
In this monologue, Mauro Stendel describes the lifestyle of ultra‑orthodox (Haredi) Jews in Israel, noting that they pray five times daily and, because of their intense religious focus, receive extensive government support: tax exemptions, child allowances, and exemption from military service. He highlights the resulting social tension, contrasting the subsidized, non‑working religious community with the broader Israeli workforce that pays taxes and serves in the army. Stendel critiques the current legal protections that prioritize prayer over civic duties, arguing that while subsidies and child benefits may be acceptable, the ultra‑orthodox should at least serve in the military. He also references the cultural practice of placing a wish in the Western Wall (the Wall of Laments) before continuing his day.










