Dear Editor@Matzav.com,
I am writing to express a concern that has been troubling me deeply. In some portions of the frum community, there is ostensibly concern about avoiding “hisgarus ba’umos” (provocation of the nations) concerning the growth and actions in Eretz Yisroel. However, I find it perplexing and disheartening that the same level of concern does not seem to be applied to Yidden‘s conduct here in places like Boro Park, Williamsburg, and elsewhere.
It is not uncommon to witness instances where members of our community display an air of arrogance and entitlement, asserting their dominance in these neighborhoods and others. Particularly troubling are pictures and videos of individuals chasing down aino Yehudim who attack Yidden, “helping” the NYPD as if we are baalei batim in these neighborhoods.
We’re not. And we’re in golus. Stop “helping” law enforcement. Put away your phones and beepers and fancy gear and go home. Stop taking pictures of you “helping” law enforcement make arrests.
You’re worried about hisgarus ba’umos? There’s nothing worse than this arrogant behavior.
How can we justify a stance against hisgarus ba’umos in one context while seemingly disregarding it in another? Is it only when we’re battling the Tzionim that suddenly hisgarus ba’umos becomes the issue, but when it comes to hisgarus ba’umos in Brooklyn, NY, it’s suddenly not?
This selective application of the principle of hisgarus ba’umos leave me scratching my head.
By humble. Be a golus Yid. Just because you’re on Shomrim or Chaveirim doesn’t mean you own your neighborhood or town. Get off your high horse.
If we are genuinely concerned about “hisgarus ba’umos” in Eretz Yisroel, we must be equally vigilant about our hisgarus ba’umos conduct here in the Diaspora.
Sincerely,
Bent in Brooklyn