Pninah Leshem: "Some Girls Think They Are Doing Hashem a Favor by Dressing Modestly"

Hundreds of girls across the country owe their lives to Pninah Leshem, quite literally. Girls facing tough challenges, some coming close to dire circumstances;; often referred to as at-risk youth. It's clear that without guidance and support, they could end up in very difficult places.

Pninah provides this guidance through her role as director of 'Etgar Center', an initiative under Hidabroot. "We have an active youth center in Beitar Illit for dropout prevention," she explains, "As well as a helpline and counseling center where parents, school staff, and even the girls themselves can reach out for advice. There is immense support and truly inspiring stories."

About a year ago, she took a significant step by publishing her first book, "Love for a Moment". This guide is aimed at girls in challenging situations who need appropriate reading material to help them break away from unhealthy relationships or, ideally, avoid them altogether.

The book's cover, artistically designed, features a heart-shaped, shattered glass, portraying the understanding that these are merely childish relationships that invariably lead to heartbreak.

"The book was born out of a place of need," says Pninah. "The demand was overwhelming. I met countless girls desperate for guidance, explanations, and help, but had no idea where to turn."

Books with a Mission

According to Pninah, the response following the book's release was nothing short of amazing. "One girl wrote to me: 'You can't imagine the transformation this book has sparked in me. As a religious girl dealing with many issues, I had no place for answers until now. The book literally saved my life.' Another woman, not religious, told me that the book changed her perspective. As a non-observant girl, she thought she had to conform to societal norms. Suddenly, she realized she could oppose those demands. Another woman honestly said, 'I'm married now, but if I had read this book as a girl, it would have saved me a lot of distress.' These responses made me realize it’s my duty to continue addressing such sensitive subjects. There is a huge mission here to provide answers in this challenging and confusing generation."

This realization pushed her to now write another book addressing modesty and femininity.

The book discusses the attempt to dress modestly from a different angle and includes two volumes.

"The first volume talks about modesty from the perspective of the direct benefits we gain from it. I decided to write this angle because I see how girls often feel that modesty is a burden, as if they're doing Hashem a favor when they dress modestly. They sigh about not being able to wear certain clothes. The book aims to prove one thing only - you're not doing anyone a favor by dressing modestly, not your parents or teachers, and not even Hashem... except for yourself. Because, the truth is that maintaining modesty primarily benefits you, and in the book, I detail ten strong reasons why maintaining modesty leads to a happier, healthier life, right here, in this world."

What are these benefits, for example?

"For example, the whole topic of body image. In general society, girls try to emulate a certain model, finding themselves with very difficult body image issues. They feel they are not good enough, which directly harms them, independent of any religious considerations.

"I also address protection from harm. Many assaults happen in situations involving seclusion. I can personally attest to this from interacting with girls. Victims often say: 'It all started because I stayed late at work alone with the boss,' or: 'I stayed to organize merchandise with a coworker.' When I ask them, 'What about the prohibition of seclusion?' they reply they didn't think about it, didn't know, or thought 'it’s different here.' These incidents drive home the point: a girl who maintains her modesty can save herself from very difficult situations, preventing them even from beginning.

"Another example from general society: most girls feel exposed to inappropriate comments and repeatedly object to disrespectful remarks. The book shows that the power is in our hands, the hands of the girls."

If Hashem Gave Me a Gift, Why Should I Hide It?

According to Pninah, the second volume of the book addresses questions and answers about modesty. "It's interesting to see that when I asked girls 'What is beauty to you?' I received completely opposite responses. Some said: 'Beauty is a gift we received,' while others said the opposite: 'Beauty is a test.' So, what is the truth? Is it the greatest gift we've been given, or is it a test? And how does the Torah view this? Moreover, if Hashem gave us such a gift, why are we required to hide it?

"Part of the book includes questions and answers, and I quote extensively from sources as modesty has many legal sources. In addressing the Jewish stance on women and beauty, I was able to provide answers to many troubling questions with Hashem's help.

Unlike the book Pninah released a year ago, which had significant impact primarily among struggling girls, this book on modesty is not just for challenged teens. It's suitable for any girl, young woman, or woman dealing with the concept of modesty or related questions in femininity and Judaism. "I feel this is an immense mission," she repeatedly says. "Even if one succeeds in strengthening herself in this area, or accepts even a small commitment, the gain is enormous."

To purchase 'Love for a Moment' click here,

To purchase 'Truly Beautiful' click here.

Contact Pninah Leshem: etgar@htv.co.il. The book is available through 'Hidabroot Shops'

Inquiries - ETGAR@HTV.CO.IL

To purchase the books - 0732221250