Why Is Modesty So Oppressive? with Moriel Shviki

Bad Jew

Buttoned-up clothing. Black and white style. Tight and uncomfortable. Covered and hot. No designs nor messages. And definitely no ankle. That's the summary of modesty. The concept of 'covering up' is one of the most difficult and seemingly oppressive aspects of Judaism. What if there was a much-needed paradigm shift on this idea?

Moriel Shviki, an outspoken advocate for modesty and its values, comes onto the podcast to break preconceived notions about the controversial idea. Shviki explains to Chaz Volk, host of Bad Jew, that such a refocusing of external display causes for a different sense of freedom. There's a message the world could learn and Moriel explains just that!

00:00 Introduction

05:34 Adopting a positive social media approach for modesty

09:09 Comparing ourselves, pursuing sexiness, and human nature

10:10 Struggling with self-confidence and validation on social media

13:21 Limited exposure to modesty, but a starting point

16:37 New concept aligns with mitzvahs and symbolism

22:06 Sarah exemplified modesty and spiritual strength

25:21 Struggle with dressing against my convictions, guilt

28:28 Shift to kosher living led to judgment

30:11 Conclusion

About Moriel Shviki:

Moriel was born and raised in Los Angeles, California, in a traditional but not religious Israeli family. Her upbringing included cultural practices like Shabbat dinners without deep religious engagement, making her feel like an outcast at times. She attended a reformed preschool, which did not leave a significant impact on her. At 11, her family moved to Chile, where she adjusted to the language easily but found the cultural shift challenging. This was her first time attending a religious school, which had a profound impact on her. She learned Hebrew, how to pray, and began to connect with God in a personal way. Despite this, she did not keep Shabbat or kosher initially. After two years in Chile, Moriel's family returned to LA, where she continued her education at religious schools, including EMAC and Valley Torah High School. She regrets not having a bat mitzvah during this period. The experience in Chile helped shape her Jewish identity and connection to her faith.

Connect with Moriel:

https://www.shopltk.com/explore/modeststylemoriel

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