In a recent edition of Daily Halacha ("Bringing Young Girls to the Synagogue," Feb. 11, 2014), we discussed the question of whether a man may pray in the presence of young girls who are with their fathers or walking about in the men’s section of the synagogue. We noted the ruling of Hacham Ovadia Yosef, in his Yabia Omer (6:14), permitting one to pray in the presence of young girls, even if they are not dressed in accordance with proper standards of Seniut. And, as we saw, the Hacham adds that it is preferable to either close one’s eyes or turn his eyes away from the girls.
It should be clarified that Hacham Ovadia issued this ruling only with regard to girls who are no older than age nine. Although some Halachic authorities forbid praying even under such circumstances, Hacham Ovadia follows the lenient position. However, we cannot extend beyond his ruling and permit girls who are above age nine to be present in the men’s section. Moreover, it must be emphasized that Hacham Ovadia did not recommend or encourage bringing young girls to the men’s section. He was merely addressing the question of whether one may continue praying if an inappropriately dressed young girl happens to be in the men’s section. (It goes without saying that it is perfectly acceptable, and even commendable, for girls to be in the ladies section or in the children’s prayer groups in the synagogue.)
