The Use of Social Media Photographs in the Struggle for Gender Egalitarianism in Judaism in Israel

Abstract

ABSTRACT Photographs of female clergy conducting Jewish ceremonies in Reform synagogues are considered highly controversial by Ultra-Orthodox Judaism in Israel. Such photographs appear on social media of Reform Judaism, which advocates egalitarianism in religion. Beit Daniel synagogue in Tel Aviv is active in this realm, introducing images of diversity and inclusion in their social networks. The study presents an analysis of forms photographic documentation of ceremonies in and outside the synagogue, posted on Facebook and websites. This study engages in a visual analysis of the images. It decodes the visual elements that participate in a struggle for visual cultural normalization of gender egalitarianism. Concepts of religious viewing and critical viewing of images on social media are discussed.