by R. Raphael Davidovich The nature of the family and of relationships between men and women has changed radically in the past century from what it had been beforehand .The world is not what it used to be. A societal change of that magnitude — that redefines the relationship between men and women — will have a major effect on the ...

R Raphael Davidovich / Rabbi Michael Broyde’s recent article, in which he expresses mild disapproval of Simchas Torah women’s Torah reading, troubles me. I do not dispute the sources but believe that analysis misses the point. But I do not want this article to be about Rabbi Broyde’s particular piece because it is but one example, albeit impressive, of a larger phenomenon I have noticed over the past few years. Articles about the particulars falls into the category of missing the forest for the trees and ignoring a very significant and halachically dangerous movement. Many articles, impeccably researched, can be written on the following questions: May women receive synagogue honors, such as pesicha or gelila? Should women be discouraged from wearing taleisim? Is there is a way we can permit a double-ring wedding ceremony?