Women and the Seder - The 92nd Street Y, New York

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Women and the Seder

Apr 14, 1992


Judith Plaskow, feminist theologian and Professor of Religious Studies at Manhattan College, speaks about the evolving tradition of women and the Seder. Plaskow argues that “it’s a woman’s invisible hours that make the Seder possible.” Despite that responsibility, women are often invisible in both the undertaking and the content of the ceremony. She argues that there are three possible areas of transformation by feminist Judaism including interpretation of the Torah, new rituals, and changes to the Jewish liturgy. These transformations involve highlighting the significance of female figures in the exodus story, having a Seder specifically for women (by women), and changing the way we think about the voice of God. Plaskow contends that the invisibility of women in tradition and liturgy ultimately “calls on us to speak into silences.” The lecture is followed with questions from the audience.

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