Rav Yitzchak Zilberstein Advises Against Large Chanukah Parties

BNEI BRAK (VINnews) — Renowned Charedi posek Rav Yitzchok Zilberstein has advised against holding large celebrations this Chanukah.

At the outset of the Chag, the Rav instructed his followers and students not to hold large Chanukah parties, due to the current situation.

Then on Monday while speaking with his student Rabbi Moshe Michoel Tzoren, Rav Zilberstein elaborated on his reasoning, expressing “concern that hosting elaborate parties in the current circumstances might lead to a chillul Hashem, particularly when tragic events are unfolding in Gaza.”

He questioned the appropriateness of people dancing and singing while their fellow Jews are in peril.

The Rav also recalled the advice of some of his own rabbeim during previous conflicts in Eretz Yisroel. When questioned by Rabbi Tzoren about the specific parameters of holding family celebrations, Rav Zilberstein said that “there are no precise rules.” Instead, he encouraged people “to engage their intellect and use their own judgment, contemplating how their actions can avoid any chillul Hashem. And may we all merit to see miracles and wonders [as] in those days at this time.”