Liberal Jerusalem Synagogue Faces Criticism for Excluding Mizrahi Prayer Books

A Jerusalem liberal synagogue known as Beit Perat has come under criticism for exclusively providing Ashkenazi prayer books, neglecting the Mizrahi (Eastern) Jewish liturgical tradition. The synagogue, which holds mixed-gender Shabbat night services with men and women sitting together or separated by a small partition, attracts a diverse congregation, yet only Ashkenazi prayer books are available.

Mendy Hechtman, who visited the synagogue recently, expressed disappointment upon discovering the lack of Mizrahi prayer books, describing it as a sign of insensitivity and disconnection from the diverse Jewish community it serves. Hechtman noted that even synagogues with established Ashkenazi or Sephardi traditions often provide prayer books from multiple traditions, making the omission at Beit Perat particularly striking given its relatively recent founding and pluralistic claims.

Hechtman framed the issue within a broader context of Mizrahi Jews seeking recognition and inclusion within the national religious and cultural landscape of Israel. He criticized the synagogue’s leadership for prioritizing the familiar Ashkenazi customs of its founders over the needs of many attendees from different backgrounds. Hechtman called for greater sensitivity and inclusivity, hoping that his appeal would be received with respect and lead to change.

This episode highlights ongoing tensions within Israeli religious communities regarding representation and respect for diverse Jewish ethnic traditions, especially in liberal and pluralistic settings. The synagogue’s approach to prayer materials may prompt further discussion about how best to accommodate Israel’s multifaceted Jewish population in communal religious life.