A Voice of Faith: Getting to Know Uriya Sharon Cohen

Uriya Sharon Cohen, 23, is an Israeli singer and songwriter who opens a window into her inner world, sharing memories, faith, personal growth, and the journey behind her music.

"I grew up in a musical household where everyone played and sang. As a child, I remember the havdalah ceremonies after Shabbat with fondness. My father would sing havdalah with his guitar, and we would join in harmonies, while I accompanied on the djembe. Afterward, we’d sing a medley of songs to welcome the new week. Those sweet moments are etched in my heart."

Which Jewish figure inspires you most?

"Rabbi Nachman of Breslov. His teachings strengthen me, showing me the essence of Judaism, faith, and Torah, drawing me closer to myself. Also, my grandfather, a Holocaust survivor and a simple, devout man who spends his days reading Psalms, inspires me greatly. Every meeting with him reminds me of life's purpose and the power of pure faith."

What does Judaism mean to you?

"A guiding light that sustains my faith in Hashem and myself, reminding me of my essence and giving meaning to our souls as individuals and as a people."

What mitzvah experience impacted you most?

"Modesty is very important to me, even if not always easy. Growing up in a religious family of musicians, I've always loved singing. As a teen, I performed with city bands, clearly inclined toward a showbiz path. I studied at Beit Zvi, a performing arts school, appearing on stage frequently. Though I was religious, there was a boundary, I would tell Hashem, 'I love You, but music is my exception.' After an internal journey, I decided to perform only for women, feeling a profound sense of fulfilment in consecrating my talent."

Can you share a special Purim experience?

"Three years ago on Purim night, I experienced something unique. I'd learned that on Purim, 'all who stretch out their hand are given.' I approached the holiday with much study but also personal crisis. I prayed fervently, confident Hashem would grant me a new, positive decree. I vividly recall fervent prayers and tears, clapping my hands to sweeten judgments. Remarkably, although not actively seeking a match, I prayed intensely for a soulmate. Two months later, I met my husband, realizing my prayers were answered."

How do you experience Hashem’s presence in your life?

"Hashem is within me, resonates through me, part of my every act. I constantly pray to feel this more, to live and converse with Him daily."

Can you share an interesting encounter that stayed with you?

"The first true meeting with myself was intriguing. Confronting my inner self with honesty, realizing my goodness, and embracing less favorable parts set me on a path of self-dialogue, a practice I cherish frequently."

Is there a personal story that shaped your path?

"My husband and I got engaged during the pandemic. While thrilled to start a home, planning a wedding amid such uncertainty was stressful. I prayed daily for Hashem to grant my dream of an actual wedding hall. Just when I accepted a simpler ceremony, I fell ill with severe COVID, postponing the wedding. Upon recovery, venues reopened, allowing us to marry joyously - a miracle I continuously thank Hashem for."

What's your greatest fear?

"Currently, I grapple with fearing a loss of excitement and renewal in my profession. Each performance is a quest for that freshness, connecting with each audience uniquely. I hope to sustain this vitality, not just in my career, but in every life aspect."

Are you professionally where you imagined?

"Day by day, my musical path becomes clearer, aligning with my dreams. Every performance, each successful single, feels like achieving the dream itself. While there are many goals yet to pursue, I cherish the present, grateful for the journey, while looking toward future aspirations."

What about Judaism excites you most?

"The emergence of sacred songs moves me deeply. Once, I had a melody without words that finally gained poignant lyrics about redemption, holiness, and simplifying life in devotion. Singing it was emotionally overwhelming, feeling my divine soul expressed raw and unencumbered."

What's a song that influenced you?

"Among many beloved songs, recently 'Shelva Ba'Aramonteich' by Ravid Plotnik resonates with me. It speaks of peace, inherent goodness, abundance consciousness, and tools for inner work."

What has been your most significant learning experience?

"My introduction to in-depth learning was through Rabbi Nachman during my first trip to Uman. Before, Torah study meant merely school examinations. In Uman, I discovered a vibrant world of Torah and spirituality, aligning with my soul's language. Rabbi Nachman’s teachings quenched my weary spirit, sparking curiosity. A subsequent year at a seminary profoundly enriched my life. Recently, I began studying Yemima, a wonderful journey."

What sets you apart?

"My uniqueness lies in my original music powered by my soul's connection to Torah and Israel in all its diversity. I embrace diverse musical styles, refusing to compromise on rich, contemporary productions. My aim is to elevate women's music within the wider industry. With Hashem's help, I strive to spread my light far and wide."