Question: Is it good or bad for the Jews to have someone who is so outwardly religious involved in secular culture?
[Share your answer using the comment section below.]
(1)
Anonymous
7/2/2008 12:24:00 AM disapprove
when Jewish people try to imitate the secular culture, they are in essence degrading themselves. Secular people look up to Jews because, G-D has created them as a seperate and original nation. when someone dresses, but doesn't act as a Jew, then in reality he is denying his own existence.
(2)
Anonymous
5/18/2008 11:10:00 PM Good for him!
I think it''s very good what Matisyahu does. I''m very picky about music, so for a while i wasn''t listening to anything Jewish until my friend told me about him. I started listening to his music, and then I realized that there are actually people out there who sing some good Jewish music, and there is Jewish music to fit everyone''s taste! I am proud to say that now I listen to more Jewish music than not.
(3)miriam
4/11/2008 1:00:00 AM
i think bad, we are commanded to be a light and i think looking back in history there is no way by which anybody can say we are not HaShem's chosen, so though we are called to be a light by living as a jew and not loosing our identity where in Torah does it say that we are to fit Torah in to the Goyims agenda should it not be the other way around, we are in babylon but even Daniel did not lose his identity, is dangerous to be so involved in secular cause is just like eating glass.
(4)Betty R.
3/12/2008 4:30:00 PM Great Happy Personality
I personally believe that Hashem would like us to be represented everywhere with His Joy, His Love, His Energy, His Music, and above all showing His Love for all mankind.
(5)Roman
2/13/2008 11:16:00 PM
No one should be ashamed of the fact that G-d is the center of their life. Matis is a role model to be emulated in all aspects. Already my children want to be like him...tzit tzit and all!
(6)Tere
1/26/2008 12:30:00 PM
I think that it is wonderful that he is not ashamed of who he is or where he comes from..more people should be like him
(7)shauna
11/14/2007 6:52:00 AM
I think he is great, and I love the fact that he is not ashamed to be Jewish. Not to mention,he gives our children/young people, Jewish or not, a "hip" positve influence,in today's musical society.We should support him in his efforts.
(8)
Anonymous
11/8/2007 1:05:00 AM He is NOT an embarassment or a bad joke
You have a right to your own opinion but consider these things; first of all, he wears his identity proudly. Some entertainers of Jewish Heritage have changed their names thus concealing their heritage like Lauren Bacall (Weinstein), Mama Cass (Cohen),George Burns(Birnbaum)etc. Second, he happens to like reggae and rap, nothing wrong with that. Third He keeps it respectful, you see no bouncing cars, women in bikini's or gang signs in his videos,he is just rapping reggae style. Would you be as offended if he were in a suit singing Jazz standards?
(9)Shon
10/1/2007 7:44:00 PM
That's my b---oy!
(10)Steven
9/25/2007 5:01:00 PM
I think he is great.
(11)
Anonymous
9/23/2007 1:22:00 PM Mattisyahu A bad joke
Mattisyahu is an embarrassment to Torah Judaism. it would be funny to see a jewish looking man who claims to be Chassidish singing reggae if it wasn't so public.
(12)Josh
9/22/2007 12:15:00 AM Matisyahu
Matisyahu rocks!
(13)janet
9/20/2007 9:13:00 PM why not? There are Christian rock bands
I'm a Christian, and enjoy many Christian rock bands. Why not a Jewish reggae singer, spreading the love of God, through song, that reaches varied groups of people. I had my 15 yr. old daughter LISTEN to Matisyahu,("he's cool") then asked her to look ("oh"). Ah, our preconceived notions that we have, hmmm? Anyway, the point is to reach the people with HIS message!
(14)Steven
9/18/2007 8:06:00 PM Couldn't be better!
Nobody said every Jew should listen to reggae, but hey, if he's a great reggae artist it would be a sin not to utilize his talents to "be a light unto the nations" and spread the message of G-d and Jewish tradition through his artistic talent!
(15)Michelle
9/17/2007 5:00:00 PM Yes it is good, ...
One could argue that since G-d is infinite there is really no secular sphere v. religious sphere, no real separation between the sacred and the profane. Let the panning start!
(16)Steve Daniels
9/6/2007 11:06:00 PM It's okay to be Jewish and popular
To make anything visibly Jewish normalised and accepted must be good for us. Being visibly Jewish in a secularised culture isn't the issue its what we say about our Judaism that can confuse people. Those who would hate us would do so based on their xenophobia, but the fact that his guy Matisyahu sings so great in Reggae style makes others figure that they simply shouldn't pigeon hole us. He shows others and ourselves what could be possible when we really wanna rap!
(17)
Anonymous
9/4/2007 10:01:00 PM It's bad
We should keep as far as possible from secular culture; esp with regards to entertainment
(18)JOYCEDANELEN@YAHOO.COM
9/4/2007 8:16:00 PM Live and let live!
Wonder what his wife thinks? Stormy, my dog danced to this video. Thank you, Joyce Danelen and dogpile aka Stormy.
(19)harry dorfman
9/4/2007 6:28:00 PM matisyahu has a good jewish message
when l hear matisyahu music l feel great he sings of HASHEM
(20)David
8/25/2007 9:27:00 AM It's Good For Us
I think it's good for the Jews as a whole to have someone so extremely jewish is the pop scene because the jews are showing a strong trend toward secularization and assimilation that makes me worry about perpetuation of the jewish culture and people. It shows that you can still be a jew and be in normal society... that there are different ways to express Jewish beliefs and ideals than just sitting in schul and studying all day. I hope that this sends a message to the modern jewish youth that they can still be jewish in their hearts... maybe even do a little practicing in their lives... and not have to separate themselves from the pop culture they grew up with.
(21)
Anonymous
8/21/2007 11:19:00 PM I like it!
It's different (I never really liked rap very much), that's for sure. It seems good though, especially in reaching out to unafiliated Jews--who listen to this and enjoy it, who wouldn't ordinarily listen to traditional Jewish music. The words have to sink in at some point--people will have to realize and internalize the message. Maybe they'll be Ba'l T'Shvah (sp)! Try not to analize. Enjoy!
(22)Carlos Manuel
8/21/2007 8:57:00 AM It´s good for encrypted jews or anousim
I think that maybe it could seem to be bad for the most orthodox Jews to have someone who is so outwardly religious involved in secular culture, but for those jews who lost it´s track and those ones who are living as gentiles, as well as for encrypted jews or anousims, is very good, because it´s like a call to return to their roots, at the same time shows to the gentiles what is judaism about. Matisyahu´s lyrics are focused on praise the holy blessed HE as well as to give good advise to the young people, opposite to the most reggae or rappers do, so it will help either gentiles and Jews to keep a good behaviour and to have fear and love of G-d.
(23)joe
8/18/2007 1:22:00 AM Baruch HaShem
Yes it is time to let Hashem out of the box. There is power in music. Torah is power. Matisyahu does a great job.
(24)Davida
8/13/2007 12:25:00 PM Sure, why not?
Now friends ask me, what's up with the curls on this guy. They also are somewhat in disbelief that someone that looks so pious is having such a good time, it doesn't jive with what they think they know about us and what they are accustomed to in our own faith. But if you really want to rock their worlds, let them hear a little Israeli Hip-Hop, Subliminal/TACT family, Alon DeLoco...Hard rapping Jews wearing lots o' Magen David bling!
(25)Sharon
8/12/2007 5:58:00 PM Matisyahu = good
Yes, it is a positive thing to have Matisyahu, who is outwardly religious, in the secular community. If anything, he sheds some light on the world of non-Jews, amd for those who are unaware of what he represents, may actually educate themselves.
(26)frank pittal
8/11/2007 2:48:00 PM matisyahu good luck to him
mazeltov to Matisyahu he commands a big following here in the U.K he is just that little bit unusual than the rest of the flock...people like matisyahu adds that bit of spice to this earth
(27)MERY COHEN
8/7/2007 1:31:00 AM I LOVE IT ...HE SINGS GOOD
HE SINGS VERY GOOD I LOVE IT
(28)Eve Goldberg
8/6/2007 1:20:00 PM Absolutely good!
Recently our rabbi spoke on meeting with secular things and finding a way to make them holy. I think Matisyahu does just that. Hey, the beastie boys didn't put themselves out there like that, they covered themselves in the pop-culture at the time and that was their identity, losing the Jewishness about themselves for the sake of what they were doing. But hey, what would the 80's have been without them and who has ever posed this same question of them?
(29)BONITA
8/6/2007 11:40:00 AM
As a christian gramma, a left over hippie I say HOORAY!!! My grandson first brought Matisyahu to my attention, and that right there is a blessing to my soul. The world grows ever dark and I love how the Father is bringing His light to the world. For some secular culture is the only place they will hear. It is a start.
(30)Chaim Arnstein
8/5/2007 1:04:00 PM A Risk
What Matisyahu does has an upside potential for Kiddush Hashem, or, chas v'sholom, the opposite. I wish him great hatzlacha with making a Kiddush Hashem
(31)Rochelle Michaels
8/5/2007 10:36:00 AM Matisyahu is the key to speaks the same language of understanding and respect.
If the message is good...Then why not share it.
Until we all can all know the voice of the religious and what their simple black and white clothing means, then the unknown can lead to assumptions and isolation.
Matisyahu is the key to speaks the same language of hope and peace.
(32)Dvirah
8/4/2007 2:41:00 PM Universal Message
Music is known as "the universal language" but different styles of music appeal to different people. Apparently this is the style which "speaks" to Matisyahu and in which he "speaks" best: in which he is joined by many people in Israel (not including me, but including my daughters). We after all are a people embedded in the world's cultures and it seems to me that this is in fact what HaShem intends for us: we are to be a distinct people but never isolated - how could we be a "light unto nations" if we never interact with them? And interaction is a two-way process. Matisyahu has adopted one of the world's cultural forms to send a uniquely Jewish message. In my opinion, this is a very positive thing.
(33)Stephanie Sachs
8/4/2007 1:42:00 PM Religious observance/Secular performance
It is a terrific example, for any age person, in realizing that you don't have to give up your personal beliefs to achieve your personal dreams!
(34)
Anonymous
8/3/2007 2:24:00 PM
I think this question has the potential to instigate much loshon hora. Although (hopefully) that is not the intention of this question, this attached video points to one specific Jew, and can lead to a discussion about him only. What's worse, a Jew being confident in his Judaism in the secular world, or Jews that speak badly about that Jew/Chassidic sect?
(35)
Anonymous
8/3/2007 8:15:00 AM Absolutely
Matisyahu gets my energy flowing in a spiritual direction.
(36)mindil
8/3/2007 2:52:00 AM his cd is the greatest uplift i could have
he needs to be made available to as many individuals as possible so more can appreciate him and his unique style
(37)Michelle
8/2/2007 6:19:00 PM It's good!
I think it is good in that it helps everyone (non-Jewish) to see that even Chassidic Jews have life and passion in them.
(38)Naftali
8/2/2007 11:47:00 AM
Matisyahu is a powerfull religious voice at this terbulent time of assimilation and the withering away of jewish values worldwide, his music reaches sectors of jewish youth our rabbis can not reach or they are out of touch with. In all we need more men and women like him bringing the power of torah to our youth.
(39)
Anonymous
8/2/2007 8:53:00 AM yes
When I discovered Matisyahu's music, I was thrilled. Finally, there is a singer who sings about topics, thought-provoking topics, and there is not a single word that is trashy in the song. It's been wonderful!
(40)
Anonymous
8/2/2007 5:58:00 AM Good-depending on for Whom
As long as he faithfully follows all details of halacha and speaks to his rav and mashpia, it's good, because he shows how everything can be used in a positive way...
But I'm rather concerned, because a lot of Yeshiva kids don't realize that he doesn't really think his music is for them.
(41)manny
8/2/2007 5:23:00 AM medicine
He is like a medical remedy:Can save the spiritule life of he who needs it, but can destroy the spiritule life of he who does not need it.
(42)Elonna
8/1/2007 9:00:00 PM talent
This guy has talent. I love his music. I'm not Jewish. You don't need to be Jewish to appreciate talent like Matisyahu.
(43)craig moon
8/1/2007 8:42:00 PM love this guy
very good very cool
(44)S.Y. Spira
8/1/2007 7:40:00 PM CHAVAL
Yes, avrumi, we are in Golus & we are all mixed up. We no longer know what or who we are, what is proper, where we should and shouldn't be. It's heartbreaking and so, so worrisome. Where are our grandchildren going to be? R'S'O PLEASE PLEASE Help us. Redeem us from this bitter night, this Golus and Bilbul Hamochos.
(45)
Anonymous
8/1/2007 4:26:00 PM from a goy girl who works for chassidim
I am utterly amazed by this guy! I work among chassidim and it is shocking to see such a guy sing reggae so well! I think it is wonderful, not awful.It helps to bridge the gap between cultures while being faithful to one's own. Recently I had lunch at a kosher eaterie where Satmar students have lunch. A song was playing which was a Hasidic version of Celine Dion's song THE POWER OF LOVE. The students were imitating the singer in an exaggerated way and it was so funny to watch! I am suprised when I hear chassidic music playing in homes as I do shabbes cleaning and to hear how many other influences are coming into the music. I think this is a good thing. I have come to love chassidic music in both its traditional and modern forms. Modern chassidic Jews are not at all out of touch with the culture around them; they seem to want to redefine it on their own terms and I think that is way cool! But I wonder if the reverse will also happen, if non-Jews will incorporate more traditional Jewish themes in their music? I hope so.
(46)Betty
8/1/2007 12:13:00 PM adopting secular culture in order to teach them is not the ideal or correct way
-the way is to be taking the interest in the beauty of our heritage and to be showing them the real things like z'miros at a shabbat table, and the point should be to concenrate on the jewish crowds who are so far away, and not on non-jews who we are not supposed to make jewish anyway!
(47)Tony
8/1/2007 10:04:00 AM Yes indeed
It is important for observant Jews to be involved with those who currently be less observant because we are all one people and we need to able to interact with and talk to each other. We have more in common than the labels which have been attached by the media suggest.
(48)Hadassah
8/1/2007 10:04:00 AM Bringing Light to the Darkness
If this clip is your only exposure to Matisyahu, then it's understandable why you might have a negative reaction that it just seems too secular or "goyish." The power of Matisyahu's music is in the lyrics, lyrics you certainly won't hear any goy singing (at least not yet, but Moshaich's coming!)His words are like prayers and often contain deep Hassidic concepts. Matisyahu goes out to the secular world and purifies itwith his message. Face it, where can most of the Jews be found--in the secular world. So that's where he goes, attracting them with his music and inspiring them with his words--his music literally touches souls, although you'd never guess that from the clips shown here. And the fact that the goyim are exposed to music about the Oneness of G-d also brings us closer to Redemption. Why did his song "King Without a Crown" hit the top of the charts? Because the whole world is thirsting for spirituality and G-dliness, not just us. It's our job to bring it to them. I praise Matisyahu for having the strength to withstand the secular environment and the challenges he must constantly face in order to search out those Jews who need to hear his message. Hashem should protect him in his holy work.
(49)Motti
8/1/2007 9:44:00 AM He's a Light Onto Others
I think Matisyahu is able to be a light out there, and it's a good thing... There are some many kids out there that have no idea what Shabbat is but they can repeat full tracks of Matisyahu's songs, so he's able to reach out to these youth in an untraditional way. I think part of the credit for that should go to Chabad who brought him in and inspired him to inspire others.
(50)
Anonymous
8/1/2007 8:45:00 AM
Yes, it is good. He is not "involved" in secular culture. He performs in it. He conveys a message, not only in the content of his lyrics, but the image that not all Jews, evenly extremely religious ones, are segregated zealots unaware of the real world and its issues. It breaks down walls and opens the door for communication not only between non-Jews and Jews but those Jews that want to become more religious but were afraid to approach the Orthodox. It is especially effective for young Jews who are not religiouly affiliated.
(51)Annette
8/1/2007 7:56:00 AM or is it the other way around?
I see it as someone who grew up so secularly religious (not necessarily G-d oriented) who became or returned to Judaism and religious The Ashkenazic and the Sephardim and others express their love and devotion to The Almighty 'their' way and with the gifts given to them ... Matisyahu's is just a way that some of us don't relate to, just 'out of the box' way; I think it's fine, I think he's fine, he expresses himself with the gift HaShem gave him. And most likely let's other Jews know that they can return/do t'shuva too, with their own gifts. The goofy comment that 'he looks like a Rabi' is typical of secular mentality, Jew or goy. Rabi's come in all kinds of shapes and sizes and looks too! like all men.
(52)Charnie
8/1/2007 7:25:00 AM Reggae always has been spiritual
And now it can be through the presentation and words of a Jew. What we all call "Jewish music" today is largely copied from secular music anyway (example - Chevra was a direct copy of NSnync, Oif Simchas abscribes to techno rock, etc). So what's wrong with this?
(53)Joey
8/1/2007 7:24:00 AM It depends, I suppose
Assuming Matisyahu does not get involved in any sort of scandal, as many celebrities do, there seems to be nothing wrong with this---though there is a concern that his religion will become an oddity, more something to chortle at than admire. It all depends.
God bless.
(54)James Hetfield
8/1/2007 7:00:00 AM sure, why not
i think it's good for the juwish religion to allow a little bit of openness. it diffuses a lot of bad things both from outside and from the inside. it allows people to connect to godliness from the heart.
(55)Eli
8/1/2007 4:17:00 AM Music is our common ground
Matisyahu is creating a common base between secular and religious people. He kills the myth that religious people are boring and has no creativity in them. beside that it opens many seculars and connect them to god and spirituality through his music, words and passion.
(56)Tamara
8/1/2007 1:52:00 AM I think it is great!
Religion is not one dimensional nor is religion all there is.
(57)minnie
8/1/2007 1:16:00 AM If G-d doesn't have a problem with Matsiyahu, than why should anyone else have a problem
Torah is clear...nothing happens unless G-d lets it happen...so obviously He has let Matsiyahu happen!
Matsiyahu will reach people that are not affiliated nor have they seen the inside of a synagogue since Bar/Bat Mitzvah.
How many Jews have you caused to turn back to G-d? Better yet, how many non-Jews have you reached out to, so they can better understand us.
Search your heart before your tongue causes "Lashon Ha-Ra"...do you know the teaching of "Tikkun Olam"? It looks like Matsiyahu does.
Shalom minnie
(58)Linda Hoshovsky
8/1/2007 12:44:00 AM Matisyahu demonstrates to the many secular Jews out there that it is possible to be religious and 'cool' simultaneously.
Many secular Jews are put off by the extreme measures taken by some Charedi Jews - e.g. no TV, black garb, a seemingly sombre view on life. Matisyahu demonstrates that being frum can be fun.
(59)Larry Snider
8/1/2007 12:18:00 AM Matisyahu Ya
I believe that Jews need to play an active role in contemporary secular culture. Matisyahu is a really good role model. It's one thing to listen to him rapping. If you make the effort to read his lyrics you'll understand that he's praying and asking young people to make positive choices and responsible decisions. That's about as good as it gets!
(60)Lauryn
7/31/2007 10:27:00 PM What could be wrong with it?
He keeps Shabbat. He keeps all of the commandments. Reggae is music of a people that has been through a lot and has had a hard history. Of course Jews - even Hasidic Jews - should be able to show the world things that they're good at and passionate about besides studying and Torah.
(I'm sure, though, that he would not be doing this if he was born and raised Hasidic, as opposed to growing up in a reform family and community and deciding to become orthodox.)
(61)yael
7/31/2007 10:17:00 PM unfortunatley he sends mixed messages
In my humble opinion, the whole beauty of being a jew is that we really are different from "them"...more refined, more educated for the most part. So why should we act like "them". There are other ways to connect with jews or jews to connect with hashem then to behave like a goy. For teens or kids that are observant in mitzvos already he's giving them the message that it's okay to behave like a "RASTA" aren't we better than that, after all we are ...the sons and daughters of a King.
(62)sil
7/31/2007 10:15:00 PM LET´S AVOID ASSIMILATION!!
we don´t have to act like the "Goyim" because this is one of the main causes that generates assimilation. LET´S TRY NOT TO MAKE OUR OWN HOLOCAUST!
(63)Jack
7/31/2007 9:31:00 PM Outrages!
I think he's great! I personally know some Jewish teenagers that started learning more about their faith and putting on Tefilin because of him. He's getting Jews who would otherwise be lost to come closer to Judaism. What an awesome concept!
(64)Benjamin
7/31/2007 9:06:00 PM He's the reason
I don't care about your question. I just want the masses to know and understand that Matisyahu is the reason I go to pray on a regular basis. Matisyahu is the reason me, a Jewish boy from Maryland who fell out of touch with modern religion has fallen back in love with God. I praise him for what he does. He is a prophet.
(65)david
7/31/2007 7:57:00 PM absolute junk! we do not have to copy the Goyim
Get thus guy off the air he is disgrace to Jewish values and good Jewish music.
(66)Scott Edelman
7/31/2007 7:09:00 PM The World Needs Judaism
It's important people finally learn the truth about Jews - after 2000 years of irrational anti semitism. Jews are people too. It is likely that Matisyahu is fulfilling the prophesy because he has more than 10 non Jews "grabbig the corner of his garment"
(67)
Anonymous
7/31/2007 5:47:00 PM yes he is good for us
My children see all around them other cultures and religions with music that they like. They are asking me why we don't have any music like that. Now we do. His message is so Jewish, I feel that my children will listen to him and the message
(69)Nic
7/31/2007 4:53:00 PM Ok, why not?--Actually it is a good thing!
Anti-Semitism prevails today--and sadly so--therefore it is a good thing that people see an Hasidic Jew performing, because he dispells the notions that some people have--while getting people habituated with being around Jews who are outwardly Jewish.
Plus, when they listen to his music, and love it, they also get attached to a Jew--which brings a Jew, not just into their lives--but into their hearts and homes. So, better for all of us, that he is where he is, and does what he does. Perhaps more hasidic Jews will get empowered and out there, and they, with their talents and ideas, will win over people before they are expossed to more anti-Semitism.
(70)Simple Jew
7/31/2007 4:52:00 PM Jew and secular culture do not mix
The Torah constantly warns us to stay away from the ways of the gentiles. Our Avos were told to destroy all the avodah zara that were in the land of Canaan when we inherited it.
Jews have Jewish music that speaks to the soul. Where in raggae music that is music of Bnei Cham that will infuse someone with the beauty of Torah?
A Jew who gets carried away with the music of the gentiles unfortunately loses something.
It is not proper to dress like a Rabbi or a yeshiva student if he doesn't act like a Rabbi or a yeshiva student. I think this is all Hollywood, and there's nothing holy about this.
(71)
Anonymous
7/31/2007 4:49:00 PM Wonderful!
I think that religious Jewish artists can have a very positive impact on the lives of, especially, our young people. I like the idea of having "one of our people" singing and dancing on stage and it makes me very proud! We cannot escape all that comes to us via t.v., radio etc., we hear music all the time, but when it comes from one of us, it is special and the message to us is "We can have fun and be hip but at the same time decent and role models.
(72)Barry
7/31/2007 4:10:00 PM What kind of question is this?
We should not have to make choice between being religious or being involved with the rest of the world. More power to him.
(73)Menachem Kovacs
7/31/2007 3:04:00 PM religious Jewish artists have tremendous opportunity to use their talents and success to make a very big Kiddush Hashem
Matisyahu and other religious Jewish artists have a unique opportunity to use their talents & success to make a Kiddush Hashem. They have a challenge to remind themselves constantly, as religious Jewish basketball player Tamir Goodman points it, that it's about Hashem and his Torah and not about the artist's ego as is usually the case with secular artists.
(74)Suzanne
7/31/2007 2:46:00 PM Religious
I think that it is great to have a Hasidic individual, actually showing that Judaism in all forms, doesn't kill but enhances ones life.
(75)
Anonymous
7/31/2007 2:46:00 PM We do not all come out of the same cookie cutter
G-d did not make mankind on a production line. Matisyahu has done more for promoting the idea that Jews embrace their love of G-d in their own unique way while still respecting certain traditions that are universal than any rigid representative in a time warp.
(76)NATE
7/31/2007 2:35:00 PM Give me a break!
It is absolutely VERY GOOD to have someone so outwardly religious involved in secular culture. Other more outwardly religious people should try it some time, instead of living in a bubble.
(77)Shana
7/31/2007 2:01:00 PM I agree with the rest...
LET JEWRY ROCK!
(78)Shulamit
7/31/2007 1:27:00 PM It's all good
I think it's a great thing to be out there blending with the seculars while being comfortable with who you are and doing what you are good at. Besides, there is a machloket about whether it is good or bad to be involved in a secular culture. What I want to know is where the guy in the flash film got that T-shirt that says "What I like about Jew." I want it!!!
(79)Deena
7/31/2007 1:07:00 PM Good or bad, it doesn't matter. It just is.
I don't think the question of it being good or bad is an issue. Because it just is. This is what he wants to be doing. Each person needs to fulfill themselves the best they can in this world. This is how he chooses to. And how other people (Jews or non-Jews) react to it is their own issue.
(80)
Anonymous
7/31/2007 12:41:00 PM how do you require your artists to act?
I think that this singer is an artist and he is translating his vision for us. From all that I have gathered he is an observant Jew and a good example. His art is not that behind an easel or at a pottery wheel and his dances are part of his art. Remember how King David danced in Jerusalem and some felt derision for his joy. this artist is bringing his joy in our religioun and its teachings to a wide group in the language that they understand
(81)Ilene
7/31/2007 12:27:00 PM expose the world and open minds
Having someone as talented as Matisyahu out there for the world to see is a great thing. For all the bigots and racists, let's blow their minds wide open.
(82)yafa
7/31/2007 12:06:00 PM Matisyahu Is A Blessing
I believe that Hashem is using Matisyahu to reach a part of our youth who have become lost to their faith-his zeal and enthusiasm light up the stages and auditoriums where he performs, and he has not allowed his fame to go to his head- being raised as he was he has remained humble and that is refreshing in today's world where fame is more important to most performers than their faith. My son has used his example and told me recently that Matisyahu is often a comfort to him- he has recieved personal emails from him encouraging him not to give up, and to be strong. I find this quality of his very endearing, as my son has a disability that often draws negative attention from his peers- Matisyahu's compassion and empathy are a true example of what being a Jew in today's world should be, always elevating and encouraging with Chassidus and Teshuvah. May he continue to bless the world with his message of light and love.
(83)Luis T
7/31/2007 11:53:00 AM Novel . . .
The first time I saw(heard) this cat was on the Jimmy Kimmel show, and I thought, " What in the world . .?" But then, it dawned on me; HE GETS IT! If I don't, then it's my problem. Is it(he) cool? Debatable . . .Is he novel? Most certainly . . My man better not gig on the Sabbath, though.
(84)Lorelai
7/31/2007 10:27:00 AM Good for Bali Tshuva Jews, Bad for FFB Jews
I first saw Matisyahu via "Live at Stubbs" and seeing a young Torah Jew who sang LYRICS about HaShem, rebuilding the Temple, Kabbalistic-themed lyrics ("Return the Princess to her King," etc.)to RAP / REGGAE music blew my mind in a wonderful way and gave my journey back to my Jewish roots, which had just begun at Chabad 6 months earlier, a powerful kick start on my way to becoming a full-fledged Bali Tshuva - but surprisingly to me (as I was raised Reform) all the FFB (Frum From Birth) Jews I know think it's shocking and horrible for him to wear a kippah & tzitits to perform this kind of music. I DON'T GET IT!
(85)Arye
7/31/2007 9:51:00 AM What is the outcome?
The question here is not Matisyahu! the question is where am "I" holding in life and what will this type of music do for me (and my family)?
A religious person may see this as the start of a downward spiral however someone who was/is used to a non religious upbringing this may be a positive experience.
Personally I shy away from this type of music, since the children ask if I can listen to him why can't I listen to a rapper, or worse religious children have seen this performance in a bar, he was great in a concert why not see him Saturday night, and they mingle with a crowd that I would not want to influence myself much less my children.
The force of evil is much stronger than the force of good, as a parent I would choose the difficultly of not listening over the difficulties that follow once my appetite has been wetted.
There is so much great music available for the Jewish market, there are great singers and concerts, tapes and CD's why do we need this?
Does non the Torah state we should not follow their paths...
(86)katya
7/31/2007 9:38:00 AM Yes, at least in case of this very singer
I so much enjoy his music and i believe many other people "fall in love" with Jews hearing and seeing art like this. May God bless him and give him more revelations and inspiration to glorify the Lord in such a creative way.
(87)Jorge
7/31/2007 9:32:00 AM Fantastic!
As a father and a Sephardic Jew, I am delighted that Matisyahu is using his musical gifts and writing skills in order to bring glory to Ha-Shem and to encourage others to turn to the Holy One of Israel. He is a positive role model to my kids and a real blessing to me and my family.
(88)CJ Savage
7/31/2007 9:18:00 AM A positive role model for jewish children
As a father of three and religious jew I feel that it is a wonderful thing for my children to have a role model, besides their parents, that is very positive. They see and hear Matisyahu and say, "he wears a kippa, and tzitzis even though he is on stage singing; that is cool". I brought my son to see Matisyahu and someone in the crowd said, "is he Amish or something?", my son looked up at him and stated, "no, he is a Jew like me." enough said.
(89)Jose
7/31/2007 9:13:00 AM proposal
I think Hashem allow him doing this, he is more closer of jonger jews that can conect with him, he can be used for good reazons.
(90)Millicent Chira
7/31/2007 8:39:00 AM PEACE AND UNDERSTANDING WITH TOLERANCE!
We live on a planet of peoples with diverse cultures. Sharing and being a part of this world are necessary to creating harmony and peace amongst all peoples. Being afraid to be part of this world creates a negative atmosphere which I believe is being done by the people who do not accept his talent.
(91)Edgardo
7/31/2007 8:32:00 AM Jewish reggae?
Not being jew I can only say that the outside image gives an impression that only the inside of a person can confirm by the way he or she lives. Shocking? Yes. Unexpected? No. Mulsims, christians, vaishnavas share their message using all the media available. If this kid is believing and living the Truth,he should share the Word according to his talents. What should we do? Pray for him so that he can be kept from the evils that fame brings.
(92)
Anonymous
7/31/2007 7:56:00 AM
When the person involved in secular culture (and very visible to the outside world) has a good moral life, then it is good for the Jews. When they lead a life that is filled with things that would cause reproach- then it reflects negatively on the Jewish people.
(93)André
7/31/2007 7:50:00 AM Awesome
I think he's great for the jewish people, both the religious and non-religious. And he does his best to keep his concerts according to jewish law even though there are some limitations
(94)sheila
7/31/2007 7:35:00 AM hooray for matisyahu
My kids got me started listening . I love his music i'm 46 were all going to the concert with 311 Good for you matisyahu keep it up.And no ones ashamed to sing along and just feel the music.
(95)Betsy
7/31/2007 1:07:00 AM good or bad for the Jews?
that I don't know, but I think it's good for the world that a religious Jew shares his talent and thoughts, teaching the world, among other things, that appearances can be misleading. he has introduced part of the Jewish heart to people who had never been exposed to such a thing before, to their benefit. how could that be bad for the Jews?
(96)
Anonymous
7/30/2007 10:22:00 PM
I think it's a disgrace of G-d's name for a religious Jew dressed like a religious Jew to be signing like that in public.
(97)debbie
7/30/2007 9:30:00 PM get a life
Anonymous, get a life. I want to listen to any type of music I enjoy esp. if the message is promoting Jewish ideals. i do not want every single thing to be dictated acc. to what is or is not part of the dominant culture.Oh if the gentiles listen to that, then I shouldn't. I listen bec I like the beat, the words etc. How many nigunim do i have to listen to(which I do on occasion)but that is not the only thing i like.His message is fine so chill out already.Leave us alone and stop being so judgmental.
(98)malka
7/30/2007 9:25:00 PM great lesson material
As a music educator in a conservative Jewish day school, I was thrilled when I came across Mattisyahu's earlier hit titled "Chop'em down." Picture 20 Jewish secular highschool students bopping their heads to the jiving rhythm of a reggae song which recounts the story of the exodus and expostulates on the modern day spiritual exile of the Jewish people. In my opinion, thats pretty profound material for just a catchy reggae tune!After listening to the song, we discussed the meaning of our Jewish existence and how we should try look past all the modern trends (shtus)and materialism and seek higher meaning by connecting to our creator. How's that for a secular song?
(99)Constance
7/30/2007 6:25:00 PM Why not???
Let's just say I bought his latest CD!!! It is music both my kids and I can agree on. To question the rest is to disregard the message. Would anyone be asking such a question if he was another faith???
(100)Liorah
7/30/2007 5:19:00 PM matisyahu
I think it is wonderful that he is out there, getting people involved. After all the negative press we are getting, it is nice to have some one shine a positive light on our way of living!!.
(101)
Anonymous
7/30/2007 5:03:00 PM Not so simple...
From reading the comments so far, it seems that as Jews some of us feel inferior or not as "cool" as the other nations. Well, it is not our job to convert others or show them that we also do the same things that they do. This does nothing productive to us as Jews, on the contrary, it brings us to the same playing field as others and we are not on that field. That is not smuggy or racist, it is just the truth; we believe that we are here for certain reasons, and making sure that we are perceived as cool is not one of them. As far as Matisyahu is concerned, I believe that this is a sensitive topic and is definitley not as simple as we would like it to be. As a nation, our problems have usually begun when we tried to emulate the other nations and opened ourselves up for questioning and criticism. This should not be viewed as an opinion from a "frummy", this has nothing to do with that, this is simply a situation where we have nothing to gain and only to lose. As far as Kiruv is concerned, I don't think that all the risks involved are worth taking to be Mekarev some individuals. Kiruv is a very sensetive concept and is not a free for all where everything goes. It must be calculated and done through the proper vehicles, such as this wonderful website {Aish.com} There are times when Jewlarious plays sensitive material as well, that too requires looking in to in order to ensure proper influence on others. I wish Matisyahu well and I hope that he will seek the advice of our true Gedolim regarding his singing career.
(102)Amalia
7/30/2007 3:13:00 PM Fantastic!
I think it's fantastic! All of a sudden you can be religious and totally cool! Here is a fantastic performer, everyone is just rocking with him, and he is an observant Jew who isn't afraid to hide it and he IS successful. I think it rocks. :-) Keep singing, Matisyahu!!!
(103)Eli Ben David
7/30/2007 3:04:00 PM
Hi My answer is yes, definitely yes. I am not religious (i guess i'd say no) but what pepole see on stage affects them on the long run and they would say probably good things about jews or even want to belong to this community if they have such magnificent singers who are also religious. Everything that is spread by the mass media has, at the end, an impact on the public opinion. Eli
(104)JERRYZUSSMAN
7/30/2007 1:28:00 PM
WERE IN JAMAICA 5YRS. AGO THE ENTERTAINMENT PEOPLE INVITED MY SON,AS A JOKE TO PLAY IN THEIR RAGGAE BAND .NOT KNOWING THAT HE IS A PROFESSINAL CLASSICAL GUITARIST THEY WERE SHOCKED BY HOW EASY IT WAS FOR HIM TO PLAY WITH THEM.....THERE IS SOMATHING PRIMITIVE IN THE MUSIC THAT INVITES PARTICIPATION
(105)Diane
7/30/2007 1:07:00 PM More familiar - less strange
My children are orthodox like Matisyahu. I believe that the more people see that the Orthodox are not just people wearing strange clothes, having strange ideas and customs. They should see that they are regular people who play and go to baseball games, and even entertain the secular world as long as the sabbath is respected.
(106)Jonn Izzik Jansen
7/30/2007 12:05:00 PM
While Matisyahu, by using popular music, introduces Jewish mysticism to the secular world, that world is because of it more facetted then before. It is great the secular world can enjoy it -- and basically, they can experience it the way they want. Matisyahu is not using his music to be proseletizing, therefore he is an asset to our current culture. I am proud, a Jew like Matisyahu plays a role in it, the way he does it. He sure can't be compared with some of the Jesus-Rockers of the 70-ies or 80-ies.
(107)Aliza
7/29/2007 10:20:00 PM He's Great.
He shows other nations the beauty of being Jewish. I mean, other musitions are awesome, but, can you see the other nations listening to say, Yakov Shwekey? He gives Goyim a taste of Judism very subtley, in the form of reggae. I really think a lot of people converted because of him.
(108)Stuart
7/29/2007 4:03:00 PM He is a Kiddush Hashem
How better to be an example to the world and to other Jews. Different people have different roles to play in this world for Hashem. I just wish I could understand what he is singing.
(109)jennifer
7/29/2007 6:18:00 AM good
I'm not Jewish and knew very little about Judaism before I heard of Matisyahu. I felt that there was G-d, but church never sat well with me. I had difficulty with the concept of the trinity. His faith struck a chord, and I stared learning. I am awestruck at the beauty of the Jewish faith. I am amazed by the strength of the Jewish people. I can't even express how i feel about how all the good parts of Christianity aren't really Christian...they're Jewish. And i never would have known any of it if it wasn't for a local radio station playing Matisyahu. He is light for the nations.
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