Radio Host Ophira Assayag Slams Religious Coercion in Entertainment Industry
Translated & summarized from Srugim by baba
Radio host Ophira Assayag criticized the growing trend of religious coercion in Israel's entertainment industry, citing singer Ben El Tavori's request for "B'ezrat Hashem" to be written on official documents. Assayag, who left an ultra-Orthodox upbringing, stressed the importance of freedom of choice and mutual respect, urging against imposing religious practices on others. She shared her personal approach to faith, emphasizing individual belief and practice.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Radio host Ophira Assayag criticized religious coercion in Israel's entertainment industry.
- Assayag cited singer Ben El Tavori's request for "B'ezrat Hashem" on official documents.
- She emphasized the importance of freedom of choice and individual faith.
- Assayag shared her personal experience leaving an ultra-Orthodox upbringing.
- She called for tolerance and mutual respect among artists and the public.
Radio host Ophira Assayag has spoken out against what she perceives as increasing religious coercion within Israel's entertainment industry, particularly in the lead-up to elections. During her broadcast on Radio Tel Aviv, Assayag addressed reports that singer Ben El Tavori has instructed his production team to include "B'ezrat Hashem" (with God's help) in all official documents and correspondence.
Assayag, who previously left an ultra-Orthodox upbringing, stated her opposition is not rooted in disrespect for tradition but in a desire to preserve freedom of choice. "Guys, let's not turn into a country with religious coercion," she urged listeners, noting a general trend among Israeli artists towards increased religious observance. She cited examples like artists requesting to wear tefillin or to have "B'ezrat Hashem" written on documents.
"Do what you want, Ben El, but let everyone live by their faith," Assayag declared. She shared her personal journey, identifying as a former secular woman who returned to her faith in her own way, lighting Shabbat candles and observing holidays. She emphasized that she does not impose her beliefs on her children, friends, or partner, advocating for tolerance and mutual respect.
"If you want to drive on Shabbat, drive. If you want to repent, repent. Let everyone live by their faith," she concluded, reinforcing her stance against forcing religious practices on others.
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