Actress Maya Wertheimer Responds to Left-Wing Criticism Over Her Religious Prayer

Israeli actress Maya Wertheimer addressed for the first time the backlash she received from the political left after sharing a video of herself praying a thanksgiving prayer to God. Posting on her Instagram account, Wertheimer explained that everyone is influenced by their own beliefs and that focusing on the positive brings more positivity. She wrote, "The idea I love about this prayer is to take a moment to set intentions and say thank you for ten things in your life, shining a light on the good."

Wertheimer had previously confirmed her belief in God during an Instagram Q&A, stating she prays daily for women hoping to have healthy and happy children. She described her background as secular but noted her family performed commandments and acts of kindness without strict religious adherence.

Her open expression of faith sparked sharp criticism from left-wing circles, including a tweet from leftist activist Magi Otsri, who sarcastically suggested Wertheimer's husband should run for mayor of Bnei Brak, a predominantly ultra-Orthodox city. Other critics accused Wertheimer of political opportunism due to her husband's role as deputy mayor of Tel Aviv and alleged ties to right-wing interests.

Supporters of Wertheimer pushed back against the criticism, defending her right to personal faith and condemning the left-wing attacks as intolerant. Some commenters highlighted the hypocrisy of attacking a secular woman for expressing belief in God and emphasized that liberal values can coexist with religious faith. The controversy underscores ongoing tensions in Israeli society regarding religion, politics, and personal expression.