Thousands attend Rabbi Porush's funeral
Masses escort Rabbi Menachem Porush in his final way. Education Minister Gideon Sa'ar, Opposition Chairwoman Tzipi Livni, Knesset Speaker Reuven Rivlin, many other members of Knesset show last respect
Among those attending the funeral were Education Minister Gideon Sa'ar, Justice Minister Yaakov Ne'eman Minister Ariel Atias, opposition leader Tzipi Livni, Knesset Speaker Reuven Rivlin, ministers, deputy ministers and many members of Knesset.
The Erlauer rebbe lamented the deceased and noted Porush's contribution in the field of education as one of the founders of independent education and said "Porush dedicated his soul for the education of the children of Israel."
Head of the Porat Yosef Yeshiva Rabbi Moshe Tzadka said, "The deceased was a pioneer in all things related to the scripture – in fighting for Shabbat and against girls' recruitment." The rabbi added, "He certainly would fight vehemently against the unclean accessories that contaminate the youth."
Thousands escort the Rabbi on his final way (Photos: Gil Yohanan)
Earlier Monday President Shimon Peres arrived at Porush's house to convey his condolences to the deceased's family. The president, who had a close relationship with the rabbi paid his last respect and eulogized Porush.
"I send my condolences to the family and to Agudat Yisrael for the passing of former MK Menachem Porush," Peres said, "Rabbi Porush was a man of faith and the scripture of the Torah was his foremost priority.
Opposition Leader Tzipi Livni during funeral
"He was a Jerusalem enthusiast, determines just like one of its rocks, and acted to unite his people. He was one of Israel's most diligent people – always active, always supportive, always helping the needy. He was soft spoken, dedicated and loyal."
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also expressed his deep condolences for the passing of Rabbi Porush. In a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office, Netanyahu said, "The people of Israel lost a cherished Jew, a smart, caring lover of Israel and one of its best public figures. We languish his passing."
United Torah Judaism Chairman MK Moshe Gafni eulogized Rabbi Porush: "He was a devoted activist for decades, loved by a large public and personally involved until his last day."
Menachem's father, Rabbi Moshe Glickman-Porush was a senior haredi activist at Agudat Yisrael and Menachem's son, Meir, continued his father's political way as Deputy Construction and Housing Minister, Deputy Education Minister and a member of Knesset on behalf of United Torah Judaism.
