Shabbat Comes to the White House

Take the phone off the hook for Shabbat. It works wonders. Or text a Shabbat Shalom right before Shabbat begins. At the end, send them a Shavua Tov. That works too.

How do they go to synagogue in Potomac if they live in DC?
If they can drive can they pick up a phone?

Clinton could have sent a messenger to Lew's home or come himself. Presumably, this type of problem has been discussed by Lew and Obama and a procedure for real emergencies worked out. Unfortunately, many people are self centered and believe that any problem they have has to be solved immediately. If someone has a boss like that it is better to change jobs than to try to solve an unsolvable problem.

Of course it is good for the Jews to have an observant Jew as chief of staff. The mere fact that we are asking the question means there aren't enough Jews in government, such that we must consider in each case whether it will be "good for the Jews."

I am not concerned whether he is an Orthodox Jew or not. I am concerned whether he is a mench or not. It appears that there are very few menchim in the Obama administration. This doesn't make the administration reputable.

shabat would be wonderful if all the world caught on

Muslims have Fridays, Christians have Sundays. Why should the Jews not have their Shabat.

Let's hope it catches on and reforms the US government. The pope must be upset.

I do have reservations as for him being an orthodox Jew. about him being an orthodox Jew. P.S. What exactly did Clonton want and was the phone answered?

I am very glad to hear there will be a voice of reason in that huge white house on the hill. I pray it will be heard and listened to when needed. If this appointment is only a ploy, it will probably back fire for truth and what is jsut and right will not perish under pressure

I very much fear that if the economy in the U.S. turns south, or there is yet another recession, guess who will be blamed? (I am not a fan of Obama -- he tells too many lies, cannot be trusted, favors the Muslim Brotherhood, and I don't think he's serious about preventing Iran from going nuclear.)

I believe this is just another political ploy Obama is using to keep the Jewish vote. Remember Obama knows so much about Judaism " because he has read about it"...OOOIIIYYYY!!!! I'm not Jewish but love Israel....the People and the Land. G-d Bless you!!!

Not only good for the Jews but for the world only if he is for the defense and survival of the Jewish State,insists on more respect to Bibi and Israel, condemns terrorism, and tells the real truth not the ameliorated one and was put into this position not only to save face for the White House but to really bring Halacha and Justice on a bipartisan level. Right now we have no friends in the White House.

Pro Isreal does not mean use of U.S. Troops. America is fed up with wars.

i am jewish but not answering a phone on certain holidays is just lot of nonsence what about emergenciest the thinking of these orthodox rabbis is beyond belief all these laws are written by men not god please it boggles the mind

.. in case of health emergencies; answering for Prez Clinton is just not as important as observing Shabbat.

well he did well, as obey before complain, you need to obey God before you complain so that is how its works, shalom to you Lews

All America sees is a speculation. I hope The Almighty will understand, but my instinct tells me we all need toseek Him for true wisdom!

IT IS WONDERFUL FOR A SABBATH OBSERVER TO HAVE AN IMPORTANT POSITION. IT SHOWS OTHER OBSERVANT JEWS THEY TOO CAN PURSUE THE GOAL OF THEIR CHOICE, AND B RESPECTED AS A JEW. WHAT IF THE POSITION WAS HELD BY A NON JEW AND HE HAS A HEART ATTACK AND DROPS DEAD??? THE GOVERNMENT WONT FALL APART!

OK, it is clear he is not a sworn friend. So wasn't George Bush the First. So wasn't George Bush the Second until 9/11 when it suited him to clearly and simplisticly delineate the good guys from the bad 'you're either with us or against us'. So wasn't Clinton except with Peres - Rabin leading the most Left wing governement ever to reign in Israel, In fact name me a single President who was a friend of Israel! And why should they be? American Presidents are elected to be friends of the USA and act in its interest. That interest is going to collide with Israel's interest at times and that is only natural. American Presidents are judged by their electorate once every four years, and that electorate lives in states like Illinois, Indiana, and Iowa, not Israel. Of course they are going to act in their own self interest. No surprise there. And lastly, Israel makes mistakes. Any saints to be found in Israel are more likely to be in the Beit Knesset than the Israeli Knesset. Lots of bad behaviour has happened in Israel and that is not something new. Just ask anyone from the old Yishuv how the early Zionists tried to eradicate religion from immigrant children by using force. How can one expect every single soldier at a checkpoint to be sensitive to every Palestinian stopped? They are only kids brought up in a racist often abrasive atmosphere. Of course mistakes happen. They may even happen alot. In summary, Obama is up against elements of the Jewish community that are unforgiving of any criticism of Israel even when legitimate. Who consider him anti-Israel for not doing precisely what they would like him to do. Were I American, I would not hesitate to vote Obama regardless of his appointment of Lew. But for the raucous elements within the Jewish community insisting on finding proof and motive of Obama's anti-Israel sentiment here is a big tasty Jew-friendly bone to chew on. For the more rational among us, it is an entirely unnecessary gesture.

The American people are awaking to the lies.How could you think the Jews could trust him.

No one has the right to criticize Israel until they have walked the walk and talked the talk of survival. I am a holocaust survivor and Eretz Zion replaced my dead family. And if you are not an American who are you and why do you try to gloss over the real issue which is to survive?

The appointment of Mr. Lew proves that the president is desperate to retain the Jewish vote. He must be frantic knowing that many Jews in the US have seen his true nature by closely wartching his treatment of Israel, especially that of the PM, Mr. Netanyahu. It is paionfullyobvious that Obama has no love for Israel, and will appoint anyone, and use anyone, in order to salvage any chance he might have ever had to be reelected. Depending on the actions of Mr. Lew, especially in his support of decisions by Obama relating to Israel, this could be a very bad thing for Jews. Only time will tell.

I voted for President Obama in the previous election believing that he was neutral towards Israel. Watching his actions (or lack there of) over the years has proven my wrong. I too believe that Mr. Lew's appointment is "smoke and mirrors". I try not to make the same mistake twice, but my delima is that I do not like the present Republican front runners. Currently, I'm asking myself, "should I even vote?"

FIRST THING THAT CAME TO MY MIND WAS THIS IS GREAT ,MAYBE HE COULD HELP OUT MR. RUBASHKIN.

No him and Rahm will be blamed if anything goes wrong. Stay away from Obama

Well how convenient.... With the election just less than a year away, it appears that Lew is the new Rahm Emmanuel. I remember when a dear friend of mine, who was a diehard liberal, tearfully shared back in 2008 that she thought this was the first time in her life she would have to vote Republican due to Obama's shady views towards Israel. This was just tearing her and her family apart. A couple of months later, she called me overjoyed that now she would be able to vote for Obama since Rahm Emmanuel was given such a powerful position and that made Obama "Kosher" now. ( I am still convinced that Obama and Rahm had some kind of "pact", You help me get the Jewish vote and I will make sure you get elected in Chicago in a couple of years). Ahh politics, such corruption, such deception. Personally, I don't care whether a candidate is Jewish, Christian, Black, White etc. I look for one thing and one thing only, good character and integrity.

You said, "I look for one thing and one thing only, good character and integrity." Jimmy Carter had both, but he was still incompetent. It now seems that Jimmy HAD both; he doesn't seem to have either one any more.

This is an election year and Obama needs to re-claim some of the Jewish vote he has lost due to his treatment of Israel. Enter Jacob Lew. Already being used is Debbie Wasserman Schultz whose purpose is to win back as many Jews in Florida where she lives. Remember, Obama has never visited Israel as President. Why not? Why could he not come to Israel right after the Cairo address? Moshiach now!!!

First let me say I am a practicing Jew, however, don’t be fooled by this President. This appointment of Mr. Lew is entirely political. Obama is NOT a friend of Israel. He has the worst record towards Israel than anyone before him. This appointment of Mr. Lew is to make him look good. This position is symbolic and a figurehead. That is why Mr. Daley left this position and 2 others before him. The real power is wheeled by Senior Advisors Valerie Jarrett and David Plouffe. Now having said that, “Is it good for Jews to have positions of authority?” Yes, it is always good for Jews to be in positions of authority. Specially if G-d allows it and that is between Mr. Lew and G-d. All you need to do is read the story of Joseph in Genesis, to see how G-d can use his people to help others.

G-d works in mysterious ways.

Let us remember that G-d rules in the affairs of man. How do we know that he has not been placed in that position 'for such a time as this?'. It was because of Esther's position in Shushan why the Jews were spared when the wicked Haman planned their annihilation and we all know how the Jews were well taken care of because of Joseph's position in Egypt. Let us pray for Mr. Lew that he will hold the his Jewish 'standard' high.

no, He will end up obamas' token Jew. also if something goes wrong who do you think obama will blame?As Jews we are the leaders in the back ground not in the for-front.

Impressing! Most people are too afraid of humans to respect G´Ds will! I like this man because he is living his faith!

It's a good thing for we jew but he should observe the shabbath as supposed of him as a jew for THE CREATOR will not count him guiltless if he defiles the shabbath and the white house should understand that.

What could be bad? A person in power is devoted to the preservation of Israel, a person who was brought up honoring ethics, honesty, equality and morality cannot be the right choice for any task.

I AM A JEW AND BELIEVE IN RELIGION, BUT I DON'T THINK AN ORTHODOX JEW SHOULD BE INVOLVED IN SUCH AN IMPORTANT ROLE. PEOPLE IN THIS HIGH A POSITION SHOULD BE REACHED 24/7.

Depends who he really is. Is he truly one with G-d & Torah? Do all his actions reflect that? Is he consistent? Any discrepancies will NOT be "good for the Jews".

Appointing a Jew to such an influential position verifies to me, and it should to others, that Obama is a STRONG Israeli supporter. This appointment should remove ANY DOUBT where the President stands when it concerns Israel'' safety and security.

I think it would be good for us(Jews) and unless we are faced war or and evil enemy, Mr. Lew should keep the Sabbath on Saturday's and not answer the phone.

Points of halacha have to be explained in a way - that's it black on white. When people we live or work with see that we stand firm on guidelines of halacha, they learn to respect what we stand for. I work in mixed society, and even though they don't like it sometimes, threre's respect

You know, I had fully planned to vote against Obama in November, but seeing all this Lashon Harah thrown around against him, I think I may have to chance my mind, because I can't give credence to so-called shomrei mitzvot who engage in outrageous motzi shem ra. You want to say his policies are anti-Israel? FIne, you have a leg to stand on. But "wicked white house" "leftist party" "New Rome" "wolf in sheep's clothing" "[Obama] is a Muslim", etc., etc.? Come on! Use your God given minds to debate intelligently, not just motzi shem ra. You think it's cynically buying votes? Whose? The quarter of a million (all ages) frum Jews who traditionally vote republican anyway? Does he really need them when, if really demographic driven, he could put a black American and court 37 million? Oh, wait! He doesn't need to! He IS balck. Okay, how about an Evangelical Xtian, How ALSO traditionally vote republican? That's 40 million. Get over your sense of self-importance! Maybe he feels he's really the best man for the job. Maybe he feels it will help mend fences with Bibi. But your votes? Who needs 'em?

I think you are correct and quite possibly more harm is being done thru lashon harah here then thru Obama's misguided policies

"Lo teleich rachil B'AMECHA! If you're saying that the lashon harah/motzi shem ra is against Lew, that's one thing. Against Obama it is quite another. Of course, we should not talk stupidly nor make false accusations against anyone, Jew or gentile. But lashon harah and motzi shem ra apply only to amecha. It is also not wise to vote for someone just because others badmouth him unless you believe he is truly qualified for the job. The way I see it, he has not done a very good job both for the USA economy nor his foreign policy. The million dollar question is whether his opponent will be any better.

I wasn't really planning to base my vote on the chillul Hashem going on around here in regards to the name-calling. I will base my decision on what I think of individual candidates. But the harm being done to the Jews and to kavod hashem by the L"H is TRULY my point. And if my "threat" to vote for him woke some people up to the fact that there is a much bigger issue at stake, then I have succeeded. In re: cynicism -- the Republicans claim that Obama's proposed consolidation of government, which they have been pushing for, is merely election year politicking. And it may be. So what? If it's good legislation, they will stonewall it simply because it wasn't done "lishma"? That's just dopey. Don't look at whys, look at whats.

President Obama's first Chief of Staff was Rahm Emanuel who now serves as Mayor of Chicago. Rahm Emanuel considers himself to be a Conservative Jew and is not Shomer Shabbat -- Sabbath observant. (Emanuel attends both the Modern Orthodox Anshe Sholom B'nai Israel Synagogue and the Conservative-affiliated Anshe Emet Synagogue in Chicago.) That makes Jack Lew the first Sabbath observant holder of the Chief of Staff office (Reagan's former Chief of Staff Ken Duberstein was an observant Jew but was not Shomer Shabbat).

I found the story of Clinton leaving a message on the answering quite humourous... as to whether it's good for Lew to be in the White House: only time will tell. He will definitely be faced with many challenges and all we can hope is that he makes a kiddush hashem. Since he is in a public government position, it is critical that he does. May Hashem help him overcome obstacles and stand firm in what is the Torah way, and protect him from making a chilul hashem chas v'shalom.

Maybe I am naive, but, yes, I think Mr. Lew is good for the Jews. It is indeed possible that President Obama may have an ulterior motive for appointing Mr. Lew to this very important position. However, in the long run, I see it as a positive for us. Hopefully Mr. Lew can help President Obama understand the importance of Israel as the only democracy in the Middle East.President Obama and Hillary Clinton seem to need some direction in the matter of Israel.

Wrong question. It should be: Is it good for the country?

While that question is of course important, the order of priorities is first is it good for the jews.

Miriam is right on. The position has to be what is best for the US, not at all what is best for the Jews. that kind of bias renders one unfit for public office in good faith. and, ultimately, being a neeman, reliable, is good for the Jews.

Would you rather have no Jews at all in the Government? As it is said: “know your ennemies…”, which in the long run, being in the lions den, might allow this Jew to either interefere or halt any actions against the Jews or Israel. No matter what Obama’s motives are, it is irrelevant, since G-d has placed a Jew in Obama’s path. This is America, and as such, a black american President was elected for the first time, so why can’t a Jew be part of this Government as can any other ethnicities, no matter the consequences. In the name of orthodoxy, should Jews not get involved in the Government and hide and stay back, as they’ve always done being persecuted for centuries. America has given us the chance to come forward and express our desire for freedom, which allows orthodoxy to live. When a Jew is selected for higher position, it is by the hands of G-d, and we should not have to comment on his decision. During war soldiers fight and kill, shabat or not. In certain circumstances, duty should prevail.

This is just another move by Pres. Obama to advance his position with the Jewish community, while his actions towards Israel is one of negativey and not suppotive of Israel as an ally

I am looking at two things, One Obama needs Israels vote Two, Obama needs God's intervention, may be he has gotten a dream or he has read the hand writing on the wall, God told Abraham that he will bless those that blessed him and curse those that cursed him, so now Obama has no option than to bless the people of God for him to be blessed also. On Jacob, God sent Jacob to Obama to tell him the truth Just like God sent prophet Nathan to King David to tell him the truth, My advice to Jacob, please Jacob, know the God of your fathers and fufill your desting just like Daniel before king Nebuchadnazzar

Having a Jew in an important position is good for the Jews. Maimonides was a physician to the Egyptian court and that was good for the Jews. Don Isaac Avravanel held high office in the Spanish court and saved many Jews when they were expelled from Spain. The actual question is: Should a Jew pick up the phone in case of emergency? That question was answered by Joe Lieberman when he said that he would if it was a matter of life and death. Observant Jews who are medical doctors do it all the time. I am sure Mr Lew can make arrangements to ensure he takes care of his job in cases of emergency. By the way, Mr Lew was recommended by the outgoing Mr Daley because he is capable of doing the job, just like Rahm Emmanuel, another Jew who held the job proviously. We are making a mountain out of a anthill. But Obama haters dimish the capacity of a fellow Jew in order to maintain their hatred.

Let me start by saying I do not like Obama's politics but to the extent he understands a situation I think he tries to be fair.If Lew can translate the country's concerns to the President so that he truly understand those concerns then Lew will have perfomed his job in a meningful and helpful manner.

I expect anyone in government to be available on sunday, if that is their sabbath. i expect the same of an observant jew. I think too much observance, may be a right, but not practical if you are in an urgent postion, and the President asks it be answered.

Sandy Koufax did not pitch a World Series game because that game fell on Yom Kippur. For that, he is rightly celebrated. How will Mr. Lew wish to be celebrated - as a righteous Jew? Or as a Jew of convenience?

Is it possible for him to have a special phone that he would answer just for matters of"Pikuach Nefesh" ?

It's a good thing, but, we need him in Israel. He could make a great contribution to the Government!

Whatever OBAMA has in store for Israel surely will enhance his scoring points as a great president by persuading a Jew to another to do the President's dirty work, pressuring Israel to give up her land for his devoted Palestinian cause..What else...surely not for our brainpower.

After 3 years of scorn and condemnation of Israel by Obama and Hillary,compared to encouraging the Arab spring and Islamicism,a real threat to civilization,does anyone really believe that this appointment of Jacob Lew is nothing more than winning the Jewish vote?Some times the truth is hard to accept.

right on the button.......................

yehuda..you are very perceptive..

Getting Israel to negotiate with the Palestinians in good faith is the issue. Intransigence is NOT helpful to such a negotiation. The appointment of Jacob Lew is among many appointments made by President Obama of Jews to his administration. YOU can look it up!

We are commanded to be light in a world that is consumed with darkness. The most effective man on earth will be one who has found the true light of God and lives it out, so the others can see and find the path that leads to Life also. For this is truly one Who loves Adonai and loves His neigbor too. Thank God for the Lews who are willing to be used as light in such an uncompromising way. "The sum of the matter, when all has been considered: Fear God and keep His commandments, for that is man's whole duty." Ecclesiastes 12:13 Let us be God pleasers in our day and not men pleasers, let us love others enough to be the living Torah to others who are looking for the light of LIFE also.

I think it is a double-edged sword... but we must remember that G-d is the one in control, not our politicians!

Just like Jews worked for Hitler as Kapo, and Ghetto police, this man does the same. The appointment is good for him, and a ploy to get Obama re-elected. It will do nothing for the Jewish people, as Obama can do nothing for us. Only Hashem can guide, protect, and help us. ALL leaders will sell us out for penny when it suits their interests.

Mazel Tov for the Lews. Maybe he can straighten out a dysfunctional administration. For that he may need Divine intervention. Good Luck.

The administration sole focus of helping people is founded on Jewish values, unlike the right wing x-tian values that places money above everything. Please review the Chumash and go back to school to understand what true Torah values are.

The appointment of Jacob Lew will reinforce the stereotype that all Jews are socialists/communists in the part of the United States in which I live. He will be looked upon as a threat to the "American way of life." I face this argument almost every day as the lone Jew in my work place.

Lew's position must be made clear even to the president. He observes shabbat, so, he is unavailable for problems which can be solved by others. However, he must make clear that if they have a situation where he is needed as a matter of state security or some other matter, then, he can "pick up the phone"! It has got to be made clear, which I am sure it is to others.

Jacob Lew at the White House is to be congratulated for such a prominent position. What is of prime importance is that he is put there to be a salt of God, carrying out responsible tasks in this severe time. We need to pray for God's knowledge, understanding and reason to be upon Lew and his family. Baruch HaShem !

It is most certainly good to have an observant Jew in office! I believe that all peoples who reside in the United States should be represented, including observant Jews! There is a reason for separation between "church" and state. This basic notion of American liberties allows the Lews to practice their faith (including ignoring a phone call on Shabbat from the president) while still maintaining their occupational position. I'm proud that such a prominent member of office is a Jew! Good for Lew!!

Is this a political ploy to win Jewish votes, are we suppose to say hey its all good now, I dont know but I dont get a warn fuzzy feeling. I guess we will see.

I recall reading that Lew did answer the phone and later his rav told him that in that situation it was permitted. As according to most opinions using a telephone is an issur derabbanan (and possibly only minhag Yisrael) far less than pikuach nefesh is necessary to permit it. If this was the case then on the contrary, picking it up taught a lesson in priorities. As for his new position, while it can be assumed that he will concentrate on domestic policy for various reasons, the test will also be his recommendations regarding America's relationship with Israel. If he pushes it to the positive side he will be justifying his service for a non-Jewish government.

I'm sure Obama chose him to prove to the Jews that he should be reelected. Lew will be blamed if things don't go right.

To me it seems like pre WWII all over again. The warning signs are the same. People are ignoring the warning signs just like they did back then. I think Obama is awful for our country, regardless of the religion, race, gender, etc. etc. He has made us weaker and has certainly made us more divided.

I originally wanted to respond to the person who characterized Jack Lew's elevation to White House Chief of Staff as a "cynical appointment". (How misguided!) Then it occurred to me that what really bothered me was your question. Whether a mitzvah-observant person's service in a public office is "good for the Jews" depends entirely upon how their midot are reflected in their performance. Anyone who knows Jack Lew knows he has been an exemplary public servant and therefore an exemplary public Jew. The question you should be asking -- and which we all should be asking -- is how we fare in our individual responsibility as a light to the nations. I suggest and respectfully ask that next time you please provide some Torah guidance and perspective to a discussion rather than jumping on a headline.

At this point in time with virulent Anti-Semitism worldwide this appointment is very dangerous for all Jews. It is a brazen ploy by Obama to get the Jewish voters back on track after his disgraceful treatment of P.M. Netanyahu and his misguided statements on Israel's borders.

As an Orthodox Jew, he should know what Pirkei Avos says about getting involved with the government

This is just Obama's attempt to win Jewish votes. since he has already alienated many Jew (thought not enough). It is as transparent as everything else he does.

My observation looking at the President's embrace of Mr Lew certainly does not show Mr Obama with a happy face about his choice

As long as he follows the basic principles of Judaism it can only help American Jews as well as America itself These basic tenets leads to honesty

I think this is a political move to keep the Jews from voting Republican. Plain and simple ...POLITICAL ! He has said he does not like the Jews. He is a Muslim, so this is a ploy to cover that over. No this is not good for the Jewish people and they will see that it is a very dangerous step to help him get re-elected.

I am !00% in agreement with your comment.

If a Jew is in politics and he's the perfect person in every possible way, according to most Americans it'll be because he bought his way in or paid people to cover his errors. If he's human and messes up occasionally, he is, of course, the "stinkin' Jew ". We will never get credit for good, only major criticism for bad.

Is that a toupee? Instead of a yarmulke?

Lew's desire to observe the sabbath is most likely admired by non-Jews, even President Clinton. I'm sure this will not interfere with his duties as Chief of Staff. As for the question, "Is it good for the Jews?" Who cares.

I am verypleased. I hope President Obama repented for his treatment of Netanyahu. He did reprimand Sarkosy for not standing with Israel in the issue at that time. If America stands with Israel they will be blessed by G-d, If they reject Israel it will be their downfall. That is G-d's word. Pray that this is the evidence that Obama is standing with Israel and that Mr. Lew will have a profound influence on the president.

Maybe the results of this appointment will be better for us than Axelrod and the now Mayor of Chicago were.

Godly men are call by God to be put in such positions. It is up to Mr. Lew to make the most of his newly appointed position. Only time will tell as it always does.

Remember the scripture, when Daniel learned that the law had been signed, he went home and knelt down as usual in his upstairs room, with its windows open toward Jerusalem. He prayed three times a day, just as he had always done, giving thanks to his God. Then the officials went together to Daniel’s house and found him praying and asking for God’s help.  So they went straight to the king and reminded him about his law. “Did you not sign a law that for the next thirty days any person who prays to anyone, divine or human—except to you, Your Majesty—will be thrown into the den of lions?” “Yes,” the king replied, “that decision stands; it is an official law of the Medes and Persians that cannot be revoked.”  Then they told the king, “That man Daniel, one of the captives from Judah, is ignoring you and your law. He still prays to his God three times a day.” ...so really what is the difference??? If a man is devout in his faithful testimony, whether he be an ordinary man without title or one with title. God will honor the faithful. Why debate such as this~ is it good for the Jews? The question should be, "Is it what God would desire?"

I remember reading in Jewish history about Jews being attacked in their dwelling by an enemy on the Sabbath. The Jews chose to sit there and allow themselves to be killed. An emergency should override the Sabbath rule, I think. Is there some penance they could pay later?

In general, any risk to life or limb "trumps" the Sabbath, as it were. This is called "pikuach nefesh" (see other comments). No, there is no penance to pay later - in such a situation, one is OBLIGATED to break the laws of the Sabbath. If possible, the rabbi should be the one to do it, in order to show how permissable it is. We learn that even someone who DELAYS acting to save a life because of concern for the Sabbath is held accountable for that sin.

Is isn't too hard to believe that the president gave this fellow the job because he thinks it will endear him to the Jewish vote. I don't buy it and I don't think most Jews will.

I'm sure Obama is aware that Orthodox Jews don't work on Shabbat, but he still appointed Lew anyway. It could have been a matter of life and death, which would permit work on that day, or maybe it was something trivial, as Outlook not opening on Obama's laptop. What do we know? Judge others as you would like to be judged and give the guy a break.

Both of these men need to be G-d pleasers and not man pleasers.When they honor, G_d, He will honor them. The USA needs to Bless Israel. Pray for the President to recieve wisdom from G-d to secure the Peace of Jerusalem.

Obama likely has no intention of keeping Lew or he hopes that he will end up being a self hating Jew like the supposedly observant Rahm Enamuel who has no use for his own people or Israel.

I think in America we have many fine leaders and many fine potential leaders who come from all forms of Jewish practice including Orthodox. I think in High Public Office, there are many cross purposes of religious observance and office duty. Add public opinion. Public opinion, is largely not Jewish. I feel that it's best for our most promising American leaders to work for their communities and stay out of the public line of fire.

(1) Whatever a Jew may do is viewed by Gentiles negatively: If he succeeds, he's trying to dominate and rule; if he fails he's to blame for the bad things that happen. He's part of a Jewish world conspiracy. (2) Obama, H. Clinton and other Obama staff have proven their antagonistic intentions towards Israel. To go and cooperate with them? (3) Chilul Shabat for this kind of thing is inconcievable.

Nothing about Obama is good for the Jews.

It's not necessarily just a matter of not being high profile. In my previous jobs - where I was responsible for several Web servers that served students, this was something that I had to wrestle with. There were some aspects of the job - such as driving to and attending graduation ceremonies where I was able to make a stand for Torah values. However, I always wondered what I would do if one or more of those servers would go down and students - many of whom only had Saturdays to do their research - were not able to do their work. I had to wrestle with the question of which would more of a chillul Hashem: going out to the school to fix the problem (and create (possibly) serious problems for others - not making people think kindly of Hashem and Judaism as well as, at least to all appearances not loving others as I loved myself) or to ignore it. Ultimately, I just made sure that I wan't around to hear any calls. However, I still have to wonder if we truly are serving Hashem if we turn a blind ear to other people's problems and pain.

Appointing a Jew to this position is not the real issue, its now he carries himself that matters. He will represent us good or bad. Unfortunately Obama has demonstrated a repeated lack of concern for the Jews, and with an election coming up may be seeking to recapture our votes. Hopefully that is not the case and politics had nothing to do with the appointment, but regardless of how he got there, I pray he carries himself well and brings much needed representation for the Jewish people to our government.

i trust this pres. as much as a Jew in shushan should have trusted haman. he will do anything at this point to try to regain all the Jewish votes he has lost. unfortunately all the American Jews have yet to wise up.

Why the heck not? Give the guy his shot to serve his country

Not only should Jews in the Golas keep a low profile, but Lew's appointment gives legitimacy to Obama's claim as a friend of Israel. Lew should never have accepted this appointment.

Most important - Do what is necessary for the greater good of others. This is showing loving concern and respect for the needs of others as is set forth in the Torah.

B.O picked this guy because he is losing votes . What is bad for the Jews is having B.O in office.

Boy, the administration must be really feeling the (well earned) hostility coming from the Jewish community, who finally realize that we have never had a President who is so supportive of the Arab world. I don't care if the White House hosts the next Siyum HaShas, I wouldn't vote for him. Ok, let me qualify that. Two things would make me CONSIDER it. If Ron Paul was running against him. And if he released Pollard.

Yes.... as long as he is pro Yisrael!

I don't think that it's a good idea that Jews, especially frum Jews, subject themselves to the intense scrutiny of public office. One can open a google search right now and see all the articles being published on his ties to Citibank and whether or not he profited from the bailouts or not. Regardless of whether this is true and regardless of the legalities if it is true, people will use this a anti-semetic fuel for an already intensely burning fire. It just screams Chillul Hashem to me when we read articles painting observant Jews in this light. History has shown that a person doesn't need their information to be true if it serves his purpose. At a time when the current administration is already coming under fire for the decline of the economy in this country, an appointment like this can mean much blame comes to the Jewish community for any further degredation of the US economy. Look at some of what's come out of Occupy already. All that aside, I think the real question is whether a Jew that professes to be Orthodox should or should not be involved in the public service of a non-Jewish nation. Is it really our place to be involved in the secular man-made governments of the world or should we be focusing our time on Mitzvot and Talmud Torah? A job as demanding as this must put a strain on Torah observance. I'm sure Mr. Lew is as capable as anyone of detremining whether he is up for the challenge and I don't mean to pass and judgement, but I think it's a good question to ask. Any thoughts?

I think the question should be, "why would an observant Jew work FOR Hussein Obama in the first place? I have never received an adequate response to that question so far. He is the most anti-semitic occupier of the White House to date and it is sad more Jews don't see the handwriting on the wall. He makes Jimmy Carter look benevolent. We Jews have a short memory. Remember Jeremiah Wright anyone. It wasn't an accident he was in that church, until he got caught, of course.

The Jews, as am I, will definately benefit from having a "proverbial cooking spoon" in the presidential cooking pot, how can we not with one of us being privy to all the political symantics?

This is a political move on Obama's part to try to win the Jewish vote. I just hope and pray that the Jews In America do NOT fall for this scheme. In general, it is definitely NOT good for the Jews and for Israel to have a Jew in such a high political position. There are several reasons for this, the main reason being that the Jews are known to be very liberal leaning which is definitely NOT good for the Jewish people and NOT good for Israel.

If Lew's orthodoxy is respected by the President AND the media...if Lew fulfills the responsibilities of his new position...AND if he wasn't hired by the President to court and attract Jewish votes...then Lew's appointment could be a 'good thing' for all concerned.

It may be a conflict between observance & necessity. If there is a national emergency, he will have to decide what to do. It is not necessarily saving a life--but it may be critically important. Non-Jews have no clue why this is an issue.

Not if you are trying to get out the vote.

Thru History God Has used Jews in very important positoins. Moses, Joseph, Daniel, Esther and Paul just to name a few. Hopefuly Mr. Lew can be used. I pray he is a believing Jew and not just a practicing Jew.

G-d is the One and only one deciding what’s good. The fact that we, as Jews, simply exist after the tremendous persecution, oppression and anti-Semitism, is clearly the hand of G-d. It’s NOT the president, government or other "leaders" that are deciding our fate. It's Hashem- G-d. And only G-d. I'm NOT saying we don’t have a "say" in what our fate is, and we must do our best and put in our proper hishtadlus to see that we are as safe and protected as we can be, but ultimately- IT'S IN THE HANDS OF G-D!

Of course he would if the call was from President Obama. That should be the same standard for Jacob Lew. The call could have national emergency implications. Jewish law sanctifies the protection of life before any religious prohibitions.

It's good we have someone keeping their eye on the prize.

The Jews (I am Jewish) should be ashamed to have anything to do with this wicked White House and this leftist Party. I believe in freedom and prosperity which can come about only through the free enterprise system not from big government and repressive regulation.

He is not the first jew to be in a position of influence. I hope he serves our president and our country well. If his role is Chief of Staff, I see no problem so critical that he would be needed as advisor, between sundown on Friday and sundown on Saturday. If he went from DC to New York on Friday before sundown, there would be an accrued deadtime in travel, but he could be reached by cellphone for the rail time. On the other hand, he would be better off attending services in DC, and going home to spend time with family on Sunday. I don't foresee unusual events that would require him to be in close attendance all the time. The responsibility of his office is to be a facilitator of all the traffic needing to meet with the president, and to try to push the Executive Agenda through both the Senate and House. The technology improvements today are vastly better than when Clinton was President. He could be in communication in a manner that is not a violation of the Sabbath. That's my view. He will have a responsibility to his office, to his family, and his knowledge of a long tradition of justice embedded in our Constitution with roots in the Torah is a good thing.

A "token" Jew in the white house is definitely not good for the Jews. This is Obama's usual pretext of giving a damn for the Jews. Once Lew's usefulness is deemed at an end he will be cast aside by Obama without remorse.

Jewish exceptionalism is part of the role of Jews in being the "chosen people" and light onto the nations.

President Obama really wants the Jewish vote, so he places a Jew to head an important cabinet post. In a political year, anything is possible.

I am in total agreement with your comment. Obama has chosen anyone but Israel or the Jewish people over and over again unless it comes to pandering for votes or money. As a former Democrat from several generations of Democrats, it is with sadness that I see my fellow Jews placated by hollow gestures and empty promises from this administration....desperately seeking, hoping a shred of humanity in this most callous and self serving president.

This is clearly bad for the Jews, as it provides more cover for the significant anti-Semitism of the President's staff and advisers. Further, it provides cover for the "we're not anti-Semitic, we're just anti-Israel" crow. Mr. Lew would be well-advised to re-think his acceptance.

this could go both,,,,use him as a scapgoat(as usual,) or give the country a better understanding and respect of our history, etc.

If the situation is deemed impotant, I think answering the call should be done. In a position as chief of staff for the President of the USA, allowances must be made. Answering could avoid a serious problem. It's a judgment factor. This is something the two of them must work out. That should be easy to do.

Clearly Obama has trouble keeping high level staff. Obama's words and actions toward Israel and Jews is abhorrent. Appears that the appointment of Lew is political. Jewish support for Obama has eroded from 78% in 2008 to currently in the 40% range. Jewish wallets are closing to Obama.

The Jewish people do not know that the USA is going to be thier New Rome. But then it already is. For as Old Rome went out to run Jewish political affairs, so the USA is out to run them now. But this will change when Almighty God steps into the picture. Because He will. And when He does, the USA is finished and all those Jews who run its programs for them. Mark my word. Andy Gras

Mr Lew needs to hire someone who can answer for him when he cannot. If this is not possible he should not take the post.

I would be skeptical about the support for Israel that any Jewish member of Pres. Obama's staff could provide.

Gee...now that I've installed a JEW, the Jews will want to thank me and thereby VOTE for me...NOT !!! O is sly like a fox, to be trusted as a coral snake...the most beautiful , and deadly (look it up). Except, O, ain't beautiful !!!

The Chief of Staff for the president of the United States is neither good nor bad for the Jews. The only question is will Jacob Lew be good for the President? It's a fairly reasonable assumption that this appointment was made with every bit of information that is required. Appointments made by the President of the United States, especially of the person who manages the Executive Office, are made and calculated carefully with ALL information available and required in order to satisfy the needs of the office and especially the President of the United States. Asking the question--"Is it good for the Jews"--is irrelevant and outrageous.

my concern is not his observance but the fact that he supports obama who is way too outspoken against the state of israel and weighs too heavily in favor of israel's enemies. viz viz his statement about contiguous borders for gaza and going back to 1967 lines.. my question "what is a jew doing in the white house?." other than that i hope he wears a kippa and keeps shabat.

The real question is, Is Obama good for the Jews? And the answer is no. This is a political-year appointment because Jews may break with Obama like they did with Jimmy Carter. The lock-step Democrat Jews will stick with him, but those of us who can vote outside of the box will not. The GOP has always been pro-Israel and its actions that count. But Jews still drift towards anyone who is a Dem. Very Sad. Obama made himself clear on Israel as a candidate. No one should be surprised.

How can Clinton say that "G-d would understand?" Everyone knows that calling G-d from Washington DC is a long distance call while calling from Jerusalem is a local call!

In my past positions, I offered to work on Christmas Eve and Good Friday- Those were not my holidays. I am sure there is SOMEONE who can fill in for 25 hours. I am sure the have this covered.

It's not if it is good or bad decision but Why? With Obama, it's all about reelection and by any means necessary.

I don't trust Obama...this appointment seems more like part of his campaign strategy than anything else. While I'm sure Mr. Lew will do great in this position, Obama is a wolf in sheep's clothing.

I don't know how qualified Mr. Lew is for this position and I believe he is but I think this appointment is all to get the votes. Seems funny all this happened on the first day of Obama's campaign? That's what it's all about.

Jack Lew was a member of my congregation in DC 30 years ago. He is a wonderful person in every way. It's especially rare for someone so brilliant and talented to be so humble. Don 't worry whether Jack is "good for" Jews or non-Jews or anyone in between. He is way more than good!

It's a good thing that God puts His people in these important places, we don't need more pagans there, we have enough of those who don't understand or observe any laws, but their own darkened consciences and to serve only their greed for power and money. The jews were the first ones to be chosen, and visited by God. To Abraham, he said by you shall all the earth be blessed, and we have been! In every discovery in science and invention, there you can find the jew blessed by God. Because of you the jewish nation, we have laws to bless, to encourage, to advance and most important to show us the makers good life for this fallen world. Yes! we need him there. God Bless him and help him to be an ambassador for our Great God.

This is like asking "Was it good for the Jews that Esther became queen of Persia?" It's going to be a lot of pressure on Mr. Lew, but it also puts him in position where he can have multiple opportunities to make a difference.

We as a people have to be very careful in assuming public office. Haven't we been scapegoat enough in history. Esspecially given today's world environment it might make sense to tone down our profiles a bit. See last Kli Yakar in Parshas VaYigash

In his public role as an observant Jew Mr Lew will provide answers to your questions. If it is used to sanctify or desecrate God's name will be determined by his words and more importantly his actions.In your example where Clinton told him that G-d would understand if he violated the sabbath by picking up the phone, did he pass the test and not pick up?[assuming it was not a matter of saving life which Clinton did not state] If so it was good for the Jews and for him. If he failed and picked up, then as a public desecration of the sabbath it was bad. I would guess that Obama understands the situation. I'm speculating here, but as I understand it other Jews in the administration who are uneducated re Jewish law, and do not keep the Torah's commandments may be excused.[I think the sages refer to their status as captured babies] They do not pretend to represent a holy people.The problem with that reasoning is that even when that is indeed the case the statements and actions of any Jew seem to me to have consequences for all Jews and all mankind.We are our brothers keeper. I believe organizations such as Aish and many others who lovingly reach out to Jews with limited if any Jewish education is a great development which benefits the Jews in particular and all mankind in general.More success in this holy work will I suspect give strength and support to Mr Lew and Jews everywhere.

He is committed to his beliefs and that shows character. Lets hope that this devotion to his spirituality also indicates that he has a devotion to our fellow man and that it flows into his political life. We have seen enough corruption.......We are a nation of many faiths as stated in our constitution and having a mix of faiths in the White House exemplifies this. May we respect one anothers beliefs.

Obama insulted Natanyahu many times including remarks O made to Sarkozy when O didn't know mike was on. THAT affects the Jews, not this cynical appointment.

Netanyahu also insulted Obama. But that's not my main point -- which is that if you don't have any reason to think that Mr. Lew will "say anything", you have no right to imply that he will. And while we can have legitimate concerns about where the President stands regarding the situation in Israel, it should be pretty obvious to everyone that Mr. Obama is not an anti-Semite.

Israeli politicians have said worse about Bibi than calling him a liar which I think is what Obama and Sarkosy were overheard stating. Not a big problem. The political appointment of Jacob Lue will likely not effect policy regarding Israel. I think Obama is not a natural friend of Israel, but as president of the USA I think he sees some value in having Israel as an ally, even if their is a price to pay in the Islamic world.As one who does not believe that trading land for peace is a real option which the Islamic countries are open to accepting, and who believes God gave the Jews this miraculous opportunity to rebuild their homeland I'd prefer Romney. There are for many reasons including probable policy towards Israel, but I don't see Obama as an enemy.

We must all work to get O out of the WH! Not only for our sakes as Americans, but as Jews looking out to protect all other Jews at risk in Israel.