A date at the synagogue

The holiday period is the time to come closer to religion. It attracts a host of singles to the local synagogue who come to check out the autumn 2006 singles scene.

The new collection was naturally designed in the orthodox or traditional sector, and if you missed Yom Kippur, you can always try your luck during the Hakafot of Simchat Torah.

It appears that the sanctity of the place is inspiring and increases motivation to embark on a first step towards fulfilling the mitzvah of pru urvu.

Strangely, the place that pays particular attention to separating the men from the women becomes a vibrant singles arena, where love can be ignited from afar in a festive and non-binding atmosphere, after which worshippers can return home with a new kippah-donned shidduch.

Hot picking site

In the Diaspora, by the way, picking up a date at the synagogue is quite common practice and even somewhat established, as synagogues overseas are the main meeting place between Jews. But in Israel as well, synagogues lend a respectable ambience to those seeking a partner with a Jewish background.

The selection at the synagogues is huge, particularly during the holy days. It is relatively easy to "test" a shidduch as it is void of the pressure prevalent at an official pick up site, and all the means for courting are kosher:

A note can be slipped down from the women's quarter; a request for date can be passed via the prayer book; prospective dates can wink at each during moments of eye contact; friends can serve as matchmakers; and of course the prospective date can be invited to light candles.