Along with my responsibilities as the editor of TheJewishWoman.org, I also lecture extensively. I address all types of groups on a wide range of topics related to Judaism, and I love meeting the diverse people in my audiences.
At the same time, I am a religious woman who adheres to the laws of modesty, and I believe that these principles contribute to our beautiful way of life.
Can the two coexist?
Or, as Rochel Holzkenner asks in Feminine Leadership Versus Modesty: “Dinah is every woman who is naturally influential. For her, it would be a loss to hide in a box. With conscious effort, she can become an inspirational leader. But what about modesty? What about the inwardness that generates feminine glory? Yes, she has a higher calling for greater exposure, but at what personal cost? Does she have to relinquish the glory that comes from living a more private life?”
This is the topic of this week’s thought-provoking Parshah essay. While a first read of Dinah’s tragic rape may erroneously cast blame on her outgoing personality, a deeper exploration illustrates that withholding one’s talents and potential can lead to disastrous results.
What are your thoughts? How do you create an authentic version of yourself? Can modesty and leadership coincide? How do you maintain the delicate balance? Share with us in the comment section below.
Wishing you a wonderful week of positive influence on all whom you encounter!
Chana Weisberg,
TJW Editor
P.S.: Make sure to check out all the other great features this week. I especially like Silent Music—Teaching a Deaf Child and Pay for Dance Classes (from our new Court of Jewish Law section), which provides guidance on this and other similar sticky scenarios.
