Esta Rahel Lastimosa 1

Jerusalem National Sound Archives placement: NSA Y 2854/17

Referenced and notated in: Judeo-Spanish Moroccan Songs for the Life Cycle, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 1989 Susana Weich-Shahak

This Romance is used as a wedding song in Tangier despite its theme of adultery. Different versions of the song present contrasting outcomes—some depict the wife's punishment after consummating the affair, while others affirm her fidelity. 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 sorrowful tale of Rahel Lastimosa, 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.

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 encontró con un mancebo   que la trataba de amor.
Le mandara y una carta  declarádola el amor,
la mandara y un anillo   y alhajas de gran valor,
y todo se lo volviera:     - que casada era yo!
Hodu l’Adonai ki tov,   ki leolam hasdó,
Y alabado sea su nombre   porque siempre lo apiadó
Y en los cielos y en la tierra  su merced nunca faltó,
Hodu l’Adonai ki tov  ki  le’olán hasdó

This is the sorrowful Rahel Lastimosa, whose sorrow was given to her by God
She was a woman married to the governer
One day she was walking with women of valor
She met a young man who confessed his love
He gave her a letter that declared his love
He gave her a ring that was of great value
She returned everything to him saying: I am married!
Hebrew: Thank Adonai for all is good, forever we are in his mercy
May his name be praised for he is always merciful
For in the heavens and on the earth his honor has no fault
Hebrew: Thank Adonai for all is good, forever we are in his mercy