A Modern Kinah for 9 Av

So much is written about this fast day known as the 9th of Av.

This year we have to wrestle with the detention of a Rav

who identifies with the Masorti stream,

who is definitely on the Holy One’s team.

Yet Israel’s Public Jewish Law does not seem

to want to recognize other than Orthodox ways

and so we now live in a complicated maze

of medieval patriarchal religious norms.

Yet the Chief Rabbinate does not care about the storms

that are raging in Jewish hearts both far and near

as hateful words we have to hear

about the way we live as modern Jews.

Hey, Bibi, this is not FAKE NEWS.

On this 9th of Av, in the year 5778,

Wake Up Zionists, it is not too late.

Let us work toward the beautiful harmony,

of both Judaism and Democracy.

About the Author

Francine M. Gordon is an artist/activist, originally from Northeast Ohio, now based in New York City with deep roots in Jerusalem and throughout Israel. From November 2010 through November 2016, through The Sacred Rights, Sacred Song Project, she produced over 10 Concerts of Concern in the US and Israel. In light of current events, she is once again raising her voice in Concern, using spoken work and song to express love, support and concern for the modern Jewish democratic State of Israel. Since moving to New York City, Ms. Gordon has become part of the UJA-Federation of New York circle of Israel activists. Fulfilling her lifelong dream, she has become a proud member of the Zamir Chorale which allows her to express her Zionism through song. As a member of Congregation Ansche Chesed on the UWS, she lives as a loud and proud Masorti/Conservative Jew immersed in soul, service and song. Finally, Fran has just completed her first year as a mezzo soprano in the Shireinu Choir of Long Island - the loudest and proudest Jewish community chorus in the land!