Being an Orthodox Jew and gay at the same time is more than problematical in Israel. This is why for homosexual Orthodox Jews coming out of the closet is not so simple. These people are often too scared to come out because they know they might be harassed and banished. The Orthodox Jewish law is too powerful for them, as most of the people still view homosexual acts as a fatal sin.

In this context, an underground movement of homosexual Orthodox Jews recently created a web site that aims to help gays cope with living in such a strict, stereotypical and hostile religious community. This web site represents the first public forum in Israel where gay people can seek help and advice.

The web site was launched two weeks ago, and since then thousands of people have been visiting it, according to one of the web site’s founders who wanted to remain anonymous.

"Jewish law forbids the homosexual act, but it says nothing about orientation... The website can offer advice on an individual basis on how to live as a gay man according to Jewish law in the community," said the 33-year-old unnamed source, who also happens to be a Rabbi. It is obvious that his congregation’s members don’t know he is gay.

The web site was called HOD (which means “glory” in Hebrew) and it was “meant to show that you are not alone,” also said the anonymous Rabbi.