Photo: Oded Balilty
One of the starkest differences between orthodox Jews and others can be observed at a wedding. The orthodox Jewish wedding is really two weddings. One for the men and one for women. They are in the same place but in today’s society, they eat and dance while completely separated. It can seem strange. But in another sense it can be quite beautiful.
The beauty comes from seeing a large gathering of people, usually orthodox Jewish wedding parties are attended by several hundred people, all joined together for one holy purpose. Marriage is a very important milestone in orthodox Judaism and the awe, reverence, and respect according the event creates a very special atmosphere.
The unity of the event can also be seen superficially by the uniform standards of dress. Everyone dresses conservatively and they kind of blend together. When one pulls back, it can be visually stunning. Especially to an outsider.
An outsider had a unique opportunity to photograph a superstar wedding in Israel. Oded Balilty is a Pulitzer Prize winning photojournalist. He lives right around Bnei Brak but his world is very different. Take a look at his perspective from behind the lens of this world that is closer to his own than he realizes. The photos are on the NY Times website today and they are amazing. His commentary is excellent as well.
Check out the photos on the NY Times Lens Blog: So Close, Yet So Far
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