A Jerusalem-based company has published a halachic permit
from a rabbi, recommending that the ultra-Orthodox public purchase lottery
tickets from the company and even calling it a "mitzvah."
In an attempt to attract new clients for group purchases of
Mifal Hapayis (Israel's national lottery) and American lottery companies
Powerball and Mega, the company presented a surprising letter from Rabbi
Naftali Nussbaum, one of the most famous rabbis in the haredi sector.
"I hereby declare that I have personally known the
owners of the Lotto Gvir company for several years now, and they are honest and
loyal people," the rabbi wrote. "In addition, they meet me several
times a week, and their integrity can be completely trusted."
The rabbi added that joining the haredi purchase groups was
like "observing a mitzvah."
A source explained that the company had consulted the rabbi
on halachic issues involved in using lottery tickets.
Although shopping and business investments do not require
permits, it is customary in the haredi society that when a famous rabbi gives
his consent, his students and followers stick to the company he recommends.
Participating in Mifal Hapayis raffles is not permitted for
all members of the sector.
While Ashkenazi rabbis believe a person who works
for a living is entitled to fill out a lottery ticket, most Sephardic rabbis
see it as a forbidden act.
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