Question: Why is speaking Hebrew considered blasphemy by some Jews?
Dear Rabbi,
Why would speaking Hebrew be considered blasphemy by Ultra Orthodox (Haredi) Jews?
Sincerely, Darwin
Answer: Dear Darwin,
Most orthodox Jews across the spectrum speak Hebrew in their daily lives. It is only an extreme element within the Ultra-Orthodox community that insists on reserving Hebrew speaking for holy endeavors.
The small group, generally made up of the Neturei Karta sect and their sympathizers, feel that Hebrew should be reserved for study and prayer only. They are also 'upset' that the Holy Language, Hebrew, has been modernized in Israeli culture and parlance.
Even then, I don't think they would call the use of Hebrew "blasphemy", rather, they consider it some sort of stringent piety.
Best wishes,
Rabbi Ari Enkin
Ramat Beit Shemesh, Israel
