Become a Member
Community

Muslim women attend Succot services to show solidarity after Halle shul attack

'I felt compelled to show that, as a Muslim, I will not stand by when Jewish people are threatened, particularly in their place of worship'

October 17, 2019 13:57
Muslim and Jewish women in Sukkah - photo by Yakir Zur

ByJC Reporter, JC Reporter

1 min read

Muslim women attended UK shuls over Succot in a show of solidarity with the Jewish community in the aftermath of the attempted attack on the Halle synagogue in Germany.

The women, many accompanied by their daughters and other family members, were responding to an initiative led by Nisa-Nashim, the women’s network which brings together Jews and Muslims.

Those who attended Alyth Reform in Golders Green had travelled from as far afield as Stafford. Rabbi Hannah Kingston, who greeted the visitors, said shul members were “deeply touched to see so much support from our Muslim neighbours after the atrocity in Halle”. They should consider Alyth “as a place where they are always welcome”.

As well as learning about the festival, the Muslim women engaged in some of its rituals, including shaking the lulav and holding the etrog. They also enjoyed a tour of the synagogue.