Jewish Scene
Simchat Torah flags go feminist
Itamar Merilos
Published: 07.10.12, 15:03
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5 Talkbacks for this article
1. So, the novelty of these flags is...
Orly ,   Jerusalem, Israel   (10.07.12)
... the recognition that we, as a nation, have traditionally excluded women? Thanks, but I'll pass.
2. Tzofia Hirscheld's flag story
The Prophetess ,   FL, USA   (10.07.12)
Dear readers, you will enjoy reading Tzofia Hirschfeld's "History Lesson" by clicking on the link provided by Ynet editors. Tzofia's article presents a fascinating visual history of Eretz Yisrael. Thank you, Editors, for both uplifting articles.
3. what am I missing?
Judy ,   Herzliah, israel   (10.08.12)
I don't exactly recall the pictures on the flags from previous years, but there is a link from this article to another that shows the history of such flags... And most of those flags depict boys and girls. so I don't see what is innovative about these flags. And for that matter, it would have been nice to see a variety of children... Like some with dark skin. Imho, this article is just an ad for flags. Theres nothing new or feministic or egalitarian about them. How about a flag made from recycled materials, with 4 dark skinned girls dancing around holding the torah,.. That, I would buy!
4. So what's new?
Sherlock Holmes ,   London England   (10.10.12)
There has never been anything wrong with pictures of boys and girls on Simchas Torah flags. I note that some schools incorporate a photo of each child on his or her flag. Even in some strictly Orthodox shuls girls up to the age of nine are downstairs for the Hakafot. There is nothing wrong with women having separate Hakafot with Sifrei Torah. [Sifrei Torah are not mekabel tumah] The writer seems surprised by things that are not really surprising in Orthodox circles. We also honour the wives of the Chasan Torah and Chason Beraishis in various ways.
5. Many thanks
Akiva ,   NYC   (10.10.12)
I've just read the article on the history of Simchas Torah flags. Just as I recall they show boys and girls. On some flags the girls are sleeveless, wearing very short skirts and dancing wih the boys. I assume they are under Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Those flags are from Israel in the 1950's onward, so where is the novelty of showing girls on flags?
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