My Jewish Perspective on Homosexuality
by Shmuley Boteach
Carl Paladino, the Republican candidate for governor of New York, sparked controversy this week by declaring in a speech at an Orthodox synagogue that children shouldn’t be “brainwashed” into considering homosexuality acceptable. He later apologized, saying that he supports gay rights but opposes gay marriage. The Rabbi who hosted Mr. Paladino’s speech then retracted his endorsement of the candidate.
Some people of faith insist that homosexuality is gravely sinful because the Bible calls it an “abomination.” But that word appears approximately 122 times in the Bible. Eating nonkosher food is an “abomination” (Deuteronomy 14:3). A woman returning to her first husband after being married in the interim is an “abomination” (Deuteronomy 24:4). Bringing a blemished sacrifice on God’s altar is an abomination (Deuteronomy 17:1). Proverbs goes so far as to label envy, lying and gossip “an abomination to [the Lord]” (3:32, 16:22).
As an orthodox Rabbi, I do not deny the biblical prohibition on male same-sex relationships. I simply place it in context. There are 613 commandments in the Torah. One is to refrain from gay sex. Another is for men and women to marry and have children. So when Jewish gay couples tell me they have never been attracted to members of the opposite sex and are desperately alone, I tell them, “You have 611 commandments left. That should keep you busy. Now, go create a kosher home. Turn off the TV on the Sabbath and share your meals with many guests. Pray to God three times a day for you are his beloved children. He desires you and seeks you out.”
I once asked Pat Robertson, “Why can’t you simply announce to all gay men and women, ‘Come to Church. Whatever relationship you’re in, God wants you to pray. He wants you to give charity. He wants you to lead a godly life.” He answered to the effect that homosexuality is too important to overlook, as it is the greatest threat to marriage and the family. Other evangelical leaders have told me the same.
But with one of every two heterosexual marriages failing, much of the Internet dedicated to degrading women through pornography, and a culture that is materially insatiable while all-too spiritually content, can we straight people really say that gays are ruining our families? We’ve done a mighty fine job of it ourselves, thank you very much.
The excessive concern about homosexuality that is found among many of my religious brothers and sisters—in many Muslim countries being gay is basically a death sentence—stems from a fundamental misunderstanding of sin. The Ten Commandments were given on two tablets to connote two different kinds of transgression: religious and moral. The first tablet discussed religious transgressions between God and man, such as the prohibitions of idolatry, blasphemy and desecration of the Sabbath. The second tablet contained moral sins between man and his fellow man, like adultery, theft and murder.
Homosexuality is a religious, not a moral, sin. A moral sin involves injury to an innocent party. Who is harmed when two unattached, consenting adults are in a relationship? Homosexuality is akin to the prohibition against lighting fire on the Sabbath or eating bread during Passover; there is nothing immoral about it, but it violates the divine will.
I am in favor of gay civil unions rather than marriage because I am against redefining marriage. But gay marriage doesn’t represent the end of Western civilization. The real killer is the tsunami of divorce and the untold disruption to children who become yo-yos going from house to house on weekends.
I have countless gay friends whose greatest fear, like that of so many straight people, is to end up alone. Should we just throw the book at these people? The Bible says, “It is not good for man to be alone.” All I ask from my religious brethren is this: Even as you oppose gay relationships because of your beliefs, please be tortured by your opposition. Understand that when our most deeply held beliefs conflicts with our basic humanity, we should feel the tragedy of the conflict, not find convenient scapegoats upon whom to blame America’s ills.
Rabbi Boteach is founder of This World: The Values Network, a national organization that promotes universal Jewish values to heal America.
I finally let my little 17.5 year old dachshund go almost 2 years ago. It is so hard. What a beautiful story, thanks for sharing.
Great post. Thank you for making the distinction between religious sin and a moral sin.
“Understand that when our most deeply held beliefs conflicts with our basic humanity, we should feel the tragedy of the conflict, not find convenient scapegoats upon whom to blame America’s ills.” Great Quote.
THANK YOU so much for sharing this, Olga! I love it too!
Olga….what a great post!!! Thanks for sharing this.
Olga, I was raised a Christian Catholic but have turned away from any religion since the age of 12 or 13. There seems to always be something in religion that I don’t like, so I always stay away from it. I just try to abide by ‘ Love thy neighbour’. This is the first time that I have read a passage, from any kind of representative of religion, that I can relate to.
Except for not supporting gay marriage, from what I understand from this Rabbi, he is big ‘A OK’ in my book.
Now if all other religious, pius, believing, people out there could accept and love, as most religions teach, everyone and anyone who is different from them, and good people, wouldn’t it be a great world to live in?
anir
I agree Anir with you on his comment on the marriage and my reason is what makes marriage so sacred or great ? When Christains and Others are defiling it everyday and trampling on the vows of monogamy???
You know, what’s interesting is that throughout history, marriage had always been a legal, contractual arrangement for the purpose of passing on property. The church only entered into it during the Renaissance when the European elites were so tied in to the powerful church at that time. The notion of romantic love as a reason for marrage is even more recent than that. So, I really don’t see why people on both sides of the issue get so bent out of shape over the marriage thing when the reality is that civil i.e. legal union has existed much longer.
Hi Olga,
Religish ‘interpreters’, as I call them, also have a way of reading things that just aren’t in the ‘scripture’. They seem to tend to go with what suits their own beliefs and or ubringings and not really the written words. Words that were written many years ago and rewritten how many times before they got to today?
Just don’t believe in a lot of it.
anir
Thanks for posting this historical FACT. When I’ve said those same words to others, there’s been much bantering & argument. I then challange them to research the history of marriage.
This was the best post on how we should look at and accept being gay as any other of the “thou shall not” or abomination, in the Bible..it has always upset me when people stand on one thing that they feel does not touch their lives ( or that is their secret) If one type sinner can come to church why can’t another ? The biggest abomination is a hypocrite …across the board… No one group or problem is alone the ills of America. There are many and they start with each one of us individually because we either participate, don’t participate, talk and don’t do …or don’t talk and don’t do...we are all to blame in some kind of way some more than others but who is able to be the judge and jury and throw the first stone?
My feelings exactly–let he who is without sin……. I’ve always found it interesting how we humans categorize ‘sins’.
The BIGGEST sin for the religious is “GLUTTONY” and “SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS”! The scriptures says “The Holy Spirit will convict the world of sin”, so I can stop doing “The Spirits work! Love them and leave the rest to GOD!…TRACK John 16:8,”And when The Holy Spirit comes, he will reprove the world of sin, and righteousness, and judgment:”
Amen sister!!!
Olga, thank you for this post. Love it! Like Anir, this Rabbi is great except that I want marriage equality for all.
Hi azul,
I wrote ‘EXCEPT for not supporting gay marriage’ means that I do like what he has to say, except for the fact that he is against gay marriage.
Sorry I didn’t make myself clear. I am pro gay marriage. Everyone should have the same leagal rights. NO one should be below the law.
anir
Anir, totally agree. I love the way you put it, no one should be below the law!
Rabbi Shmuley is a media whore, though his comments here are on-target and commendable. I’ve followed his career for years and he’s the Jewish Al Sharpton. His book Kosher Sex was pretty good, but his reality show tanked after about three episodes. He’s been itching for Oprah to launch a show for him, but so far…crickets. Oh, and then there’s his book The Michael Jackson Tapes. What a shmuck.
Be happy.
Since I dissed the guy I should provide a link; here’s “Shalom in the Home.” Gotta love “what would Shmuley do?”
Be happy.
I saw the guy on an Oprah show. He came across knowledgeable, sincere and compassionate, but the reality show and website didn’t seem to help him establish more credibility.
I’ve always been amazed at the number of Catholic couples that are able to get their marriages annulled. I know one that was married for several years, had a few kids, and got an annulment granted! The church sets up marriage rules that are supposed to be based on religious doctrine but then sets up a political process to break those rules. Not sure exactly how this fit into the discussion but having grown up Catholic I never understood how anyone could take this process seriously. If you divorced you could no longer receive communion. My feeling was always if you wanted to go to communion you should just go up there whether divorced or not. I couldn’t imagine the priest or one of the helpers sorting people and saying – no, you get out of line, you’re divorced.
Didn’t see the Oprah show – but did get onto the Web site and his profile and his experience and background truly truly really really impresses me!! Agree with your take on the Catholic annulments, as well as the no birth control but if you confess on any day — you are forgiven. God does forgive — and — I truly don’t think He needs a middle-man to pronounce pontifical procedure!! My sainted Mother used to tell us that — and she was a very sincere Catholic – hence 10 children. It was her philosophy that ONLY God can forgive as He is the only one to judge — as He is the only perfect one while the rest of us have not reached His level of non-sinners.
Thanks again and how are you???
I’m doing good – thanks. Sometimes I only get the chance to be on the net early morning hours – by then it can be hard to catch up on reading posts.
Hey, even a stopped clock is right twice a day. IMO, we should consider the source of a message, but regard the validity of the message on its own.
This is true, Olga, but there is the [un]written religious rule of separation of ego and spiritual authority, to say nothing of integrity and breach of cleric/congregant confidentiality.
Shmuley was a “friend” and spiritual advisor to Michael Jackson and during that relationship and as his cleric, Shmuley taped a series of telephone interviews with MJ (taping possibly unknown to Mr. Jackson). MJ terminated their relationship when Rabbi Shmuley was discovered embezzling funds from a foundation which the two men had established.
Before MJ’s body was cold Rabbi Shmuley rushed to publication a book of the transcribed tapes in which Shmuley dominated the conversations (instead of The Michael Jackson Tapes they should have been referred to as The Shmuley Boteach Tapes Featuring One Sentence Responses from Michael Jackson).
Beware of false prophets…and be happy.
Hey — you got me interested in this guy — and I went to his web site — and WOW!! I bow to your experience over the years — but on the face of his profile — he is some very intelligent and capable Rabbi. I’m hooked — unless I hear of some diabolical – never to be forgiven – sin he has committed. Thanks for putting me onto your opinion.
You have a way with words Yakkity, l.o.l.
))…TRACK
Most of the Vibrants here (make that “all” with my being the only hold-out) seem impressed by Rabbi Shmuley. All I can say is “beware of false prophets.” Many of my Jewish friends consider him a joke and an embarrassment.
Here’s an article from Huffington Post.
Be happy.
Here’s another article about Shmuley written by a fellow rabbi: Michael Jackson’s Rabbi.
Be happy.
Add me to your list of Jewish friends who think he’s an ass.
Thanks.
You “get it” KGrandma: the message is the massage.
Beware of false prophets.
Be happy.
I am always suspect of anyone who claims to have a direct line to G-d, to understand and be able to interpret scripture, and to know what G-d expects of us. This guy wants to be the Jewish Dr Phil. I can’t even figure out why Dr Phil wants to be Dr Phil. I find them all nauseating.
In my own heart and mind, I know that homosexuals are born, not made. That they should not be told by rabbis, popes, imams, Mormon bishops, or anyone else that they are sinful if they engage in what seems to them to be natural and loving sexual activity. The only thing that ever made sense to me was judge not lest ye be judged. Yet these self-righteous, self-appointed, sanctimonious interpreters of selected scriptures continue to climb on their soapboxes and judge, and judge, and judge . . .
Am I really the only one who remembers all the religious leaders of the 60s who trotted out scriptures to justify segregation? The arguments were just as contentious, just as stupid.
Love your question re Dr. Phil and why he wants to be Dr. Phil. Talk about bullshit — I think he invented it!! Didn’t get the thought that the Rabbi thought he was able to know what God wants — except what he read and reads and interprets in the Bible — and I guess — that’s his job!! Most of us do not read the Bible and need a middleman of sorts to help out. Even then we must think for ourselves. Agree with much of what you say – thanks.
I suppose you’re right that the rabbi’s job is to interpret scripture. I have never thought any of it made sense, and when one darling VN lady tried to help me out with some New Testament quotes, it almost made my head explode. For me, to believe that your version/translation of the Bible IS the word of G-d, then to take on the job of interpreting for G-d is almost superhuman in its pomposity. To list which sins G-d is more or less offended by, etc, in regard to human beings who are BORN gay, is just absurd. To say we accept these people with love and human kindness as long as they stay celibate is just evil.
I have thought for myself my whole life, and it’s gotten me into trouble a lot. I fit nowhere. Fortunately you and most of the VN women deal with me quite well and I appreciate it more than you’ll ever know.
And you are so ‘deal-able’ and I appreciate you as well. Thanks.
Thank you, KG, for calling me a darling even with your nearly exploded head! We who were once wanna-be theologians need to keep our heads on straight.
In the interest of keeping the love alive, I will say that I totally agree with you about the ‘which sins are supposedly worse than others’ thing. Thankfully, opinionated isn’t listed, but I’ve already admitted to most of them, anyway.
I do have a problem with born gay, though, as I don’t believe it would be considered a sin at all if one was born that way. It’s just not logical to my way of thinking (and I have been accused of being a logical thinker). However, that doesn’t mean I have an answer. And, I absolutely hate not having answers. ♥
Do you think people choose to be gay? Because here’s a kicker. If I could choose it, I would. I am so OVER men. I have been married twice, lived long term with two others, and had other relationships that lasted for middling amounts of time. I loved, I lost, whatever. Bottom line, I’m DONE. If I could be in love with one of my innumerable wonderful loving kind understanding clever brilliant women friends, I’d be delirious with joy. But no. The very idea of sex with a woman makes me queasy. Hugs? You bet. Cheek kisses? Maybe. That’s it.
And then there are the kids. Young kids. Who are clearly not straight. Probably. How do you account for that?
Gay just isn’t a choice, and love is alive. Period.
As I’ve stated before, my 17 year old son is gay. On some level, I’ve known it since he was 5 years old. His intellect scores off the charts too. In fact his intellect is rarer statistically speaking than his sexuality. Why is it that his sexuality is dissected for explanations as to why, but his intellectual rarity is not? People do choose sexual partners and many people experiment, but on no level do I believe sexual orientation is a choice. Although my favorite quote on this is from Dennis Miller (of course): ” I have no issue with gay people. God knows it is hard enough to find someone of the so called “right” sex to love, it must be 10 times harder if you are gay. You want to know who I have an issue with? Bi-sexuals! They are greedy SOBs who just need to pick a hole and stick with it!”
A little crass for a Sunday am, but funny nonetheless.
Gack. See? We are straight right down to the marrow. I could blame Sunday morning, but I don’t know what day it is, usually. Dennis is just rude. Funny as HELL, but rude.
Anyway, I’m sure that your son’s sexuality couldn’t matter any less on your list of “reasons to love/not my son.” He is your son. You love him. Case closed. A young man that I’d mentored when I was working came out to me recently (I’m so oblivious that I’d had no clue) and my reaction was kind of, “so?” He loved it, but really, what difference does it make? On my list with him was: he speaks 11 languages and served incredibly well at the job, was kind and thoughtful, self-deprecating, funny, good looking, etc, etc.
I just read your post about the First National Bank of Mom, too — seems like you have a great relationship with your kid. Good for you, good for him, and good for the world.
Dennis Miller is NOT politically correct, that much is for sure. But his sense of humor is right up my alley. He gets paid money to say what I think but don’t say in order to keep my job~! How cool is that?
I’ve avoided this thread generally. First of all, when the love of your life is gay, my mother lioness kicks in and it is hard for me to respond in the intellect, and not the emotional……ferociously, as you put it.
Second, I’m also not religious in the traditional sense. Religious leaders — and their thoughts — matter little to me at all. I have no more, or no less respect, for ANY of them than I do the average person on the street. So I couldn’t care any more or any less about this particular Rabbi’s thoughts, and the fact he is a Rabbi is as relevant to me as if he were a rabbiT.
Interesting read and food for thought, but a fountain of wisdom to be followed as some type of authority figure? Nah.
Not when I have Dennis Miller.
I don’t account for it. As I said, I have no answers and I hate that. I also haven’t researched the issue as I have felt no need to. I don’t care what sexual orientation a person has – people are people and I accept people for that reason.
My logic is purely Biblical, because I am a person who believes the Bible. I may not always live it, but I believe it. Therefore, if it is called ‘sin’ then God could not have ‘made’ gays. Case closed for me.
Sure, it’s an oversimplification. But, unless something makes me change my mind as I have on other issues, that’s where I stand right now. ♥
I absolutely accept your belief system. I just really don’t understand it. This is what has gotten me into so much trouble my whole life, because “having faith” is defined as good, while doubt and disbelief are held in disregard. The Bible was written thousands of years ago by men. Its original texts were lost or found or who knows. It has been translated, retranslated, has multiple versions, and there are other religions who added texts because new prophets came along. Yet people still base their whole lives (and many suicides and many murders and untold wars) on its words.
At the risk of sounding sacrilegious, I think that if it were actually the word of G-d, it would be better written, better documented, and easier to understand. It wouldn’t uphold slavery, condemn gays, have women subject to their husbands, have parents kill unpleasant children . . . so many more . . .
So my question, I guess, is how do you manage to believe in it? I spent a lot of time trying. I honestly think life is much easier for the believers.
KG, thank you for the acceptance. I can’t, at least here and/or in writing, really explain. That’ll probably have to wait until you’re here visiting me in my mountain retreat!
In the interest of preventing your head from exploding, I’m going to try to keep it short and touch on some basics.
Doubt and disbelief aren’t bad things. One thing I know, is that God isn’t so insecure He can’t handle it. As far as the Bible being written by men, that’s a yes and no. Yes, men wrote down what the Holy Spirit prompted them to write. I believe that the texts that were put together are the ones He meant us to have; lost and found texts are, to me, irrelevant because if they were to be included, they would have been ‘found.’ In fact, much of the findings in the Dead Sea Scrolls justified the Bible as written.
Yes, translations have abounded, but have you ever read how the Bible was first translated? Forty-six or forty-eight of the most learned and capable men were long engaged in it — divided into classes of six, who did the part they were most competent for; and then it was passed to others, and revised by all, and compared with translations in other languages. http://www.bibletranslations.us/ It’s not perfect, but very close. For those (like me) a Hebrew/English and Greek/English reference can help. I, personally, am a fan of the New King James version as it is based on the original King James (the most accurate to date) and mainly just changes the ‘thees’ and ‘thous.’
Other religions is a whole ‘nother subject!
Much of the Bible (especially the OT) is historical. What happened, happened. The NT is more of how we are now to live. It accepted much of what was happening at the time, but pointed toward being more loving and caring people. It didn’t uphold slavery, it told how to treat them, since they were already slaves. It doesn’t “condemn” gays per se, any more than it condemns adultery, fornication and the like. With sin, there is redemption (different than atonement). There is a reason for women to be “subject” to their husbands (“as Christ loved the church”) so that if a husband treated his wife the way he was supposed to, no problem! (It’s rather like not having two bosses and no workers). Again, another topic!
We can get into your questions when we visit or privately. I ‘manage’ because He is real. ♥
That was me loving the response. Thanks. More than I can say.
Anyone, even those with the most ratings, seeking media attention have an agenda all their own. It is about their ego.
After all is said and done, media is about the ratings. You do not remain on the TV circuit without something that entertains. That is what ratings are all about.
Someone does continue to write books unless their message is being gobbled up. For that to happen, there has to be a relevant message. Perhaps he is saying what needs to be said for our times.
When one gains a reputation for being outspoken, they will tend to draw an audience and repell others. I rather enjoyed his stand on this particular topic and we must consider that it is a hot button of our times. People get polarized in its message.
God bless, J
On the face of his accomplishments over the years — here and internationally — I find it very very difficult to look at him with anything but respect. Read the article by the Rabbi who thinks Rabbi S. betrayed a trust — and I am in a bit of a quandry over that since Michael Jackson had already died — and — although the boy was a musical genius (bar none) his life was a mess, a circus of unhealthy choices for years and years. And, I think, anyone who tried to help - eventually seemed to get ‘burned’.
I don’t know anything but what I read in the papers — but — it sounds like there was a lot of misinformation, jealousie and anger aimed at him. There is a philosophy in some quarters that uses ‘stealing money, embezzlement, etc.’ as the ultimate reason to get rid of somebody – anybody. Michael was not well, he used people and his money to self destruct. He encouraged/chose folks to help him who he was impressed with at the time. I would like to suggest he got bored very quickly with some of these people and tossed them out. Pointing the fingers at those helpers after his death is rather sad.
If it looks like I’m pointing fingers – I’m not. I admired and respected his genius musical talent and I have a wonderful vision of him now — in a very special place – as that young beautiful happy and uncomplicated boy just doing what he did best!!
I have always been in awe of the educated. I like what I read about R. Shmuley — so it looks like we will have to agree to disagree. Again thanks for putting him and his work out there.
First, Olga, I must apologize to you for thread-jacking your column. I am truly sorry.
Maggie De Vore: I don’t understand how this became an indictment of Michael Jackson, a deceased 50 year old man whom you refer to as a boy. His “helpers” (more like vultures) including Shmuley deserve being singled out prior to and following his demise. Michael was slowly tortured to death over the past 25 years because he refused to follow the program. MJ was ridiculed, his intelligence underestimated; but all the while he was an astute businessman who would not be controlled (See, also The Artist Formerly Known As Prince). Sony and the media destroyed Michael Jackson. But let us save that for another thread–or not.
I reiterate Olga’s thread is not about Michael Jackson, but Shmuley Boteach. If, in your opinion, my view of Rabbi Shmuley is “rather sad” so be it; I am saddened and disappointed by your awe of the “educated” Rabbi Shmuley of whom you had no knowledge until this thread. He is a man of God, not of academia (though the two are not mutually exclusive) and he presents himself as a counselor, confidant, and religious leader. Continue following his career and you will eventually discover the charlatan beneath the yarmulke, if not the man behind the curtain.
Beware of profit-driven false prophets.
One last article on Shmuley and his debate with atheist Christopher Hitchens.
Dear dear Yakkity — I refer to MJ as a ‘boy’ because it appeared to me that he simply never ‘matured’ — his Neverland playground, inviting young boys to be his playmates, changing his appearance at the drop of a hat. And in my mind – he is still a sweet young boy!. This ALL seems to come from his choices — did he get face-lifts and become white as he could for health or deep spiritual reason?? Or did he get hooked on pain-killers? He was not the first and certainly will not be the last!!! And further to that – he could buy any combination of drugs and doctors that suited him. And, like so many entertainers and folks in the lime-light — he ‘bought’ people and of course many were with him for the money — the ‘vultures’ you mention.
None of what I say is criticism — purely observation!!! I would suggest that in his ‘drug-filled’ world he could not possibly follow ‘the program’. He was like so many in our society who turn to drugs for an anesthetic when the pressure/stress gets too much. NOt that I was as brilliant as he was or anywhere in his class — but — that’s what I did and had to ‘recover’. I had to face my past, get honest – be in control with the help of God!!
Sorry I sort of de-threaded Olga’s post. Am still in awe of the Rabbi and intend to read a book or two of his. A story: Lived in England and had a friend visit who was a terrific opera singer — a great voice. One day when I had my cleaning lady in (about 65 and very Irish) - my friend was at the piano and sang a beautiful song from Boheme. When she finished – I – jokingly – said – ‘not bad for a beginner’! My lovely Irish lady turned to me blazing and her brogue got really Irish and she said to me ‘And you can do better??’ My friend and I laughed and explained it was a joke. What she was saying was — if you can’t do it – your right to criticise is rather weak.
She was not mollified — to her I had taken something wonderful and reduced it. Not intentionally and not in my friends’ eyes. We had been friends for 17 years. What am I saying?? I think we ALL hear and interpret with all the wonderfulness of experience, upbringing, education, wellness, etc. — and so we should. I respect education and the ability to speak, write books, inspire, teach and remain humanistic and this Rabbi does all of that and more.
Just plugged into the article you suggested and find that I am not at all surprized by the response to the article — the guy who wrote it has one very large resentment – I think so.
And, it just proves to me that no religion appears to please all it’s own people! One of the things I’ve heard about the Jews is that they love discourse and questioning and learning!! Sooooo, it appears we will have to agree to disagree. All this happened in 2008 and several of the posters/bloggers mentioned that Hitchens is a drunk — and he admitted he drank a whole bunch. Right, wrong or indifferent I tend to side with the sober.
Peace?
One word (and I hope the last here) on the late Michael Jackson: Vitiligo. His loss of pigmentation was due to a health condition. Check the autopsy report for confirmation and for lack of evidence of any drug addiction at the time of his death.
I am not Jewish, much less Orthodox, but too many of his fellow Rabbis speak out against Shmuley and their reasons are valid and beyond my knowledge of Judaic Law. What I do know, however, is that since you are an expert not only on Michael Jackson but Shmuley Boteach as well, nothing I say to you will have an effect.
Shalom.
Wow — did not expect this to become anything but an opinion – and as such — does not an expert make!! Have heard of vitiligo – and have seen some with golfing friends — it appeared in patches and not a uniform condition at all. However, certainly must look into it!! Re – the drugs — what about the ‘anesthetic’ he was given on a regular basis for inability to sleep — and our dear God only knows what else. Never intended for this to be an indictment of MJ.
Saw Oprah the other day and she had Elvis daughter (sorry can’t think of her first name — age, ya’ know- is it Priscilla?) on for an hour discussing MJ — and it was firmly acknowledged by first hand living together and travelling all over the world practically joined at the hip that he had a huge drug problem and that was why she left him!!! One of the major symptoms of alcoholism and drug addiction is that though a serious illness, it doesn’t let you know you have this illness — it’s called DENIAL – Didn’t Even Know I Am a Liar!! I can speak personally to that!
And further to that — one in his position could buy anything anytime no matter where he was. He bought doctors and people because he could afford to and they all hovered like vultures – as you said – and used him for the money as well. A viscious cycle that only MJ could break. He needed help but not the kind that money can buy!! I sincerely and millions of his fans certainly want to keep his memory ‘clean’ and wish he could have found a program that would help him on a physical, spiritual and mental level. But and it’s a big but — ‘if wishes were horses, beggars could ride’.
I have always had an admiration and respect for anybody who can write a book, lecture, show a degree of intelligence and compassion!! It’s my personal choice. R. Shmuley appears to have such a character. I intend to read the books and make an informed decision. Maybe then I will respond more positively to your hate.
Will have to go back to the web-site and read it again — didn’t find the ‘too many’ you mentioned!
Sorry if I offended you — and I also would like to say that I had no intention of offending MJ’s genius. All the best to you and I do admire your loyalty.
Peace!
Not so much loyalty, though I feel as though I grew up with Michael Jackson, but a desire for the truth. No offense taken, though most of your information is erroneous.
Anesthesiologists have written that there is no such thing as an addiction to Propofol. Lisa Marie made no mention of a huge drug problem during the O interview. Their marriage ended as a result of her refusal to have children and their mutual stubborn streak. They enjoyed a four year post-divorce affair as she followed MJ around the world at his beck and booty call. Next husband, Nic Cage is quoted as saying LMP divorced him (Nic) because he didn’t wear one glove.
Perhaps we should start a separate Michael Jackson thread. My intense interest is due in part, too, to the fact that I have a huge stake in this matter–Breaking News: I am Blanket’s mother.
Finally, at no point on this thread did I express hatred for Rabbi Shmuley.
Thanks for your hospitality, Olga.
Be happy.
My dear Maggie de Vore: There are dozens of stories online about full-body Vitiligo, notwithstanding your golf buddies. Another man’s experience with Vitiligo.
The disease starts out as depigmented spots on the extremities and in many cases continue to grow until the entire body is affected. There is a newscaster named Lee Thomas who recently “came out” with his diagnosis and symptoms, and his spots continue to grow and spread.
In Michael Jackson’s case, there were remaining segments of his born skin color which his attorney Tom Mesereau witnessed and described: “During the trial, the prosecution schooled some of their witnesses to discuss Michael Jackson’s make-up and appearance. Michael Jackson suffers from a skin disease called vitiligo. This disease destroys skin pigment. One day Michael showed me his back by lifting his shirt. His skin is brown with white patches. He looks like a cow. He is very self-conscious of similar skin conditions on his face and this is why he applies make-up. You also see his security guards use an umbrella because his skin cannot accept sunlight.” From Tom Mesereau’s professional website.
As our dear friend TRACK signs off on her posts “I would not have you ignorant.”
Shalom.
Am open to all learning and I appreciate your personal knowledge. Also love Track’s work about ignorance. Sooo, still have not looked up the skin condition and probably won’t have to now. Will check out T.Mesereau’s website. Peace.
Certainly do understand and admire your love and interest in MJ’s life. If I said anything that was insulting – I apologize — will have to go back and check out my words. All the best and you too — be happy.
No need for apology as I take no offense from your opinion. Let’s wait and see what’s revealed at trial, shall we? I know I’ve taken advantage of Olga’s thread so I’m checking out.
Be happy.
Err, Vibrants: STOP THE PRESSES: The “I am Blanket’s mother”quip was a ‘prankity,’ attempting to show that any and everyone is trying to hornin on the $$$ to be made off of MJ. I am not Prince Michael Jackson II’s mother. I did not have sex with that man.
Be happy.
You are hilarious!
No apology necessary………..that’s the fun of conversations, you never know what will turn up.
. I’m a big believer in considering the source, but I don’t necessarily discount an idea because of the source.
Thanks Yakitty… for the info on this Rabbi….I agree with what he said…as the post did not go into his character,or background ..but I am never surprised as to what ”people of the cloth” do opposite to what they say many times the things that they preach against are what they themselves do….the reason I do”not join” churches it has been 20 years..I have learn too much, about the games they play and my salvation is not in the hands o f anyone but me…I found MJ to be a kind soul who was used by many..may he rest in peace and his absence is the lost to the music world and those of us who loved him.
FayetteSIPP,
Very well said.
I have also been detached from any religion for a long time and live my life by my belief that my destiny, or whatever you want to call it, is in my own hands. I am the one doing the actions. I never feel that someone is ‘guiding’ me to do anything.
anir
Anir
I guess we are kind of on the same spiritual path and that is getting one self right with ones inner god and outer GOD
The funny thing about being detached is I became more spiritually fulfilled and still keep the things that I hold important and dear to me,..I believe it made me a better Christian/Buddhist/ Jew/ Muslim…as I have found some good in all and much in good in a few@:))))
While I agree we do not want to redefine what marriage is, we must remember it is one thing that is lacking in the homosexual relatiionship, it has binding social as well as cultural things that are denied the homosexual. While the gay community was plagued with aids and the disease was (and sometimes still is) defined as a homosexual problem, the partners could not be responsible for each other as any marriage or partnership implies. They would stand by their mate in a hospital room while other family members made decisions for their partners, which, in some cases, were so far from what they would have wanted.
The social benefits available in some countries were denied to gay couples and available to married heterosexuals, despite the fact that divorce had destroyed any relationship.
God bless, J
I think it’s important if you are in a relationship, aside from everyone needing to have a living will, one might want to set up power of attorney for healthcare (possibly finances as well) that would take affect if one partner was incapacitated to make decisions. I know several people that have done this and it works well during operations, hospital stays and communication with doctors. But – you have to be certain to let the medical folks know there is a power of attorney or family will be making decisions that you might not want involved.
I know this doesn’t solve problems with all rights granted to folks who are married but it’s something that can help in difficult medical times. For those in the process of divorce not yet final, or who are separated – if you don’t want your spouse making decisions for you be sure to execute a power of attorney.
A great post — and thanks!! Especially interested in his views of Pat Robertson which are so political as to not even have to explain. The Conservative Christian is raking in money hand over fist because he has threatened his followers that homosexuality is a sin, that terrorism will get you – and all the threats used politically to then ‘save’ you if you give enough money to the ‘their’ cause. It is so diabolically insane (and based on fear) for anyone to follow this man’s preaching when he is so blatantly devious. In his bid for President he said he was told by God to run for president. Did he get that from Bush or vice versa. He cheated on his wife, he lied about his IQ of 159 which is more like 135 or less — nobody really knows. One could go on and on.
My point is — I think it’s vital that we separate the lying politicians from the issues of human rights. Nobody is now, nor will any of us be perfect!! How dare we point fingers to declare wars and to fill our own greedy bank accounts!!
Again — a truly enlightening post!! Maybe I will have more to say after I read Yakkity’s slant. Thanks all!!
Just as a side note, sometimes I catch Rabbi Schmuley on XM radio. He really is worth listening to. We can always learn from others.
True. I plan to check out his website.
Sometimes when I listen to what he says, I think….Wow!!!!
Now that’s my kind of Rabbi!
Well written-well thought out article. I felt blessed to come across it today. Thanks for posting!