Dear viewers please understand that you are watching a very unique moment. One has to marvel at this interview. It is extremely rare to have such a privilege looked into Hasidic way of life. Pearl herself is extremely generous to share and express her experiences on these very deep subjects. Freida thank you for listening we wanted more of Pearl and are delighted to have this interview. Can't wait for part 2.
Dear all - Thank you so much for watching this very special video. I have a hard time articulating how difficult it is to get Satmar Hasidic Jews on camera, much less to talk about their intimate lives. Much less a woman! Almost all Satmar Hasidim on camera are men or ex-hasidic. This is such a special video for me because Pearl is not only opening up, but she does so with great wisdom, warmth, humor and clarity. I hope that others on the internet will appreciate what a special gift she gave us by agreeing to these conversations. Thank you all for watching and for your kind comments!
Lots of woman would actually talk to you...but off camera. Most woman don't want to be seen on video, but Pearl has CLARITY and understands the need for the truth to be told to an audience that otherwise would not know and would pick up information from the wrong sources. Most of us have been privy to the lies and gossip spread from angry belligerent children who use social media as a career to besmirch our community, parents school system etc.etc. Sometimes you got to be brave and a pioneer to pave the way for change. And you need lots of self confidence and a hefty dose of self esteem to do that and not worry about what everyone thinks. She obviously has what it takes. Thanks Pearl. My relationship with her goes beyond friends....nice to have our children share the bloodline! 🫠
@@anonymous-io6zg You are very right. MANY Hasidim eagerly share with me, but only with me, not the camera. As you said, it takes a lot to be on camera. You are 100% on point about Pearl having a very unique set of skills, making her a very special person for this. You obviously know :)
And to you personally, thank you Freida for the videos on our community. You do it with grace and dignity and non judgmentally. I honor that. You allow the interviewee to speak and express themselves and tell their story without a million why's when's and where's.. No matter our differences at this point, you are a great interviewer and I hope you can take this series further down the road for greater clarification on many issues the public would benefit in knowing. Not that we need a pat on the back for practicing, for living our mesorah. We don't owe anybody anything nor are we hurting anybody in the process. To the contrary...we are a community like no other, in that we have achieved much & contributed to great healing and help that reaches far beyond our own community...but in a day and age where antisemitism runs rampant...it is just a small piece of a puzzle that can and hopefully will give people more insight, clarity and less hate to throw out into this already morally depleted universe!!!
Thank you so much for the video it's an amazing video and so important... And btw I really respect you Frida that even you left the community you still spread positive and nice videos of the community... Hashem should bless you with all good
Please tell Pearl how much we thank her for the honesty, candid conversation and her wonderful words of wisdom. An amazing woman sharing her heritage, life, humor and passion.
I love right colours so that would not sit well with me. I went to a very Jewish part of London and saw lots of Hsidic people I chatted to them briefly. It was a delight and joy to meet them. Blessings g to you all. Xx😊
Pearl 2024 POTUS I can dream!!!! Could you imagine? All of that wisdom. She can lead and has a good head on her shoulders. Something we are missing Thank you for this video!!!
Pearl is like a grandma or even mom that you wish you had. She is very wise and level headed. This is the first video I’ve watched from this channel but I’m hooked already, thank you ❤
I’m sure Pearl has heard that “arranged” marriage accusation more times than she can count… I love her reaction and how she immediately corrected the misunderstanding.
Yes I'm surprised and happy that the girl doesn't have to marry the man she has a meeting with. I always thought the girl had no choice. Thanks for clarifying this
I realised in the last years that UA-cam is our new library. There are ppl here that show us the traditions and inside in different cultures, religions and lifestyles around the world. This channel is one of them and I enjoy to peak into this lives. Thanks to Frieda and Pearl ❤
We can all learn from each other and that at the end of the day we are all human. Travel also teaches you that. But if you can't travel, this is the next best thing!😂
What amazing two women. I have to say too, at 40:30 when Pearl immediately drops her thought to ask "why are your hands cold?", I could truly sense generous motherly love from her. Small moment, but powerful.
It's so lovely of Pearl to allow you into her home and into her faith like that. I disagree with her, she IS a bit of a maverick but in the very best of ways. She is open and caring when her culture tells her that she should be wary of others and not share herself or her culture too much. She doesn't seem fearful the way I've noticed a lot of Hasidic Jews seem to be in this sort of interview. She's such a caring, motherly person. I'm not Jewish (or even American) but I could see myself sitting and talking to her for hours about all kinds of topics. She has such a lovely energy. Thank you for being you Pearl!
She is a gem. I can fully understand the wariness her community has opening up to strangers considering the violence that has been brought upon some of those in her community by outsiders.
I’m not Jewish, but have been married for 42 yrs. and i agree with this woman. Kindness and sense of humor are very important, but there’s usually one partner that gives a bit more of themselves than the other. There’s the gardener and the plant in every relationship. If the garden is well taken care of it will give fruit eventually
Very true! And often, it alternates throughout the relationship. That's the beauty of a good marriage, that you have someone to lean on for support when you are weak, and they can lean on you. Ideally, the couple compliments each other, and sort of fills the spaces like jigsaw pieces.
@@azurephoenix9546 A beautiful, correct way to explain a good , strong, happy relationship. My husband and I have been together for 37 years. He's the kindest, funniest, most loving husband and father. He gives love and support to us all, as a family, constantly. We are still very much in love. As a couple, and individually, we've grown together over the years and our relationship has blossomed. We are both Born Again Christians who deeply believe in Jesus as Lord of our lives, and He loves, leads, Blesses and guides our steps every day. It's true about the importance of mutual respect, mutual faith (to us) is also essential, I respect that is not true for all. We love, respect and each support each other in the ups and downs of life, allowing the 'plants of our dreams and hopes each to blossom and thrive'
We have forty-six years , but I think that I was the 75% for most of it and I did resent that I think . Now , I still give that total support but am receiving it back , so 50/ 50 now . I opened my mouth and spoke the truth of the lack of support , and the rudeness when he was stressed by outside problems . I will no longer be silent and accept the unwarranted anger . After dealing alone with family trauma and death of a daughter over thirteen years , mentally I suffered but eventually am what I am now , very , very strong . Six months ago , it was snap in my brain after absolute fury with an ex-relative . Nothing embarrasses me and I can speak up about anything .
I'm not a religious person, but I am absolutely obsessed by Pearl's candor and "pearls of wisdom." She is so fascinating and so generous to share her life with us.
My husband and I were matched by an Orthodox matchmaker eight years ago. We've been happily married now for over seven years. I LOVE Pearl! She's an amazing woman.
Dear Frieda, just discovered your channel here in Munich, Germany, and while Pearl is absolutely fascinating with her life wisdom, I wanted to tell you how much YOU impressed me as well with your calmness, kindness and respectfullness in this interview! I haven't listened to a better interview for a very long time!
Thank you for this interview! I am Catholic and have been happily married 31 years. The older I get, the more wisdom I see in the marriage traditions where families are involved! What a blessing Pearl’s children have with a mother like Pearl! ❤
Like everything in life, it depends on the intentions of the family. Some matches are made to benefit the parents or the family line, not necessarily in the best interest of the children. I was told to marry someone I loved and who loved and respected me. I could have chosen money or political power but love is the most important aspect of a relationship.
I love the ritual of going to the Mikvah that many Jewish women practice. Do you think Mother Mary also practiced this ritual? I think there is so much wisdom for Catholic women (and all women) to be learned through studying her within the Jewish lense she was a part of.
@@natnat8199 What an interesting thought! I know about the mikvah ritual, but I was not aware until you wrote this that its origin goes back to 1BC. THAT brings up the interesting argument, did Mary and her husband have marital relations after Jesus’s birth. I confess, I am NOT a scholar. I believe many Christians feel they did not, but as a married woman, I am quite sure my husband would not have agreed to that. 🤣 I am glad you enjoy the ritual!! I think it would embarrass me so much, I would find excuses not to go.
@@smith899 Lol, your reply had me giggling! I’m a Catholic as well and have never been to a Mikvah, although I can see how the way I structured my sentence it sounded like that’s what I meant. I’d be embarrassed to go too because I’d feel like an intruder in the Jewish realm but I think it’s a lovely practice. And I’m with you in your line of thinking about the nature of men lol. I’m not a scholar either but it’s hard to wrap the mind around the belief that St.Joseph would have remained completely chaste and abstained from any martial relations with his wife Mother Mary. On the other hand, when you look at how Orthodox Jews approach physical intimacy with so much respect and restraint culturally in general, it’s not too far fetched to imagine. They have a practice of physically separating for half the month and reconnecting the other half. Males and females are brought up segregated in many public spaces and they don’t typically even touch at all before marriage during the courtship period. It’s very different to what we see in the modern day secular west. It occurred to me recently when I came across a few Jewish channels of some really wonderful Jewish women who were sharing ancient wisdom on womanhood, motherhood and marriage that the mother of Jesus would have probably shared many of their practices and perspectives. I admire how strong their family bonds are and how their culture and traditions reinforce them❤️
You can have the best education money can buy but never receive wisdom. Pearl has no need to open those book cases in the dinning room, the razor sharp insight, depth of worldly knowledge combined with her ability to convey her faith and philosophy in a way that communicates with people from all walks of life is a pleasure to watch. I watch with deep admiration for a very special lady.
This interview popped up in my U-Tube channel suggestions and I am fascinated by Pearl. What a wonderful woman, so very devoted to her religion and family . Thank you for getting her to allow us a window into her world. What a great interview.
I love Pearl. What an ambassador for the Satmar Hassidic way of matchmaking and marriage. She's a smart, insightful, funny woman who manages to make her community's customs understandable and palatable to secular people.
I worked for a Jewish man for 30 years. I was fascinated learning about the customs etc. He was a wonderful person and had a great sense of humor. I miss him!
I grew up in a liberal muslim family, came across Buddha, the Dao, Shiva, and many more across my short lifetime. This lady resonated with me so deeply. I love her spirit.
She's a very likeable person. They both are, really. And we shouldn't shy away from saying that Jews in general, but especially Hasidim, really need this kind of simple cultural outreach. Antisemitism has always thrived on a lack of understanding and on orthodox insularity. One could say similar things about insular Muslim sects. Islam is very poorly understood by outsiders and has a public image that has been seriously harmed by islamists and the more violent variety of Arab nationalists, not to mention Shia theocrats. I teach cultural history at the college level and routinely confront these misunderstandings every time I teach the ancient history of Judaism or the Islamic Golden Age. Sometimes it feels like I'm walking on a minefield. (There's also a lot of hostility and misgivings towards certain varieties of Christianity, I find. But at least the students know the basics of Christian theology and the story of Jesus.)
Pearl, you are so much like me... Love you... My husband sounds like yours... He gave more, I gave less. Thankfully I learnt in time. 43 yrs together...
This woman is just a gorgeous human being!! I loved her from the initial video…I literally could listen to her forever. I totally get how special and unique this is!!!! Thank you Frieda ❤️
These conversations with Pearl make me feel like I'm hanging out with my Irish grandmother who died in 1999. Thank you so much for having and sharing these vulnerable moments. 🧡🍀
Very interesting that Pearl didn't object when Frieda described her own marriage as an arranged one. That was quite respectful of her to acknowledge that Frieda's life may have been different.
She's great, thank you for setting this up and to her for talking about her faith, culture, life. She's a real character and I love hearing her stories.
Pearl states her perspective in such a simple, understandable way. I am not Jewish, but was born and raised in Boro Park for the first twelve years of my life. I also worked as a nurse in Maimonides Medical Center for 22 years. So, I have learned a lot about both the Orthodox and Hasidic communities. I appreciate and respect all the practices of both. Thank you for your fascinating videos.
I find it interesting that she says that the trick to our successful marriage is act like you're strangers in a way of being kinder to one another I don't know, me personally, I care more about the people I'm close to, strangers can f off LOL
What a precious lady - if you see Pearl again, please tell her how much her wisdom nuggets are appreciated and valued. She is a treasure - thank you so much, Pearl.
What is that purpose? To love a life of faithfulness? To procreate? I thought Pearl was wonderful, but this is the only point that I didn’t understand.
Your face, your voice, your eyes, your body all bear witness to the pain you suffered in your own experience w/a so-called match. How gracious it was for Pearl to acknowledge that yours was, in fact, an arranged marriage. And how beyond gracious it was for you to not only allow, but also encourage Pearl to discuss her extremely blissful partnership. You challenged one another but allowed your audience to more fully understand the spectrum of outcomes in "arranged meeting marriages". Pearl's story gladdened my heart. What little I could infer about your experience, from both your questions & comments, took my gladdened heart & broke it in two. However, your style of interviewing & insightful guest allowed me to more fully appreciate both. Respect & gratitude🙇
I absolutely loved this ! I’m not Jewish, and this has been very enlightening for me. We need more Pearl’s in the world. The Jewish traditions and culture have always seemed a taboo subject, therefore creating fear. Pearl does a fantastic job articulating the concepts that the average person doesn’t know. In todays world , we need more interviews like this. I love the science 🧬 included in the religion. Nothing good ever comes from fear. Pearl is a brave and lovely woman, sharing cultural values and traditions. It’s greatly appreciated and respected. ❤❤
You are absolutely right, we need more like Pearl. More importantly, we need more people like yourself, who are capable of listening and hearing. Unfortunately the world today isn't receptive to this kind of humility. She doesn't remember what she wore the first time she met her husband, because it wasn't important! I love that. The girl didn't spend time before the meeting obsessing about herself and all the wrong things about herself. I love that! Unfortunately we are living in the world of selfies and incredible vanity.
Pearl is a great storyteller. I could listen to her stories all day. This is so interesting to me. I couldn’t imagine living like that myself but I love learning about other cultures & religions. This is a great series. Thanks
Honestly the best part of this is when Pearl says “why are your hands so cold?” Like she’s honestly concerned you haven’t been eating properly and she needs to hand you a bowl of soup to warm you up. Bless her. 🖤
Thank you, Pearl and Frieda, for helping me understand and admire a community I knew nothing about. Pearl is gifted with a wonderful talent for teaching in a relatable way. I feel wiser every time I hear her talk. When Pearl explained matchmaking, I understood the ideological basis of the tradition. I was raised Catholic, so divorce was a last, desperate option. The older, wiser me knows that if my parents helped pick out my first husband, there wouldn't have been subsequent husbands. Every one of these videos is educational and eye opening for me. I hope they never stop. Many thanks to all involved.
You are very lucky with your parents. Some of us were not so fortunate. I suspect that Pearl’s parents and in-laws were all wise people setting a great example for her and her husband.
I grew up catholic. I would die if my parents suggested a husband for me. Early 20ies met a non catholic married him, my mum had a fit. Once my family met him all loved and admired him.we had a daughter. He died at 28 years. I loved that man before I met him still do . 89years now. We are all the same and so different.
This is amazing, kudos to you for interviewing Pearl -- and thank you to Pearl for speaking openly. This is almost unheard of, this kind of interview. This is really an ethnographic interview, not just a human interest piece. I love Pearl, her outlook, and how she explains her beliefs. Keep making more videos!🤩
Pearl is very wise. I enjoyed her perspective. I can see the wisdom in the system of "helping" your child find a life companion. In my own case, a friend I met in college set me up with the man I married. We aren't Jewish , but my friend is a born match maker! I guess they exist in all cultures! That was a lovely interview. Thank you as always and keep those hands warm! 😁❤️
What an honour to be given the chance to hear her wisdom. I remember watching the video of her home tour and being so encouraged to create a peaceful home, and now I find myself encouraged to apply these ideas to my actions.
Thankyou for this wonderful video. I'm not a Jewish woman but a Christian woman who found this video so fascinating to watch as this way of life is so very different to my own and very unique in today's world. I love that Pearl was so hospitable in talking with you and let us (your viewers) in to learning just a small snippet. I agree that God runs the world. I saw part two before this video and found it fascinating also. I feel very privileged to have watched this interview. Please thank Pearl for this special insight.
Pearl is amazing. She has a calm presence about her and her beliefs that lets you almost believe as she does. There must be profound comfort in that knowledge.
My goodness! What a great lady! So personable, intelligent, wonderful story teller. Just beautiful. She tells stories the way my father did. Bless her.
I have no idea how I landed on your channel and I love this! I had a near death experience in 1980. When that happened, I told the Higher Beings that I wanted to come back and learn more about people. They told me if I wanted to learn more, to study the religions and belief systems of the world. I've not been able to learn much about Hasidic Jews. Books and documentaries but these videos of Pearl teaching about her beliefs are gold. I love how she expresses herself and chooses her words. Please relay my gratitude to her. She's wonderful!
This was a wonderful interview, and I agree that Pearl is a gem. I came away with a very nice feeling inside after watching this. Thank you for sharing! 💙
I watched (I think) all of your videos with Pearl, and I think my life will never be the same again. I really mean it. It really touched me how she talked about her life, and life in general.
You know someone commented that listening to Pearl made them feel calm or confident. I get that, but what you were listening to and what made you feel that way was a woman who trusted God and followed his word. I loved the interview. As a Roman Catholic I wish we had more elders with that conviction and trust in God to be able to convey in their conversations, that confidence and trust to those that are floundering. Wonderful work!!! Thank you so much.
Fascinating look into Jewish life. I am non Jewish but am fascinated by the traditions,customs and religious views.Pearl’s openness and humour makes me wish for her company,a pot of tea and a few hours of her time.Very much looking forward to your next interview.
WoW. I am Christian Catholic that stumbled uppon this video and I am happy I did. I love learning about other cultures and parts of the world. This lady is sooo smart, well spoken and wise. I love her insight and I am really thankfull for being able to listen to her, it's an honor to listen to such a wise and knowledgeable woman. Thank you both for this video and I admire you both. Thank you to this lovely woman Pearl and may God bless her and her family with her presence for many many years to come, and may the Lord give her good health and maybe get her to share more of her lovely stories. I could listen to her for hours ☺☺
Frieda- you did an amazing job with this interview- so many interviewers talk over their subjects or interject their own perspective. You very wisely guided Pearl (who is incredible) and allowed her to shine. Beautiful job!
@@FriedaVizelBrooklyn I am pretty sure, though (as open and gutsy Pearl is), she did run this by her husband (and extended family) first, to make sure he's okay with putting herself out in the UA-cam public?
@@gabyfields3235 no...guaranteed she didnt ask her EXTENDED FAMILY... Shes not that insecure. Very independent thinker...sorry. some people actually have minds of their own!
@@anonymousanonymous-qx7mv we do not know--but my guess is that in such a situation (a very rare interview of a person living in a pretty close-knit society) family opinion is sought, before one goes out in public. This does not distract from the fact that Pearl is, of course, very much her own person. But I don’t think she would have done it before consulting with husband and family.
Much respect. I love this interview. Pearl is such a luvvie Bubbe I hope the children appreciate the simple sweet life they were born into. As an outsider, I long for this kind of community connection.
Pearl and I believe in very, very different spiritual and religious principles. Please thank her for these conversations. I have only previously learned anything about Hasidic Jews from people who left their communities. It is very valuable to hear the truth of someone who is a member of the community (as I recognize that for every religious group there are multiple "sides" and hearing only from one group of people does not present the whole story). Please thank Pearl profusely for giving us the valuable gift of her time and for sharing her experiences and thoughts. May she live a richly blessed life.
I'm a committed Muslim watching this in London, UK. I am so struck by this lady's faith and confidence in traditions of matchmaking which are not unique to her community but practised by large swathes of humanity until very recently. There is without hyperbole what has been described as a crisis in marriage within diaspora Muslim communities on both sides of the Atlantic. We can learn much from these people. I have bought this video to the attention of Nai'ma B. Roberts who does work on women's issues and marriage. Hospitality, generosity and community will make new life flourish not our current app-athy of alienation and atomisation.
I am 59yo, and have read about and explored many religions, and spoken to and lived alongside people of various faiths. We all have so much spiritual wisdom, so many similar deep beliefs, how did the world turn into a place where we fight about religion, kill each other over human faith in a higher being??
The lady in the video is a very warm person. I have a unique perspective. When we moved to Baltimore, we got to know a Satmar family of 9 children. One was a girl in my second grade class. The father wore clothing that we marveled at and had never seen before. We came home and announced, "They call their father "totty"! I became very good friends with Malki, my second grade classmate. They had a warm and kind mother who wore a topknot scarf. I didn't know she shaved her head, which Chasidic women do. My father became close friends with the father, Rabbi Amram Taub. Most Satmars don't live in Baltimore, certainly not! But the Satmar Rebbe, the leader of their group, told Rabbi Taub he should live in Baltimore. I later learned, many years later, that when my father moved to town with our family, this was a great benefit to Rabbi Taub's shul. Why? Because the shul never had a kohen, a priest, and my father was a kohen. The shul never had the blessing of kohanim until my father came to his shul and said the priestly blessings on holidays. Much of what they are saying is very familiar to me. I will tell readers of the great tragedy of this family. When the youngest child, a girl, was 3, the mother died of cancer after three years of treatment. This was in the early 60s. She left nine motherless children. The oldest was 15, a very intelligent young lady. Close neighbors helped the children, and the oldest girl had to miss a lot of school for child care. But she graduated as valedictorian. Years later, when we were adults, Malki said to me with tragedy in her voice, "I did not intend to be an orphan at 12." One thing that troubled me was women were not allowed to learn to drive. They needed rides. Usually with their husbands, who did drive. If not, they need friends with cars. I was a great potential friend when I moved to Baltimore, but a disappointment to the young rabbi's wife. She expected I would be her friend, meaning her driver. I told her I didn't feel comfortable driving as I hadn't for many years. The chasidic women are good company, warm and expressive. Malki was a wonderful person. When I lived in New York, I would sing my classical music for her and her grown daughters, in German, and they loved it. You see, they speak only Yiddish together, and they understood the words of my songs. These are great memories. I never expected the Satmar ladies would listen to music by the great non-Jewish composers of the 19th century. But they loved the music. Satmar people have a great feeling, a sensitivity, for music. The story ends sadly. Malki in later years, had cancer, as her mother had had, and she also died. But at least medicine had advanced enough that she was able to raise her children. I miss her still. Malki had such wonderful personality. She bubbled over with good spirits. Despite the tragedy of losing her mother. I knew her when we were both adults and living in New York. We led very different lives - but Friday night I'd bring over my Schubert lieder (they knew lieder were songs) and sing for her and her grown daughters. Malki was a special person.
Frieda, Pearl is a true Gem and an Angel in my secular world! Thank you ❤ for sharing her. I have many Jewish friends who have embraced me over my 76 years ❤
I am so honored to be able to watch this. Pearl’s definition of faithfulness and her steadfast faithful approach to knowing that G-d is the only one in charge is so appreciated and inspiring
What an intelligent and articulate woman. A pleasure to listen to her. She possesses an amazing vocabulary. Very interesting and informative. Thanks for posting.
This woman is amazing and I hope she has taught others over the years. She is clear, concise and correct. Very informative and engaging. Please let Pearl know how glad I am for her honesty.
thank you frieda, for portraying our community in its true beauty. there are so many assumptions about chassidim that are based on ppl who were hurt or are angry, and that is what the world sees. thank you for bringing out our beautiful tradition, the happiness and contentment that thrives here, the fact that we are humans with strengths and desires. we have our way of doing things, it is not perfect, but it is absolutely treasured and beloved.
would you do more conversation on other chassidic groups? cuz there are so many dif chassidim, and they all have so much to contribute... i'm volunteering ;) 😂
Both of you are pure and great ,, PEARL is amazing , I am Muslim and I watch your videos all the time ,, all the respect for both of you , big love ❤️❤️
What a wonderfully informative interview. Both Pearl and Frieda were so good at explaining their beliefs and their discussion gave me much to think about for myself. Pearl is awesome as an older, mature woman in counseling younger women about what marriage is really ment to be! Thank both of you, for sharing such positive advice!!
This is wonderful… I love hearing about different faiths and traditions. I grew up Roman Catholic and my family is Irish. I as a proud gay male now In my 30s do not practice catholicism… but I appreciate the right to choose and respect all faiths. Thank you both for sharing… my Grandmothers name was also Pearl❤️ looking forward to seeing more videos 🙏
Dear viewers please understand that you are watching a very unique moment. One has to marvel at this interview. It is extremely rare to have such a privilege looked into Hasidic way of life. Pearl herself is extremely generous to share and express her experiences on these very deep subjects. Freida thank you for listening we wanted more of Pearl and are delighted to have this interview. Can't wait for part 2.
I could be wrong, but it shows how much trust Pearl has in frieda. I think it's takes quite a bit of trust for hasids to open up like this
Agree 1000%. Pearl is sharing her gifts with all of us, she is a giver! I hope we are blessed to hear her share more.
Great lady
Both of them are great ladies 😊
I am acutely aware of what a generous gesture and moment that I am being allowed to share with two of you. Deep gratitude.
Dear all - Thank you so much for watching this very special video. I have a hard time articulating how difficult it is to get Satmar Hasidic Jews on camera, much less to talk about their intimate lives. Much less a woman! Almost all Satmar Hasidim on camera are men or ex-hasidic. This is such a special video for me because Pearl is not only opening up, but she does so with great wisdom, warmth, humor and clarity. I hope that others on the internet will appreciate what a special gift she gave us by agreeing to these conversations.
Thank you all for watching and for your kind comments!
Lots of woman would actually talk to you...but off camera. Most woman don't want to be seen on video, but Pearl has CLARITY and understands the need for the truth to be told to an audience that otherwise would not know and would pick up information from the wrong sources. Most of us have been privy to the lies and gossip spread from angry belligerent children who use social media as a career to besmirch our community, parents school system etc.etc. Sometimes you got to be brave and a pioneer to pave the way for change. And you need lots of self confidence and a hefty dose of self esteem to do that and not worry about what everyone thinks. She obviously has what it takes. Thanks Pearl. My relationship with her goes beyond friends....nice to have our children share the bloodline! 🫠
@@anonymous-io6zg You are very right. MANY Hasidim eagerly share with me, but only with me, not the camera. As you said, it takes a lot to be on camera. You are 100% on point about Pearl having a very unique set of skills, making her a very special person for this. You obviously know :)
And to you personally, thank you Freida for the videos on our community. You do it with grace and dignity and non judgmentally. I honor that. You allow the interviewee to speak and express themselves and tell their story without a million why's when's and where's.. No matter our differences at this point, you are a great interviewer and I hope you can take this series further down the road for greater clarification on many issues the public would benefit in knowing. Not that we need a pat on the back for practicing, for living our mesorah. We don't owe anybody anything nor are we hurting anybody in the process. To the contrary...we are a community like no other, in that we have achieved much & contributed to great healing and help that reaches far beyond our own community...but in a day and age where antisemitism runs rampant...it is just a small piece of a puzzle that can and hopefully will give people more insight, clarity and less hate to throw out into this already morally depleted universe!!!
@@FriedaVizelBrooklyn yup. From very UP CLOSE!
Thank you so much for the video it's an amazing video and so important... And btw I really respect you Frida that even you left the community you still spread positive and nice videos of the community...
Hashem should bless you with all good
The subtitles with definitions are very helpful. Thank you for taking the time to do them. ❤
Thank you!! They take HOUUUUUURSSS (really, I spent hours and hours on them) so it makes me so glad to hear someone finds it helpful.
I agree very helpful! Thank you
"Do you know how peaceful life is when you know ? when you have a purpose; it is not a fairy tale...." She is brilliant
Please tell Pearl how much we thank her for the honesty, candid conversation and her wonderful words of wisdom. An amazing woman sharing her heritage, life, humor and passion.
Nice one Pearl! What a lovely lady wish I could meet her in person! 😊😊😊😊😊xxx
I love right colours so that would not sit well with me. I went to a very Jewish part of London and saw lots of Hsidic people I chatted to them briefly. It was a delight and joy to meet them. Blessings g to you all. Xx😊
I LOVE Pearl...and I'm not even Jewish! Her wisdom crosses all boundaries in my opinion.
Pearl is a DIAMOND!!!
@@jenniferflaherty730 absolutely. Pearl is one in a million ❤️
Amen, Pearl is such a women of wisdom and faith.
Agreed ❤I am not Jewish and although raised Catholic do not follow any organized religion. I am in awe of her 🌹
Me too! She’s a beautiful, playful soul!
Can Pearl get her own podcast. The woman is a gem.
That would be awesome.
It would be amazing
🙌👏
Pearl 2024 POTUS I can dream!!!! Could you imagine? All of that wisdom. She can lead and has a good head on her shoulders. Something we are missing Thank you for this video!!!
@@venessamaxwell8105 ha ha ha, I have to tell her this - I bet she'll have a good laugh.
Her appreciation of her husband's ability to give so much is wonderful and to her husband thank you for supporting Pearl the way you do.
Pearl absolutely should be teaching a college course. She is amazing and I could listen to her for hours!
100%
Ppl
That is because the Rebbitzin is speaking Truth.
Pearl is like a grandma or even mom that you wish you had. She is very wise and level headed. This is the first video I’ve watched from this channel but I’m hooked already, thank you ❤
She is straight and morally tough . I will bet her kids were brought up with boundaries and love . One son did not follow but is still loved .
😂
My mother was a piece of work. Pearl reminds me of my devout Italian grandmother, who my parents kept me away from and I lost too early.
I love the Dor Shorim thing!!!! Praise God!!
I’m sure Pearl has heard that “arranged” marriage accusation more times than she can count… I love her reaction and how she immediately corrected the misunderstanding.
Your interview has refreshed my spirit and brought joy into my life today. Thank you both!
Yes I'm surprised and happy that the girl doesn't have to marry the man she has a meeting with. I always thought the girl had no choice. Thanks for clarifying this
@@Lisa59 yea before I met my wife.. I had been matched with 2 others and we knew we could say no
@@JewishKeto I like that options are given. Thanks for your comment
I realised in the last years that UA-cam is our new library. There are ppl here that show us the traditions and inside in different cultures, religions and lifestyles around the world. This channel is one of them and I enjoy to peak into this lives. Thanks to Frieda and Pearl ❤
Thank you for visiting this part of the library :)
We can all learn from each other and that at the end of the day we are all human. Travel also teaches you that. But if you can't travel, this is the next best thing!😂
What amazing two women. I have to say too, at 40:30 when Pearl immediately drops her thought to ask "why are your hands cold?", I could truly sense generous motherly love from her. Small moment, but powerful.
I came to comment the same! Such a naturally caring woman.
It's so lovely of Pearl to allow you into her home and into her faith like that. I disagree with her, she IS a bit of a maverick but in the very best of ways. She is open and caring when her culture tells her that she should be wary of others and not share herself or her culture too much. She doesn't seem fearful the way I've noticed a lot of Hasidic Jews seem to be in this sort of interview.
She's such a caring, motherly person. I'm not Jewish (or even American) but I could see myself sitting and talking to her for hours about all kinds of topics. She has such a lovely energy. Thank you for being you Pearl!
She is a gem. I can fully understand the wariness her community has opening up to strangers considering the violence that has been brought upon some of those in her community by outsiders.
I’m not Jewish, but have been married for 42 yrs. and i agree with this woman. Kindness and sense of humor are very important, but there’s usually one partner that gives a bit more of themselves than the other. There’s the gardener and the plant in every relationship. If the garden is well taken care of it will give fruit eventually
That's a sweet way of putting it.
Very true! And often, it alternates throughout the relationship. That's the beauty of a good marriage, that you have someone to lean on for support when you are weak, and they can lean on you. Ideally, the couple compliments each other, and sort of fills the spaces like jigsaw pieces.
@@azurephoenix9546 A beautiful, correct way to explain a good , strong, happy relationship. My husband and I have been together for 37 years. He's the kindest, funniest, most loving husband and father. He gives love and support to us all, as a family, constantly. We are still very much in love. As a couple, and individually, we've grown together over the years and our relationship has blossomed. We are both Born Again Christians who deeply believe in Jesus as Lord of our lives, and He loves, leads, Blesses and guides our steps every day.
It's true about the importance of mutual respect, mutual faith (to us) is also essential, I respect that is not true for all.
We love, respect and each support each other in the ups and downs of life, allowing the 'plants of our dreams and hopes each to blossom and thrive'
We have forty-six years , but I think that I was the 75% for most of it and I did resent that I think . Now , I still give that total support but am receiving it back , so 50/ 50 now . I opened my mouth and spoke the truth of the lack of support , and the rudeness when he was stressed by outside problems . I will no longer be silent and accept the unwarranted anger . After dealing alone with family trauma and death of a daughter over thirteen years , mentally I suffered but eventually am what I am now , very , very strong . Six months ago , it was snap in my brain after absolute fury with an ex-relative . Nothing embarrasses me and I can speak up about anything .
I'm not a religious person, but I am absolutely obsessed by Pearl's candor and "pearls of wisdom." She is so fascinating and so generous to share her life with us.
My husband and I were matched by an Orthodox matchmaker eight years ago. We've been happily married now for over seven years. I LOVE Pearl! She's an amazing woman.
Mozel Tov 💫💫💫
Did you know when you met that it was a match? I've always been fascinated by this. Wishing you all the happiness that life may bring.
Dear Frieda, just discovered your channel here in Munich, Germany, and while Pearl is absolutely fascinating with her life wisdom, I wanted to tell you how much YOU impressed me as well with your calmness, kindness and respectfullness in this interview! I haven't listened to a better interview for a very long time!
I’m a Christian and Wow the conversation about only having control over the morals in life was so so powerful
For real! That was a whole sermon 🙌 I think I understand "Thy will be done" even more now.
Absolutely
Because christians are in big trouble. They eat pork, among many other things that are forbidden by Elohim.
I agree everytime I here from Pearl it expands my faith and thought about my faith ❤
Pearl is an absolute gift. It is a wonder that you were able to share her with us! Thank you both.
Thank you for this interview! I am Catholic and have been happily married 31 years. The older I get, the more wisdom I see in the marriage traditions where families are involved! What a blessing Pearl’s children have with a mother like Pearl! ❤
Like everything in life, it depends on the intentions of the family. Some matches are made to benefit the parents or the family line, not necessarily in the best interest of the children. I was told to marry someone I loved and who loved and respected me. I could have chosen money or political power but love is the most important aspect of a relationship.
I love the ritual of going to the Mikvah that many Jewish women practice. Do you think Mother Mary also practiced this ritual? I think there is so much wisdom for Catholic women (and all women) to be learned through studying her within the Jewish lense she was a part of.
@@natnat8199 What an interesting thought! I know about the mikvah ritual, but I was not aware until you wrote this that its origin goes back to 1BC.
THAT brings up the interesting argument, did Mary and her husband have marital relations after Jesus’s birth. I confess, I am NOT a scholar. I believe many Christians feel they did not, but as a married woman, I am quite sure my husband would not have agreed to that. 🤣
I am glad you enjoy the ritual!! I think it would embarrass me so much, I would find excuses not to go.
@@smith899 Lol, your reply had me giggling! I’m a Catholic as well and have never been to a Mikvah, although I can see how the way I structured my sentence it sounded like that’s what I meant. I’d be embarrassed to go too because I’d feel like an intruder in the Jewish realm but I think it’s a lovely practice.
And I’m with you in your line of thinking about the nature of men lol. I’m not a scholar either but it’s hard to wrap the mind around the belief that St.Joseph would have remained completely chaste and abstained from any martial relations with his wife Mother Mary.
On the other hand, when you look at how Orthodox Jews approach physical intimacy with so much respect and restraint culturally in general, it’s not too far fetched to imagine. They have a practice of physically separating for half the month and reconnecting the other half. Males and females are brought up segregated in many public spaces and they don’t typically even touch at all before marriage during the courtship period. It’s very different to what we see in the modern day secular west.
It occurred to me recently when I came across a few Jewish channels of some really wonderful Jewish women who were sharing ancient wisdom on womanhood, motherhood and marriage that the mother of Jesus would have probably shared many of their practices and perspectives. I admire how strong their family bonds are and how their culture and traditions reinforce them❤️
You can have the best education money can buy but never receive wisdom. Pearl has no need to open those book cases in the dinning room, the razor sharp insight, depth of worldly knowledge combined with her ability to convey her faith and philosophy in a way that communicates with people from all walks of life is a pleasure to watch. I watch with deep admiration for a very special lady.
There’s a turn of phrase here, she has more money than sense.😅
I could watch a weekly video of conversations with Pearl.
A Satmar? And a woman? This is so special. Thank you We need more Pearl!!
I’m not Jewish, but this was such and enriching conversation! Pearl seems like such a gem!
This interview popped up in my U-Tube channel suggestions and I am fascinated by Pearl. What a wonderful woman, so very devoted to her religion and family . Thank you for getting her to allow us a window into her world. What a great interview.
I'm so thankful for the opportunity to hear this conversation.
I love Pearl. What an ambassador for the Satmar Hassidic way of matchmaking and marriage. She's a smart, insightful, funny woman who manages to make her community's customs understandable and palatable to secular people.
I worked for a Jewish man for 30 years. I was fascinated learning about the customs etc. He was a wonderful person and had a great sense of humor. I miss him!
I grew up in a liberal muslim family, came across Buddha, the Dao, Shiva, and many more across my short lifetime. This lady resonated with me so deeply. I love her spirit.
She's a very likeable person. They both are, really.
And we shouldn't shy away from saying that Jews in general, but especially Hasidim, really need this kind of simple cultural outreach. Antisemitism has always thrived on a lack of understanding and on orthodox insularity.
One could say similar things about insular Muslim sects. Islam is very poorly understood by outsiders and has a public image that has been seriously harmed by islamists and the more violent variety of Arab nationalists, not to mention Shia theocrats.
I teach cultural history at the college level and routinely confront these misunderstandings every time I teach the ancient history of Judaism or the Islamic Golden Age. Sometimes it feels like I'm walking on a minefield.
(There's also a lot of hostility and misgivings towards certain varieties of Christianity, I find. But at least the students know the basics of Christian theology and the story of Jesus.)
I love her
1st time watching and she reminds me of my grandma, just wise
This is my life❤
Pearl, you are so much like me... Love you... My husband sounds like yours... He gave more, I gave less. Thankfully I learnt in time. 43 yrs together...
Pearl is a beautiful reflection of her faith full life. I feel so privileged to experience her.
This woman is just a gorgeous human being!! I loved her from the initial video…I literally could listen to her forever. I totally get how special and unique this is!!!! Thank you Frieda ❤️
These conversations with Pearl make me feel like I'm hanging out with my Irish grandmother who died in 1999. Thank you so much for having and sharing these vulnerable moments. 🧡🍀
Absolutely......
Very interesting that Pearl didn't object when Frieda described her own marriage as an arranged one. That was quite respectful of her to acknowledge that Frieda's life may have been different.
Pearl is literally a pearl! She reminds me so much of my own grandmother. ❤
Please convey to Pearl that she is incredible. Her teachings to me on these videos is priceless. She can for sure be a roll model for many of us.
She's great, thank you for setting this up and to her for talking about her faith, culture, life. She's a real character and I love hearing her stories.
She is. :) Thanks for watching!
I find Pearl's spirituality and her notion of faithfulness deeply compelling. Thank you Pearl and Frieda.
Pearl states her perspective in such a simple, understandable way. I am not Jewish, but was born and raised in Boro Park for the first twelve years of my life. I also worked as a nurse in Maimonides Medical Center for 22 years. So, I have learned a lot about both the Orthodox and Hasidic communities. I appreciate and respect all the practices of both. Thank you for your fascinating videos.
Did you ever come across a nurse called Nirmala (Nimmi) Welikala who also worked there - we dated for a while when I was in Toronto 73-77 ?
I find it interesting that she says that the trick to our successful marriage is act like you're strangers in a way of being kinder to one another
I don't know, me personally, I care more about the people I'm close to, strangers can f off LOL
@@johnballard6725 yes I worked with Nimi in the ICU and Nursing Education.
Kindness and a sense of humor. Beautiful traits.
The almighty requires us to put in effort 👏🏻👏🏻. This applies to virtually every aspect of life.
What a precious lady - if you see Pearl again, please tell her how much her wisdom nuggets are appreciated and valued. She is a treasure - thank you so much, Pearl.
Arranged meetings vs arranged marriages. Very well put! Very clear!
Pearl is so strong in her faith. “We know our purpose and why we are here.” I love that thought.
What is that purpose? To love a life of faithfulness? To procreate? I thought Pearl was wonderful, but this is the only point that I didn’t understand.
@@bojigirl5672 to love Hashem and to love each other. One way we love Hashem is to cooperate with him to bring children into the world.
@@viviennedunbar3374 that is also Catholic doctrine, exactly. There are good, loving people of all faiths.
Listening to Pearl is a true privilege. Thank you.
Your face, your voice, your eyes, your body all bear witness to the pain you suffered in your own experience w/a so-called match. How gracious it was for Pearl to acknowledge that yours was, in fact, an arranged marriage. And how beyond gracious it was for you to not only allow, but also encourage Pearl to discuss her extremely blissful partnership. You challenged one another but allowed your audience to more fully understand the spectrum of outcomes in "arranged meeting marriages".
Pearl's story gladdened my heart. What little I could infer about your experience, from both your questions & comments, took my gladdened heart & broke it in two. However, your style of interviewing & insightful guest allowed me to more fully appreciate both.
Respect & gratitude🙇
This is a very thoughtful comment and I appreciate that you can hear and honor two stories at once.
She is a beautiful example of what it means to fully honor, respect, and engage with a loving Creator.
I absolutely loved this ! I’m not Jewish, and this has been very enlightening for me. We need more Pearl’s in the world. The Jewish traditions and culture have always seemed a taboo subject, therefore creating fear. Pearl does a fantastic job articulating the concepts that the average person doesn’t know. In todays world , we need more interviews like this. I love the science 🧬 included in the religion. Nothing good ever comes from fear. Pearl is a brave and lovely woman, sharing cultural values and traditions. It’s greatly appreciated and respected. ❤❤
You are absolutely right, we need more like Pearl. More importantly, we need more people like yourself, who are capable of listening and hearing. Unfortunately the world today isn't receptive to this kind of humility. She doesn't remember what she wore the first time she met her husband, because it wasn't important! I love that. The girl didn't spend time before the meeting obsessing about herself and all the wrong things about herself. I love that! Unfortunately we are living in the world of selfies and incredible vanity.
Pearl is a great storyteller. I could listen to her stories all day. This is so interesting to me. I couldn’t imagine living like that myself but I love learning about other cultures & religions. This is a great series. Thanks
Honestly the best part of this is when Pearl says “why are your hands so cold?” Like she’s honestly concerned you haven’t been eating properly and she needs to hand you a bowl of soup to warm you up. Bless her. 🖤
Her warmth is so instinctual to her, it's so obvious.
Thank you, Pearl and Frieda, for helping me understand and admire a community I knew nothing about. Pearl is gifted with a wonderful talent for teaching in a relatable way. I feel wiser every time I hear her talk. When Pearl explained matchmaking, I understood the ideological basis of the tradition. I was raised Catholic, so divorce was a last, desperate option. The older, wiser me knows that if my parents helped pick out my first husband, there wouldn't have been subsequent husbands. Every one of these videos is educational and eye opening for me. I hope they never stop. Many thanks to all involved.
You are very lucky with your parents. Some of us were not so fortunate. I suspect that Pearl’s parents and in-laws were all wise people setting a great example for her and her husband.
I grew up catholic. I would die if my parents suggested a husband for me. Early 20ies met a non catholic married him, my mum had a fit. Once my family met him all loved and admired him.we had a daughter. He died at 28 years. I loved that man before I met him still do . 89years now. We are all the same and so different.
This is amazing, kudos to you for interviewing Pearl -- and thank you to Pearl for speaking openly. This is almost unheard of, this kind of interview. This is really an ethnographic interview, not just a human interest piece. I love Pearl, her outlook, and how she explains her beliefs. Keep making more videos!🤩
Pearl is very wise. I enjoyed her perspective. I can see the wisdom in the system of "helping" your child find a life companion. In my own case, a friend I met in college set me up with the man I married. We aren't Jewish , but my friend is a born match maker! I guess they exist in all cultures! That was a lovely interview. Thank you as always and keep those hands warm! 😁❤️
Lovely comment. And as for keeping hands warm... I'm trying, ha ha. :)
What an honour to be given the chance to hear her wisdom. I remember watching the video of her home tour and being so encouraged to create a peaceful home, and now I find myself encouraged to apply these ideas to my actions.
I absolutely love Pearl - I could listen to her for hours, thank you for sharing this video😊
Thankyou for this wonderful video. I'm not a Jewish woman but a Christian woman who found this video so fascinating to watch as this way of life is so very different to my own and very unique in today's world. I love that Pearl was so hospitable in talking with you and let us (your viewers) in to learning just a small snippet. I agree that God runs the world. I saw part two before this video and found it fascinating also. I feel very privileged to have watched this interview. Please thank Pearl for this special insight.
Pearl gives a beautiful explanation of her faith and lifestyle. You two make a good team.
Pearl is amazing. She has a calm presence about her and her beliefs that lets you almost believe as she does. There must be profound comfort in that knowledge.
My goodness! What a great lady! So personable, intelligent, wonderful story teller. Just beautiful. She tells stories the way my father did. Bless her.
What a fabulous interview! Pearl is a gem. She really articulates the Satmar experience very well!❤
This woman is amazing. She explained everything beautifully everyone should Watch this.
I have no idea how I landed on your channel and I love this! I had a near death experience in 1980. When that happened, I told the Higher Beings that I wanted to come back and learn more about people. They told me if I wanted to learn more, to study the religions and belief systems of the world. I've not been able to learn much about Hasidic Jews. Books and documentaries but these videos of Pearl teaching about her beliefs are gold. I love how she expresses herself and chooses her words. Please relay my gratitude to her. She's wonderful!
Can’t wait for part 2. Thank you, Frieda and Pearl! I absolutely loved this.
Not sure how these interviews with Pearl came.up but am.glad they did.
Enjoyed this interview immensely. Learned so much about Hasidism. Pearl delights!
This was a wonderful interview, and I agree that Pearl is a gem. I came away with a very nice feeling inside after watching this. Thank you for sharing! 💙
Arranged meetings NOT arranged marriages. I like that. I like this woman!
I watched (I think) all of your videos with Pearl, and I think my life will never be the same again. I really mean it. It really touched me how she talked about her life, and life in general.
You know someone commented that listening to Pearl made them feel calm or confident. I get that, but what you were listening to and what made you feel that way was a woman who trusted God and followed his word. I loved the interview. As a Roman Catholic I wish we had more elders with that conviction and trust in God to be able to convey in their conversations, that confidence and trust to those that are floundering. Wonderful work!!! Thank you so much.
Pearl is so sweet and I love to hear her talk about the customs. She is so interesting, as well as you are Frieda. Many blessings.
Fascinating look into Jewish life. I am non Jewish but am fascinated by the traditions,customs and religious views.Pearl’s openness and humour makes me wish for her company,a pot of tea and a few hours of her time.Very much looking forward to your next interview.
WoW. I am Christian Catholic that stumbled uppon this video and I am happy I did. I love learning about other cultures and parts of the world. This lady is sooo smart, well spoken and wise. I love her insight and I am really thankfull for being able to listen to her, it's an honor to listen to such a wise and knowledgeable woman. Thank you both for this video and I admire you both. Thank you to this lovely woman Pearl and may God bless her and her family with her presence for many many years to come, and may the Lord give her good health and maybe get her to share more of her lovely stories. I could listen to her for hours ☺☺
Frieda- you did an amazing job with this interview- so many interviewers talk over their subjects or interject their own perspective. You very wisely guided Pearl (who is incredible) and allowed her to shine. Beautiful job!
Frieda is a superb interviewer. a rare talent.
That's very kind. Pearl is just plain fun to talk to, listen to, and laugh with. She obviously makes it easy.
@@FriedaVizelBrooklyn I am pretty sure, though (as open and gutsy Pearl is), she did run this by her husband (and extended family) first, to make sure he's okay with putting herself out in the UA-cam public?
@@gabyfields3235 no...guaranteed she didnt ask her EXTENDED FAMILY... Shes not that insecure. Very independent thinker...sorry. some people actually have minds of their own!
@@anonymousanonymous-qx7mv we do not know--but my guess is that in such a situation (a very rare interview of a person living in a pretty close-knit society) family opinion is sought, before one goes out in public. This does not distract from the fact that Pearl is, of course, very much her own person. But I don’t think she would have done it before consulting with husband and family.
Thank you Frieda and thank you Pearl for a well informed interview with such a gifted and blessed woman.
Much respect. I love this interview. Pearl is such a luvvie Bubbe
I hope the children appreciate the simple sweet life they were born into. As an outsider, I long for this kind of community connection.
This was an amazing interview. I appreciate how frank and open Pearl is. Thank you!
I think that these interviews/chats should be called Pearls' pearls of wisdom. 😍
Pearl and I believe in very, very different spiritual and religious principles. Please thank her for these conversations. I have only previously learned anything about Hasidic Jews from people who left their communities. It is very valuable to hear the truth of someone who is a member of the community (as I recognize that for every religious group there are multiple "sides" and hearing only from one group of people does not present the whole story). Please thank Pearl profusely for giving us the valuable gift of her time and for sharing her experiences and thoughts. May she live a richly blessed life.
Very good comment, I appreciate your open minded thoughtfulness
I'm a committed Muslim watching this in London, UK. I am so struck by this lady's faith and confidence in traditions of matchmaking which are not unique to her community but practised by large swathes of humanity until very recently. There is without hyperbole what has been described as a crisis in marriage within diaspora Muslim communities on both sides of the Atlantic. We can learn much from these people. I have bought this video to the attention of Nai'ma B. Roberts who does work on women's issues and marriage.
Hospitality, generosity and community will make new life flourish not our current app-athy of alienation and atomisation.
Thank you for a very interesting comment.
I am 59yo, and have read about and explored many religions, and spoken to and lived alongside people of various faiths. We all have so much spiritual wisdom, so many similar deep beliefs, how did the world turn into a place where we fight about religion, kill each other over human faith in a higher being??
“App-athy”! Astute comment!
Beautifully summed up. Couldn't agree more.
Pearl is a wise woman. I enjoyed this interview very much.
The lady in the video is a very warm person. I have a unique perspective. When we moved to Baltimore, we got to know a Satmar family of 9 children. One was a girl in my second grade class. The father wore clothing that we marveled at and had never seen before. We came home and announced, "They call their father "totty"! I became very good friends with Malki, my second grade classmate. They had a warm and kind mother who wore a topknot scarf. I didn't know she shaved her head, which Chasidic women do. My father became close friends with the father, Rabbi Amram Taub. Most Satmars don't live in Baltimore, certainly not! But the Satmar Rebbe, the leader of their group, told Rabbi Taub he should live in Baltimore. I later learned, many years later, that when my father moved to town with our family, this was a great benefit to Rabbi Taub's shul. Why? Because the shul never had a kohen, a priest, and my father was a kohen. The shul never had the blessing of kohanim until my father came to his shul and said the priestly blessings on holidays. Much of what they are saying is very familiar to me.
I will tell readers of the great tragedy of this family. When the youngest child, a girl, was 3, the mother died of cancer after three years of treatment. This was in the early 60s. She left nine motherless children. The oldest was 15, a very intelligent young lady. Close neighbors helped the children, and the oldest girl had to miss a lot of school for child care. But she graduated as valedictorian. Years later, when we were adults, Malki said to me with tragedy in her voice, "I did not intend to be an orphan at 12."
One thing that troubled me was women were not allowed to learn to drive. They needed rides. Usually with their husbands, who did drive. If not, they need friends with cars. I was a great potential friend when I moved to Baltimore, but a disappointment to the young rabbi's wife. She expected I would be her friend, meaning her driver. I told her I didn't feel comfortable driving as I hadn't for many years. The chasidic women are good company, warm and expressive. Malki was a wonderful person. When I lived in New York, I would sing my classical music for her and her grown daughters, in German, and they loved it. You see, they speak only Yiddish together, and they understood the words of my songs. These are great memories. I never expected the Satmar ladies would listen to music by the great non-Jewish composers of the 19th century. But they loved the music. Satmar people have a great feeling, a sensitivity, for music.
The story ends sadly. Malki in later years, had cancer, as her mother had had, and she also died. But at least medicine had advanced enough that she was able to raise her children. I miss her still.
Malki had such wonderful personality. She bubbled over with good spirits. Despite the tragedy of losing her mother. I knew her when we were both adults and living in New York. We led very different lives - but Friday night I'd bring over my Schubert lieder (they knew lieder were songs) and sing for her and her grown daughters. Malki was a special person.
Frieda, Pearl is a true Gem and an Angel in my secular world! Thank you ❤ for sharing her. I have many Jewish friends who have embraced me over my 76 years ❤
This was such a special, honest, and nuanced interview. I really enjoyed how you both interacted. You are making incredible content. Thank you Frieda!
Thank you for the kind words!
I am so honored to be able to watch this. Pearl’s definition of faithfulness and her steadfast faithful approach to knowing that G-d is the only one in charge is so appreciated and inspiring
What an intelligent and articulate woman. A pleasure to listen to her. She possesses an amazing vocabulary. Very interesting and informative. Thanks for posting.
I am a Scottish/Australian women brought up in the Presbyterian Church and i have so much respect for Pearl. She is beautiful and forgiving ❤
This woman is amazing and I hope she has taught others over the years. She is clear, concise and correct. Very informative and engaging. Please let Pearl know how glad I am for her honesty.
Love this. Pearl is a wise lady. Cant wait for part 2! Thank you Frieda x
What a wonderful wise woman. Pearl could teach the young women of the world so much
Thank you, Pearl weaves together faithfulness and life. Frieda you are a very thoughtful interviewer. Blessings to you and your family.
thank you frieda, for portraying our community in its true beauty. there are so many assumptions about chassidim that are based on ppl who were hurt or are angry, and that is what the world sees. thank you for bringing out our beautiful tradition, the happiness and contentment that thrives here, the fact that we are humans with strengths and desires. we have our way of doing things, it is not perfect, but it is absolutely treasured and beloved.
would you do more conversation on other chassidic groups? cuz there are so many dif chassidim, and they all have so much to contribute... i'm volunteering ;) 😂
Both of you are pure and great ,, PEARL is amazing , I am Muslim and I watch your videos all the time ,, all the respect for both of you , big love ❤️❤️
big love back! ♥️
I could listen to your conversations witz Pearl for hours! Cant wait for part two!
That was an incredible interview.So insightful.What a lovely lady
She is amazing. I could listen to her all day. Please thank her for spending time and sharing with us.
I love Pearl so much. I feel like I could learn so much
What a wonderfully informative interview. Both Pearl and Frieda were so good at explaining their beliefs and their discussion gave me much to think about for myself. Pearl is awesome as an older, mature woman in counseling younger women about what marriage is really ment to be! Thank both of you, for sharing such positive advice!!
I really enjoyed this interview with Mrs . Pearl. What a blessing it was to get to know her . Please give her a big hug from me .
This is wonderful… I love hearing about different faiths and traditions. I grew up Roman Catholic and my family is Irish. I as a proud gay male now In my 30s do not practice catholicism… but I appreciate the right to choose and respect all faiths. Thank you both for sharing… my Grandmothers name was also Pearl❤️ looking forward to seeing more videos 🙏
I absolutely love Pearl! She is so full of wisdom! Thank you for doing these videos! ❤