Group Discussion: Future A.S.L. Approach Services
by Ira Rothenberg

    During break in Yom Kippur services, we had a discussion on using more ASL in future services. I explained that I read only two chapters (Ceremonials, Rites and Worship'' and "Jewish Signs and Vocabulary") from the book, The Deaf Jew in a Modem World, as these were much more related to the topic. I also added that this topic is a new idea, to start on something new and see how and where it may go.

    "American Sign Language" (ASL) has its own grammar and is built "to be seen with ease and clarity (clear)."' For example: the word order in English is "set", such as subject-verb-object. In ASL, our sign order is "flexible" such as subject-bject-verb and/or verb-subject-object and still carry the same meaning.

    There was not much discussion on the first chapter as most of the information were new to the participants. However, most made comments, feedbacks, and opinions on the next chapter "Jewish Signs and Vocabulary'' by Rabbi Daniel Grossman.

1. Gives credit to the pioneers of Jewish sign language books/materials: Alex Fleischman, Meyer Lief and Adele Shuart
2. A.S.L. translation should be from Hebrew, not through English translation of Hebrew

A. English translation limits our choice of signs, thus limiting the true flavor of Judaism (see the comparision of English and Hebrew translations below:)

1. We can see that we can come up with definitions with Hebrew, more than English. From there, we can create more variety of signs, which means more "Access" to rituals, prayers and identity.
2. Some Hebrew words we use still retain "Hebrewness" which we hardly use or need English translation. Examples: Yom Kippur, Bar Mitzvah, Yarmulka, Mazel Tov

III. Suggestions

1. First define the concept of and discuss on a Hebrew word/phrase first. Then it is easier to build new A.S.L. signs upon Hebrew and be free from the limitations of   "one-word" English translation.
2. Develop new or refer to existing cataloguing of 100 or more words used in Judaism that must have a usable sign.
3. Encourage to use whatever new A.S.L. signs we create.

    Several interesting points were made by the participants:

1. There has always been some kind of debate on agreeing to use which sign. Some people prefer using that sign and others prefer using different sign for the same concept.
2. If we develop new signs, it may cause confusion for others who attend different Temples for the deaf. But, the concern is for the JDCC first, and hopefully may be passed on to other Temples (if they like).
3. If we create new signs based on Hebrew definitions, we should be sensitive to the cultural view points, such as Israeli's versus American's.
4. One felt that what has been used in the past (sign word for word from English) should remain that way.
5. One said that Hebrew should be spoken and sung as he always enjoyed listening to Hebrew as he was growing up.
6. One said that he has not found any "connection" to the services because of signing according to English translation (word for word) robs the true "flavor'' or spirituality of Judaism. He would prefer to try another way, which is A.S.L. based on discussion of Hebrew meaning, to gain more meaning of the services without losing much traditions according to the Torah.

    Then, we were divided up into smaller groups to create to new signs for Passover, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Chanukah, and Kosher. It was interesting to see that we did come up with new signs, breaking away from the traditional way of signing according to English translation. It seemed to be more close to the Hebrew definitions.

    Sharon Soudakoff and I had an informal discussion. One idea is to include more "visual aids", such as using an easel with all the information written down first given before actually doing the prayers, rituals, etc., so that the participants would have a better idea of what and why they are doing these. Our Jewish symbols and objects should be used so to give more meaning to the services, as also suggested by Rabbi Elyse Goldstein in her chapter, "Ceremonials, Rites & Worship".

    The general idea seems to be that this is still new for many of us, and is still open for experimenting. We hope to develop a working prayer book and test on some people before the services to get feedback. You are welcome to join the committee to develop a new approach of the services or offer your suggestions. There would be not be any definite ways until we all experience through some more services to see what works or is comfortable for us.

    We will also establish a committee of three Rabbis to assist us with proper guidelines for leading services. Please feel free to contact me at:

TDD: 310/597-4525
FAX: 310/985-1385

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