Prohibits lamenting the withdrawal as it exacerbates public conflict.
By JPOST.COM STAFFMetzger 224.88(photo credit: Ariel Jerozolimski [file])ChiefAshkenazi Rabbi Yonah Metzger has issued a halachic ruling that prohibits mourning Israel's withdrawal from Gaza and Northern Samaria, Israel Radio reported on Tuesday.Rabbi Metzger said that such mourning is divisive and exacerbates conflicts within the general public. He was writing in a publication devoted to religious rulings.RELATED:Chief Rabbi Metzger wins court battle to retain powersAccording to Metzger, rabbinical rulings requiring acts of devotion must have a reasonable chance of being followed by most of the nation and, since the public is highly divided over the withdrawal, Rabbis should not require their followers to hold ceremonies related to the exit from Gush Katif and Northern Samaria.