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A Rabbi's Prayer for a Neo-Nazi: An Unexpected Act of Compassion in Italy
In a country grappling with rising antisemitism and vaccine hesitancy, a surprising story of compassion has emerged. David Parenzo, a well-known Jewish journalist in Italy, found himself in an unusual situation: asking a rabbi to pray for the recovery of a man who openly expressed antisemitic and anti-vaccine views.
The Unexpected Prayer
Parenzo co-hosts the popular Italian radio show "La Zanzara" ("The Mosquito") with Giuseppe Cruciani. Their show, known for its provocative discussions of current events, frequently features phone calls from listeners. One regular caller, Maurizio Buratti, also known as "Mauro da Mantova," became notorious for his extremist views, openly expressing hatred towards Jews and vehemently opposing COVID-19 vaccinations.
- Buratti's virulent antisemitism and anti-vaccine stance were well-documented on the show.
- His frequent calls became a regular feature of "La Zanzara," much to the chagrin of some listeners.
Recently, Buratti called the show from a supermarket, his voice weak and raspy, revealing he had a high fever. Concerned, Parenzo and Cruciani urged him to seek immediate medical attention. Now hospitalized and critically ill, Buratti's condition has taken a dramatic turn.
In a gesture that has surprised many, Parenzo reached out to Rabbi Shlomo Bekhor, of Milan's Chabad community and the head of Mamash Publishing, a frequent guest on "La Zanzara." Parenzo requested a prayer for Buratti's recovery.
Rabbi Bekhor, despite Buratti's hateful rhetoric, agreed. In a recorded message aired on the show, he stated, “He is a bit extreme – very right-wing and a bit antisemitic as well as being anti-vax. But we as Jews pray for everyone. We give them respect, because mercy is one of the three pillars of Judaism. And antisemitism comes from stupidity and ignorance. We pray so that hatred will be nullified.”
A Broader Context of Antisemitism in Italy
This act of compassion comes against a backdrop of growing antisemitism in Italy. Since October 7th, demonstrations against Israel on university campuses have become increasingly common, mirroring trends in other Western countries. Prominent Italian-Jewish journalist Maurizio Molinari, editor of La Repubblica, recently faced aggressive protests and had a lecture cancelled at the Federico II University in Naples due to his pro-Israel stance. Similar incidents have targeted other Jewish figures. David Parenzo himself experienced threats from students while attempting to host a discussion at La Sapienza University in Rome. These incidents highlight a rising tide of anti-Israel sentiment that is increasingly spilling over into antisemitism. The Italian Jewish community is deeply concerned about this alarming trend.
- The incidents at Naples and Rome universities underscore the growing hostility towards Jewish individuals and pro-Israel voices.
- The Italian government and political leaders have condemned the antisemitic incidents, but the underlying issues persist.
Conclusion: A Testament to Jewish Values
Rabbi Bekhor's prayer for Buratti, a man who had actively espoused hateful views, is a powerful example of the core values of Judaism: compassion, mercy, and the belief in the inherent worth of every human being. While the incident highlights a worrying rise in antisemitism in Italy, it also offers a counterpoint – a testament to the enduring power of faith and the unwavering commitment to human dignity.
The story serves as a reminder that even in the face of hate, acts of kindness and compassion can offer a beacon of hope and a pathway towards healing and understanding. The ongoing situation demands continued vigilance and a united front against intolerance.
