Culture10:39 · 11m ago

Singer Static Opens Up About His Deep Religious Commitment and Jewish Identity

Kikar HaShabbatReligious
Translated & summarized from Kikar HaShabbat by baba
The story · English

Israeli singer Liraz Russo, known by his stage name Static, revealed in a candid interview with Shir'el Diller of Makor Rishon his strong connection to Judaism and religious observance. He emphasized his daily commitment to Jewish practices, including not working on Shabbat, laying tefillin, keeping kosher, and blessing his food. "I am very close to religion, it is extremely important to me," Russo stated, highlighting that faith is a core part of his identity.

Static's spiritual journey has gained public attention, especially within the Haredi community. About three years ago, he celebrated Hanukkah by lighting the second candle alongside his close friend, celebrity rabbi Mordechai Hassidim, who visited his home. His religious commitment was further underscored when he married his partner Sarit Polak in a traditional Jewish wedding ceremony officiated by Israel's Chief Rabbi David Lau. The ceremony included his friends Mordechai Hassidim and another rabbinical scholar as witnesses.

Before his marriage, Russo faced challenges regarding his Jewish status due to being adopted. After thorough investigation, the Rabbinical Court officially confirmed his Jewishness according to Jewish law. Reflecting on this, Russo expressed relief and gratitude, saying, "Finally, I can officially become a happy man and get married," and thanked the Haifa Rabbinical Court for their professional and sensitive handling of his case.

Looking back, Russo described his childhood Jewish identity as "completely in the dark," but now, with the light in his life, his understanding and connection to Judaism are gradually clarifying. His embrace of religious observance and mitzvot has become an inseparable part of his daily life, balancing his flourishing music career with his spiritual path.

Read the original at Kikar HaShabbat
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