Why Can’t Jewish Women Sing?
The practice of allowing only men to sing in public during services in Judaism is quite common, though it has been the source of debate in recent years. So why is it that Jewish women are not allowed to sing during prayers in Synagogue?
Historical Reasons
- Judaism traditionally ascribes an unequal status to men and women, as determined by many of its strict, historically based laws.
- In many traditional circles, such as the Orthodox and Conservative branches, these practices are still in place today.
- As a result, these restrictions have silenced the voices of Jewish women and prohibited them from participating in the services.
The Significance of Song
The act of singing has a deep theological significance in Judaism. It is believed that the words of the prayers are more powerful when sung to a tune. Therefore, it is thought that allowing only men would maximize this effect. Additionally, it is felt that allowing women to sing during services would attract too much attention, thus distracting them from the prayer itself.
Changing Perspectives
In more modern branches of Judaism, such as Reform, there is more open discussion about allowing women to participate in prayer services. These liberal perspectives are giving rise to greater opportunities for women to be heard and visible in the Jewish community.
While there is still much debate over the matter, Jewish Sabbath and holidays are proving to be a time of change – and with it, perhaps a chance to make all voices, male and female alike, heard.
4. Are there any specific requirements in Jewish law that hinder women from singing?
Yes, there are certain requirements that hinder women from singing in a public space in accordance with Jewish law. While individual opinions may vary, traditionally, Orthodox and some Conservative men may be prohibited from hearing a woman’s voice in song, unless a mechitza, or dividing barrier, is in place. Other people may permit a woman’s singing, but only in a private setting. In addition, a woman’s singing of particular religious texts or melodies may be considered off-limits. Certain interpretations of Jewish law even prohibit a man from hearing a woman recite blessings or words of Torah.
5. What are the historical social and religious roots of the Jewish restriction on women’s singing?
The historic basis for the restriction on women’s singing in the Jewish community comes from the teachings of the Talmud, a collection of Jewish laws and customs. According to the Talmud, women should be “guarded from immodest sounds and from looking at forbidden sights”. Consequently, women’s singing in public was considered to be immodest and improper behavior. Additionally, many religious authorities held the belief that women’s singing was considered to be spiritually distracting and therefore discouraged by Judaism. Despite such views, in modern times, the singing of women in public is becoming increasingly accepted in the Jewish community.