It should be noted that even though the Ten Commandments dictate that you respect and obey your parents, there is one time that this Commandment does not apply, and that is if your parents demand that you not study Torah. For that is the most important mitzvah of all. Robert has chosen that course and it makes me shed tears of happiness for him, knowing how his love of Judaism has led him to the Holy Land.