The Jewish faith

Anton Agius Muscat (The Sunday Times, August 12) seems to have difficulty comprehending the definition of a Jewish Rabbi, who, as every Jewish person knows, is a teacher and an expert in Rabbinical Law.

I read the good Rabbi's writings and  find them enlightening, his knowledge of history cannot be faulted. He is accurate, and causes no offence, except to those who only find fault with the Jewish religion.

Many religions hit out at the Roman Catholic brand of Christianity (even other Christians do so) without rousing Mr Agius Muscat's sense of outrage.

However he is entitled to his views, even when accusing the Rabbi of notions of intolerance and hatred towards the laws of peace and justice.

I am puzzled by Mr Agius Muscat's claim that Malta should not have welcomed Rabbi Pollina with open arms. Malta welcomes Muslim Imams without a protest from Mr Agius Muscat. Should not freedom of speech and religion be tolerated in Malta, a member of the European Union?

I am puzzled as to the identity of the "Maltese Jewish community" who stated "unequivocally" that Rabbi Pollina does not form an integral part of the "brethren" known to them in Malta.

Of which Jewish congregation are these "brethren"? Are they Conservative Jews, Reformed Jews, Sephardim, Ashkenazim, or Orthodox Jews?

With all due respect, may I suggest that Mr Agius Muscat familiarise himself with aspects of the Jewish faith before he criticises a learned Rabbi by using arguments which are designed to mix St Paul with St Vitus.