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1 Elul 5764 - August 18, 2004 | Mordecai Plaut, director Published Weekly
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NEWS
Antismoking Organization Launches Broad Campaign
by N. Katzin

An antismoking organization called Chaim Bri'im Kehalachoh started by Rabbi Yechezkel Escheiyik, rabbonim and public figures, has launched a broad campaign aimed at the chareidi public -- and yeshiva students in particular -- through advertisements, activities and the distribution of a special edition of Chaim Lelo Ishun Al Pi HaTorah ("Life Without Smoking According to the Torah"), which was written and edited by Rabbi Escheiyik.

Designed to prevent young men from acquiring the habit of smoking, the campaign includes the dissemination of a call signed by gedolei Yisroel including HaRav Yosef Sholom Eliashiv, shlita, which clearly states there is no hetter to begin smoking and reminds smokers to try their best to quit. The notice speaks of the great danger inherent in smoking, saying "whoever can prevent himself and others from smoking is obligated to do so" and "certainly one may not smoke in public places."

The publication of the notice brought a great boost to the antismoking campaign within the chareidi public. With the support of gedolei Yisroel, Chaim Bri'im Kehalochoh engaged in informative activities during bein hazmanim at dozens of camps run by yeshivas, giving lectures and audio- visual presentations. The heads of the organization are currently distributing copies of Chaim Lelo Ishun to rabbonim, ramim, mashgichim and maggidei shiurim.

The organization is also working to distribute thousands of printed notices of the ruling to be posted around the country in addition to the notices printed in the chareidi press. Organizers expressed hopes their activities will lead to a reduction in smoking in the chareidi sector, especially by preventing yeshiva students from starting.

 

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