Rabbi Zilberstein Rules on Singing Songs from Song of Songs
Translated & summarized from NEWSru Israel by baba
Orthodox Rabbi Yitzhak Zilberstein ruled that singing songs from the Song of Songs is permissible under specific conditions. The prohibition against such songs applies only to frivolous performances in inappropriate settings. However, performing them with reverence during Sabbath meals or religious holidays is permitted. A secular neighbor's positive reaction to such a song led her to observe Jewish commandments.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Rabbi Yitzhak Zilberstein ruled on singing songs from the Song of Songs.
- Frivolous performances in inappropriate venues are forbidden.
- Singing with reverence during Sabbath meals or holidays is permitted.
- A secular neighbor was inspired to observe Jewish laws after hearing such a song.
- The ruling addresses a Talmudic prohibition against disrespectful performances.
Orthodox rabbi and halakhic authority Yitzhak Zilberstein, head of a rabbinical court in Bnei Brak's Ramat Elhanan neighborhood, has issued a ruling regarding the performance of songs based on texts from the Song of Songs. According to the Talmud, performing passages from the Song of Songs as ordinary songs in a "banquet hall" is strictly condemned and considered disrespectful to the Torah. Rabbi Zilberstein clarified that this prohibition applies only to frivolous performances in inappropriate venues. However, if the songs are performed during a Sabbath meal or religious holidays with reverence and spiritual inspiration, there is no violation of Halakha (Jewish law).
As an illustration, Rabbi Zilberstein shared a personal anecdote. During a Hanukkah celebration at his home in Ramat Gan, students from the "Beit David" kollel performed a song with the words "I adjure you, O daughters of Jerusalem...". A secular neighbor of the rabbi, who was raising four dogs, overheard the singing. The performance made such a strong impression on her that she requested it be repeated. Subsequently, the woman began to observe kashrut, laws of family purity, and other commandments.