In the U.S., people continue to lose their jobs in the ongoing economic recession. But for many ultra-Orthodox Jews in Israel, being unemployed is actually a choice, allowing men the time to dedicate themselves to religious studies.

Traditionally, these men and their families were supported by religious institutions funded by private donors. But the recession has made those funds dry up. And now the community has been forced to shift away from a culture of poverty — with women leading the way.

Daniel Estrin reports from Jerusalem.

Music for this show ...