It is heartbreaking and deeply disturbing to see that there are frum Yidden planning to attend a political event on the holy Yom Tov of Shavuos. Regardless of one’s political opinions or excitement over a presidential visit, we must ask ourselves: how did we reach a point where people are willing to compromise the kedusha of Yom Tov for a public appearance?

Shavuos is not an ordinary day. It is the Zman Matan Toraseinu — the day we received the Torah at Har Sinai. It is a day meant for tefillah, learning, family, and holiness. The streets should be filled with the atmosphere of Yom Tov, not with crowds gathering around security barricades, scanners, electronics, cameras, vehicles, and public commotion.

A presidential event is not a simple gathering. It involves massive security operations, electronic screening, transportation, communication devices, and countless forms of weekday activity. Even entering such an event can involve serious concerns of chilul Yom Tov and melacha. Beyond the technical halachic issues, the entire environment stands in direct contrast to the spirit and sanctity of Yom Tov.

What message does this send to our children? That excitement over politics can override kedushas Yom Tov? That standing near celebrities or public figures is more important than honoring the day Hashem gave us the Torah? No matter who the public figure is, no human being should become the focus of a Yom Tov meant for avodas Hashem.

It is painful to imagine frum Yidden standing in long lines, dealing with security checks and electronics, while batei medrash and homes should be filled with Torah and simchas Yom Tov. The chilul Yom Tov that can come from such an atmosphere is something that should trouble every ben Torah and every Yid who values the sanctity of our Yamim Tovim.

We are meant to be an Am Kadosh. Our greatness has always been that we protect our Torah and Yom Tov no matter what is happening in the outside world. History remembers leaders and politicians for a short time, but the kedusha of Shavuos is eternal.

May we all strengthen our respect for Yom Tov, avoid situations of questionable melacha and chilul Yom Tov, and bring true kavod to Hashem and to Klal Yisroel.

Moishe S.

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