By MIKE CAPUTO
Yona Metzger, the chief rabbi of Israel, recounted an informal chat with a Libyan imam, where the two discussed their problems, family and cultural topics.
After 20 minutes, the two religious leaders shook hands. The chief rabbi remembers what the imam said next.
"For now, I cannot hate you," the imam said, according to Metzger, who stressed how important it was for the religious leaders to tell their followers back in their communities.
Metzger shared this story, among others and his thoughts on the anniversary of Israel, at a special press conference held at Young Israel of Hewlett on May 10.
Metzger joined congregants from Young Israel of Hewlett, in a special appearance during Shabbos on May 10. Throughout the weekend, he was accompanied by Rabbi Heshy Blumstein, spiritual leader of Young Israel of Hewlett and Charlie Miller, president of the congregation.
Although he has made a past appearance in Hewlett, it is the first time that Metzger visited the neighborhood in his role as chief rabbi. He is believed to be the first chief rabbi to visit Hewlett.
"I see that Jewish people like this area, you see that they move from the city to live a comfortable life here," Metzger said. "We have to appreciate that the kingdom of righteous in America [allows] our brothers to live good."
Both Metzger and Rabbi Heshy Blumstein, spiritual leader of Young Israel of Hewlett, focused on the cultural and social advances of the nation since it was established 60 years ago.
"We recognize the valuable gifts the land of Israel has given to to world in the sciences, the arts and the military," Blumstein said.
Metzger expressed pride in the achievements of Israel's people, but acknowledged that there could be even more advances.
"I see so many professional people coming to Israel to learn from us, from our experience," Metzger said. "I hope that the time will come [when] Israel will be more secure without the bombs and terror and our wisdom will be much more if we didn't spend time, to waste time, defending ourselves."
In addition to informal meetings, the chief rabbi has made efforts to partake in interfaith conferences and meetings.
"You cannot see the results immediately," Metzger said of his meetings, which include a recent conference in Washington, D.C. "But I hope it will be in the future."
Metzger emphasized that most Jewish prayers, terms and traditions connect to a desire for peace in the state of Israel and the world.
"We have only one prayer: for more peace," he said.
Comments about this story? Mcaputo@liherald.com or 516-569-4000 ext. 210.
