| |||
 |
 |
 |
|
|
|
Read and add your comments below. Published: Sunday, October 21, 2007
 
 SUBMIT YOUR COMMENT:
VISITORS COMMENTS: 64
(1)
Anonymous
10/30/2007 3:02:00 PM
Words of Wisdom from Rav Salomon I am happy to see a voice of reason in the world. I also agree with commenter Doron, know who the real enemy is. (2) Anonymous 10/29/2007 7:43:00 PM A voice of reason Thank you. What a reasonable response to a silly situation. True. If I were a Jew I would think everyone would be better off as a Jew. If I were a Christian I would think everyone would be better off as a Christian. If I were secular..., if I were religious..., if I were a Republican..., if I were a Democrat..., if I were Likud..., if I were married..., if I were single..., If my child would marry within his own religion... It is the source of our personal arrogance, the source of our relational conflicts. Is she dangerous? Not any more than some of our neighbors who think we should all be like them. We ignore them; we can ignore her. (3) Robert M Ridley 10/28/2007 10:53:00 PM This is tne most sensible thing I have yet heard on the controversy. Rabbi Solomon's words are healing and they help to place the matter into perspective. This is indeed a merchandizing effort. However, I myself have begun to see parallels between this author's methods and the history of Germany in the buildup of the Third Reich. I am alarmed and concerned. I do not think that our society can afford to ignore any extremists who label, categorize and demean groups of people, especially on religious grounds. Ms. Coulter bears watching carefully (from a safe distance).
(4)
Doron
10/27/2007 9:09:00 PM
A friend of the Jews Coulter's "offensive" statement follows her conservative faith-based philosophy and values. I am not offended by it since I feel secure in my own Jewish faith. Besides, Coulter, who comes from the conservative- right, is a friend of the Jews and of the state of Israel. We cannot say the same about those who come from the liberal-left, namely, the main-stream media, university campuses, hollywood and most of the "left-coast." Judaism will be better off if liberal, American Jews come to embrace their faith as warmly as Coulter embraces hers. (5) Anonymous 10/25/2007 11:22:00 AM to Richard think about this If as righteous gentiles they already have a share in the world to come no reason to convert unless he/she perceives Judaism as truth and wishes to embrace a life observing the Torah .Judaism states repentance not conversion is what merits [Rabbi Hannina's executioner jumped into the flames and the heavenly voice cried out both are admitted to olam ha ba ]eternal reward (6) Carole Binder 10/24/2007 1:12:00 PM I care As a Jewish woman I do care. It is sad that a foolish bigot can publicly decide...in her mind...that we Jews need perfecting. And, there will be other people who are not Jewish that will buy into her irrational plabber. Those are the ones that both make her a wealthy woman and cause problems because not everyone believes as they do. (7) Elonna 10/24/2007 12:33:00 PM Desperate for attention Ann Coulter has a history of making obnoxious, offensive comments for publicity (usually when she has a new book out). She created an uproar a couple years ago when she referred to the widows of the 9/11 bombing as "witches and harpies". Now she's attacking Judaism for publicity. No Jew would go on national t.v. and say Christians should convert to Judaism to reach perfection. My mother has always said she admires Jews for this reason, and so do I. Coulter's religion certainly didn't bring her any closer to perfection! She is rude, arrogant, desperate for publicity, and a great example of why I've always shunned Christianity (the religion of most of my relatives). (8) Gary Katz 10/24/2007 11:56:00 AM Yanason's comparison to Cindy Sheehan misses my point I'm no fan of Cindy Sheehan, either, but I would condemn anyone who publicly accused her of "enjoying" her son's death. My point is, that Coulter has the right to disagree with what those 9-11 widows were saying, but there's a way to say things, and many ways not to. Her insensitivity towards those widows makes me wonder if she's ever experienced personal loss. Maybe she has, but puts aside any restraint to sell her book. Of course, you realize that, given her attitude, she probably believes Jews "enjoy" their status as Holocaust victims, to advance Israel. (9) Anonymous 10/24/2007 11:18:00 AM Absolutely, Coulter is horrible, but the Left is even more horrible. Those who demonize Coulter because they identify with the Left have only my deepest contempt. We don't need Coulter- she is far from a role model. But the Leftists of today inspires only revulsion, and do not inspire sympathy when they point out Coulter's deficiencies. Like manure pointing out mold's flaws. (10) norma moskowitz 10/24/2007 10:33:00 AM I will not buy her books...EVER Anyone who speaks the way this person did is stupid and fanatic. Sure we, who adhere to, and practice any religion feel and believe that this is right and good for us, but that doesnt mean that those who practice other religions have no connection to G-d. The best thing to do is to ignore these stupid comments and continue to live our lives according to the teachings of the Torah and to do Chesed and Mitzvot. She is not worth wasting our time. Let's just drop it. Nechama M. (11) yonason 10/24/2007 2:55:00 AM "REBUTTAL" REBUTTED Gary Katz , 10/22/2007 11:49:00 PM is wrong. It's the same as with Cindy Sheehan, who uses the memory of her son as a club to bash Bush, as she aligns herself with REALl anti-Semites. It's one thing to demand answers, and totally another to demonize someone based on hearsay and hate. What those women were doing were using their husbands' deaths in order to attack Bush politically. They weren't demanding answers. They just assumed Bush was guilty, and they were attacking him and supporting his opponents for political motives. That was what Coulter was rightly criticizing. She probably should have been more critical of the Democrats for taking advantage of their vulnerability than of them, but she wasn't entirely unjustified in criticizing them because they had no reason other than political to blame Bush for something no one saw coming. And your attack of her only supports the manipulative Left who, after all, is what Coulter is resisting, as should we. Also, I agree with Moshe Wolfish (I miss your wonderful Melavah Malkahs, btw) regarding what the proper response to her comments should have been. (12) Anonymous 10/23/2007 8:11:00 PM These days it's nice to hear a simple comment that doesn't raise the wrath of the christian community, but just says "what is" ....sadly, this woman should have been in therapy many years ago. I'm sorry that she gets all publicity that she does. Next she'll be making a movie with Mel Gibson. Now there's a marriage!!! (13) Zissi 10/23/2007 6:43:00 PM What is mentioned is reinforced What one mentions constantly is reinforced. If we keep making a big deal when someone makes a silly remark, the person will keep doing it. Don't dignify the remarks with a response. (14) Richard 10/23/2007 4:39:00 PM Think about this If we believe that we have the best and true religion as many including the Rabbi say why don't we share the blessings of our religion with others? (15) David 10/23/2007 2:43:00 PM Excellent! My sentiments exactly. I've certainly heard Jews (including my rabbi) talk about a time when all the gentiles will realize that the Jews were right. I guess if you DON'T think your religion is right (and, consequently, the others are somewhat in error), you might as well pick a new religion. (16) Elliot Hershoff 10/23/2007 2:14:00 PM Why there is trouble in the world It's because of people like her is why we have so much trouble in this world. Why these people are allowed to exist, only Hashem knows. (17) Anonymous 10/23/2007 2:09:00 PM There is something to be said about integrity I found S. Boteach's response ten times more offensive than Coulter's and even more calculated to make money. No doubt he will be booked every Sunday morning for the next ten years explaining to Christians and Jews that Jesus was just another Rabbi. Coulter is at least serious about her religion, something that non-abservant people just can't understand. There is something postitive about integrity, even when we know that the person is mistaken. (18) Michael 10/23/2007 1:36:00 PM Perfected by Judiasm I appreciate your honesty - that is, if I'm hearing you correctly. It sounds like what you're saying is this: Ann Coulter, who was simply honest about what she believes in, should have been quiet about what she believes in. And, if I'm hearing you correctly, you're saying that if anyone who TRULY adheres to the tenants of their religion were perfectly honest AND outspoken, they would say the same thing as Ann - which, in your case, would be something like this: people will only be "perfected" through Judiasm. The only difference I see with Ann and you is that Ann is being honest AND outspoken, and you are being honest and not THAT outspoken. Am I hearing you correctly? Considering Ann wasn't FORCING or THREATENING people to change to her way, but just telling people what she believed, perhaps there's a secret admiration for her being so unashamed and outspoken about what she believed. - Michael (19) Mori 10/23/2007 1:09:00 PM make like a turtle I have always gone against the grain of my fellow Jews. I refuse to allow christians their supposedly god given right to stomp on the Jewish faith. I have instead taken the offensive and been as offensive as possible in my conversations with "them". From the basics of Jews not being "complete" until they accept jesus over Hashem to the more sublime naming of their bible as the "new testament", relegating our torah as the "old" (read passe). My greatest fear is that they wake up to the realization that their religion is based almost (I am being generous) entirely of stolen fiction and stealing credit from their antecedents and they start blaming the Jews as having duped the world about the "Jewish carpenter" they call god. "The Greatest (FICTION) Story Ever Told" (20) Karen 10/23/2007 12:43:00 PM every religion has their idiots, Coulter is just one of those... as there are Muslims who don't know their Koran and there are Jews who don't know Torah, there are umpteen Christians that don't know their Bible. If coulter did she would know that the apostle Paul (as a Jew himself) said to be not conceited in yourselves, for the Jews are G-d's beloved. Let us just chalk her up to be the conceited Christian "village" idiot that she is and leave it be. Better yet, pray for her. G-d alone can change her heart. (21) captain ron 10/23/2007 12:34:00 PM salomon you are no solomon ignoring someone like coulter and brushing her remarks under the rug is absurd..time to stand tall rabbi.this is how it started in germany..ignorance is not bliss. (22) arthur 10/23/2007 9:37:00 AM What's The Big Surprise We, as Jews, know exactly who these people are and how they think. Christians worship a false Messiah. They condemn and hate anyone who doesn't believe as they do. So why are we surprised when one of these Christian crazies says what they believe out loud? (23) Rosen 10/23/2007 8:57:00 AM Coulter's misinformation on perfection If Coulter says that "Christianity is to perfect the Jews", then why is there also the slogan or bumper sticker that says "Christians AREN'T perfect, just forgiven?" Thus, she really doesn't know what she is talking about, because how can Christianity "perfect" someone by saying that if you don't believe in Jesus, you will "go to hell", and raping and pillaging foreign villages to spread the word of the Gospel? The Catholic Church certainly isn't perfect since they have countless pedophilia cases by priests molesting children. As for Judaism, the beauty of it is that it does not condemn nor kill anyone for not believing or thinking the way we do, as I had mentioned in an earlier message on this comments board. In the Torah, Deut. 13 shows how one can spot a false prophet if it promotes certain, random miracles and spiritual extortion. (24) Dicken Hall 10/23/2007 2:54:00 AM Solomon's right, Coulter's wrong As a devout Christian, who loves his Jewish brothers and sisters, I wish to confirm what Rabbi Solomon says, which is very close to what the talk-show host on whose program Ann Coulter spouted her venom. Normally, I enjoy her dry humor and sharp wit, although I happened to see the program and was summarily disappointed in her choice of words in that interview. Bill O'Reilly has been castigated by many viewers, and a few other people in the public eye, for not calling her to task for her comments on the spot, but he said that she was entitled to her opinion, and since that was all it was, an opinion, he didn't want to give it any more publicity by commenting on it; in other words : "Who cares"? I agree with both Rabbi Solomon and Bill O'Reilly; let's drop the subject as soon as possible. (25) Gary Katz 10/22/2007 11:49:00 PM Rebuttal I'm sorry that you're sorry, Yonason, but Coulter's remark, that the 9/11 widows were "enjoying" their husbands' deaths, is unforgiveable. The fact that she was only attacking four of them doesn't get her off the hook. The widows want to know how the government may have screwed up in not preventing 9/11. Lots of Americans would like to know the very same thing. It has nothing to do with being leftist or rightist. If a mother sought answers after her child was murdered by a pedophile, would Coulter accuse her of enjoying her child's death? Wouldn't surprise me. (26) mike 10/22/2007 7:53:00 PM i would prefer to know what someone thinks i would rather someone put "their cards on the table" than have to guess their hand. we now know her feelings can make our own decisions based on them. (27) Andy 10/22/2007 1:48:00 PM I don't think she wishes Jews harm just as I don't think Jews who believe Catholicism is idolatry wish Catholics harm. I think she is a "successful"businesswoman and entertainer. I don't think she wishes Jews harm just as I don't think Jews who believe Catholicism is idolatry wish Catholics harm.I think that the Christian idea that Jews need to be perfected stems from the belief that Jews will lose out in the next world for rejecting the divinity of Jesus. As I understand it Jews believe that Gentiles who observe the Noachide do not face such a loss hence no need to actively seek converts. If as righteous gentiles they already have a share in the world to come no reason to convert unless he/she perceives Judaism as truth and wishes to embrace a life observing the Torah .Judaism states repentance not conversion is what merits [Rabbi Hannina's executioner jumped into the flames and the heavenly voice cried out both are admitted to olam ha ba ]eternal reward (28) moshe hachamovitch 10/22/2007 10:54:00 AM Coulterism works for Coulter Not withstanding Rabi Solomon's great response to Ms.Coulter , I still don't believe anybody should dignify her with an answer : Like a toddler using expletives -she is craving attention , best is just to ignore her. If Judaism was good for Jesus (died a Jew...) it is certainly good for me . (29) Darry Weinberg 10/22/2007 10:52:00 AM Light ot the Nations It is refreshing Rabbi that people in the Jewish community actually see Ann Coulter's comments as being true to her faith and not a condemnation or hatred of Jews. However, if we believe we have the correct way to God, should we not proseltyze? Was it not Israel's job to be Ohr L'Goyim, a Light to the Nations? If we care for man's well being, then we should try to give them the correct answer? Coulter's comments come out of her desire that everyone should go to heaven and would risk people's ire in stating so. That to me is the most honouring to God. (30) Roy 10/22/2007 9:23:00 AM Medved Interview on Townhall.com In my earlier post, I encouraged everyone to look at Coulter's actual exchange with Deutsch. Another great place to go is the Michael Medved show (at Townhall.com and downloadable through iTunes) where Coulter spoke at length about her thoughts. Final word--The Rabbi is right--this is a non-issue. I don't think she was just trying to sell books, but a Christian who unabashedly supports Israel, states explicitly that Jews go to heaven and invites you to church *might* be less menacing than people who state outright their intention to destroy Israel... (31) Mosheh Wolfish 10/22/2007 8:37:00 AM Coulter has a point - Jews need to be perfected! When my sons were born they were born Jewish, but on their eighth day I perfected them, as G-d demanded of Abraham they he perfect himself. This is an ongoing requirement of Jews, as it says in the Torah (Deuteronomy 18:13). Donny Deutsch, the host, must not understand this requirement. What a shame he didn't agree with her and then commit himself to study Torah! (32) Shoshana Stubin 10/22/2007 8:30:00 AM Finally, a rational reaction to what should be a non-issue! I happen to agree with much of what Ann Coulter writes, although I think her manner of delivery is rather smarmy. Just because she is as certain of her religious beliefs as I am of mine doesn't really have anything to do with how I view her socioeconomic or political commentary. Expressing her view of religion doesn't make her right; it only reflects our right to free speech in America. After all, isn't free expression of religious belief something we treasure here? I couldn't care less if she stuck pins in a voodoo doll wearing a yarmulka! (33) yonason 10/22/2007 8:11:00 AM The Real "Witch Hunt" "She accused the wives of 9/11 victims of milking their status." -- Gary Katz , 10/21/2007 9:20:00 PM Sorry, Gary, but that is another slander the Left has made against her in their P.C. Jihad against anyone who says anything they don't like. She didn't denounce ALL of them, just FOUR (4) who were using 9/11 to advance the Leftist political agenda. (Actually, she would be right to criticize any of them for advancing any agenda, but in fact it is only the Left that uses things like 9/11, the body count from Iraq, etc., to intimidate others into doing what the Left wants.) Here's the perspective from outside the Left's propaganda camp . . . "Ann Coulter has deflated another MSM/DNC propaganda balloon, and the leftists are squealing like stuck pigs. In Ann's new book, Ann writes the following about four of the widows from 9-11 who have allowed their names to be used in a relentless campaign against George W. Bush and for the Democrats:" cassandra2004.blogspot.com/2006/06/ann-coulter-godless-witches-of-east.html Dorothy Rabinowitz "gets it", too. www.opinionjournal.com/medialog/?id=110004950 Of course Coulter is wrong about a Jew's relation with Hashem. But so what? That's what she has been taught to believe. As long as she doesn't show contempt for me or try hurt me or to coerce me to change, she is entitled to be wrong, if that is what she sincerely believes. If we are strong in our faith in Hashem, we won't be intimidated by her nonsense. If there is anything to be concerned about it is that the Left is very aggressive and mean spirited about controlling what everyone else thinks and does. If you value freedom of speech for yourself, don't join with those who would suppress it for others. The reason they hate her, and want to destroy her, is because she exposes who they really are, as here . . . "Here is Coulter's take: '[After 9/11 liberals] wailed about "McCarthyism" and claimed to be "very very concerned" -- not about terrorist attacks on America but about "civil liberties." Liberals' idea for fighting domestic terrorism was to hold folk-song rallies with Muslims. When they aren't complaining about alleged threats to civil liberties, they are complaining about us. Two days after the [9/11] attack, novelist Norman Mailer, whose last successful novel was written fifty-four years ago, said the crumpled World Trade Center was 'more beautiful than the building was,' and America was 'the most hated nation on earth'." www.frontpagemag.com/Articles/Read.aspx?GUID={85013A39-1679-49EF-9799-DE762C337F95} Yeah, most hated by our enemies, which includes the Leftists. Don't let others do your thinking for you; and, when you do, think about it with your head, and not your Kishkas. Thenm, you might just "get it," yourself. (34) Gershon 10/22/2007 3:19:00 AM Ann the antagonist? While I do not know whether or not Ann Coulter is an anti-Semite, I feel that her words are not necessarily so. Many Christians feel that we Jews are not going to heaven, and that we are not as good as they are since we do not believe in Christ. My wife's friend is a Jew for Jewish. She told my wife what her beliefs are. My reaction to this "Jewish" woman's words was of disbelief, and my thoughts are that she is nuts – making Ann's words seem of little consequence. We Jews are easily incensed when it comes to real or perceived anti-Semitism, and sometimes overreact. Perhaps it is not, in this situation, because we feel Ann is anti-Semitic, but rather that we don't like her politically and we are reacting the words of a right-winger. (35) Steve 10/22/2007 1:47:00 AM A Calm Voice in a Crazy World As a Christian--by birth, and not so much by practice I must admit--I want to echo the sentiments of Bob Stern. Rabbi, your comments were spot on. So many Christians seem to forget that Jesus, whoever and whatever one may believe him to be, was a Jew. Forgive me if I am out of line posting here as an outsider, but I have a deep respect for the Jewish people, and I have also recently become a frequent visitor to aish.com. (36) Bob 10/22/2007 1:32:00 AM Couldn't agree more; just showing her ignorance. (37) Anonymous 10/22/2007 1:06:00 AM You agree with Michael Medved Michael Medved agrees with you, Rabbi, but adds, importantly, that Coulter's remarks, quite normal for a believing Christian, are merely a distraction from our real enemies, the Muslims who would have us dead, rather than converted by choice. (you might want to read Medved at Townhall.com) Great post, Rabbi. (38) Gayle 10/22/2007 12:52:00 AM Who is she? Why even give her a second thought? I personally don't have any idea who she is so why give creedence to this nobody? I am proud of my Judaism and my Heritage! (39) Anonymous 10/22/2007 12:08:00 AM Right On Thank you Rabbi Salomon for some good old-fashioned common sense. Coulter is a vituperative moron under all circumstances; she deserves to be ignored in general. (40) Anonymous 10/21/2007 11:55:00 PM Still offensive Christians as "Perfected Jews" is not just the wrong choice of words. I've had members of the missionary group Jews For Jesus tell me I need to become a "perfected Jew" in those exact words. At the core of the idea of "Perfected Jews" is the idea that the Jews must be converted. In fact, if you look on Christian missionary sites, many of them were bragging about the free publicity that the idea of "Perfected Jews" got and they show hope that more people will join their groups thanks to the publicity of Ann Coulter making that remark on television. This is not the same as Passion of the Christ. Passion of the Christ cannot be tied to the missionary efforts of Christians- it was merely a movie about their religion. The idea of "perfected Jews" however has at it's root a mission of conversion that directly targets Jews. (41) yonason 10/21/2007 10:45:00 PM Ho-Hum B"H Her comments were given in response to being pressed for an honest answer. She didn't go in there demanding anything, but when she was forced to respond she did so honestly according to what she believes, she is condemned. Why? Because Truth has failed. The only reason she is being vilified is because the left, who believes the world won't be 'perfecte' till everyone believes what they do, want to silence any and all opinions they don't approve of. Remember, if we told them that non-Jews would be 'perfected' by believing in Hashem and becoming Noahides, we would be treated the same way, especially if they already hated us and were looking for an excuse to burn us at the stake.. There is nothing there to take offense at, except the Leftists' inquisition and their attempts to force their agenda on everyone else. (42) betty prussel 10/21/2007 9:20:00 PM personal slurs always hurt! After 3/4 of a century, I should know slurs against us (Jews) will not end, but nevertheless it still bothers me!...possibly because I know my grandchildren will also be hurt. In the meantime, I've ben advised to look on Coulter as another Rush Lumbaugh. (43) Gary Katz 10/21/2007 9:20:00 PM What an idiot Ann Coulter is simply an idiot. She accused the wives of 9/11 victims of milking their status. How sensitive. She wants Jews to convert? How thoughtful. Maybe she can also devise a way for blacks to become white, while she's at it. (44) Malky Schwartz 10/21/2007 7:25:00 PM Hashkafa Lesson Anne Coulter can sure give a Lesson for Life. Coulter claims that Christianity is the "fast track" while Jews need to be perfected. You can get upset and insulted (as I initially did), but you can also choose to look at it as a little lesson in life's ways. Coulter explained that Jesus was a kaparah/atonement for all of Christians' sins. Jews, on the other hand, need to be perfected before going to heaven. [According to Coulter, Christian's know that their sinners, but Jesus atoned for it through his demise.] I take it that G-d is sending a subliminal message through her words. Think about it. No matter how politically incorrect and hurtful her words are, there is some truth to "Jews need to be perfected", although not in the way that Anne Coulter intended. There is something called Hishtadlus -- effort. We do our part, and G-d will do his. Money doesn't appear out of thin air. There won't be any vegetables to eat if no one plants the seeds and works the soil and you're not guaranteed a great marriage just because you're married to a great person. This is, perhaps, the fundamental difference between Judaism and various other religions. My cousin once wisely stated: The most proficient Segullah/amulet for Parnassah/livelihood is getting a job! [Statistics show that bumming around, doesn't get you very far. Surprise, surprise!] Heaven is not a "right of passage", you have to work hard to get there. It is also natural to enjoy things more, the harder you work to attain them. For instance, I find Challah so much more enjoyable when I have made it myself. Yeah I end up with flour all over the kitchen floor, the bowls, spoons, and measuring cups to clean, the dough stuck under my nails and all that time that I may have been able to sleep late instead. Challah cannot make it-self and although I can buy it from a bakery, I choose to make it myself. Why? The hard work, the fresh smell of it wafting through the house, the sweet taste and the enjoyment shared in eating it, makes it so much more worthwhile, appealing and tasty than having gotten that Challah any other way. This brings me to the following and then my conclusion: Yes we have the Mitzvos and they may seem hard at times, but they are indeed "the highway to heaven". G-d doesn't benefit from the Mitzvos, we do. He created them to make life better for us, whether we choose to see it or not. One may have a slim physique and fast metabolism so therefore never exercises or watches what he eats. Unfortunately, being slim doesn't guarantee one a long life or a healthy one either. Working out and eating a healthy diet may seem like a nuisance, but its benefits are bountiful, effecting many aspects of our lives. Yes, Anne is right! Jews do need to work hard to go to heaven, but so does every one else. Mitvos are simply a more sweeter, meaningful, and more fulfilling way to get there! (45) Rachel 10/21/2007 6:21:00 PM I wonder if you'd be so sanguine if the remarks had been made by Michael Moore or another liberal? I'm sorry, but Ann Coulter showed more than a poor choice of words; she's a bigot. Given centuries of Christian anti-Semitism (which responsible Christian voices, such as the Roman Catholic and Lutheran churches, have only forsworn since the Holocaust), her remarks are grossly insensitive at least and inflammatory at worst. And I think there's a double standard on the part of some among the Orthodox rabbis -- I don't know about R. Saloman, but I can just imagine the hue and cry from the Jewish religious right if Michael Moore, Al Sharpton, et al had made such comments. Shame on Ann Coulter -- and when ANYONE engages in hate speech, he/she should be called on it. (46) Leonore Brooks 10/21/2007 5:20:00 PM !Reject her books and ignore her callous remarks! Ms. Coulter must call attention to herself! She will say anything to attract people to her!Unfortunately, she has been given many forums to "shock" people with insults, etc. (47) Reuven Elijah 10/21/2007 5:02:00 PM Excellent. Rav,well said. Coulter may be defined in many negative ways, but she is not stupid or ignorant. She has well-learned the lesson that the person who stirs up the most trouble sells best. I believe this incident, as with others in her past, was well planned with the intent to cause controversy. What a shame that the only way she seems to be able to do that is to stir the cauldron of hatred. (48) Ari Stotleman 10/21/2007 4:33:00 PM I do not agree, Rabbi! The operative word here is "perfect." Since the beginning of human-kind, people have been slaughtered because they were not "perfect." True, Coulter did not call for the "perfectization" or slaughter of Jews, but she is not militant. However, her ideas can be seen as justification for militant believers of her same twisted concepts. It should be emphasized to her ilk that faith is not knowledge and since no one has ever returned from the path to the Lord, no one really knows the way there, the best we can do is believe we do. Ann should keep her options open. Didn't her mother ever tell her, "Ann, no one's perfect."? (49) Anonymous 10/21/2007 3:33:00 PM So Right...Not Worth the Time of Day Thanks so much for your wise comments...we know the woman has a mouth that seemingly is not connected to her brain many times...speaks before thinking...tries to be provocative but ends up living up to an image of crude rude... all in the guise of selling her books...not worth the ink it is printed with... let me also say, she does NOT speak for all Christians...and it is apparent she does not understand how often Christians are misled by not understanding the OT becuz they never sought a Rabbi to help interpret the meanings...thanks for your wisdom and calm approach... (50) Luis T. 10/21/2007 3:28:00 PM Marginalize her This is a seriously deeply disturbed woman who has issues that go beyond the pale as well as the cognitive. One wonders what constituency(if any)she has or is striving for. The more she opens her mouth, the less relevant she becomes. Such irrational drivel should always be marginalized. (51) ELIYAHU GIGI 10/21/2007 3:28:00 PM ..good point I really liked Ann Coulter until I watched the show and heard her idiotic remarks about Jews. I wasn't sure what to make of it at first; and it really bothered me for a few days. Hearing your insight about what she said helps put some clarity into the whole situation. Thank you. (52) Beverly Kurtin, Ph.D. 10/21/2007 3:17:00 PM Thanks, Rabbi! Ignoring Ann C. is probably the best way to go. I am VERY completed in my Judaism, thank you very much. I have studied the Christian Testament and cannot find one thing that is not Jewish with the exception of claiming that human blood being spilled is in anyway efficacious for the forgiveness of sins. HaShem outlawed human sacrifice, how can Christians think that by breaking a commandment (which, after all is what sin is) can blot out all sins. How can any group of people not see that? Then Mika makes the same error that most Americans make in thinking that most founders of America were Christians. Some were, the rest were Deists, including none other than George Washington and Benjamin Franklin. If most Americans were Christians, malls would be closed on Sunday, the churches would be filled to the rafters. Most Christians are Christians in name only; just as many Jews are Jews in name only. They do not go to a house of worship on any regular basis, practice the tenants of their faith, and in short are what they are because their parents were what they were. It's pretty much like if one's parents were Democrats, the children think of themselves to be the same. However, as we all know, Judaism is something into which a person is born. Christianity requires a conscious decision to BECOME a Christian. As a Christian pastor friend of mine says that being born a Christian does not make anyone a Christian anymore than being born in a bakery makes you bread. Judaism does not require a decision; it is part and parcel of being born of a Jewish mother. One can be a Jew without ever darkening the doorstep of a synagogue. It is not the same as being "born a Christian." One can be born a Jew or a Gentile, but never a Christian. That said, Ann C., she's a bad joke. She is not worthy of being listened to or reacting to. I ignore her, and if she put out her had to have me shake it, I'd either turn around to snub her or slap it to show my contempt for her hatred for EVERYTHING and ANYBODY that is not her. Apparently she has been in contact with some of the Jews for Jesus types. That is the only place that I've heard the term "completed Jew" used. Ghandi once said, "I like your Christ, I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ." How true, how true. Jesus reportedly said, "You will know my followers by their love" or words to that effect. Ann spouts nothing but raw unadulterated hate for anyone with whom she disagrees. She is not a Christian of any stripe if she can say what she says and then claims to be a Christian. I have known some true Christians. They did not have to hang crosses around their necks, place pictures of "Jesus" all over their homes, they just exuded a calm love for all and did what they could do to do what we were commanded to do: Love your neighbor as yourself. Lev. 19:18. In James 2:8 in the Christian Testament are the words If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, "Love your neighbor as yourself,"* you are doing right. Is Ann "doing right?" Hardly Am I judging her? You betcha! But in reality, she is judging herself and showing the entire world what a miserable, lonely person she must be. Ann C., why don't YOU become a Noahide or a Christian instead of whatever it is that you are now? One last thought. Since the United States were supposedly founded on Christian Values and all Christian Values were originally Jewish Values, then the United States is founded on Jewish principles. (53) Anonymous 10/21/2007 2:16:00 PM i of the things she told the inerviewer was "you can be a practicing jew" (54) Linda Diane McMillan 10/21/2007 1:54:00 PM Ann Coulter does not speak for Christendom If you have to become a Christian to be perfected then Jesus himself was not perfect because he never converted to Christianity. Every single Christian I know is aware of this. How such a simple thing could escape Ann Coulter is beyond me. Ann Coulter is an example of the very worst kind of rabble-rousing in my faith (Christianity). Her comments are an embarrassment. I don't think that there are tens of thousands of Christians who agree with her. If there are, I don't know where they are. I think that she is as much a one-off as Jerry Falwell, or Pat Robertson. My prayer is that we can all ignore her, as Rabbi Salmon advises, and get on with the business of healing the world. Linda McMillan Austin, Texas (55) Franklin Samel 10/21/2007 1:18:00 PM coulter Next to Jesus, she must be the perfect Christian. What Chutzpah!! Franklin Samel, Orlando, Florida (56) Elliott 10/21/2007 12:38:00 PM More than selling books.... Ann Coulter is a sincere Christian. You correctly reason that all sincere people of faith believe their choice of religion is best and if others seek to join, there are certain rituals that must be adhered to. This is not about selling books, it is about explaining the defining elements of religion. More importantly, unlike Islam, neither she nor any other adherent to Judeo/Christian principles require subjugation, death or taxation for those who choose not to join Islam. We owe a debt of gratitude to Ann Coulter for requiring us to better understand the meaning of faith and the value of religion. (57) Anonymous 10/21/2007 11:21:00 AM I agree; it is still offensive. She's simply a hateful person, though, and it's difficult to ignore her comments. You know the adage that Jews are so rich that we're trying to rule the world, but the opposite is true: those who hate Judaism and make it sound great are the ones making the money and ruling the world. Really, really sad. (58) Bob Stern 10/21/2007 10:34:00 AM Thank you Rabbi Thank you Rabbi, Your analysis was right on and sensible. I was trying to ignore her comments about us and now I can. (59) Ryan 10/21/2007 10:14:00 AM Mature assessment Salomon, great blog. Your words are mature and accurate in my opinion. (60) jamie 10/21/2007 10:01:00 AM It is still offensive I agree Coulter -- in this case -- is only espousing what tens of millions of believing Christians actually believe. But i still find it offensive. Why? In her ultimate vision, Jews should disappear from the face of the earth and be 'perfected' --whereas Judaism's ultimate vision does NOT call for the disapperance of Christians. Non-Jews do not need to be 'perfected' or to become Jews. Yes the believing Jew and the believing Christian both think their religion is the Truth, but Coulter's viewpoint tolerates no other; Judaism does. (61) Nathan 10/21/2007 9:56:00 AM I agree 100% I AGREE! The best way to keep this bickering shrew out of the media is to simply ignore her. She only has "offensive" comments to make when she has a book to sell. (62) Yosef Hakohen 10/21/2007 9:48:00 AM The Divine Vindication of Judaism I would agree that we should not go to the non-Jewish media and make a big public issue over the remarks of Coulter, the Insulter; nevertheless, we, the People of the Torah, should feel some pain that her crude insults against Judaism, expecially when she indicated that we should "throw away" our Judaism, were broadcast to millions of people, including some Jews with little Jewish education. After all, the fact that Coulter publicly insulted the spiritual path that God gave us is a reminder that we have not yet arrived in the messianic age when, "It will happen that ten men, of all the different languages of the nations will take hold, they will take hold of the corner of the garment of a Jewish man, saying, 'Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you!' " (Zechariah 8:23) Many Christians and Muslims believe that at the end of days, the Jews will follow them in order to know how to approach God; however, the above prophecy reveals that they will come to the very people they once persecuted and despised and say, "Let us go with you!" (63) Rosen 10/21/2007 7:13:00 AM Christianity is no monopoly! The unique thing about Judaism is that it teaches NOT to condenm nor kill those who don't think the way we do. While the 7 Noahide laws are ideal, the gentile population will decide whether to come to us and say, "lead us for we have heard G-d is with you."...As for Ann Coulter, she ought to be censured since Christianity does not have a monopoly on religion, and even though it is quite powerful in the western world, it is still derived from pagan roots - not just that of Jewish aspects. Coulter probably doesn't know what she is talking about and the implications she is bringing upon the Jews. Even though the Jews have incurred such spiritual extortion (i.e. anti-semitism) over the course of history, it is best to note that those who remained loyal to the Torah clearly did not give in to such idolatry, assimilation, and darkness, even under pain of death. Jews like me will NEVER give into the temptation of converting to another faith like Christianity. I just wonder whether we are out of the dark ages of anti-semitism for the 21st century or 5768. If only Christian theology would exempt the Jews from condemnation, which would clear up all the anti-semitism going on for the past 2000+ years. If it weren't for Judaism, there would be no purpose for the world, let alone that there may not of been Christianity after Judaism. Hence, Jews ought to speak up a lot more when their religious freedoms are being violated by the Christian right (or otherwise) for themselves and for Israel. (64) Mika S. 10/21/2007 5:57:00 AM Why I am not offended QUESTION: How many Christians will there be in the perfect, heavenly Jewish version of America in the Messianic Era? How many will attend church and worship Jesus after the coming of the moshiach? Will Americans remain Christians, or eventually, in our vision of a perfect America, become Noahides? (In Orthodox Judaism, pagan religions are NOT valid paths to G-d.) Is this offensive to Christianity? Maybe. But it's not like we, American Jews, are going to force our Christian countrymen into becoming Noahides, right? Or would we if we could? We shouldn't accuse our fellow Americans of similar evils either. In the perfect, heavenly America of Ann Coulter, everyone will be happy, conservative, Republican, patriotic and Christian. But it's not like she or her fellow Evangelical Christians are going to force us into becoming "Messianic Jews", right? Maybe we're not that different anyway. When her "moshiach" comes, we will adopt her faith. When our moshiach comes, she will drop hers for what we believe is better. I have no need to constantly demonize the conservative religious right. I'm not that insecure. And I don't feel offended by the fact that most Americans are Christians, this country was founded by Christians, and those good, hardworking Christian country folks with high morals and a heart for freedom, has done a lot of good for America, Israel and the Jewish people. Come on, give me a break. We have more dangerous enemies than Ann Coulter.
Rabbi Yaakov Salomon
Rabbi Yaakov Salomon, C.S.W. is a noted psychotherapist, in private practice in Brooklyn, N.Y. for over 25 years. He is a Senior Lecturer and the Creative Director of Aish Hatorah's Discovery Productions.
 Rabbi Salomon is co-author, with Rabbi Noah Weinberg, of the best selling book "What the Angel Taught You; Seven Keys to Life Fulfillment," (Mesorah), and is also the co-producer of the highly-acclaimed film, "Inspired." His most recent book is "Something to Think About; Extraordinary Reflections About Ordinary Events (Mesorah)." His speaking, writing and musical talents have delighted audiences from Harvard to Broadway and everything in between. Rabbi Salomon shares his life with his wife, Temmy, and their unpredictable family. Like what you read? As a non-profit organization, Aish.com relies on support from readers like you to enable us to provide inspiring and relevant articles. Click here to support Aish.com.
|
|
 |
If you would like to receive "Salomon Says" or other features via e-mail, please enter you email address here:
|
|||||||||||||||||||||
Donate to Aish
 |
|
Listen to audio by 
