From Arboleras Vol. 2 - Romances Sefardies Tradicion Oral This Romance is used as a wedding song in Tangier despite its theme of adultery. The song blends secular and para-liturgical elements, incorporating blessings from Psalms 106 in both Hebrew and translation, a common feature in traditional coplas. It tells the tale of Rahel Lastimosa (sorowful or esteemed, depending on the version), a married woman pursued by a young admirer. Though he offers her love, a letter, and a valuable ring, she remains faithful to her husband, rejecting his advances. The song concludes with praises to God, emphasizing divine mercy and honor. Text: Está Rahel lastimosa, lástima que Dios la dio, siendo mujer de quien era, mujer de un gobernador. Un día salió al paseo con sus damas de valor. se topara ahi un mancebo que la trataba de amor. Le mandara y una carta declarádola el amor, la mando muncho billetes y alhajas de gran valor, la mandara y un anillo que media civdad valio el oro no vale nade la piedra muncho valio mas todo se lo volviera: - que casiada me era yo! Hodu l’Adonai ki tov, ki leolam hasdó, alabado sea su nombre porque siempre bien nos dio Translation: This is the sorrowful Rahel, whose sorrow was given to her by God She was a married woman, married to the governer One day she went out for a walk with her ladies of valor. There she met a young man who treated her with love. He sent her a letter declaring his love, he sent her many bills and jewelry of great value, he sent her a ring that was worth half a city. Gold is worth nothing, the stone was worth a lot, but she gave it all back to him, I am a married woman! Praise be to the Lord, for He is good, His name is blessed because He has always given us good things.
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