How do Hasidic Jews earn a living? | Your questions answered here

[@Bear_Arms]

Lets not forget about the many less observant Jews that help fund many of the major institutions inside Haredi communities. My family, while pretty secular, regularly donates to a local Yeshiva and Kollel. Judaism teaches that people who help fund the study of Torah get a share in the merit of that study. Shana Tova to all, may you all have a happy and healthy year!

[@alladreamwedreamed]

This sounds similar to the practices in Buddhist-majority countries, where the monks come around town daily and are provided with rice and other foods and necessities by the members of the greater community.

[@sleb6259]

That's a big fat lie!

[@Bear_Arms]

@@sleb6259 what is a big fat lie?

[@christopher8341]

This might sound patronizing but do you think yeshiva university would open up some Jr colleges?

[@Bear_Arms]

@@christopher8341Touro University has cornered that market. I doubt an elite university like YU, that's focused on research, would be interested in opening up a "Jr. College". I do know that YU does offer some adult learning programs though.

[@MindlessZombie2006]

You only briefly mention the fact the Hasidic economy in Williamsburg would not be viable without a massive infusion of public money. They receive a large percentage of Section 8 vouchers for Brooklyn, and are accommodated by Hasidic landlords (frequently through under-the-table surcharges). More than 50% of the population in this community receives some sort of public assistance , including Medicaid, SNAP, etc - but none of that money is returned to the people who pay the taxes to fund it, because the spending is kept inside.

[@nathancov1165]

That is not true, because the store owners pay taxes on the profit they make from the money spent

[@katiedotzler6254]

^^ do you think the Hasidim just magically don’t pay taxes?

[@bentleyv1233]

Right but a lot of them need it, not all Hasidic Jews are wealthy thats just a gross misconception.

[@bentleyv1233]

Plus they’re using the public assistance in the way you’re supposed to, not just collecting benefits and then not working

[@reginaphalange9316]

I do not have any assistance programs at all, neither do most of my friends. I don’t believe that my community is taking advantage of the programs more than any other community.

[@yoelhalb]

Very well put. A few additions though: 1) The Kosher food industry also reaches way beyond the Hasidic community, not just to more mainstream Jews but also there are non jews that prefer Kosher food for safety reasons. 2) Unlike in the secular world where rich people move away into rich gated communities, and spend their money on yachts and expensive cars or rolex watches, Hasidic rich people stay in the community and rather spend their money to help their brethren

[@cherylkhoja917]

Aameen

[@yoelhalb]

@@Channel-sp3fp I don't like to answer for biased people and haters. But if you are truly interested in the facts, I would recommend you to actually research your claims and the percentage of it in the Hasidic community vs the secular ones and see for yourself

[@abuzolfiqar2122]

@@cherylkhoja917 What are you doing?

[@cherylkhoja917]

@@abuzolfiqar2122 I am a teacher in Atlanta Georgia.

[@abuzolfiqar2122]

@@cherylkhoja917 Are you from the Khoja people or is that just your surname?

[@yoinhemotzhe6157]

Frieda, we are so thankful to Hashem for creating you so talented and so intelligent with kindness to it, as nobody has so far spread this word about the Hasidic Jewish community in-house business trading in such a genuine and authentic way with such a positive vision about them, On a side note, I strongly believe that now after your video came out, a lot of Hasidic Jews who have not made it yet to the top of the ladder will now get inspired by you and roll up their sleeves and try to climb up the success ladder, 📈📈📊📊

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

very nice emojis Yoineh

[@richardarrow369]

My heart goes out to all the secular teachers in Williamsburg. I tried it. Difficult, but rewarding. Great job reporting on Williamsburg. The best part of America!

[@corriehordyk3342]

Do the kids attend the school system?

[@anonymousanonymous-qx7mv]

Freeda, I know you left the community and as much as it hurts...I still wanna commend you on a fair view of our life. You dont mix your personal animus , if any...with the truth and for that I tip my hat to you. I watched your interview with Peri Engelman, a relative of mine and it gave me great joy to see how respectful you were and how fair and unbiased you were and simply asked the relevant questions in a neutral way to educate the public. Thank you for your fair unbiased portrayal of your people, in spite of your personal choices to live life apart from it. Blessings for a sweet year and enlightenment to the truth of Torah and mitzvos! G' mar Chasima Tova.

[@conferenceclips4940]

Are you allowed to read the internet?

[@bodelairo1]

@@anonymousanonymous-qx7mv since you are still backward in USA 60% are circumcised while in really backward africa it's 90% but in the most evolved country like Canada its 30%. Have you been excised?Poor USA

[@ttuny1412]

@@conferenceclips4940 They aren't like the Amish, they use modern tech.

[@sarahm9723]

@@conferenceclips4940 Yes, but they’re not glued to the Internet, like we seculars are.

[@andreaf7886]

I’ve never heard such a clear explanation of the community’s economy. You answered many of my questions and clarified the misinformation I’ve read through the years. Yes, I’m still working my way through your content. 😊

[@carole2403xqv1]

I remember many years ago (1960's) when we lived in Bush Terminal near Boro Park, my mother needed plastic slip covers for our living room furniture. She called a local mom and pop upholstery shop that specialized in custom made plastic slipcovers. To our surprise, a large Hasidic or maybe orthodox man with hat , fringe etc came to our house to take the measurements. We weren't Jewish and I couldn't believe a religious man would come to a non Jewish home. Also, my mom had very bad varicose veins and always wore specialized compression stockings. She would not wear compression panty hose. The only places that carried that kind of stockings were Hassidic ladies' hosiery stores on 13th or 14th Avenue in Boro Park .Those were the only stores that carried such "old fashioned " stockings.

[@shevalazaros4427]

@@carole2403xqv1 thank you for your pleasant comments.

[@MsDanceDiva234]

My family owned businesses in Williamburg and the Hasidic community is very close to our own. Although we are not Jewish, a lot of the food and influence extends beyond the inside community. Thank you for this video. It was very eye opening.

[@Thingsandcosas]

Fascinating.. did your family get out of the businesses before the hipsters came?

[@MsDanceDiva234]

@@Thingsandcosas Yes actually, they sold before it became super developed in the area. I remember when it was still mostly Hasidic neighborhoods.

[@BrianBeauchamp]

I’m an ER physician in Chicago and I have 2 Hasidic colleagues in my group (MD’s). Excellent docs!

[@seymourclearly]

Yes, why not

[@augustojoseramonpinochetug5235]

They’re an exception to the rule

[@GeorgeFhore]

Riiiiiiiiight!!

[@shevalazaros4427]

@@augustojoseramonpinochetug5235 sorry to burst your bubble ...there are lots of professionals in the chassidic world..I am a chassidic mom of 7. i'm a nurse, my husband, a rabbi is also an economics grad. My daughter is a pediatrician, her sister has a masters in social work, her brother has a law degree. i guess there are more exceptions than you assumed.

[@New.Beginnings88]

@@BrianBeauchamp can you Metzitzah B’peh my son?

[@sparker7768]

I'm glad you mentioned State Aid. I worked several years with NYC's social services division, and became aware of many Hasidic families receiving SNAP benefits (more commonly known as food stamps). I've always been curious about the Hasidic culture, and am enjoying these videos.

[@sunshine6522]

There' s a big wealth-gap in our community, while many receive government aid- even more are quite affluent and pay high taxes... the middle-class is relatively small.

[@susieq2806]

This surprises me since I thought this group of people were very stern about being independent and caring for their families. 😮

[@websitemartian]

@@susieq2806same ... pretty disappointed

[@annedon776]

I could never understand that why have so many children if you can't afford them and then expect the state to pay and support the families. If you can't afford them, then don't have them.

[@TheRoadEye]

​@@susieq2806nope, just welfare queens that look down upon everyone else

[@kathleenklein4231]

Very enlightening. I recently started patronizing a bakery in NYC that does online orders. They ship within 24 hours by FedEx. I was kind of surprised to find out that they were Hasidim when I researched them. I didn't even think they really used the internet. That shows you my ignorance of the situation.

[@sfertonoc]

Isn't Haagen Dazs ice cream Hassidic product?

[@sbmusicandmussar]

Which bakery? My husband likes cake.

[@einod3383]

@@sfertonoc lol. no

[@davidschalit907]

@@sfertonoc No it isn't. But they were founded by Jewish Holocaust survivors.

[@mordechai-]

@@sfertonoc Kosher, but not Hassidic.

[@agoldberger7255]

Wow! This was such an informative and measured assessment of a very complicated and somewhat sensitive topic. Thank you Frida!

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

I try! :)

[@Sam3103s]

Another point that I think was missed here is they’re never really distracted by modern day technology till it’s absolutely necessary and I think that plays a huge role.

[@hpyrkh3]

I know, I always think, they are successful because they don’t grow up attached to the screen.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

I definitely think it gives Hasidim an economic edge.

[@johnsmith1474]

Huge "role" not roll.

[@Sam3103s]

@@johnsmith1474 true. Thanks.

[@thomasgolden1081]

I think the pandemic and economic crisis have taught people the importance of multiple streams of income, unfortunately having a job doesn't mean financial security. I really appreciate the transparency and giving people a fighting chance during this troubling times.

[@lakabelty7536]

Forex trading is really profitable, now is the best time to take advantage of the market and earn a lot. And of course to do that you need the help of a professional.

[@ronniek.hodges5774]

The pandemic has taught me that if you don't find a way to multiply your money, you might wake up one day to realize that the money you thought you had is gone. Investing is a stepping stone to financial security

[@forgathyrichmond746]

@Jason Stefan Wow, I thought I was the only one who knew Alicia Seda Rich. Her techniques are quite exceptional. I had the privilege of meeting her at a Summit in Singapore. It feels good to see you talk about her.

[@forgathyrichmond746]

Last month, I got a 2020 Lexus GX 460 4dr SUV 4WD (4.6L 8cyl 6A) at $52,900. it had only 4,083miles on it. It’s Really a great SUV, I can attest to that. Thanks to Alicia Seda Rich, with her services and strategy, I was able to make a lot of profits from My FOREX investments to get one for my self.

[@laraethan8423]

WHEN YOU INVEST, YOU BUY YOURSELF A DAY YOU DON'T HAVE TO WORK. Investing is a way to save for the future. By investing, you are also ensuring that your future is bright.

[@hoover3433]

I am so glad you are sharing this because i was under the misconception that the woman took care of the children and worked while the husbands studied daily. Some of the negative films with abused woman showed that actually. I so respect the religion and their devotion to protecting their children and giving their family relationships top priority and protect this. You are a great asset to the Hasidic Jewish people.

[@christophermurray9799]

Kars for kids is a complete scam .. so is Jews for Jesus

[@AshSham11]

Film with abused women showed that? What the hell are you talking about here? In 80% of Jew family it's that way, so those women are all abused?

[@traceyrossmann2989]

A lot of Jewish women go through what you are describing. It's not normally a Hasidic thing though. I believe they are called Yeshivists. They are Orthodox Jewish men who live completely to study the Holy texts, which leave the women responsible for everything else in life.

[@Cindy99765]

This arrangement is more common among Ultra Orthodox Jews in Israel. There are some men who stay in yeshiva even until their 30s.

[@LeaS-e2w]

It always get upset about these movies, whatever community or religion it depicts. Like can anyone honestly believe that a community has thousands of members and every single one of them is abused? Like the movie unorthodox that bases an entire community on a girl who grew up with an alcoholic father, controlling aunt and thought her mother abandoned her. And btw the story is filled with inaccuracies that would never happen even in the extreme cases.

[@nitanice]

About a year ago, I heard my dad, who's Jewish, say that the Hasidim just study all day and didn't work. Having lived in a Hasidic neighborhood for about two years, I was like: are you kidding me? Do you think they can have eight kids and buy apartments in Brooklyn with welfare checks and food stamps? And then I pretty much had the conversation you described in this video. It's a maddeningly illogical misconception! Thanks for putting this together!

[@jsbrads1]

It’s funny, tho it has changed recently, Litvish Jews spent much much more time studying Torah.

[@JK-gu3tl]

So they don't abuse welfare?

[@yoyoiven]

They do welfare and also handouts from their own community. It's not mutually exclusive

[@BlindVeganRescue]

The majority are on welfare and don't do anything except study Torah. It not illogical at all. The hasidic American villages have some of the highest poverty rates in America.

[@janecoe9407]

i've seen you tube videos say the hasidic men get donations to study torah. However, donations were dwindling so men have to go out to work.

[@farinati]

I love and appreciate that although you (as far as I understood from this video) are no longer chassidish, you still present them in a respectful and positive light. Thank you ❤🙏

[@yoelhalb]

Yes, she is very much to be appreciated that unlike some others that left the community and try to become popular by spreading lies (or sometimes it's true but only in their dysfunctional family) she is rather trying to set the record straight (although I guess leaving the community was most probably hard for her and she definitely struggled a lot as a result of growing up in the community). She is worthy of all admiration and praise. Thank you @Frieda

[@noneofyourbeeswax371]

As a Muslim, I am so proud to see my brother so proud of their faith. Keep on keeping on!

[@DjawadBouali-nf5ud]

As Muslim I have to ask , Are you high or stupid ?

[@remi1239]

@MAFF-n3z hahaha, Boooom. That"s a good one. Am Israel chai!

[@ProudAmerican78]

​@@remi1239 Abraham's brothers love each other. Ishak and Ishmail Jews and Muslims

[@MK-hz2bn]

I’m in Alabama, a professional photographer and B&H has gotten a lot of my business over the years. They are a wonderful business. Very thankful for them. Cool to see you mention them. They don’t take orders on Shabbat. Very strong beliefs, so much respect for that. Christians, I am one, have not kept up our beliefs like we should.

[@MarioIgnati]

The Amish and other conservative Anabaptists have. The Catholic SSPX is trying.

[@jonathanortiz3455]

Us christians have to be more radical. I am also a Christian and this would solve EVERY issue

[@mp5447]

Amazing video! Glad to see someone cover Hasidism without bashing them. Keep it up!

[@superninjab0y]

How does what she's saying not look bad?

[@Lee-yb2zr]

It's the truth so depending on the listener it could look good or bad. Or good inclusive of bad

[@deborah393]

Awesome video, Frieda. You do a great service to the Hasidic community, and to the Jewish community at large. So glad to see the segment on B&H, which is the best place to buy a camera in New York. They really know their merchandise and are extremely helpful.

[@poiu477]

All organized religions, especially the Abrahamic faiths need to be reeducated out of society. Ridiculous fairy tales have held society back for long enough. Furthermore, the state of Israel is an apartheid theocracy that is democratic in name only. You cannot have both a democratic and a Jewish state, the notions are wholly incompatible

[@Demopans5990]

B&H sells more than just cameras. I got parts for my computer there, top of the line for the time

[@adolfosofiao]

Frieda, thank you for the informative video. I grew up in a neighbourhood in London called Golders Green and I was always inquisitive about the Hasidic community.. I commend you for your eloquence and excellent research into this community. 💕🇦🇴🇬🇧

[@tammyicious]

Beatrice Weber sued New York City and New York state because the community was taking government money but not teaching the standard subjects, only the Hasidic way of life. She was advocating for her child to get an education like other children in the state. Beatrice did a wonderful interview on the KZbin channel called Cult to Consciousness.

[@nitanice]

Unfortunately, too many religious schools now get the money that should go to public schools. I truly fear the whacky X-tian ones that call for ending everyone’s rights - including the right to be converted to their religion. I’m Jewish. Don’t agree or disagree with the Hasidim. But at least they don’t call for he overthrowing of the government or abolishing other folks!

[@sarahm9723]

As a secular, seems to me that this so-called Beatrice Weber is a “Karen.”

[@Star-qh5wp]

Grossly misrepresentation in every way. Her video has outright lies and extreme interpretations which is very far from what these things are really.

[@rogermoore27]

I live outside of the US where there are no Hasidic Jews in my little country so this video is quite helpful to learn about their way of life

[@dylanakent]

I was always thankful for these small Mom and Pop shops because they continue to see value in businesses that big corporations don't see a profit in. For example, we had a small printer on the block of a magazine I used to work for. We were there many times a week with our small and immediate jobs and they were carefully done. You'd never get that kind of service at Staples. Also, lovely specialty food stores with deli, tea and candy. Delicious and healthy! Can't be beat! 👍

[@sandrag.9291]

I also enjoyed that part very much. For me is the core of the community: based on everybody´s well being. This is an issue in almost every country and is also worth talking and writing about. You can take a look at Societies by looking at Youth and Motherhood. If the smallest, weakest or subaltern positions like motherhood often is are completely displaced or young people are breaking apart what is the worth of it? And why does the world doesn´t see the value of hasidic communites and want to demerit them instead? Thank You for this Video Frida!

[@joshuajohnson3296]

So maybe if I wanted to start a printshop, I should see if Hasidim are interested? Especially if I want to reprint Hebrew and other religious texts

[@morehn]

We see value in local mom and pops because they produce specialty items that we need, regardless of expense, basically. So, it's not just the sentimental value, but it's the monetary value, as well.

[@jsw7814]

Delicious? very. Healthy? Nu, nu, lol.

[@arribaficationwineho32]

Mom is working too?

[@juliachildress2943]

Thank you, Frieda. I'm new to your channel but in just a few videos I have learned a lot. I am not Jewish and I have family members who live in Boro Park. Whenever we visit, I like to stay for several days and observe the rhythm and activities of the different days. The children playing, husbands and wives walking together with their little ones, the quiet of the Sabbath, the noise and activity of Sunday, when everyone seems to be out and about and some of the shops overflow onto the sidewalk. I always feel welcome and sometimes get to talk with some of the moms about their day. I hope to take your tour one day.

[@jimmyconway8025]

I lived in Williamsburg and Miami beach where they have a community. I like how they have everything within. Like amish! None of these kids grow up to become drug addicts or violent criminals. Like the amish ... Respect! Good video !

[@maureenlarsson4456]

Frieda, Thank you. I have learned so much about Jewish orthodox life. Please keep them coming. God Bless, Maureen from Florida originally from Brooklyn

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Thank you Maureen!

[@taryncornelius548]

I was involved in healthcare with this community for over 35 yrs and the amount of government entitlements going to their members is overwhelming I saw a large amount of poverty, poor educational outcomes and depression among the women .

[@ragathnor326]

I lived in the town next to Williamsburg and I agree. The stress for women and men in this economy is incredible. Depression is rampant and so is abuse, on both sides. Am not sure if the rates are higher than in the secular society. I have seen Hassidic police officers and ambulances. society.

[@Yomomma-jf9iy]

@@ragathnor326 can you make a video about it?

[@Star-qh5wp]

@@ragathnor326there’s aren’t towns next to Williamsburg in New York.

[@Star-qh5wp]

How would you as a healthcare provider see the government entitlements? Are you speaking about Medicaid? And in what capacity as a healthcare provider did you see depression by the women?

[@kikimomoeses]

I just want to say that the government aid given to those schools is from the state. New York gives money to all schools so this is not just because of their religion / financial need.

[@surikatz123]

@Run Everyday the govt gives private schools $2, 500.00 per student, as opposed to $25,000.00 per public school student. Parents of private school students pay their fair share in residential taxes. we certainly don't receive our fair share of the funding. our graduate students are way more productive and morally responsible than public school students. Based on all of this, the govt should be giving private schools 25,000.00 per student and 2,500.00 to failing public schools!!

[@p.stephens9305]

I enjoy watching your programs Frieda, but you know what we all want---*your* story

[@salaltschul3604]

I'd love to see that!

[@glennleslie6127]

B&H photo is absolutely the best business to buy anything related to photography. I've been a loyal customer for over 20 years, and I'm a Catholic.

[@MrTang-qo9wm]

An American Jew is walking in Belfast. A gang approaches him. "Are you Protestant or are you Catholic?" "I'm Jewish." "That's as maybe, but are you a Catholic Jew or a Protestant Jew?"

[@timmummert63]

B&H has been our go-to for years.

I’m a professional photographer and an atheist who will never patronize B&H

[@timmummert63]

That is your choice. I’ll pray for you.

[@wty1313]

I'm Asian, my father was a non-practicing Buddhist, and my mother was a practicing Buddhist. My parents never forced any religion of any type on me, so I grew up believing there MAY be an entity humankind refers to as God. I've bought a TON of stuff from B&H going back to the "grey market" days. Judaism, Christianity (of all types - my wife is Catholic), and Islam, all believe in the same God so it never made sense to me what all the "my way is better than your way" mentality through all the centuries are about.

[@kathewright5619]

New to your channel and living near Lakewood NJ, I have had much contact with the community in my work as a nurse and as a nursing professor ( half of each of our accelerated BSN program is made up of both male and female Hasidic students--which requires a previous college degree and specific prerequisites. They have smart phones, iPads. They are very good, high achieving students) My interaction both professional and personal has been positive. I do see a movement of younger Hasidim interacting and choosing professions in the secular community. Area hospitals in which I worked has many Orthodox nurses, a pharmacist, genetic counselor, speech pathology, dietician. They are very open to questions and interest in their community. We work well together. Most of their spouses also work. I am glad your videos dispel some of the myths that they do not work. However, I am curious about the 'architect' you discussed. I am married to an architect and licensure requires a 5 year college program, well as an apprenticeship. How does one become an architect-with the required engineering courses-- without a college degree?? It seems that public safety would be compromised.

[@vince8520]

I work for an Hassidic founded company (Montreal community) The company was sold to new owners for close to a billion dollars. There is still a few Hassidiques men working there. But that windfall of money supports the rest of the community.

[@joelnewman5592]

yep balkan

[@vince8520]

@@joelnewman5592 you got it !

[@bhsoon93]

Im an outsider, but you are talking so clear, never heard such a voice

[@yoelhalb]

I would recommend you to also show a glimpse into the diversification of the opinions by the Hasidim on their level, and how much campaigning goes in by the community leaders to bring community members to go along and how much it doesn't even help, be it on religious matters or on voting etc. I think that the main part of the problem is that the secular world doesn't see all the internal dialogs, debates and opinions, and rather view all Hasidim as a cult which are following leaders without thinking, rather than seeing them as normal people with a different culture

[@yoelhalb]

Thanks @Freida very well put I would also recommend to make a video explaining the communities PTSD (of the משכילים and early American Jews) on everything related to religion and how this influences everything in the community from technology to education to the resistance of change and how outside attempts to change it are only reinforcing this idea and are actually making things worse instead of helping.

[@lamont5050]

I love my Hasidic brothers and sisters, being a person of color and a retired cop that worked in crown heights I admire their strength and togetherness.

[@crossfire7474]

It's amazing you're not only discussing their businesses but also their community. A unique one.

[@jebbiekanfer8843]

Also Chabad rabbis go to college campuses and different cities to provide services to bring “wayward Jews” back into the fold by providing Shabbat services and educational services and just all around spiritual guidance. I don’t know if these people count as Hasidim but they seem to follow all the rules and are very kind and helpful to Jews who are at any level of spirituality without judgement.

[@jarrodbarkley9061]

Many Hasidic Jews are on government programs, get paid cash under the table, and also receive food and cash help from local Hasidic charities.

[@mosheyehuda]

Not the majority tho, Don't put us all in one jar please, I pay a lot of taxes and no one in my family and circles are getting any funding from the government

[@xp7575]

We get, you're ignorant, now stop crying

[@chatisawasteoftime]

As they should. Decent people should salvage whatever they could from politicians who waste money all the time. As for taxes, whatever Hasidim get in gov't funding is a pittance to what is taken from them in taxes, for which they see no returns.

[@superninjab0y]

It's owed to them, frankly

[@mottyk8491]

I go to the Jewish building shows every year (NY, NJ & FL) it's amazing how many chasidem owned businesses there are that cater to the outside community, from building supplies, construction and all sort of services

[@alexjiff557]

When is the next fl show ?

[@mottyk8491]

@@alexjiff557 there are several

[@sbmusicandmussar]

Construction industry?

[@truepeacenik]

I, a Renewal oriented Jew, went to work for a small paper on the eastern plains of Colorado. We were transitioning to digital, in a time where the cheap cameras were not the best. My editor started handing me the film and camera parts orders because I was able to explain why B&H weren’t answering the phone on a Friday afternoon.

[@kludgeaudio]

Years ago there was a whol;e neighborhood of camera stores that were owned by Orthodox Jews, many of them Syrian and related to one another. You could talk to the guy at 47th st Photo and he knew exactly what B&H, Cambridge, Olden, and Adorama were selling a thing for down to the penny because he had brothers and uncles who worked at all of them. These days they are almost all gone and mostly consolidated into B&H which makes dickering even more difficult.

[@ajurado800]

I think that the Hasidim set an example for even secular communities in how they focus on the small-scale, interpersonal work required to sustain a local community. Obviously not everyone will share their religious beliefs, but certainly even people living in a Liberal/Pluralist context can see how their intense dedication to Localism and to serving the most immediate needs of ones' neighbors can benefit everyone, and give us a degree of self-sustainability from the giant, global, impersonal machine of thoughtless production/consumption.

[@chaimstern5999]

this video is amazingly articulate and clear.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

thanks my friend. Used some things from you...

[@robintyde5441]

Thank you. We have a small Hasidic community here in Ormond Beach, Florida. My husband has asked me many times how the community supports itself. Since there is very little Kosher markets, businesses, etc. that we know of, I thought many work in Orlando and Jacksonville.

[@ChristianPhilosemite]

Wonderful. I love the emphasis on community and putting the priority on your fellows instead of branching away to get a cheaper deal or cut corners.

[@samsprague2846]

I was sent to a kindergarten that was at a Jewish temple for practical reasons. I really felt the sense of community and cohesiveness, it was very enjoyable to be part of it for that one school year. Afterward, when I attended public school I slowly realized that compared to the previous environment public school sucked.

[@markthompson180]

Not of Jewish background myself, but I admire how the Jewish community you describe values "investing in its members." That is a value that so many other communities across the US could definitely learn from. Thanks for your video.

[@hpyrkh3]

I think that with so many children, availability of remote educational resources and continuous emphasis on teaching kids to think, aka Talmud study, this community will see more and more prosperity.

[@valmarsiglia]

As someone who lived in Brooklyn for 20 years, I can answer that question with two words: Real estate.

[@ameurus]

What do you mean?

[@valmarsiglia]

@@ameurus Hasidim have historically owned lots of real estate in Williamsburg and other parts of Brooklyn like Borough Park and Crown Heights. When Williamsburg and the surrounding areas started getting hip and rents started soaring, many Hassidic building owners converted their properties to apartments, lofts, and condos. I had a Hassidic landlord briefly when I lived off of Myrtle Ave in the border area of Clinton Hill and south Williamsburg. Friends of mine had a condo in another Hassidic-owned building. Good for them, they made a wise investment: they bought up buildings when they were cheap and nobody wanted to live in Brooklyn, then made a killing in the real-estate boom.

[@ameurus]

@@valmarsiglia Thank you for a good explanation for non-locals:)

[@jsw7814]

@@valmarsiglia my grandpa owned buildings in wmsbg. Eventually he had to sell them and now I’m basically penniless. I really wish my family held on to it.

[@valmarsiglia]

@@jsw7814 Really sorry to hear.

[@ariplatt8192]

Many Hasidim get paid under the table- cash business- and can do very well, and at same time get a lot of public assistance, which is why Hasidic zip codes have some of the highest levels of “poverty”. So cash business plus public assistance works very well.

[@yoyoiven]

Yep. Food stamps and internal jobs!

[@rvdevoe4096]

I have worked for Hasidic for decades and their love for family and community is amazing.

[@cherylmendelsohn4950]

I am an a 80 year old women who as a child lived in a Hasidic neighborhood. As a young adult I drifted away from my old ways. Now I am studying Hebrew and Torah. I live in the space coast of Florida and with only have for or five temples in all of our county. Our old temple was bought by Chanda and the made an academy for young students and there social events. We built a smaller temple on the same campus. I so thank you for this video. It has help me to better understand stand a section of my own people that I had many misconceptions about. You are great blessing. If you are ever in Brevard county(like Cocoa Beach. ) I would love to meet you. I have lived in this Community for over thirty years. And I would be my honor to show you around. Sincerely Cheryl

[@gregfelice1969]

Incredibly informative. As a native New Yorker, very much appreciate a better understanding of this strong community - thank you!

[@wozwise]

Wow. I am not even chassidish but im so moved and inspired by the beautiful, respectful, honest portrayal you have given. I have been frum my whole life and was always confused how there are so many wealthy chassidim. A streimel alone would put me in debt 😅 its so clear that you have a yiddishe neshome and a lev tov. Thank you for your informative, educational and enlightening videos! Keep 'em coming 😊

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Thank you my friend.

[@phrababushkath2350]

Very well-done indeed! I have been quite worried about some einiklach who live in a Hassidic Community, going to the community parochial schools, from where will be parnosseh? I do not live in USA and so I was unaware until this excellent video of just how many opportunities there are! Thank you so much - you have relieved some of an elderly bubby's concerns!! Kol ha Kavode to you !

[@djs5958]

I thoroughly enjoy the education you give with each video. I have Jewish roots but my ancestors “turned” Catholic during years of extreme persecution in Russia prior to WWII. In knowing this I am very driven to learn all I can about the various Jewish sects/cultures. Thank you for bringing this knowledge to the general public platform so others like me can learn more.

[@mrdasilver]

Likewise, only in my case my Sephardic Jewish ancestors were either forced to convert to Christianity or leave Portugal and Spain during the Spanish inquisition.

[@tomgee8211]

Well the Russians were also killing all the clergy due to their hatred of all religions during the 30’s-40’s, So I’m sure being Catholic wasn’t any easier. God bless.

[@Star-qh5wp]

@@mrdasilver that’s so sad!

[@lockman004]

My former employer, a major hardware manufacturer, did business with the Hasidic jews. I was sent to their business several times to train them on our products. What a waste of time. Very difficult to work with. They wouldn't touch the products with their baby butt smooth hands. They treated their black employees like dirt. They were rude and treated their female employees (also Hasidic) worse than their black employees. I couldn't wait to leave their business. When asked to return I declined.

[@bitshtannicajohnson6957]

*"What's ours is ours, but what's yours is also ours!"*

[@moshewertheimer8871]

Most of them cut corners 😢

[@BenFoilHat]

@@moshewertheimer8871 everyberg. Singlestein. Timeowitz.

[@TonyFrickey-ur9jy]

They're allergic to manuel labor and taking responsibility. If God chose them, why are they allergic, to fish and dirt and hard work and other people? Why are they so physically weak?

[@lauraeboasongue]

This was so informative! Thanks, Frieda for sharing!

[@OGSarah]

Say what you will about Hasidics, they absolutely understand the value of community.

[@MrMonnTM]

Yup and that's why they were being experimented, this is a winning strategy as long as you go under the radars of the powerful and wealthy but as inner Hasidic economy grows bigger, population bigger it becomes a threat to the power structures and the crackdown begins. Just think about like that they accept non-jews as their clients but go only primarily to Jewish owned businesses in time external community has less money while the internal grows bigger and considering that they have a lot of kids not much space to squeeze in for the outsiders and thus resentment grows from external communities. So by that notion it would be much safer having a country or a state for them only (Israel i know), nazi's hated this but you have to agree it's admirable to have a strong community which tries to help each other not throw under the bus or strip you naked. They even manage to do it with larger community while most people are good while in small community but as it grows bigger the polarization grow so big that brother can steal from a brother......

[@Thingsandcosas]

@@MrMonnTM it’s not that unbelievable, most small communities support their own businesses also

[@MrMonnTM]

​@@Thingsandcosas Well....I did say this "admirable to have a strong community which tries to help each other not throw under the bus or strip you naked. They even manage to do it with larger community while most people are good while in small community but as it grows bigger the polarization grow so big that brother can steal from a brother......" They managed to be a big community that more or less is still tightly knitted together unlike many other before and after them.

[@trishayamada807]

But only their own. A community has “others” and you should be judged on how you treat them.

[@ShnayerRoth]

This is an excellent video. Articulate and pleasant to listen to. Thank you.

[@ethelcarson1162]

Great content and well-delivered! Thank you for the balanced opinion.

[@WannaBeHocker]

Happy to see this well done piece.... completely factual and not at all critical.

[@philliplord6332]

That "misconception" about Hasidic Jewish men just sitting around reading the torah all day was spread by Hasidic Jews. So it's not the publics fault for thinking this way. I remember watching a documentary where a Hasidic Jew said that this was tradition.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

That's because there are many Hasidic sects. Some sects will speak as if they talk about all sects. The sects in Williamsburg, for instance, are very different from the Lubavich sect. But the Lubavich sect is the most vocal. As a viewer, it's good to understand that there are many groups.

[@MissUnderstoodMom]

So... a community that takes care of each other. I'm jealous.

[@officialsimonharris]

yes by exclusion of outsiders, it's racist.

[@krishnar1182]

Thanks for sharing this. I watched the Reza Aslan series "Believer" on CNN where he spent time with a "Haredi" family in Israel and he said that basically the men don't work and mainly study all day while the women have to do housework and earn money. I'm not sure if that's a different Chasidic group or if he was just plain wrong, but in any event this was informative.

[@jsw7814]

Israel is a completely different story. And yes, he’s wrong.

[@LeaS-e2w]

These are many religious Jewish men including chassidim in Israel and the US who do study full time, and there are many more who don't. But it's always interpreted very wrongly in the secular world given that most of the media is anti religion these days and love showing religious women as oppressed. The men who study full time have wives who appreciate that and are willing to make the sacrifices it takes to maintain such a lifestyle. It would be like saying that a man is being selfish for going to medical school thus leaving his wife to take of the income. It's usually a decision made together that they both appreciate therefore want to live by. And as a side note as a general rule men who study full time usually have way more time and energy to spend with their families because they do something they love, and working religious Jews still have to find time in their busy schedule to also study leaving them with less for family. But whatever works for you works...

[@eugeniaq8875]

Reza Aslan hates Jews and spews blood libel. Don't believe garbage even if it comes in a pretty package.

[@rogerm19651970]

Awesome Frieda. Great Job and very informative. Very close and knit community. God Bless to all His Children. Honesty and Respect ❤

[@alicebecht859]

I just discovered your videos and I find them well done and informative. I grew up in NY but knew nothing about this community other than their existence. There are aspects of this life that are admirable and can be learned from. Thank you.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Welcome Alice!

[@BennieTarrMusic]

I lived in an ultra Orthodox Jewish community in Tsfat, Israel before and we never had enough hot water... Meanwhile billions of dollars worth of military equipment flew overhead.

[@kristine6996]

Thank you so much to inform us in such a direct honest way. From France with ❤.

[@mspalindrome618]

Thank you so much for sharing. A lot of communities (including my own!) would benefit from "shopping small" as you described it. Are you able to talk about the more prominent rabbis/families? I stumbled across a Wikipedia article called "Jewish dynasties" and it was so interesting, especially once I clicked around and realized many of them continue to intermarry. I just really never thought of a large religion having dynasties. Love your content :)

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

I will try to do a video on that. It's a hard one though because there are many dynasties I am ignorant about many and will have to do research.

[@mindiekaplan3542]

​@@FriedaVizelBrooklyn - the Facebook genealogy group Tracing the Tribe would be a good place to get resources for tracing various Rabbinic dynasties.

[@walleras]

@@FriedaVizelBrooklyn comments be like you forgot the Bukh Wukh dynasty in upstate be wyork. It has the Rebbe and some of his cousins so its a legit dynasty

[@elihusmith8741]

Since you are connected with Satmar you might also focus on Kiryas Yoel, and also New Square. These are Chassidic villages in upstate NY.

[@joeydehart3429]

Thank you for sharing your perspective. I love you all and hope you have a great day.

[@ThomasMartin-j6t]

You forgot to mention that the govt subsidizes their housing in Williamsburg through a special voucher, or there would be absolutely no way they could afford it. Its actually the American taxpayer that pays for their lifestyle. Imagine getting section 8 housing in one of the nicest neighborhoods in one of the most expensive cities in the world 😂. Its like if LA built the nicest projects ever, in Beverly Hills.

[@cmendoza1094]

Like Israel

[@Fayzak123]

Its nice neighborhood because of them because they build this neighborhood other communities should learn from them

[@ThomasMartin-j6t]

@Fayzak123 We should all live in section 8? Umm okay....I don't think that's possible but good suggestion.

[@ChariCole-c2t]

I had no idea!!!!!

[@sunshine6522]

That's completely false, there is no "special voucher", just section 8 with a long waiting list and limited amount of slots, just like anywhere else. the vast majority don't have section 8. The majority today can't afford it and are moving elsewhere. those who live there either bought at a time when it was still affordable, live in tiny apartments, are wealthy, or have section 8. The vast majority who don't have section 8 are actually paying for your lifestyle, by paying property taxes to fund public schools that we don't use.

[@gheorghitatimofte]

This seems an incomplete picture of what's actually happening. There's just something missing.

[@bernardzsikla5640]

Of course you are right. The Hadsidic community is very insular; so if so much time and effort is focused on religious study and community events, traditional secular education is secondary at best, English Is also a second language, how is it possible they could be self supporting? It's not like you have a medieval village, where there are farmers, Craftmen, shopkeepers/merchants. With very few individuals focused on bringing in money from the greater economy into the Hasidic community, how could this community not depend on government assistance for a substantial % of the community's income? I have seen the lines at government assistance offices in NYC.

[@superninjab0y]

Shhhhh

[@treehouse8501]

she purposely left out the child sex traffic rings they run underground and in those tunnels we all saw they had built in new york city.

[@RBDawg]

Can you speak specifically regarding the perception that Hasidic are disproportionally using public services?

[@CaesarRenasci]

Disproporriinal to what? A Hasisic family of 10 does not receive any more money than a family.ily of 10 in another religious or ethnic group

[@RBDawg]

@@CaesarRenasci A disproportional number of Hasidic families are on assistance compared to reformed Jews or most other populations. Most people realize they can't afford eight kids. And Hasidic Jews shouldn't repopulate Israel funded by public assistance.

[@Star-qh5wp]

@@RBDawg having many kids is their choice. They aren’t abandoning them or overwhelming the foster care system with them. The kids don’t contribute to crime and they don’t populate the prisons. All of these kids then get married and continue funneling money into the economy by providing for thier families. I can argue if everyone had large families there would be thriving communities everywhere and social security wouldn’t be in jeopardy

[@strrts5135]

I grew up in Williamsburg Brooklyn I really enjoyed this video First video I watched from you and subscribed loved your content! One thing you left out is that many Hasidic Jews are in the construction industry

[@janispope4295]

Another great video, well put together, well informed and really interesting. Thank you

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

thanks Janis. I am glad you liked it.

[@michaelwright2986]

Thank you for communicating something about the Hasidic community to an outsider. A non-American gentile like me sees first the highly characteristic, and frankly odd-looking, aspects of the life of Hasidim; I begin to understand more of the human, lived experience of the people.

[@ConnieM777]

I just found your channel today and the first podcast I saw was with precious Pearl. She was talking about her son and I learned so much about Jewish life and culture. I hope you have her as a guest again soon. ❤

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

I am trying! I hope it happens soon, now with Passover finally behind us.

[@judahsamaria5250]

Thank you for this video, I learned so much on the Hasidic community.

[@newyorkskier]

Diamond smuggling and cheating on taxes. I was in Brooklyn at a camera store owned by Hasidic Jews. The guy said, I can give you a lower price, but can't give you a bill (cheat on sales tax). I was on a plane from Brussels to Newark and there like 20 Hasidic jews on board. At the Newark customs all of them were asked to go tot he red-channel for secondary inspection. I asked one of the customs officers what was going on and why are they being discriminated and he answered, they are generally diamond smugglers. They earn their living by cheating on the Government and other people

[@Star-qh5wp]

@clipper6403it’s not true. This person is obviously gullible enough to believe an anti semitic customs agent singling out Hasidic men.

[@remi1239]

I believe you're talking bullshit.

[@jonathanortiz3455]

No way a customs officer discloses that information to you especially since everybody can have a hidden phone recording

[@kelleycook7566]

Wow!!! This was my first of your videos, but it will not be the last. After watching it, I’m now fascinated with this economy and am ready to start researching it. (I won’t because economics isn’t my thing. Lol.) I could imagine that this economy would make an excellent doctoral thesis subject. I wonder if anyone has ever tracked the average time a dollar stays within the community.

[@Thingsandcosas]

You are correct! The velocity of money within the community is very high and is super important. Anything that decreases the velocity is no good.

[@manonamission2000]

Sunday dollars definitely stay within the community

[@NestorGalvez-Jimenez]

This was so eye opening. Loved it. ❤

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

thank you!

[@gamer7916]

I think the concept that Hasidic Jewish men don’t work might have come from stereotypes of Haredi jews from Israel. If I recall correctly, a far larger portion of Haredi Jewish men in Israel don’t work but instead fully devote to studying the religious texts.

[@J.BShoshan]

Only in Israel they don't work. As an Israel I was shocked one day to walk into a building downtown St Louis, and I see a hasidic man working on the electrical system... he was an electrical engineer and I was impressed.

[@TheKeesBoerMinistryChannel]

I like how they shared businesses with each other. I try to do this in Bolivia, but people have to be faithful to shop from each other.

[@et4344]

👍👏😄I love the way she narrates, giving us a good understanding of the Hasidic Jew. Thank you

[@Reachforitify]

Thanks for your video Frieda it popped up in my feed as I am preparing to begin a posting in the middle east with my employer from Australia. I have very little experience of knowledge of the cultures within the region except from the news or my own seeking out of knowledge which can be bad as you can get caught in a bubble. These communities are very special and although I may not agree whit how things are done I can now appreciate how they work and learn from their sucesses to improve my environment. thanks again.

[@seektruth581]

You have no idea how long I've wondered about this. Thanks so much!

[@miasmom4601]

Please do not forget to mention government assistance. It’s a fact that a large % of community receive assistance. I am a hospital social worker in Lakewood nj, which has a huge Hasidic community. so I know this to be factual

[@יצחקמתתי]

From my understanding Lakewood isnt in Williamsburgh or vice versa; two very different communities.

[@shammydammy2610]

@@יצחקמתתי According to the NYT, one third of all hasidic households in Williamsburg are on government assistance

[@hpyrkh3]

If you have 15 kids, you will be on govt assistance. The difference is that parents don’t do drugs and eventually get up on their two feet. Btw, many of these 15 children will end up paying taxes, and some of them will pay a lot of taxes. So, don’t worry, Jews are not robbing America.

[@DarthFurie]

@@יצחקמתתי actually the big Hasidic communities in Williamsburg and Crown Heights, Brooklyn are both known for this same phenomenon, the women have a lot of kids and though their marriage is recognized in their religion they may not be married "on paper" with the government so they claim benefits basically as unmarried women with children

[@benjaminbenrachmiel8952]

Did you even watch the whole video? She talks about it at 10:52...

[@jonnarobinson7541]

I would never hire an inexperienced architect for a project. This is a position that does require more than average training. In addition, the article from the New York Times about Hasidic schools was negative. They tested 2,000 boys and not one passed state standards for their age. Also, read more on Hasidic real estate. It is not always clean and simple.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

This video isn't about the education issue at all. I was making a point about funding coming from the state. The education issue is a whole separate story.

[@chatisawasteoftime]

Hasidim aren't interested in passing "state exams." If and when the state cleans up its act in its public schools, they'll have the moral high ground in casting dispersion upon the Yeshiva education system.

[@czecherst]

Wonderfully imformative and thoughtfully presented! Thank you for posting.

[@joyciejd9673]

This is a very interesting video. I really enjoyed learning about the Hasidic economy.

[@mercedesvisage4131]

New subscriber. Great job Frieda. Gracias for your hard work, very informative

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Thanks for subbing and for the kind words!

[@andreinarangel6227]

"Patronizing each other; to shop local" Well said. All communities should do that. "Patronize each other".

[@jayweiss6842]

I used to work in the nursing home industry and almost all of the people working in the higher up jobs were chasidim. They come in not knowing anything, but they catch on really quickly. (Some have a hard time getting rid of the Yiddish accent)

[@jameschicken1008]

2 factors here that I think need to be remembered are because hasidic is such a tight knit community employers will know who to hire as they will look at things like attitude and know each others strengths vs whether they're qualified to do that job by education record. Lastly I beleive that they will receive a education but it will often be done via distance learning or via jewish colleges so they're not exposed to secular culture and lifestyle.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

very good points. Thanks James.

[@gm1937]

I live in an entirely Hispanic community, but virtually all of the Mom and Pop store buildings and apartments and commercial buildings are owned by Jewish people. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that. They were very smart to make these investments a long time ago. Just take a look at property values now in any part of New York City.

[@arfriedman4577]

Thanks for giving information to educate others. Years ago i was friends with a hacssdic young lady. Her dad was a pen salesman at a shop. Im not sure if it was a shop that sold fancy pens like mont blanc. In nyc, they have garment factories and clothes stores. As a kid, my mom took us to 13th ave Brooklyn ny to get a party dress. The hassidic have various businesses. Even real estate. There are hassidic volunteer amulance that are trained paramedics. I knew a few very religious jewish architects.