ABSTRACT
This chapter begins by setting forth the constitutional character of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state. Jewish values, as provided in the Foundations of Law statute, are present in the principles of “freedom, justice, equity, and peace of Israel’s heritage.” Beginning in 1988, women began to hold prayer services at the Western Wall in Jerusalem. Women have undertaken numerous efforts in advancing their place in traditional Jewish practices, while reviving and renewing them. Israel is a Jewish and democratic state. It is constitutionally obligated to sustain both Jewish and democratic values. Israel’s Women of the Wall are not alone in the moves towards the renewal and revival of Judaism. These women seek to rejuvenate the tradition by expanding the visions and voices encompassed by the tradition. Liberal-minded women from all parts of the religious Jewish spectrum – including Orthodox women, in focus in much of the discussion– and from all over the world, joined together for the group prayers.
