Conservative Synagogue in Israel Booby Trapped on Tisha B’Av
Sharing the Holy City: Observant Jews pray in mourning for Tisha B?Av at the Western Wall Image by getty images
A Conservative synagogue in central Israel filed a complaint with police after it was booby trapped on Tisha b’Av eve.
The front doors of the Yedid Nefesh synagogue in Modiin were blocked with potted plants and ropes were tied in front of other synagogue exits in order to trip congregants leaving the building while members were inside for services on Saturday night, the Masorti movement in Israel reported Sunday on its Facebook page.
Masorti, the Israeli branch of the Conservative movement, called the episode one of “baseless hatred,” which is what is said to have brought about the destruction of the Second Temple commemorated on Tisha b’Av.
The incident “could have ended in serious bodily harm,” the post said. “The congregants went home with a great sense of unease.”
Six years ago, the front doors of the synagogue were set on fire in an arson attack.
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
That’s why I’m paying it Forward, by matching $36,000 of reader gifts. It’s an investment in the Forward’s newsroom, to continue telling the American Jewish story with truth and independence.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
Support our mission to tell the Jewish story fully and fairly.
