Question: What is Kol Isha? Are orthodox Jewish men prohibited from hearing women sing?
Dear Rabbi,
I am currently pondering about converting to Modern Orthodox Judaism. Although I have read several books about the conversion process and Halakha, I am still a little confused about the prohibition of Kol Isha. Could you please tell me what the observances of this are within the Modern Orthodox?
Thank you, Scott
Answer: Dear Scott,
Thank you for your question!
First of all -- there is no such thing as converting to "Modern Orthodoxy". A proper orthodox conversion requires one to accept the Torah and Halacha as is. Whether it is modern orthodox or Lubavitch, it really doesn't matter! No one group is more observant than the other, though there may be differing approaches on different issues.
Regarding "Kol Isha", the concern that listening to a woman sing is arousing and thus forbidden, -- there are a number of approaches. Some authorities forbid hearing a woman's singing voice at all times, some forbid it only during prayer. Some authorities permit it when on the radio and one does not know what the singer looks like, and some forbid it even then. As you can see, there are a number of approaches to this specific issue - all of which are legitimate and have backing in eminent sources.
You should discuss this issue with your rabbi and decide which approach is best for you.
Best wishes,
Rabbi Ari Enkin
Ramat Beit Shemesh, Israel
