The Va'ad Ruchni has issued another "white paper" suggesting a more fitting way of exiting the Yeshivah Shul. This sort of falls in line with 770 (no not Yossel's - the real one) where they are also concerned about men and women mingling on the footpath outside after davening.
I do agree that at times it is extremely difficult to negotioate your way out of shul without having to push past people of the opposite sex. It is especially problematic on a Shabbos when there is a simcha or on any Yom Tov where there are a number of prams and pushers in the way as well. As is just human nature people stop to talk to their family and friends and forget that others are trying to exit.
Without being cynical - and in honest respect of the Va'ad Ruchni - I get the feeling that it is easier to issue rulings about minor problems rather than to deal with the more extreme issues of our community. The statement about drinking which was recently made is the closest to what I (and many others from what I have heard around the community) believe that the Va'ad should be concentrating on. I suppose that starting tonight we will see if the community is taking the Va'ad seriously about that particular issue.
The latest suggestion is:
VAAD RUCHNI UPDATE EREV SUCCOS 5769
In the precincts of a holy place such a Beis Haknesses (Shule) it is appropriate that certain standards of Tznius (modest behaviour) should be observed.
The area between the Shule entrance steps and the front gate often become congested, thereby creating a situation which is inappropriate for both men and women.
We therefore suggest that:-
- Men and boys should exit via the pedestrian gate directly opposite the Shule entrance and
- Women and girls should not congregate in the above area, but should turn left as they come to the bottom of the Shule steps and exit through the driveway gate.
We are sure that the obvious advantages of such an arrangement will far outweigh any minor inconvenience which it may cause.
We wish everyone Chag Sameach and may we merit the ultimate simcha - the Geulah Shleimah, bekorov mamosh.
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