Jerusalem, May 22, 2008 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) condemned the burning of New Testament bibles, apparently by Orthodox Jews in Or Yehuda, and called for respect for the sacred texts of all faiths.

Hundreds of New Testaments, reportedly distributed by Messianic Jews, were collected and publicly burned by Orthodox Jews under the supervision of Or Yehuda Deputy Mayor Uzi Aharon last week. 

"We condemn this heinous act as a violation of basic Jewish principles and values, said Rabbi Eric J. Greenberg, ADL Director of Interfaith Policy. "The Jewish people can never forget the tragic burning of Talmuds and Torahs throughout history. It is essential that we respect the sacred texts of other faiths.

"We call on rabbis and Jewish leaders of all streams and parties to denounce this incident and remind the demand of respect.

"While there may be legitimate concerns of proselytizing, these matters must be addressed through the proper legal channels. It is unacceptable and not legitimate to burn someone else's sacred texts."