A brief moment in the Knesset today drew widespread attention after Settlement and National Missions Minister Orit Strock politely declined to shake the hand of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the conclusion of his address, an interaction that many observers described as creating a kiddush Hashem.
After delivering what was described as a historic and passionate speech before the Knesset, Modi stepped down into the plenum to greet lawmakers and attendees personally.
As he made his way among members of Knesset, the Indian leader shook hands with those present. An unusual exchange occurred when he naturally extended his hand to Minister Strock, a member of the Religious Zionism party who is religious. She did not take his hand.
Video footage of the encounter, which quickly circulated online and sparked discussion, shows Strock raising her hands respectfully and explaining to Modi that, according to Jewish law, she refrains from physical contact. Modi appeared to accept the explanation without incident.
{Matzav.com}
Google Rivkah Ravitz and the Pope
At the same time we should know that there are Gedolim who permit accepting the handshake.
Can you name 1 Godol?
The Indian culture is very respectful of religious traditions and practices, much more than we have here.
The good people in the world respect those who live with morals and values, and with honesty and truthfulness.
Kol hakavod to MK Orit Strock. She is a frum, principled woman and its evident in the causes she has stood up for and advocated.
My chassidish friend also did this when standing in a line of people to be honored for their outstanding work in their profession.
The vice-president at that time (Gerald Ford? Spiro Agnew? not sure) went down the line, shaking everyone’s hand, and when he got to my friend, she said in a humorous, charming manner, “I’m so sorry, sir, but my religion doesn’t allow me to touch men.” He just laughed, nodded, and went on to the next person.
At the same time, we should know that there are Gedolim who permit accepting the hand shake.
Very far and few in between. Certainly not any mainstream Rabbonim.
Why did she put herself in the situation in that first place? A G-fearing woman would not put herself in a situation that would cause her to compromise her beliefs. So I don’t see a CH Hashem here.
She works in the Knesset and Modi came to HER workplace.