In response to the questions of many during the current eis tzarah, Rav Yaakov Meir Schechter was posed a number of shailos by his close talmid and associate, Rav Yehuda Deutsch.
Rav Yaakov Meir encouraged people not to fear and emphasized that they should “remain in Eretz Yisroel,” which is “a place of ultimate safety.”
Rav Yaakov Meir acknowledged that there are concerns from individuals living abroad who are considering returning and parents overseas whose children are studying in Eretz Yisroel. However, he unequivocally advised them to stay in the country, assuring them that there is no reason to leave.
Rav Yaakov Meir firmly believes that fleeing from the land is not the solution to the challenges at hand, and he urged Yidden to recite Tehillim to strengthen their faith and dispel fear.
Rav Yaakov Meir explained that reciting Tehillim at every available moment will not only strengthen one’s emunah, but also help eliminate fear.
“The root of fear,” he said, “lies in a confused mind and a lack of faith. Therefore, the solution is to recite Tehillim, which strengthens faith, clarifies the mind, and purifies the heart.”
