Original subtitles

Lord you give me forces...

to proceed for erect head's fair and right road.

I want to follow your rules.

Give me insight into thy righteousness.

Enough, Racheli. We have to be strong for father.

Father?

You should drink this.

My youngest daughter, Naomi.

At the end of the summer, God willing...

you'll rejoice with us at her wedding with Michael.

Naomi, I know that losing your mother is very distressing...

but my mother will be happy to help with the wedding.

This is why you dragged me out here? I can't deal with.

It's hard, but we must.

Sorry, I just can't think about this right now.

I'll do the thinking for both of us.

Isaac! Jonathan! You're embarrassing your grandfather!

I saw nothing. I was never here.

"Accidental contact does not constitute sin."

I didn't mean... Of course you keep appropriate distance.

No one's more chaste than Naomi.

At age five, she wouldn't go to synagogue in shiny shoes...

for fear they would reflect her.

Racheli!

This borders on women's idle chat. Excuse me.

"Women's idle chat!" Like we're a couple of airheads!

You got the most sought-after fianc�e in the Yeshiva.

I bet one day Michael will head a Yeshiva, like father.

You and your children...

four, maybe five, God willing...

will wait for him every night.

Enough Racheli!

What's wrong with you?

Nothing.

You said "head of a Yeshiva".

Remember when I was little...

I wanted to head a Yeshiva, like Father?

Well, you were little.

You'd walk around stroking your chin, as if you had a beard.

Naomi, why aren't you asleep? It's late.

I'm not tired. Besides, this relaxes me.

Let me help you.

No, Father... No way...

Go to sleep. It's been a hard week.

We both had a hard week.

We must return to thinking straight again...

rely on the Biblical Laws.

I don't talk, do I? I lecture.

I like to hear you lecture.

Maybe we could study some Talmud instead?

Talmud commentators say...

why does one distinguish between grief and mourning?

Is there mourning without grief?

Father...

sorry to interrupt...

but there's something I want to ask you.

What is it?

The wedding...

Perhaps it's possible...

to postpone it for a while? Not to cancel, just postpone.

And meanwhile, maybe...

I could get back my bearings in a Seminary.

We can't let our emotional state dictate our lives.

Months such as we went through...

could even undermine our faith.

No, Father. My faith is strong.

But before I start a family of my own...

I want to devote myself to studying scripture.

I want to experience God as you do...

not just steal an hour occasionally.

And in a place where nothing will distract me.

In a sacred atmosphere.

Naomi, no one can be more proud and happy...

to have instilled the love of study in you.

You have no need for a Seminary.

Your mother, may she rest in peace...

hadn't completed her studies when I married her.

She was a wonderful wife, a devoted mother.

There's nothing more important than raising a family.

I know.

"The wise woman shall build a home."

I know.

But father, "you shouldn't marry a woman...

without her consent."

Even when you were a little girl...

when you had a question, you already knew the answer.

Which Seminary?

It is a great virtue to always be happy, Sister. Sing!

Believe me, if I sing, no one here will be happy.

Why? Sing!

Everyone's singing. Why can't you?

I don't want to. Really.

"One is prohibited from self-mortification." Sing!

Excuse me, that is completely out of context.

"One is prohibited from self-mortification by fasting."

Do I look like I'm fasting?

Not that I couldn't use some fasting, even a lot of it.

Such command of Biblical Law! Bravo.

Is that Safed, up on the mountain?

It's so... special!

- Excuse me? - Yes?

Where is the Knowledge and Truth Seminary?

Over there.

Excuse me.

I just happened to overhear you.

I'm going to Knowledge and Truth Seminary too.

Would you like to split a cab?

Seems like walking distance.

- Naomi. - Sheine.

Call me Sheine chubby.

You'll probably think of it yourself.

Not that I'm that chubby. I need to lose a bit.

She's so beautiful!

Think it's a sign for us?

- I'm engaged. - Congratulations.

If your fianc�e has any single friends...

even bottom-of-the barrel ones...

at this point I'm willing to compromise.

All my single girlfriends asked me to pray for them here...

because they heard that in Safed you have a direct line to God.

What do you want?

I've explained over and over! It's not possible! Goodbye!

If you don't help me, what will I do?

God says no to me, just like that?

I don't know what God says.

I only know God's law. Understand?

I have a lot of work. Goodbye.

You're a wise man.

Please, tell me what to do!

I'm so sorry for what I've done.

Please, believe me!

Don't touch! Don't...

- Want some? - No, thank you.

I've got more, if you want some later.

- Is this room six? - Yes.

- Hi, I'm Sigi. - Sheine.

Welcome.

- Naomi. - Sigi.

Thank God I'm here.

May I?

- It's Sheine's. - Feel free.

You can really feel the spirituality in this city.

Have you met the headmistress yet?

There's an orientation with her in half an hour.

The woman is a real saint.

If I hadn't met her, my life would be a real mess.

They say that she's also a great match-maker.

You forgot the blessing.

Blessed be You, Lord, creator of the fruit of the trees.

I'm new at being religious.

I'll probably make many mistakes and forget things.

So please just tell me.

I swear to God I won't be offended.

It's forbidden "to swear to God".

That's why you always say, "God willing".

Thanks for telling me. That's really important.

No "swearing to God". Thanks.

I'm very proud of you all for being here.

Is there anyone here who told her parents...

"I want to study at the Seminary"...

and the parents, with no argument, said...

"Go ahead, study"?

Of course not!

Clearly some family members disapproved...

said that you're wasting your time on studies...

that have no practical purpose...

that don't teach a skill nor secure a degree.

So why, dear girls, go against the grain?

KNOWLEDGE AND TRUTH SEMINARY

Rabbi Meir interprets the plural of "your hearts"...

as the heart craves both good and evil.

Meaning God implanted in us a myriad of cravings.

Excellent interpretation...

There's a place for you here. Go on.

I'd like to explore the Biblical use of the word "love"...

rather than "fear", as in "fear of God"...

Why "love"?

Perhaps someone else?

Girls?

Okay, you.

In Deuteronomy, passage 32 or 33...

it is written, "worship with love"...

to distinguish between worshiping out of love or out of fear...

for he who worships out of love is rewarded many times over.

In other words...

What's this? There's a dog here? How did a dog get in?

That's her cell phone?

We don't have many rules here...

but cell phones are to be used only in your rooms.

Is that clear?

It's her.

What is she doing?

Looking for the suite with the Jacuzzi.

I'm sorry I'm so gossipy today. It's first day jitters.

This is our room. Need any help?

You're in the room with the window that opens?

- Yes. - Good. I see there's room for me.

The window doesn't open in the other room. My smoking bothers the others.

You smoke... cigarettes?

No... I smoke fish.

What's the problem?

There are many problems. Naomi has asthma.

That's what the window is for.

In winter it gets really cold. You can't leave a window open.

In Europe it gets much colder...

and I always sleep with a window open.

Besides, if you have asthma, you need air, right?

Don't give me that look.

I guess in Europe they never heard of consideration.

- Such snots. - Remember: "love thy neighbor".

You can take the bed next to mine.

- Thanks. - You're welcome.

Girls, please stay together.

I don't understand why I have to stay in this backwater.

Not only do we have to study for hours on end...

but we also have to slave at a soup kitchen.

Enough is enough!

Ever since Headmistress Dvori established the Seminary...

she felt it important the girls not only take from Safed...

but also give back.

Therefore we have adopted the soup kitchen.

What's your problem?

- Sorry, my mistake. - Yeah, but it hurt.

It was a mistake.

What's your problem?

- Sorry, my mistake. - Great. Synchronized answers.

- I'm warning you! - I'm scared to death...

Fuck, Shit, Fuck... Sorry. God forgive my filthy mouth!

Have you all lost your minds?

Girls your age, what a disgrace!

If I am to help you, Michal, you'll have to help me.

Michelle, not Michal.

Michelle.

I understand you didn't want to come here.

And from what your father told me...

I understand you had difficulties in Lyon.

Not difficulties.

Differences of opinion.

Please understand, behavior like this afternoon...

will earn you a bad reputation here.

It will also make it difficult to find you a match.

Is that why he sent me here?

Don't worry.

I'll make sure Dad gives you a large donation...

even if you don't find me a match. Okay?

It's freezing...

She's totally insane! It's freezing.

Michal, could you shut the window, please? It's freezing.

Michal! You can't do this! We're not in Siberia!

Michelle! Michelle. Not Michal.

Put on a sweater.

A sweater, over my nightgown?

With your figure, it really doesn't matter.

What?

There are four of us here. Can't you smoke outside?

Thanks for ruining my last cigarette.

Do I complain about the racket she makes, munching cookies all night?

Don't you get enough food at dinner?

Insulting someone is like spilling his blood.

Do you recite catch phrases because you have no original thoughts?

Let's all calm down.

You weren't even supposed to be in this room.

I just wanted to smoke my last cigarette...

and now I have none left.

Is there a store open now in this backward town?

You understand French?

My grandmother spoke French with my mother so we wouldn't understand.

There's the store.

So how come you speak Hebrew so well?

I was born in Israel.

When I was twelve we moved to France...

for my Dad's business. We have family there.

You don't come from a religious home, do you?

- You can tell, can't you? - Not really, I just had a feeling.

No matter what I do, I'll never be pure again.

Because of what you did with boys?

I don't want to talk about it.

But why? What you did was out of love, no?

Whatever secular society calls love is nothing but lust.

It's beautiful.

Let's go.

Get me Marlboro, will you?

What? Why?

You can't play Klezmer like "Elvis Presler".

Presley. Elvis Presley.

- All right, Presley. - How do you know him?

Did he also perform with his mother at weddings?

Do you have a light?

Thank you.

- You speak French? - Yes.

- I'm from Paris. And you? - Lyon.

At least, for the last few years.

Are you on vacation here?

No, I study here.

What exactly do you study?

How to become a good wife and mother, according to religious law?

I ask because when I was in Safed, several years ago...

there were no academic institutions for girls.

We study the Bible, other holy books...

just like the men.

But I thought orthodox men...

don't allow women to study holy books...

and become rabbis.

Like the Catholics...

who wanted to keep all knowledge to themselves.

This is quite a revolution.

So you possess knowledge just like the rabbis?

It's late, I'm keeping you. Excuse me.

- Good night. - Good night.

Who was that weirdo?

I love this place. There's always someone weirder than you around.

The woman you're assigned to is a bit difficult.

Which is why I need someone responsible, like you.

Apparently she was in prison abroad, for many years.

She called this morning...

and asked to be put on the needy list.

She doesn't speak Hebrew...

so she specifically requested someone who speaks French.

That's why I'm sending Michal with you.

You're roommates, aren't you?

Yes.

This woman, why was she in prison?

As far as I know, she was in for... murder.

But she's not dangerous.

She's very ill.

Good morning.

- What? - Good morning.

Good morning to you, too.

I wonder if she killed only once, or if she's a serial killer?

The headmistress didn't say who she killed, did she?

She killed. What difference does it make?

None, but it's interesting.

We've already met.

Yes, on the square, I think.

You know her?

We brought you some food.

- We'd be happy to help you put it away. - What's going on?

What's your problem? I just offered to help her.

The headmistress said nothing about helping her.

What are you afraid of?

Would you like a cup of tea?

It's all kosher. I'm a vegetarian.

Yes, thank you.

How long have you been living here?

Nearly two months.

But I lived here, many years ago.

Why?

I lived with someone.

In the Artists' Quarter.

All done. We should go.

Go? She's making us tea.

A cookie?

It's rude to sit here and not eat anything.

Michelle, enough!

Are you okay?

Can I get you anything?

No, no. It will pass.

Is she praying for me?

She's reciting Psalms verses for you.

Each chapter can heal a part of the body.

She knows all that by heart?

- Do you, too? - Me?

I'm not in her league!

She's gifted. Not in social skills...

but in Scripture, she's the best!

Thank you.

- Is it helping? - Possibly.

Although it usually passes on its own.

We have to go. We have a class.

Okay. I have to go to the bathroom.

Excuse me, the bathroom?

On the left.

I'm sorry, but there's no door.

Since my time in prison, I can't stand doors.

Sit. Sit!

Forgive me.

Thank you for the words you said.

You know many secrets.

Secrets?

No. No secrets.

Study!

- Let's go. - Wait. Let's stay a little longer.

- Michelle, we're late. - Just a little longer. We have time.

You're allowed?

When the doctor diagnosed my heart condition...

he told me not to smoke.

But soon after, when they discovered the cancer...

he said I could do whatever I liked.

You have both?

When God is angry, He's really angry.

What did she say?

Besides his name, Ephraim, I know nothing about him.

The headmistress says he's a good guy...

but I've been introduced to many "good guys before".

Each one worse than the other.

Why the attitude? You'll scare him off.

Believe me, it's not my attitude that scares them off.

I look terrible!

There are two parts of my body I hate: My chin.

I know who she murdered.

What do you mean?

I looked up her trial on the Internet.

Huge scandal in France!

So who did she kill?

She killed the artist she told us about.

A Joseph Cohen.

He was her lover.

- She killed him in Safed? - No, no.

She was married to some accountant.

Lived a normal life. House, kids, car...

Then, she met this painter.

Fell in love. Left her husband and children...

and ran off with him to Israel. Lived in Safed for three years.

Then he left her, went back to France.

She went after him, and as the papers put it...

smashed his skull with a blunt instrument.

At the trial she said that they fought and he slipped.

Slipped? People tend to slip after their heads are bashed in.

Smashed his skull?

- Her? - Yes, her.

It's kind of romantic, isn't it?

Girls, girls, attention please.

It is my pleasure to be the bearer of good news tonight.

Our beloved instructor, Bracha, deserves our congratulations.

Last night, Bracha got engaged.

Now I'm sure my date is a waste of time.

It's statistically inconceivable two engagements on the same day.

Maybe it's a sign.

Let's ask her to bless you. Come on, Sheine.

Isn't it amazing that she killed a man for love?

Would you be capable of killing your fianc�e if he left you?

- I couldn't kill anyone. - Hypothetically speaking?

Even if it was this great passion...

you just couldn't live without?

I never thought about it.

You never thought about love?

Don't you love your fianc�e?

You're giving up on love so easily?

A girl as pretty and clever as yourself?

Clever?

Me? I thought I was a bore who could only recite "catch phrases?".

For my Bat Mitzvah, my mom bought me a poster...

with a beautiful golden frame. The poster said...

"Dear God, please shut my big mouth before it's too late."

What interests you?

The painting, or the painter?

I'm sorry.

The Headmistress told us a little...

and I did some research on the Internet...

Don't believe everything you read.

Journalists like to tantalize their readers.

They don't care about truth.

Not that I'm completely innocent.

I was only defending myself.

I didn't murder him.

Even after fifteen years in prison...

Naomi, bring water.

What happened?

Can't you see your prying is not good for her?

I wasn't prying. She told me.

I'm sorry.

I shouldn't have brought it up.

They say that... time heals all wounds.

But for me, time is cruel.

Now that my time has nearly come...

the thought of dying without God's forgiveness...

terrifies me.

If only...

someone could help me...

to know God...

to feel Him...

to talk to Him...

Maybe you?

Could you help me?

- Naomi, Wait! Let's talk. - Talk about what?

That poor woman is begging us for help!

She's all alone, no one cares about her.

Because she's a murderer.

How can you be so cold? Don't you have a heart?

She's looking for atonement, for a way to forgive herself.

That's between her and God.

This can't be just a coincidence.

You postpone your wedding and decide to come to Safed.

I cave in and also come here.

And this poor French woman ends up living...

directly opposite the Seminary.

So?

So then the headmistress sends us together to help her.

To bring her food, not to help her.

Call it what you want.

Why does she suddenly want God's forgiveness?

And why all these questions about "secrets"?

This whole business seems very fishy.

What's fishy? You're just being paranoid.

What do you want?

To find her a cleansing.

Like an opportunity for Tikkun...

a chance for redemption before death.

Have you gone mad? A Tikkun?

You think my name is Saint Naomi?

Hey! A sense of humor! Welcome to the human race.

Maybe I don't know what I'm talking about...

but everyone says you're such a genius.

I don't think it's a problem for you to open some books...

Are you insane?

It's ridiculous! Lately everyone has become a Kabbalah expert.

To use these books you need total command.

From what I've seen, you have pretty good command.

And even then, it could be dangerous.

I didn't ask you to part the sea!

I just want us to do a good deed.

Please.

Please...

The Rambam speaks of four stages of repentance.

"The sinner must abandon his sin."

"He must force it out of his mind."

"Verbal confession," and "Acceptance of fate."

- Then, there's no problem. - No, there is a problem.

Even the Holy Ari says...

there is no Tikkun for premeditated murder.

There's one for fornicating with one's brother's wife...

Sigi? I see you've adjusted well, you're studying.

There's a Tikkun for going "mad"...

But isn't killing in the name of love, "going mad"?

Wasn't it the Holy Ari who said...

that every sin in the world has a Tikkun?

What are you doing?

And what are we studying here?

- We're just looking for... - Maybe I can help?

If we have a problem, we'll ask.

- Naomi? - Yes.

We haven't had a chance to get acquainted.

Could you come by tonight? Have a little chat?

With pleasure.

I've lived in Safed for over twenty years...

and I am still amazed by its unique spiritual energy.

- Please sit. - Thanks.

Naomi, under your serene facade...

you are hiding great pain.

My mother died ten years ago, rest her soul...

and there is still a great void.

The first year is very difficult.

I think that you were very wise to come here.

I hope so.

When I was your age, I didn't have that option.

I'm aware that our process of liberation...

is more difficult than that of secular women.

It is not easy to change women's inferior status...

so grounded in Biblical Law written more than 2,000 years ago...

to ensure men's domination over women.

I hope I'm not shocking you.

On the contrary.

We are in the process of a silent revolution.

We mustn't talk about it out loud.

But perhaps, God willing, even in our generation...

a woman will be a real rabbi.

Just imagine!

Naomi?

What'd she want?

Nothing really.

I kept reading the repentance books, and I have a great idea.

Come, come here.

It's a great idea.

I'm freezing.

The window will stay shut through Passover. I promise.

Want to come under the blanket?

I've thought It all through. First of all, "purification".

We have to take her to a ritual bath.

But not just any ritual bath. A natural spring one.

How did you come up with all that?

Think you're the only smart one around here?

So I thought that we'd take her to the Holy Ari's ritual bath.

Interesting idea, but the Holy Ari's ritual bath is for men only.

Women aren't allowed to use it.

I know. But I have a plan. You want to hear?

I'm not sure.

How do you know these waters will cleanse me?

Inside, I mean. Isn't it a bit simplistic?

I know religious women purify themselves after their periods...

but this is different. This blood is not mine.

She wants to understand why water?

The Tikkun is all about symbolic acts.

The idea is to enter a different state of awareness.

She says the water of the ritual bath erases the impurities.

It symbolizes a rebirth.

Isn't this ritual bath prohibited for women?

Isn't there a guard?

There is a guard. But we'll go late at night.

I've heard that for 400 shekels, the guard will turn a blind eye.

I'll bring the tea.

Your mother... did she ever take you to a ritual bath?

Once.

When I was eight, because I nagged her.

I have to comb your hair now, so there are no knots.

Do you have a hairbrush?

My children...

do not want to see me.

They hate me.

I've been trying to contact them for years.

I write them letters.

But nothing.

Children cannot comprehend the love of a mother.

Even a bad mother.

No other love can compare.

You don't understand.

I'll call Michelle.

Are you okay?

I don't understand a word. Don't leave me alone with her.

Okay, calm down...

The prescription Is for Anouk Kessner. Where Is she?

She asked us to bring her the prescription.

She's in great pain, and she's out of medication.

I can give you her number. Call her and check.

I must have her permission in writing.

Go back and get her to write an authorization.

But we have a class in fifteen minutes.

Wait, I know you.

I know you from the steps! Right?

You work here?

- Six alphabet letter "Mems". - What?

Six "Mems".

I have a hobby of counting the number of "Mems" in a sentence.

In the sentence you just said there were six "Mems". It's a kind of hobby.

Impressive.

One "Mem".

This is all very interesting, but we're running late.

Sorry, how can I help you?

You can't.

We're from the Seminary.

You saw us bringing food to Anouk Kessner? Remember?

Yes, Mom. They are from the Seminary, I saw them, it's okay.

It's not okay.

I'll do it, but it's not okay.

Whatever. "It's not okay."

I heard you play once. You play very well.

Thanks.

Where did you hear us play? At a bar mitzvah, a circumcision?

I saw you through the window playing with some old lady.

It wasn't some old lady, it was my mother.

- Will this take long? - Just one more minute.

We must get undressed...

say a prayer and then immerse ourselves in the water...

and get into the fetal position.

Other than praying, it is forbidden to talk.

Normally you would enter the water alone...

but since you're ill...

Naomi thought it would be best if we went in with you.

I didn't think this would be so difficult.

Nobody has seen me naked in years.

When I was young, I was so proud of my body...

but now it betrays me.

What did she say?

She said it's hard for her to get undressed.

She's ashamed of her body.

My mother, rest her soul...

said that immersing herself in the ritual bath...

taught her to accept her body.

Even after giving birth, even while she was ill.

- She says... - Wait.

I trust her.

"Oh Lord...

just as the waters...

of the Ritual bath purify me...

I pray to You that You wash away...

all my transgressions and sins."

Don't you feel well? Do you want your pain killers?

No, I'm not in pain.

I don't understand why... but there's no pain.

When I was in the water...

I felt the water penetrate me and cleanse me of... something.

I don't understand it, but I feel it.

Tell her that she did well...

though I don't know how she did it.

You succeeded! It really made her feel good.

It's very powerful, isn't it?

I think.

What do you mean, think? Look at her.

I know it's late, but I want to continue.

She wants us to continue.

Out of the question, she needs to rest. And I...

We need to reflect, to understand.

What should I tell her? When do we continue?

Tell her she must go to sleep. So do we.

She said that you should rest.

Better not to argue with her.

Don't be scared, but I'd like to ask you.

It's been such a long time since anyone...

I'd like a hug.

Please.

Don't panic.

She wants a hug.

Here. I'll go first. Okay?

The Holy Ari writes...

to remove illness from a sick soul...

one must embrace repentance with mortification and fasting...

wrapped in sack and ashes.

The Rambam writes...

"There is no repentance without suffering."

Do you realize what this means?

The whole Tikkun process requires pain.

We must intentionally mortify our flesh...

in order to destroy our desire for sin. Understand?

Go to sleep.

I'm not leaving you here alone.

Wake me up before morning prayer.

I'm sure this will really frighten her.

Not if she's serious about this.

Don't count on me for sewing.

It's not a problem.

This is going to hurt!

That's the idea.

Safed's a small town. Always bumping into one another.

- Four Mems. - What?

Four Mems.

Oh yeah. Watch out, it's addictive.

For me, it started in the Yeshiva.

It kept me from falling asleep.

Tell us when your next gig is. Maybe we'll come and listen.

- Really? - Yes.

What?

You're just driving the poor guy crazy.

- Me? - Yes.

Who canceled her fianc�e's visit twice already?

Don't remind me.

He's coming next week. It's final.

He's a great guy, but I have nothing to say to him now.

And I don't want to be alone with him.

- So maybe I'll join you. - What?

- No way. - Why? It could be fun.

I'll ask the headmistress...

to fix me up with the pharmacy guy.

And we'll go out together.

How did you find a Tikkun for something that has no Tikkun?

I didn't find it, she did.

Naomi is such a genius.

She combined four different Tikkuns.

For the dying who cannot pass from this world...

for the dead who was outcast in life...

for a mother who caused her son's death...

and for a soul who can't find rest in the next life.

Out of these four, she created a new Tikkun.

Pure genius.

- You're amazing... - You're a genius!

Thank God for putting me in the same room with you.

For this it was worth coming here.

This, and finding a husband.

Michelle said it was okay to come with you.

I know I wasn't supposed to tell, but they're trustworthy.

But we said.

You're not really upset about them coming, are you?

- No. - So what's wrong?

Is something bothering you?

What's that?

Are you okay?

Are you angry with me?

What's that?

Why are you wearing that?

You're crazy, take this thing off!

It's for me.

What do you mean, for me?

How can you purify someone, when you are so...

Sit up.

Lift your hands.

You're out of your mind.

What is it for?

I'm a horrible person. Selfish.

- Stop it! - In the ritual bath I realized it...

I didn't even cry at my mother's funeral.

I have some lotion.

It hurts.

It's unpleasant, but that's the point.

You torture your body to break all defense mechanisms...

that keep you from learning the truth.

Are you all right?

You've been fasting since yesterday?

But with all the pills you take...

if you don't feel well, you must break the fast.

I don't want to break the fast.

I want to follow every detail in this ritual.

You mustn't take any pity on me!

It's open, Naomi!

This might sound pathetic...

but every time I hear a knock on the door...

I think it might be my son, surprising me with a visit.

When I hear steps or a car outside...

I run to the window to see if it's him.

It hurts.

But it's necessary.

There is something else.

I'm afraid the whole truth...

will shock you.

But in order to help me, you must know everything.

I just hope it won't scare you away.

What is she doing?

She hid something from us.

No matter what it is, we're not backing out.

My last memento of Joseph...

and of all that we had together.

A few paintings he left here, in Safed...

in an art gallery.

I wanted to throw them away, but couldn't.

I don't know why.

Before you purify me and obtain my forgiveness...

I have to show you these paintings...

even though they may disgust you.

Because these may also require repentance.

In this painting it looks like he's hurting you.

But your face expresses ecstasy, excitement.

The body has a will of its own. We can't always control it.

I told you that I hate my body.

I feel like it hides things from me.

What things?

Maybe you should also put on some lipstick? It'll look nice.

I don't wear makeup.

- It'll be nice. - It's not for me.

It won't spoil you, your "holiness".

- Okay, but just a little. - Just a touch.

- How are you? - Good. You?

Very well. Your father asked...

What's that on your lips?

You don't like it?

Is that how you all parade yourself around here?

Your father is now lecturing on God and free will.

We study throughout the night.

We do the same here.

Really?

Yes. What's with the condescending face?

Not condescending! God forbid.

But you can't compare Seminary lessons...

to your father's lectures.

Or our group study to yours.

You think I couldn't keep up with you?

Well, you're unique.

And other women are light-minded?

That's what the Scripture says.

Sorry I'm late.

That's okay.

I got here half an hour early.

But I don't mind.

There's something pleasant about waiting.

It was quite a surprise...

when the headmistress spoke to my mother.

In these parts a woman rarely...

I'm sorry if I caused you or your mother any embarrassment.

It's fine.

May I ask you a personal question?

How come a great catch like me is still single?

How come a Yeshiva graduate works as...

I mean plays...

Why am I a Klezmer and not a rabbi?

My grandfather Berl, was a great Klezmer.

My grandmother always wanted to kill him for always kidding around.

When I was a boy I loved his tunes.

Did you know that a tune that comes from the heart...

connects you to a place even more elevated than prayer?

Kabbalists have said so.

- 13 "Mems". - Michelle?

Naomi!

I can't believe it! What are you doing here?

- Meet Michael. - Nice to meet you.

There are no free tables.

No problem, join us. Do you mind?

Of course not.

- Nice to meet you. - Nice to meet you.

- Yanki Meizlish. - Michael Reznick.

You look familiar.

Yanki is an amazing clarinet player.

Thanks.

Klezmer? How quaint.

But before that I studied at a Yeshiva.

Studying didn't work out for you, so you retreated to...

Yes, that's it.

I'm studying at her father's Yeshiva in Bnei Brak.

Before that I studied in Jerusalem.

I'm originally from Jerusalem.

I see. A Jerusalem jabber-mouth!

Is that a Klezmer expression?

I'm starving! Waiter!

"Jerusalem jabber-mouth"

Where have you been my whole life?

Shall we get the bill? We'll split it.

No, it's fine. I'll pay.

- I insist, we'll split it. - No, it's okay.

Klezmer musicians may not be well respected...

but they make a good living.

Waiter! Check, please.

- Your "business"... - It's not a business. It's a pharmacy.

What pharmacy? Your fly is open.

I have to catch the last bus, so we've asked for the bill.

- I'm paying. - No, we'll split it.

- I'm paying. - I insist. We'll split it.

Please. I'll pay.

What's so funny?

I'm sorry. It's just that...

It's my fault.

I told her a joke and...

Naomi, you're still in mourning!

Watch where you're going!

Sorry, sorry, sorry...

What's so funny?

- Why are you stressed? - I'm fine.

- No you're not. - I am.

You're not. I can tell by now.

- Sheine and Sigi won't say anything. - That's not it.

- Though Sigi has become a bit fanatic. - Enough, Michelle.

"The Lord is truth. He dwells in every soul."

- That is so disgusting. - But you've seen this before.

Which is exactly why I'm so appalled.

"I will sin no more..."

"I'm prepared...

to torture myself...

in sack...

in order to redeem myself..."

What's the matter?

After mother's funeral, every asthma attack I had...

This sounds crazy, but...

I'd see her... there.

I wanted to stay and hug her, not ever breathe again.

- Now do you understand why I'm a mess? - Sorry.

Now I realize why I returned to Safed.

I knew it was the only place that would bring me close to God.

I haven't breathed like this in years...

without any chest pains.

- What did she say? - She says you're a genius.

I'm going to get dressed.

What's that? Someone's playing.

Is he serenading someone at the Seminary?

Some nerve! It's lewd to play like that.

How romantic!

I'm constantly thinking about the next Tikkun.

You too?

- I don't know. - What don't you know?

I have a feeling she's not telling us the truth.

So it took her a while, but in the end...

she told us about her Joseph, and showed us the paintings.

She is not Jewish!

What?

- How do you know? - In the photo she's wearing a cross.

If she doesn't tell the truth, this whole Tikkun is worthless.

Who knows what she really wants from us?

- Naomi. - What?

You're as smart as they come...

but sometimes you think too much.

It feels right.

Inside. Even if she's not Jewish.

Maybe she didn't tell us...

because she was afraid we wouldn't help her.

Right?

- That's so cute! - What?

Whenever you're thinking, you do this with your eyebrows.

Michelle, quit it! You're a guest.

Suddenly I'm a guest?

You've been telling me to feel at home and now...

Now I feel totally unwanted.

Your friend is just like you.

You can't win an argument with her.

Racheli, when you cook, I can taste your mother's cooking.

All the love that she put into her Shabbat cooking.

- Thank you, Dad. - You must teach Naomi.

I'd also love to learn how to cook.

I remember many times finding Mother in the kitchen...

with her head in her hands, in tears...

So what? Even Mother was sometimes in a bad mood.

It happens to us all.

- Why so negative? - Not negative.

I didn't mean to be out of line.

Of course you didn't mean it.

Sometimes, it's hard to rise above sorrow.

We must not surrender to it.

"It's virtuous to be full of joy."

And "it's a joy to be virtuous."

Naomi, tomorrow morning we'll study together...

and your charming friend is invited to join us.

- Good night to all. - Good night.

- Naomi, when will you stop... - Your father's great.

I envy you. In my family...

the holiday meals are all business talk.

Everyone just waits to leave the table.

Anyone interested in adopting?

What? What?

- Mom he's hitting me! - So don't play with him. Come here.

I've never had a friend sleep over...

Really?

It feels like the sixth grade.

Oh no! We didn't do our homework!

You let your hair down. I have to take a picture.

No, Michelle!

Don't you want a souvenir from sixth grade?

What are you thinking about?

About mother.

I'm sorry you got involved in my family drama.

It's just... I was suddenly overcome with memories...

I didn't even know I had.

I hope it didn't embarrass you.

Not at all. I'm an expert in family drama.

Scratch my back, will you?

So said one rabbi to Rabbi Hiah.

Women: How do they earn a place in heaven?

By sending their sons to synagogue...

and sending their husbands to Yeshiva."

What does this teach us?

We know that a man must earn his place in heaven...

by studying and strictly adhering to Biblical Law.

Why are women exempt?

Rabbi Hess, I'm very sorry.

My father spoke to my aunt and uncle this morning.

He told them I was here.

And they were very upset that I didn't come to visit.

So they're coming to pick me up.

I'll be there till the end of the holiday.

- About last night... - Nothing happened.

- Let's talk about it! - They're waiting.

Are you mad at me?

Why are you running away? I'll sleep on the sofa.

- It's not that. - Come on!

You always talk about feeling and now you have none?

We'll talk next week in Safed.

Thank your father again.

Now that we're alone, Naomi, I want to ask you something.

When you mentioned Mother in the kitchen, crying...

What were you implying?

I meant to say that...

Mother's depression...

Maybe we could have helped her.

But because her scream was silent, it was just easier...

to overlook it...

to continue to let her cook and clean for us, to ignore it.

Not that we neglected her out of any ill-intent, but...

What happened to Mother is a tragedy...

but it's God's will.

Why are you always looking for someone to blame?

- Maybe because I feel guilty... - But you said "we".

Plural. "We" neglected.

So you're really saying I'm also to blame.

That's what you implied, right?

You returned before the end of the holiday.

So did you.

I was at Anouk's. She's not home.

I know, I was there.

- So, where is she? - No idea.

Did you try calling the hospital?

I was slitting down...

and suddenly I felt this pain In my chest.

I felt cold sweat...

and my heart was beating very fast.

I tried to get up...

Somehow I managed to call an ambulance.

I was afraid.

I wouldn't be able to complete the Tikkun.

I thought of you two...

and of my children.

I asked my doctor to let me go home.

There's nothing more they can do for me...

but we have a task to complete.

The situation is not good.

I've lived alone for so long.

Solitude is harsh punishment.

But perhaps, thanks to your kindness...

thanks to all that you've done for me...

maybe I'll see my son...

and daughter...

before I die.

That's all that I want.

- Do you mind if I switch off the light? - No.

I can't go on like this.

We have to talk.

You said, nothing happened.

Why are you making such a big deal out of it?

A big deal?

Why? Does this happen to you all the time?

- How many times has it happened to you? - Are you crazy!

Never once.

- Not even in my imagination. - Me neither.

I never even thought I could feel like this.

- Was it just a game for you? - God forbid!

But it's forbidden.

Nowhere is it written that it's forbidden. I checked.

- It's impossible. - It's a fact!

Biblical Law specifically forbids sex between men.

Between men, not between women.

Because with men, it constitutes "spilling their seed"...

which Sage Rashi says is "offensive to God".

Women don't have "seed", thus, it's not forbidden.

- What we did wasn't terrible? - No.

If you ever bothered to open a book...

Why are you speaking to me like this?

Look at me.

I am totally devastated.

And it's true, you never cry.

I wish I could.

No, don't.

What do you want from me?

Forgive me.

Coming!

Michel?

Mother, let's forget the past.

Anyway, it can't be changed.

And I love you too much.

- These are for you. - Thank you.

You remembered the flowers I love.

- No kiss? - What a question!

Coming! It's open.

Michel, my son, has come! A surprise.

He's over there. He must be looking around.

- Go, go and see him! - What's happened?

Her son is here.

What a wonderful surprise!

Here are the amazing girls who've been so helpful.

There's no one here.

That's not possible.

He's there.

He must be here, this must be a joke.

He's in the bathroom.

Michel?

I don't understand.

Bring her a glass of water.

They must have pumped her full of sedatives.

But I thought...

My son...

I thought...

I was sure...

Forgive me.

You should rest.

Let's continue.

It's the only thing that protects me from myself.

Without you, I would have gone crazy.

I'm ready.

This Tikkun Is much harder than the previous one.

I know tonight I need to force out the truth.

The absolute truth.

I know the truth rests inside me.

I just don't know how to find it.

Which Is why we've chosen the cave of Shem and Ever.

It's the most sacred place In Safed.

- Is this the real place? - Yes.

The very first monotheistic place of worship in the world.

When everyone else was still pagan...

Jews sat here and searched for one truth.

We brought our Bible, to give you strength during the ritual.

Thank you. I'll need it.

Look at her. A woman in her condition, so brave...

even though she took a life.

She must go all the way, otherwise it's all worthless.

I also confessed before becoming religious.

The worst thing I did...

was to abandon my children.

Even if I didn't mean to.

It's a terrible thing.

As far as...

taking a life...

For a long time...

I couldn't admit I was responsible...

Don't stop, continue.

All the filth, all those dirty paintings...

all the things he forced upon you.

Set yourself free.

I want to cleanse myself...

sincerely.

But my love for Joseph...

my passion for Joseph...

I don't know why...

I don't truly feel the need...

to ask for forgiveness.

I don't regret any of it.

Hold on. What's this "I don't regret any of it"?

Love is love. And my love for Joseph...

Tell her to stop and tell me what she said.

She's saying that one must never regret love.

Those obscene paintings are love?

That's not love!

Why is she shouting? What's wrong?

We can't go on unless she regrets.

It's her Tikkun.

Let her go through it as she feels.

What do you mean, "as she feels"?

If we keep silent about this...

we're saying that all she did with that French guy is fine.

God is very, very angry.

- You regret now... - Sigi, don't interfere.

It would be easy to say that I regret all...

but we decided to tell only the truth. I don't believe God...

Don't mention God. Don't speak of "God"!

Sigi, stop shouting!

If she doesn't say...

she regrets everything...

We should leave right now! She's driving us to blasphemy!

And what's more.

She's holding the Holy Bible!

Leave her be! Let go of me!

Let me!

Come on, get up.

That gentile woman came to me too...

and asked me to save her from the fires of Hell.

I told her I couldn't help her...

that according to Jewish Law, she deserves to die...

for the sin of adultery alone.

- Not to mention having murdered a man. - She didn't murder...

Be quiet!

Now listen to me carefully.

You've already done enough damage.

You've been here a few months and you're messing with Kabbalah.

Is this what you teach them here?

What a disgrace!

Respectfully, I assembled a Tikkun...

from the teachings of the Holy Ari...

You compare yourself to the Great Holy Ari?

Honorable Rabbi, I'll separate them immediately.

And of course, they will not return to that woman.

- Who will bring her food? - Someone else!

Only out of respect for your esteemed father I won't have you expelled...

or have the Seminary closed down!

But if one more time...

That's clear, Honorable Rabbi.

To Naomi and Michal...

They don't want me to expel them.

Right?

Right?

I'm coming!

Naomi, Michelle, I'm coming.

You're angry, but I had to tell the Headmistress.

One day you'll understand I was sent to save you.

- I don't expect you to understand now. - Really?

For a snitch who's only been religious for six months...

it's surprising that God chose you as his spokesperson.

Girls, stop it, please.

Michelle?

Michelle?

You scared me!

I missed you.

Me too. What shall we do?

I don't know. I keep thinking about her.

I called her after evening prayer.

- And? - She sounded so weak and confused.

I told her we can't come back.

She didn't understand. Kept talking about the last Tikkun.

I don't know how, but we have to do It.

No matter what.

Speaking of no matter what, I have news.

What?

I'm not getting married.

Are you serious?

I want to continue my studies, and if you could live with me...

without us both freaking out...

we could look for an apartment together.

Scared?

A little bit.

Of course we could still go on dates with boys...

Of course.

If you don't want to, you don't have to.

Why are you such an idiot?

This Is Moshe, a paramedic from the ambulance.

There's a lady here. What's your name? Anouk?

She's on the way to the hospital, and she wants you to come.

Urgently.

- Did anyone see you leave? - I don't think so.

Thank you... for coming.

Before I die...

we have to finish what we started.

I want to be ready to meet God.

What did she say?

She said she wants the final Tikkun.

Tell her I didn't come prepared, I didn't bring the books.

I'll tell her we'll come back tonight, okay?

We'll be back here late tonight...

but if Anouk Kessner's condition gets worse...

could you call me? Here's the number.

She can't call us on the Sabbath.

So I'll set it to vibrate? I'll see the number and we'll come.

You'll walk around with this phone? It's a sin.

But it's a life or death situation.

But what if she calls in the middle of Sabbath dinner?

What will we tell the headmistress?

Michelle, n�o.

Where are you going? Are you crazy? Now?

I'm sorry, girls.

I know it's Sabbath, but she insisted you come.

Blessed art thou, Lord our God, King of the universe...

who sanctified us...

and commanded us to wash our hands.

Amen.

Naomi? Naomi?

Don't go.

We're here, beside you.

We're staying with you.

God is no longer angry with me.

My children...

my darlings...

thank you.

Blessed is the one true judge.

Dear girls, I'm as upset as you are...

about the unavoidable expulsion...

of Naomi and Michal from our Seminary.

But let's not dwell on it and return to our studies.

I'd like to start immediately.

Lucky thing I caught you.

I heard this morning what happened to you both.

So I closed the pharmacy early to say goodbye.

You're sweet.

I prefer "impressive, manly, and unforgettable."

But "sweet" will do.

I brought you something.

A souvenir of Safed.

It's not professional quality, but it's okay.

Thank you.

You really are sweet.

And?

And impressive and manly...

well, reasonably manly.

I also brought you a letter.

So you'll have something to read on the way.

But open it later.

Well, I can't miss my flight.

Of course. Have a good trip.

Thanks.

Driver, would you mind playing this?

I missed you so much.

Look what a charming home I made for us.

You must be tired from the flight.

Want something to drink?

Nothing?

Where are your bags?

And why didn't you want me to meet you at the airport?

Michelle, you're scaring me. What happened?

What happened, sweetie?

I didn't arrive today.

What do you mean?

- When did you arrive? - Four days ago.

And where have you been?

Safed.

I don't understand.

- I'm so sorry. - What?

Michelle, what happened?

I don't know where to begin.

Explain to me what happened?

Michelle, you're scaring me! What is it?

Listen.

I've been thinking about it a lot.

And?

And I'm not like that.

What do you mean, "not like that"?

Like what?

Like what, Michelle?

- Okay, I'll just tell you straight. - Go ahead.

You are very, very dear to me...

but I'm going to marry Yanki.

I just can't go through with it. You understand?

I want a normal family.

And I'm not normal?

Huh, Michelle? I'm not normal?

Naomi, what are you doing here?

I looked for father at the Yeshiva...

they said he hasn't left the house in a week.

Is he okay?

Dad, I don't want to bother you, but...

If it's not a good time.

Something to drink? Hot? Cold?

I'll put some water on.

There's cake from Shabbat.

The best for breaking tension.

- I think it's best if I leave. - No, you stay here.

If our guest has something to say...

it's to you.

I'm going to lie down.

Father...

Michael...

You know I have a lot of respect for you.

- And I really appreciate you. - Do you even know what you're doing?

Do you have any idea how much damage you caused me?

My family?

Your father? Who gave you everything!

- I'm sorry, I didn't mean... - You didn't mean to?

An intelligent woman such as yourself "didn't mean to"?

Everything that's happened is a result of your heresy.

- Heresy? - Heresy!

Do you have another word for the systematic sabotaging...

of the social code that our religion dictates?

Wise rabbis, the likes of whom we don't have nowadays...

ruled and determined in Jewish Law...

specific roles for women and men.

And you have this absurd dream of becoming a woman rabbi?

Who do you think you are?

Never mind me...

but your father...

who is burdened with guilt.

Tearing himself to pieces for ever having taught you!

If he carries guilt, it's not for that, trust me!

Have you gone mad?

How dare you?

Do you realize you're going to lose everything?

Is it worth it?

It's open!

The room for rent is on the left.

Feel free to look around.

Hi, Naomi.

I'm sorry for not calling and barging in like this...

but I knew you wouldn't agree to meet me.

I left the door ajar so it doesn't seem improper.

So you can feel comfortable.

As if you could ever feel comfortable with me.

What do you want?

I came on behalf of Michelle.

I know she'd never dare to come here.

So, I decided to do this for her.

I won't beat around the bush.

I know we sent you an invitation to the wedding...

but I wanted to ask you in person, to please come.

Thank you, but I can't.

I expected you to say that.

I want you to know that you're very important to her.

Michelle will be very unhappy if you don't come.

She loves you.

She loves you even more than she loves me.

What has she told you about me?

You're wondering if I know? Yes, I do.

When she first told me, I was shocked.

I won't lie to you.

I didn't understand why she was telling me.

I know she loves you with all her heart.

I don't want to talk about it.

There's nothing to worry about. No one knows but me.

I understand that you are very hurt and angry...

I can't come, even if I wanted to. And I don't want to.

If I come, it'll only be to ruin everything.

I won't be able to control myself.

Please leave.

May I tell you one last thing?

Not that I'm an expert on matters of the heart...

but I do know something about music.

In music you're always taught to play the traditional way...

but sometimes the untraditional way is the right way.

RIVKA FAIGE HESS

Naomi! Wait a minute.

I had a feeling you'd pass by here on your way to Michal's wedding.

Michelle.

Naomi, in a few years, you'll look back...

remember everything and realize I was right.

There's no other way, Naomi.

Know how many rabbis want the Seminary closed?

As you mature...

you'll understand you can't break walls with your head.

To achieve a higher goal...

It's okay to abandon a dying woman so as not to outrage anyone?

God forbid, no one abandoned her.

We continued to send her food, even though...

She wasn't Jewish.

That's the problem, right?

I understand how you feel...

because you so remind me of myself at your age.

I'm nothing like you.

I'm not a coward.

"If I forget thee, Jerusalem, may my right hand wither away.

May my tongue cling to the roof of my mouth."

Want to dance?

Michelle has a cousin she wants to introduce me to.

Charles. Sounds romantic, doesn't it? Charles.

Put me down.

Excuse us, Sheine.

Thank you for coming.

Do you forgive me?

No.