Shelly Gafni Finds Deeper Meaning in Judaism After Modeling Career
Translated & summarized from Walla by baba
Former model Shelly Gafni shared her spiritual journey toward Judaism in an interview with the "Hidabrut" channel. After a decades-long international modeling career, Gafni found deeper meaning through Jewish studies, emphasizing understanding over rules. She also spoke about overcoming personal tragedy, her strong family life, and the importance of forgiveness and inner unity.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Shelly Gafni discussed her spiritual journey and renewed connection to Judaism in a "Hidabrut" interview.
- Gafni, a former international model, found deeper meaning in Jewish wisdom and Kabbalah studies.
- She emphasized understanding the depth behind Jewish practices over strict adherence to rules.
- Gafni spoke about overcoming early tragedy and the importance of her family and marriage.
- She recently chose to forgive her father for past grievances before Yom Kippur.
Former model Shelly Gafni, once synonymous with beauty and style after winning "Girl of the Year" at 14 and enjoying a three-decade international career, has revealed a profound personal journey toward spirituality and Judaism. Gafni, who worked for seven years in New York with major brands, spoke about her path away from the spotlight in an interview with "Hidabrut" channel.
Her early life was marked by tragedy when her mother, the only child of Holocaust survivors, died when Gafni was 17. She credits her mother and grandmother, who survived Auschwitz, with instilling resilience that helped her navigate the pitfalls of the modeling world. Gafni also highlighted her 30-year marriage to childhood friend Ofek, with whom she has four children, emphasizing that true love is built on friendship and mutual support.
What began as a hobby, makeup artistry and a cosmetics brand, evolved into a successful business. However, Gafni found herself increasingly drawn to spiritual pursuits, alongside her husband. Their journey into Jewish wisdom, including Kabbalah and Tanya studies, stemmed from deep curiosity. "The mistake is to teach through 'don'ts' and 'rules,' instead of teaching the depth and meaning behind things," Gafni stated, explaining that understanding the source of these practices leads to natural engagement.
Approaching 50, Gafni made a significant personal decision to forgive her father for past grievances, releasing anger before Yom Kippur for her own peace of mind. Her message to the Israeli public is to focus on inner unity and love, rather than perceived flaws in others, and to recognize that true light doesn't require external validation.