The IDF defends Israel against enemies, but the Torah is the ultimate weapon against evil, says former Chief Sephardi Rabbi Ovadia Yosef.

The revered rabbi, who also is the spiritual leader of the Shas party, delivered his weekly broadcast sermon Saturday night in the wake of attempts by the government to prepare legislation requiring the enlistment of all Israelis, including those who study Toray day and night. They have largely been exempt from serving in the IDF ever since the re-establishment of the State of Israel in 1948.

“How many people hate us? asked Rabbi Ovadia, as he is known in Israel. He answered, “We have Iran. We have Hizbullah. We have the Palestinian Arabs. And yes, the IDF endangers itself and guards us.

“But what can we do against evil. Who will protect us? Only the Torah.”

He called on Jews to pray for the cancellation of the “decrees” being prepared for legislation. “HaShem watches over yeshiva students,” continued Rabbi Ovadia. “Without them, the world would be destroyed.”

He charged that those who try to diminish the learning of Torah “have no faith. We believe in HaShem and in His torah. He will turn these planned decrees from curses into blessings.” (IsraelNationalNews © 2012 07/15/12)