News from the Jewish world
From Israel:
“Women Move Towards Approval as First Israel Kosher Supervisors—9 Take Test”
From New York City:
In a move with questionable timing, two well-known Conservative synagogues have already held or will shortly hold concerts, even though it’s currently Sefirah, the seven-week semi-mourning period between Pesach and Shavuot during which rabbinic tradition forbids listening to (at least live) instrumental music. I’ve already e-mailed the (Conservative) Rabbinical Assembly to ask whether its Committee on Jewish Law and Standards has a different approach to Sefirah observance.
Oops, correction: One of the concerts will take place this Sunday, on Lag B'Omer, an officially-recognized "break" in the semi-mourning period, when live instrumental music, haircuts, and weddings, otherwise prohibited, are permitted.
“Women Move Towards Approval as First Israel Kosher Supervisors—9 Take Test”
From New York City:
In a move with questionable timing, two well-known Conservative synagogues have already held or will shortly hold concerts, even though it’s currently Sefirah, the seven-week semi-mourning period between Pesach and Shavuot during which rabbinic tradition forbids listening to (at least live) instrumental music. I’ve already e-mailed the (Conservative) Rabbinical Assembly to ask whether its Committee on Jewish Law and Standards has a different approach to Sefirah observance.
Oops, correction: One of the concerts will take place this Sunday, on Lag B'Omer, an officially-recognized "break" in the semi-mourning period, when live instrumental music, haircuts, and weddings, otherwise prohibited, are permitted.
posted by Shira Salamone at 12:50 PM
2 Comments:
There are 3 traditions regarding timing of Sefirah and the restrictions. The most commonly observed one is from Pesach through Lag B'omer, but others start on Rosh Chodesh or afterwards. Jewish communal observances are usually held on or after Lag B'omer.
In addition, the various Sefirah restrictions are customs and vary from community to community, and how literally they are held.
Some are of the opinion that if the performer is mic'd, then you aren't listening to "live" music because you are hearing the amplified music delayed.
As in all these matters, it would be best if you would consult your own Rav (in person, on the phone, over the Internet, etc.) and focused on your personal behavior instead of running around judging others for their observances.
Thanks for the reminder, Miami Al. I do tend to forget that timing and custom vary among communities.
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