Aviv Geffen Surprises Again: "Without Hashem - This World Would Not Exist"

"I am not against religious people. Hashem makes people happy, and I'm in favor of that," said singer Aviv Geffen, one of the prominent symbols of secularism in Israel.

These words were spoken during the show "The Voice", broadcast on Channel 2. After an amazing performance by a religious singer, Geffen turned to him and asked, "Tell me, why Hashem? Why did you choose Hashem?"

The contestant, singer Avi Ganz, replied, "I did not choose Hashem, Hashem chose me."

Geffen responded, "I have performed a lot with Evyatar Banai. Really, I have a lot of respect for religion and Judaism. In my eyes, Hashem is indeed... it's hope, it's strength, and it's without despair. I have full respect for that. Whatever makes you happy—I support it. And I'm not against any religious people."

Singer Avraham Tal said to Aviv Geffen, "I want to open parentheses. I've known Aviv for many years. You're grappling with the question, it seems like you're struggling inside. You always come out and say 'Guys, it doesn't exist' or 'If it makes you feel good.' Aviv, I'm telling you, inside, you believe, and you don't know it."

In response, Geffen replied, "I think Hashem is important because, without Hashem, this world wouldn't exist. Hashem holds hope because this world is very hard. Where there is a strong religion, people live longer, scientifically speaking."

Musician Aviv Geffen occasionally makes statements indicating his search for Hashem. In the past, he said that if his son becomes religiously observant, he would support him: "If he finds his answer out of strength in Hashem, I will support him."

During that time, as part of another program, Geffen visited a synagogue. During the visit, he asked to wear a kippah and surprised many by saying that he envies believers: "You should know that I envy you, and now without humor or cynicism, I envy those who believe in something greater," Geffen said, adding, "It's lovely in my eyes. I'm waiting for the moment when I will have some enlightenment, it hasn't happened to me yet, and without cynicism, it's frustrating."