and the other shoe drops...

Not sure if you remember MK (Member of Knesset) Shlomo Benizri - I blogged about him and his antediluvian ways here - but it seems that he's been a very naughty boy

This bit tickled me particularly:

"Rabbi Reuven Elbaz, his political and spiritual patron, was convicted of mediating in bribery and conspiracy to commit a crime. "

I've often wondered about this spiritual patron business, and its overlap with the sordid world of partisan politics. What do they do? Pray for votes? Seek divine inspiration for the direction of the party? Coerce the faithful into casting their votes for a preferred candidate, under threat of eternal damnation?

And how does one get a spiritual guide, anyway - advertise for one in the classified columns? I can see the advert now: "Up and coming politician seeks compatible spiritual mentor to add gravitas. Prior experience in *mediation* necessary. Bushy beard to stroke and look thoughtful with essential. Good working conditions, Sabbath observant premises. Reform Rabbis need not apply."

Maybe I'm a little unfair - and Lord knows, all religions attempt to interfere with affairs of State nowadays - but I do firmly believe in the principle of separation between Church/Mosque/Synagogue and State.

Anyway, Mr Benizri intends to appeal. Who knows, the situation may yet change...