Sunday, November 2, 2008

Voting, per Rabbi Moshe Feinstein

Hello,

Please note that I expect not to be able to send out these daily emails between today and next Sunday, as I will be on the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley's trip to Israel. The next daily email, Gd-willing, will be Sunday November 9.

I am reproducing here Rabbi Moshe Feinstein's 1984 endorsement of voting in American elections:

On reaching the shores of the United States, Jews found a safe haven. The rights guaranteed by the United States Constitution and the Bill of Rights have allowed us the freedom to practice our religion without interference and to live in this republic in safety.

A fundamental principle of Judaism is hakaras hatov -- recognizing benefits afforded us and giving expression to our appreciation. Therefore, it is incumbent upon each Jewish citizen to participate in the democratic system which safeguards the freedoms we enjoy. The most fundamental responsibility incumbent on each individual is to register and to vote.

Therefore, I urge all members of the Jewish community to fulfill their obligations by registering as soon as possible, and by voting. By this, we can express our appreciation and contribute to the continued security of our community.

Have a great day and week,
Mordechai

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