Arab Judge Upholds Shomrei Shabbos’ Rights in Afula

Despite the Erev Shabbos melodies being a widely accepted tradition in many places across Israel and the wider Jewish world, occasionally neighbors or mayors with narrow perspectives try to suppress these pleasant tunes from the public space. Such was the case in Afula when neighbors complained to the police, leading to a forcible entry into a home where the melodies were heard, resulting in the banning of shomrei Shabbos and the confiscation of security cameras.

The family was represented by attorney Michael Litvak, an expert in religious and state affairs who has handled similar cases throughout the country. After four separate hearings, an appeal by the police to the District Court, and the case being returned for judgment to the Magistrate’s Court, Judge Ra’id Omari delivered a detailed decision spanning four pages, stating that shomrei Shabbos must be immediately returned to their homes. The judge, who did not dismiss the complaints about the disturbances, wrote that understanding and tolerance should be expressed regarding religious ceremonies, especially when there is no tangible harm to public peace and security.

Attorney Litvak conveyed, “I congratulate the nuanced decision that leaves no room for doubt. I am pleased that the residents of Afula can enjoy the Shabbos niggunim before the onset of Shabbos. The decision directly affects the positions of the law enforcement authorities regarding the placement of shomrei Shabbos. They are acting within the law, exercising their legal right to religious freedom and an ancient Jewish tradition.”