(IsraelNationalNews.com) Minister of Health (Shas) Nissim Dahan on Sunday stated the loss of Jewish values and assimilation are the worst catastrophe the have befallen the Jewish people and not the Holocaust. His remarks were made before a gathering of world Orthodox leaders visiting Israel.
Speaking to Israel Radio, the minister defended his remarks, explaining that personal suffering ranked the Holocaust as the worst era endured by the Jewish people but more Jews have been lost as a result of assimilation. He further explained that by sheer natural growth that began 3,400 years ago, we should number about 500 million today and this is not the case. He explained 80% were lost when the ten tribes disappeared. The remaining 200 million he detailed were lost to assimilation.
He remarks have resulted in widespread criticism.
Speaking to Israel Radio, the minister defended his remarks, explaining that personal suffering ranked the Holocaust as the worst era endured by the Jewish people but more Jews have been lost as a result of assimilation. He further explained that by sheer natural growth that began 3,400 years ago, we should number about 500 million today and this is not the case. He explained 80% were lost when the ten tribes disappeared. The remaining 200 million he detailed were lost to assimilation.
He remarks have resulted in widespread criticism.