Chief Rabbi Yonah Metzger took part in the traditional Selichot penitential prayer services in the Machpelah Cave in Hevron last night - despite an order by Attorney-General Meni Mazuz to the contrary.
The prayer service began shortly after midnight, following an inspirational speech by former Sephardic Chief Rabbi Mordechai Eliyahu.
The event was billed as one that would feature prayers for Gush Katif - something that rendered it a "political event," according to Mazuz, and he immediately ordered Rabbi Metzger not to take part. The Chief Rabbi holds an official State position, and as such, may not take part in political events.
The ban was widely criticized within the right-wing as having come from the "thought police" and the like. Rabbi Metzger said at the time that he was "studying" the ruling, and was also reported to have said he would abide by it. At the event, however, no signs or other political features were present, and Rabbi Metzger - and thousands of others - showed up to pour out their hearts in prayer at the Cave of the Patriarchs.
The prayer service began shortly after midnight, following an inspirational speech by former Sephardic Chief Rabbi Mordechai Eliyahu.
The event was billed as one that would feature prayers for Gush Katif - something that rendered it a "political event," according to Mazuz, and he immediately ordered Rabbi Metzger not to take part. The Chief Rabbi holds an official State position, and as such, may not take part in political events.
The ban was widely criticized within the right-wing as having come from the "thought police" and the like. Rabbi Metzger said at the time that he was "studying" the ruling, and was also reported to have said he would abide by it. At the event, however, no signs or other political features were present, and Rabbi Metzger - and thousands of others - showed up to pour out their hearts in prayer at the Cave of the Patriarchs.