It has come to my attention that a certain communal figure who is respected by many in matters of Kashrut, has questioned the reliability of the “Kosher LA” certification on our local The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf.
I state with absolute confidence: this is utter nonsense, and one who engages in the spreading of this deceitful opinion violates numerous Torah and Rabbinic prohibitions, many of which are much more severe than observing Kashrut. There is no reason to worry nor any grounds upon which to cast doubt. You may continue relying on this Kosher symbol without any hesitation. As a prestigious and senior rabbi, he does not need my support nor statements, but I cannot remain silent: Rabbi Moshe Benzaquen shlit”a is a tremendous Torah scholar and a true Yareh Shamayim. Anyone who speaks against him is playing with fire, and it would be best for them to heed our Rabbis’ warning (Avot 2:1): “for their bite is the bite of a fox, and their sting is the sting of a scorpion”.
May Hashem bless the Rav and all who help him with many happy and healthy years in the service of Hashem and His people, Amen.
Rabbi Yonatan Y. Halevy
Rabbi and Spiritual Leader
Kehillat Shaar HaShamayim