A Conservative synagogue in central Israel filed a complaint with police after it was booby trapped on Tisha B’Av eve.
The front doors of the Yedid Nefesh synagogue in Modi’in were blocked with potted plants, and ropes were tied in front of exits in order to trip congregants leaving the building, the Masorti movement in Israel reported on its Facebook page. The actions occurred while members were inside for services on July 25.
There are no suspects and the motive, whether denominational friction or mischief, was unknown.
Masorti, the Israeli branch of the Conservative movement, called the episode one of “baseless hatred,” which is what is said to have brought about the destruction of the Second Temple commemorated on Tisha B’Av.
The incident “could have ended in serious bodily harm,” the post said.
Six years ago, the front doors of the synagogue were set on fire in what was determined to be an arson attack. — jta