Don’t start with a Hasid
Nov 21, 2007 Uncategorized
That’s the punchline of an old Jewish joke about a blessing that is part of the traditional thrice-daily prayers, which begins, “On the saintly (i.e., the tzadikim), and on the pious (the hasidim)
…,’ asking for a special blessing in their merit. Why, the jape goes, doesn’t the blessing go in the opposite order — “on the hasidim, and on the tzadikim“? Answer: “Never start with a hasid!”
The New York Court of Appeals agrees, refusing to get involved in a succession fight among rival groups of one of the largest hasidic groups, the Satmar hasidim. What does that have to do with LIKELIHOOD OF CONFUSION®? Well, of course, it recalls our discussion of the still-active trademark dispute among rivals in the Bobov hasidic group. And it reinforces our argument: Secular courts, and other agencies such as the Patent and Trademark Office, will be well advised not let their good offices be part of this “fun.”
November 21st, 2007 at 12:28 pm
“Never start with a hasid!” Funny!
There are, believe it or not, about six people I can tell that joke to who will get it. I will make it my mission to tell all six asap.
November 21st, 2007 at 12:31 pm
Why wouldn’t I believe you? You’re a multicultural guy.