Shira Hadasha, Modern Orthodox synagogue in German Colony, Jerusalem, Israel
Shira Hadasha is a modern Orthodox synagogue in Jerusalem's German Colony neighborhood that blends traditional Jewish worship with contemporary religious practices. The interior features a partition separating men and women during services, and the building itself has simple, functional architecture suited to community gatherings.
The synagogue was established in 2002 by Tova Hartman and members of the local community seeking a different approach to Orthodox Judaism. Its founding marked a shift in how some Jewish congregations were structured and how religious traditions were practiced.
Women lead prayers and read from the Torah as active participants in worship services held here. This role shapes how the community gathers and how visitors experience the religious life of the congregation.
The synagogue is located on Emek Refaim Street, a main street in the neighborhood with good accessibility and proximity to local shops and cafes. Visitors should check prayer times in advance and understand the dress codes and etiquette expected when attending services.
The prayer practices and religious approaches developed here have influenced similar congregations in Israel, North America, Europe, and Australia. This spread shows how a local experiment became a model for rethinking Orthodox worship in different parts of the world.
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