Ophira Assayag Criticizes Religious Coercion Amidst Celebrity Trend
Translated & summarized from Arutz Sheva by baba
Israeli radio host Ophira Assayag spoke out against religious coercion, prompted by singer Ben El Tavori's request to use religious phrases in business documents. Assayag, who grew up Haredi but now lives secularly while observing some traditions, stressed that faith is personal. She warned against imposing religious lifestyles on the public, advocating for freedom of choice and mutual respect.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Ophira Assayag criticized religious coercion after Ben El Tavori's team was asked to use religious phrases.
- Assayag, formerly Haredi, observes some Jewish traditions while advocating for secular freedom.
- She warned against imposing religious lifestyles on the Israeli public.
- Assayag called for freedom of choice and mutual respect between religious and secular people.
- The trend of increased religious observance among Israeli singers was noted.
Israeli radio host and media personality Ophira Assayag addressed the growing trend of religious observance among Israeli singers on her show on Radio 102FM. The discussion was prompted by a request from singer Ben El Tavori to his management and production team to include the phrase "B'ezrat Hashem" (with God's help) in documents and correspondence. Assayag noted a general increase in religious observance among artists but emphasized that faith is a personal matter that should not be imposed on others.
Assayag shared her personal background, revealing that she grew up in the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) community but later chose a different path, identifying as "Haredi formerly" and having "returned to the question" (a term for those who leave religious life). Despite no longer adhering strictly to religious law, she continues to observe certain traditions, such as lighting Shabbat candles, observing Jewish holidays, and lighting a candle on Rosh Chodesh (the new month).
She advocated for freedom of choice and mutual respect between religious and secular individuals, warning against a situation where religious lifestyles are enforced upon the public. "Guys, let's not enter a country where there is religious coercion," Assayag stated. "You want to drive on Shabbat? Drive on Shabbat. You want to sit at home and repent? Repent. The righteous shall live by his faith, it is even written in the Torah."
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