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Rabbi Lazar highlights President Medvedev's biblical view of crisis and his attention to spiritual matters voiced in his address

Moscow, December 13, Interfax - Chief Rabbi of Russia Berel Lazar appreciated the presidential intention to use the economic crisis for the implementation of new options voiced by President Dmitry Medvedev in his address to the Federal Assembly.

"It is no secret that some people lose heart at critical moments, and others take fatalistic approach saying that one needs to wait until things settle down one way or the other. I share the presidential approach to use the crisis for the implementation of new opportunities," said Rabbi in a commentary as quoted by his press service.

Lazar noted that God challenged people, so that they could mobilize their resources, find new ways and help themselves and all others out.

"The same is true for the states: it is high time now to concentrate on new technologies, breakthrough scientific research work, and the most efficient use of the major Russian potential - its knowledge and qualified human resources. Another task which ranks among the essential ones is to foster relations with our fellow countrymen abroad; for we know that there are too many scientists and brilliant experts there who could bring benefit to our country," the Rabbi said.

Other assumptions of the presidential address highlighted by Rabbi Lazar include the need to increase retirement benefits, and help the needy and the senior citizens: "this is a good sign for those who work today that the country will never leave them alone after they stop working. The country takes care of those who take care of it," Rabbi Lazar said.

According to him, a believer considers it most important that President mentioned spiritual matters - upbringing and moral values.

"It is not the first time that the President pays so much attention to these matters, and this is an important sign for the whole country. Even with so many urgent economical problems at hand, spiritual values remain the essence of any human life. When people have strong spiritual values and a high level of cultural development, many problems merely cease to exist, and others are easily tackled," the Rabbi believes.

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