The role of Jewish women in the preservation of Judaism

Abstract

U jevejskim zajednicama na Balkanu, žene su bile glavne nositeljke svakodnevne religiozne prakse, naročito u sekularizovanim porodicama. Istorijski, često su bile „poslednja linija očuvanja“ npr. za vreme progona u srednjem veku, Holokausta u 20. veku i života u socijalističkim i sekularnim državama (uključujući Jugoslaviju). Ta uloga se bazirala na činjenicama da se jevrejski identitet prenosi po majci (halahički princip), dom je mala sinagoga (mikdaš me’at), a žena je njegov centralni akter, kao i da žene ispunjavaju tri ženske micve (zapovesti), paljenje šabatnih sveća kao unošenje svetlosti i mira, brige za prehrambenu svetost i brige za porodičnu čistoću (nida) kroz ciklus vremena, tela i svetosti.In Jewish communities in the Balkans, women have historically played a crucial role in daily religious practices, especially in secularised families. They were often viewed as the "last line of preserving" during difficult periods, including the persecutions of the Middle Ages; the Holocaust in the 20th century; and under socialist and secular regimes, such as in Yugoslavia. This important role stems from a few key factors: Jewish identity is passed down through the mother (as per halachic principles), the home acts as a small synagogue (mikdash me'at), and women are central figures within it. Additionally, women fulfil three essential mitzvahs (commandments): lighting Shabbat candles to bring light and peace, ensuring the sanctity of food, and maintaining family purity (nida) through cycles of time, body, and sanctity.Prezentacija i predavanje održani 07.03.2026. na seminaru „Šorašim“ na Zlatiboru (the presentation and lecture were held on March 7, 2026, at the "Šorašim" seminar in Zlatibor)