The topic "Talking in shul" was recently closed by Rabbi M "Due to the personal insults that are occurring." May I respectfully suggest that the moderator should ban those who abuse their membership privileges by insulting others instead of depriving the rest of the community of continued exploration of an important subject from which we may all learn something? It's like banning elections (i.e., democracy) because some low-life candiates personally attack their opponents.

I tend to agree with "Happy." Perhaps the moderator could have contacted the violators offline and suggested that they obey the rules.

Happy - I hear what your point and the logic is strong but experience has shown that the best thing to do is to close the topic and give everyone space to cool off. It is only a last resort that I will ban a member and this gives everyone a second chance. If you would like to explore this subject anew please start a new post. If a member continues to abuse the forum they will be banned without nitpicking who is right or wrong. Name calling and aggressive posting is not permitted.