An unusual ruling came from the special committee of the Bnei Brak municipality • Rabbis and doctors demanded that the ultra-Orthodox take a shower during the "nine days" to prevent the spread of the corona

• "Washing should be allowed for those who sweat"

  Photo: 

  Oren Ben Hakon - illustration

Conservatives now mark the "nine days" between Rosh Chodesh Av and the Tisha B'Av fast. Among other things, it is customary these days to minimize bathing for pleasure, and there are even those who avoid bathing in hot water because of it. Among many of the ultra-Orthodox, it is customary to aggravate even more - and to completely avoid bathing during this period. The heat and humidity that prevails in the summer months, combined with the thick suits in which the ultra-Orthodox dress, cause a lot of sweat and the bacteria feast.

This is the reason for the unusual ruling that is being published these days by the special halakhic medical committee, which was established in the city of Bnei Brak with the aim of fighting Corona. The committee consists of well-known rabbis, who stand out in a clear and uncompromising line, alongside senior doctors.

The ruling published in Bnei Brak - and is considered binding according to all currents in the ultra-Orthodox sector - set exceptional rules for bathing in the nine days: "Here when one of the precautions to prevent danger is in keeping you more clean, No change, and to wash the face with soap and water from time to time. "

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In addition, the rabbis and doctors stated that "when during this period there is a frequent wearing of a mask, etc. and in places without air conditioning - this year should be allowed as a temporary order for those suffering from sweat. ".

Yesterday, the committee members closed the old Great Synagogue in Bnei Brak, after repeated violations of the regulations were recorded there. This is the first time such a step has been taken, and this is proof that the committee has teeth and the ability to act on the ground with the backing of the rabbis.

In the ruling, the committee members clarified that "those who are in solitary confinement - they are forbidden to leave their homes for any purpose in the world, and there is no mitzvah that rejects a Torah prohibition. In passing, sages have already said a clear sin in his hand and his prayer is almost abominable."

The ruling further stated that anyone who violates this provision and arrives at a synagogue "simply and clearly should not be added to the quorum and should not ascend to the Torah and anything that is sacred, a great sin in his hand, must be rebuked to the point of handing over to the authorities to save others."