Re: God is not a man (March 27)

I am writing in response to the column “God Is Not A Man” written by Yekaterina Ginzburg-Bram. While I do understand the writer’s overall point, as an Orthodox Jewish woman, I do take issue with the following paragraph in the final column which read, “And to me, this hurts worst of all: to see women so thoroughly taught to accept unfairness that they don’t even feel wronged when it happens.”

You are assuming, once again, that traditional Orthodox women are terribly oppressed and are not keen enough to realize this supposed fact. I assure you I have never felt “unfairness”, and have a very strong faith in God and always have, nor have I ever “pictured” a man or a woman because this is, of course, impossible! Your point reminds me of an incident years ago while waiting at a camp bus stop. When the other mother asked me where my children attend school and I responded “The Providence Hebrew Day School,” she seemed genuinely dismayed and asked me, “Aren’t you worried about your daughters’ self-esteem?” That truly took me by surprise and I can report that my two daughters and son attended strictly Orthodox educational institutions from pre-K through post-high school and they are just fine. Perhaps if you purchased one of the many “feminist” haggadot out there you would feel more comfortable at your Seder and as a participant, you have every right to speak up with your views just as all the others do. My sister-in-law places a Cup of Miriam on the table and I find this lovely, not offensive. In closing I just want to assure you I do not feel “wronged” and there is nothing wrong with me. Most of all, we are all Jews and I am wishing you a very happy Pesach and meaningful Seders.

Sharon Groh-Mintz

Providence, R.I.