Tuesday, June 03, 2014

Israel's Justice Minister Officiates At Same-Sex Jewish Wedding; Marriage Not Legally Recognized

In Israel yesterday, Justice Minister Tzipi Livni officiated at a same-sex wedding ceremony, even though the marriage will not be recognized by the Israeli government.  Jerusalem Post reports that Livni conducted the ceremony for Tsach Sa'ar, a former aide to a member of the Knesset, and Guy Arad, an attorney.  The ceremony used a traditional huppah (wedding canopy), and the traditional breaking of a glass by the groom used two glasses, one for each man to break. Posting pictures on her Facebook page, Livni wrote that the ceremony was not intended to be a provocation against Judaism, but instead respected Jewish tradition.  She added, "In our eyes, Judaism is open, accepting and respects all people who were created in God's image."