Isaiah Chapter 14
Restoration of Israel
Proverb against Babylon
Assyria Threatened
Isaiah Chapter 13
God’s muster of his armies
A threat to destroy Babylon
Babylon’s desolation
Isaiah Chapter 12
Thanksgiving of the faithful for God’s mercies
Isaiah Chapter 11
The Branch of Jesse’s tree
Israel to be restored
Isaiah Chapter 10
Woe to tyrants
Assyria to be broken
A remnant of Israel to be saved
Isaiah Chapter 9
Joy in the affliction through the Prince of Peace
Judgements on Israel
Isaiah Chapter 8
Prophecies as to Syria, Israel and Judah
God’s purposes are irresistible
Affliction to idolaters
Isaiah Chapter 7
Isaiah comforts Ahaz
The sign Immanuel
Isaiah Chapter 6
A vision of Yahweh on his throne
Message to the people
Isaiah Chapter 5
God’s judgements on various sins
Isaiah Chapter 4
Distress of the times
The branch’s kingdom shall be a sanctuary
Isaiah Chapter 3
Calamities that come by sin
Oppression of rulers
Punishment of women for pride
Isaiah Chapter 2
Coming kingdom prophesied
Exhortation to fear
Isaiah Chapter 1
Isaiah complains about Judah because of its rebellion
Grace promised
Shittah/Shittim
Shittah tree (Hebrew: שטה) or the plural “shittim“ was used in the Tanakh to refer to trees belonging to the genera Vachellia and Faidherbia (both formerly classed in Acacia). Faidherbia albida, Vachellia seyal, Vachellia tortilis, and Vachellia gerrardii can be found growing wild in the Sinai Desert and the Jordan River Valley. < p style=”text-align: center;” align=”left”>Read more here
Noachide Laws
From the Encyclopaedia Judaica 12:1187 click here for more info The seven Laws considered by rabbinic tradition as the minimal moral duties by the Bible on all men (Sanh. 50-60; Yad, Melakhim, 8:10, 10:12).Jews are obligated to observe the whole TorahתּוֹרָהTōrā,/ˈtɔːrə, ˈtoʊrə/; law, teaching, direction, instruction – The first five books of the Bible or also called “the books of Moses” comes from an archery term meaning to shoot., while every non-Jew is “a son of the covenant of Noah” and he accepts it’s obligations is a ger toshavגר תושבger: “foreigner” or “alien” + toshav: “resident”,”resident alien” is a halakhic term used in Judaism to designate the legal status of a Gentile (non-Jew) living in the Land of Israel who does not want to convert to Judaism but agrees to observe the Seven Laws of Noah (“resident – stranger” or even “semi- convert”; see Av. Zar 64b Maim. Yad, Melakhim 8:10) Maimonides equates the “righteous man (Hasid) of the (gentile) nations” who has a share in the world to come even without becoming a Jew with the gentile who keeps these laws. Such a man is entitled to full material support from the Jewish community (see ET, 6 (1957), Col 289 s.v. ger toshavגר תושבger: “foreigner” or “alien” + toshav: “resident”,”resident alien” is a halakhic term used in Judaism to designate the legal status of a Gentile (non-Jew) living in the Land of Israel who does not want to convert to Judaism but agrees to observe the Seven Laws of Noah and the highest earthly honors (Sefer Hasidim (1957), 338).The Seven Noachide laws as traditionally enumerated are: the prohibitions of idolatry blasphemy bloodshed sexual sins thief eating from a living animal as well as the injunction to establish a legal system (Tosef., Av. Zar. 8:4 Sanh. 56a).Except for the last, all are negative, and the last itself is usually interpreted as commanding the enforcement of the others (Maim. Yad, Melakhim, 9:1)They are Derived exegetically from divine demands addressed to Adam (Gen. 2:16) and Noah (see Gen. R. 34; Sanh. 59b) i.e. the progenitors of all mankind, and are thus regarded as universal.The Prohibition of idolatry provides that to ensure social stability and personal salvation, the non- Jews do not have to “know God” but must abjure false gods. (Meg. 13a, Kid. 40a; Maim. Yad, Melakhim 10:2ff).This law refers only to actual idolatrous acts, and not to theoretical principles and and unlike Jews, Nochides are not required to suffer martyrdom rather than break this law (Sanh. 74a; TTJ, Shev. 4:2) They are however, required to choose martyrdom rather than shed human blood (Per.25b and Rash.).In view of strict monotheism of Islam, Muslims were considered as Noachides (cf. ET, loc. cit., col 291, n.17), whereas the status of Christians was a matter of debate. Since the late Middle Ages, however, Christianity too has come to be regarded as Noachide, however, Christianity to has come to be regarded as Noachide, on the grounds that shittuf (“associationism” – this was the Jewish interoperation of Trinitarianism is not forbidden to non-Jews (see YD 151).Under the prohibition of blasphemy, murder, and thief Noachide are subject to greater legal restrictions than Jews because non-Jewish society is held to be more prone to these sins (Rashi to Sanh. 57a). The prohibition of thief covers many types of acts.g. military conquest (ibid., 59a) and dishonesty in economic life (ibid., 57a; Yad, Melakhim, 9:9). From the Encyclopaedia Judaica 12:1189 A number of other Noachide prescriptions are listed in the sources ( see Sanh. 57b; Mid. PS 21; Yad Melakhim, 10:6) eg prohibition of sorcery, castration, mixed seeds, blemished sacrifices, injunctions to practice charity, procreate, and to honor the TorahתּוֹרָהTōrā,/ˈtɔːrə, ˈtoʊrə/; law, teaching, direction, instruction – The first five books of the Bible or also called “the books of Moses” comes from an archery term meaning to shoot. (Hul. 92a). These are best understood as the subheadings of “the seven laws”. Noachides may also freely choose to practice certain other Jewish commandments (Yad, Melakhim, 10:9-10). Jews are obligated to try to establish the Noachide code wherever they can (ibid., 8:10). Maimonides held that Noachides must not only accept “the seven laws” on their own merit, but they must accept them as divinely revealed. This follows from the thesis that all ethics are not ultimately “natural”, but require a theological framework (see Schwarzschild, in JQR, 52 (1962), 302; Fauer, in: Tarbiz 38 (1968), 43-53). The Noachide covenant plays an important part in both Jewish history and Historiography. From the Encyclopaedia Judaica 12:1190 Modern Jewish thinkers like Moses Mendelssohn and Hermawn Cohen emphasized the Noachide Conception as the common rational, ethical ground of Israel and mankind (see H. Cohen, Religion der Vernunft (1929) 135-48, 381-8), and see Noahas the symbol of the unity and perpetuity of mankind (ibid.,293). Views differ as to whether the ultimate stage of humanity will comprise both of Judaism and Noachidism, or whether Noachidism is only the level before the universalization of all the TorahתּוֹרָהTōrā,/ˈtɔːrə, ˈtoʊrə/; law, teaching, direction, instruction – The first five books of the Bible or also called “the books of Moses” comes from an archery term meaning to shoot. (see TJ, Ar. Zar. 2:1). Aime Palliere, at the suggestion of his teacher Rabbi E. Benamozegh, adopted the Noachide Laws and never formally converted to Judaism.
Cubit
noun an ancient measure of length, approximately equal to the length of a forearm. It was typically about 18 inches or 44 cm, though there was a long cubit of about 21 inches or 52 cm. ORIGIN Middle English : from Latin cubitum ‘elbow, forearm, cubit.’
Womens “Place”
Jewish Alternative in Love, Dating and Marriage by Pinchas StolperPage 77-78 98% of the first book of Genesis, is devoted to narratives describing the creation of the world, the beginnings of mankind, and mankind, and Abrahamאַבְרָהָם/ˈeɪbrəhæm, -həm/; , Modern: ʾAvraham, As recounted in the Torah, his name was originally Avram which means “High Father” – “av” (אב) “father”, “ram” (רם) “high” – with the “ha” (ה) added in mark of his covenant with God. For more info click here, Isaacיִצְחָק(Yīṣḥāq) meaning “he will laugh”, reflecting the laughter, in disbelief, of Abraham and Sarah, when told by God that they would have a child.. Jacobיַעֲקֹב(/ˈdʒeɪkəb/; Modern: Yaʿaqōv (help·info), Tiberian: Yaʿăqōḇ; Arabic: يَعْقُوب, romanized: Yaʿqūb; Greek: Ἰακώβ, romanized: Iakṓb) the name Yaʿaqōv יעקב is derived from ʿaqev עָקֵב “heel”, as Jacob was born grasping the heel of his twin brother Esau. (later called Israel) for more info click here and the Tribes of IsraelיִשְׂרָאֵלTransliteration: yiśrā’ēl The name Israel (Septuagint Ancient Greek: Ἰσραήλ, Israēl, “El (God) persists/rules” or “God prevails”) refers to the patriarch Jacob who, according to the Hebrew Bible, was given the name after he successfully wrestled with the Angel of the Lord. The earliest known archaeological artifact to mention the word Israel as a collective is the Merneptah Stele of ancient Egypt (dated to the late-13th century BCE) for more info click here. The reason Genesis dwells on biography, personalities, events and not laws is to instruct us to pattern our own lives on their struggles, their challenges and solutions which they employed.Of course, were the Bible to have recorded the full biographies of Abrahamאַבְרָהָם/ˈeɪbrəhæm, -həm/; , Modern: ʾAvraham, As recounted in the Torah, his name was originally Avram which means “High Father” – “av” (אב) “father”, “ram” (רם) “high” – with the “ha” (ה) added in mark of his covenant with God. For more info click here, Isaacיִצְחָק(Yīṣḥāq) meaning “he will laugh”, reflecting the laughter, in disbelief, of Abraham and Sarah, when told by God that they would have a child., Jacobיַעֲקֹב(/ˈdʒeɪkəb/; Modern: Yaʿaqōv (help·info), Tiberian: Yaʿăqōḇ; Arabic: يَعْقُوب, romanized: Yaʿqūb; Greek: Ἰακώβ, romanized: Iakṓb) the name Yaʿaqōv יעקב is derived from ʿaqev עָקֵב “heel”, as Jacob was born grasping the heel of his twin brother Esau. (later called Israel) for more info click here and their children, many volumes would have been required. Instead, the Bible selects very few incidents, because these specific events represent the special life situations which the Bible expects us to emulate. Let’s study a few examples relating to the “place” of women: When the Jewish people are enslaved and oppressed in EgyptמִצְרַיִםTransliteration:miṣrayim – Pronunciation: mits-rah’-yim adjective, proper locative noun – Egypt = “land of the Copts (a member of a people descended from the ancient Egyptians)” . For more info click here. The Talmud tells us that Amram, father of MosesמשהMeaning of the name: Linguist Abraham Yahuda, based on the spelling given in the Tanakh, argues that it combines “water” or “seed” and “pond, expanse of water,” thus yielding the sense of “child of the Nile” For more info click here, was the leader of that generation. When the Egyptians said that all male children be drowned, Amram decided that he could no longer bring children into the world. So, he separated from his wife and all the Jewish men followed his lead. At that point his daughter, MiriamמִרְיָםMīryām, lit. ‘Rebellion’) is described in the Hebrew Bible as the daughter of Amram and Jochebed and the older sister of Moses and Aaron. for more info click here, demanded “Father your decree is more cruel than Pharaoh’s. Pharaoh’s decree applies to male children alone, But yours applies to all children equally. Pharaoh’s decree may or may not persist but because you are a righteousצַדִּיקTransliteration ṣadîq Pronunciation tsad-deek’ To do what is right Tzadik is also the root of the word tzedakah (‘charity’, literally ‘righteousness’). justice, rightness, righteousness – For more info click here man your decree will persist,” Miriam’sמִרְיָםMīryām, lit. ‘Rebellion’) is described in the Hebrew Bible as the daughter of Amram and Jochebed and the older sister of Moses and Aaron. for more info click here insight convinced her father, he takes back his wife, and so do the others. As a result MosesמשהMeaning of the name: Linguist Abraham Yahuda, based on the spelling given in the Tanakh, argues that it combines “water” or “seed” and “pond, expanse of water,” thus yielding the sense of “child of the Nile” For more info click here is born and so begins the chain of events which result in the liberation and birn of the Jewish people. In the desert, the Jews worship a golden calf. The Talmud relates that only men were involved in this crime while the women refused to participate. When AaronאַהֲרוֹןAaron is an English masculine given name. The ‘h’ phoneme in the original Hebrew pronunciation “Aharon” (אהרן) is dropped in the Greek, Ἀαρών, from which the English form, Aaron, is derived. The brother of Moses, is described in the Torah, the Quran and the Baha’i Iqan. The origin of the biblical name is uncertain; however, an Ancient Egyptian origin may indicate “aha rw” meaning “warrior lion”, For more info click here the High Priest solicited gold to construct the golden calf, the TorahתּוֹרָהTōrā,/ˈtɔːrə, ˈtoʊrə/; “Instruction”, “Teaching” or “Law”) The first five books of the Bible or also called “the books of Moses” comes from an archery term meaning to shoot. informs us that the wives refused to part with their jewelry. The women, however, didn’t simply refused to surrender their jewelry because the love of jewelry – because later on when the time came to build the HolyקָדְשׁוֹTransliteration qōḏeš Pronunciation ko’-desh a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity:—consecrated (thing), dedicated (thing), hallowed (thing), holiness, (× most) holy (× day, portion, thing), saint, sanctuary. For more info click here TabernacleמִשְׁכָּןTransliteration: miškān dwelling place, tent, shelter, tabernacle, booth For more info click here, we are told that the women were very generous in their contributions of gold. Later on, while the Jewish
Mikveh
A collection of water A pool or bath of clear water, immersion in which renders ritually clean a person who become ritually unclean through contact with the dead (Num. 19) or any other defiling object or through an unclean flux from the body (Lev. 15) and especially a menstruant. It is similarly used for vessels (Num 31: 22- 23). At the present day the chief use of the mikveh is for the menstruant. since the laws of ritual impurity no longer apply after the destruction of the Temple. However, since according to the halakhah the contracting of marital relations while the wife is in the state of niddah“Menstrous Woman” — According to Jewish law, a woman is forbidden to maintain sexual relations with her husband during and for sometimes both before and after her menses. is a particularly severe offense, punishable by karet, and according to one opinion in the Talmud (not however accepted as halakhah), that a child born of such a union is a mamzer, the rabbis insisted meticulous adherence to the laws of immersion in a mikveh before his mother could resume marital relations. They are also obligatory for the immersion of proselytes, as part of the ceremony of conversion. In addition immersion in the mikveh is still practiced by various groups as an aid to spiritually, particularly on the eve of the Sabbath and festivals, especially the Day of Atonement (see Ablution) and the customs still obtains, in accordance with Numbers 31:22 – 23 to immerse new vessels and utensils purchased from non-Jews. MikvehTeachings of Maimonides It is emphasized that the purpose of immersion is not physical, but spiritual, cleanliness. Maimonides concludes his codification of the laws of the mikveh with the following statement: It is plain that the laws about immersion as means of freeing oneself from uncleanness are decrees laid down by Scripture and not matters about which human understanding is capable of forming a judgment; for behold, they are included among the divine statues. Now ‘uncleanness is not mud or filth which water can remove, but is a matter of scriptural decree and dependent on the intention of the heart. So the Sages have said ‘If a man immerses himself without special intention, it is though he has never immersed himself at all’. However we may find some indication [for moral basis] of this: Just as one sets his heart on becoming clean as soon as he has immersed himself, although nothing new has befallen his body, so, too, one who sets his heart on cleansing himself from uncleanness that beset men’s souls – namely, wrongful thoughts and false convictions – becomes clean as soon as he consents in his heart to shun those counsels and brings his soul into the waters of pure reason. Behold, Scriptures say ‘And I will sprinkle clean water upon you and you shall be clean; from all your uncleanness and from your idols I will cleanse you [Ezek, 36:25] (Yad, mikva’ot 11:12). MikvehRabbinical Teachings Stress on intention is passed from Judaism into Islam. “Purity is the half of faith” is the saying attributed to Muhammad himself and the general laws of uncleanness in Islam bear a striking resemblance to those of Judaism. (Encyclopedia of Islam, s.v.Takara) According to biblical law any collection of water, drawn or otherwise, is suitable for a mikveh as long as it contains enough for a person to immerse himself (Yad, ibid. 4:1).The rabbis, however, enacted that only water which had not been drawn, i.e., has not been in a vessel or receptacle, may be used; and they further established that the minimum quantity for immersion is that which is contained in a square cubit noun — an ancient measure of length, approximately equal to the length of a forearm. It was typically about 18 inches or 44 cm, though there was a long cubit of about 21 inches or 52 cm. — ORIGIN Middle English : from Latin cubitum ‘elbow, forearm, cubit’. For more info click here to the height of three cubits noun — an ancient measure of length, approximately equal to the length of a forearm. It was typically about 18 inches or 44 cm, though there was a long cubit of about 21 inches or 52 cm. — ORIGIN Middle English : from Latin cubitum ‘elbow, forearm, cubit’. For more info click here. A mikveh containing less than this amount (which they estimated to be a volume of 40 seah, between 250 1,000 liters according to various calculations) becomes invalid should three log of water fall into it or be added. However, if the mikveh contains more than this amount it can never become invalid no matter how much drawn water is added to it. < p style=”text-align: center;”>For more info on weights and measures click here
Talmud
The Talmud is a work in which is deposited the bulk of the literacy labors of numerous Jewish scholars over a period of some 700 years, roughly speaking between 200 B.C.E. and 500 C.E The Talmud is extant in two recessions, Palestinian and Babylonian. The word “Talmud” means primarily “study” or “Learning” and is employed in various senses. One refers to the opinions and teachings which disciples acquire from their predecessors in order to expound and explain them (Seder Tonna’im ve-Amora’im cf. Rashi to Suk. 28b ; BM 32 a-b, et al.)It Bears meaning for instance in the statement “Be heedful in Talmud for unwitting error in Talmud is accounted a willful transgression” (Avot 4:13)Another sense comprises the whole body of one’s learning ; e.g., “He From whom one has acquired the greater part of his Talmud is to be regarded as one’s teacher” (BM 33a). A third meaning is in the technical phrase Talmud lomar, which is used to indicate a teaching derived from the exegesis To explain, interpret, fr. ex-the geisthai to lead – more at SEEK an explanation or critical inter operation of a text. of a biblical text. The word “Talmud” is most commonly used, however, to denote the body of teaching which comprises the commentary and discussions of the Amoraim designation of the scholars who were active from the period of the completion of the Minshnah (c. 200 C.E.) until the completion of the Babylonian and Jerusalem Talmud’s (end of the 4th and end of 5th centuries respectively) on the MishnahמִשְׁנָהT/ˈmɪʃnə/ “study by repetition”, from the verb shanah שנה, or “to study and review”, also “secondary”) is the first written collection of the Jewish oral traditions that are known as the Oral Torah. It is also the first work of rabbinic literature, with the oldest surviving material dating to the 6th to 7th centuries BCE.For more info click here of R. Judah ha-Nasi Hebrew – the President What is known as the Palestinian Talmud was composed shortly after 400C.E., whereas the Babylonian Talmud, always reffered to as the Talmud was put into shape about 500C.E.From the point of view of literay form and structure, the Talmud may be described as a commentary upon the MishnahמִשְׁנָהT/ˈmɪʃnə/ “study by repetition”, from the verb shanah שנה, or “to study and review”, also “secondary”) is the first written collection of the Jewish oral traditions that are known as the Oral Torah. It is also the first work of rabbinic literature, with the oldest surviving material dating to the 6th to 7th centuries BCE.For more info click here of R. Judah The Patriarch, composed about 220 C.E. The MishnahמִשְׁנָהT/ˈmɪʃnə/ “study by repetition”, from the verb shanah שנה, or “to study and review”, also “secondary”) is the first written collection of the Jewish oral traditions that are known as the Oral Torah. It is also the first work of rabbinic literature, with the oldest surviving material dating to the 6th to 7th centuries BCE.For more info click here, became established very soon after it’s compilation as a book of authority in Palestine and Babylonia. In the celerated academies of these two countries, it became the official text book for instruction and was was debated, commented upon, and interpreted for three centuries. Since the prime purpose of the redactors editor (text) for publication.•a censor or to obscure (part of a text) for legal or security purposes. of the Talmud was to preserve the ancient discussions of the MishnahמִשְׁנָהT/ˈmɪʃnə/ “study by repetition”, from the verb shanah שנה, or “to study and review”, also “secondary”) is the first written collection of the Jewish oral traditions that are known as the Oral Torah. It is also the first work of rabbinic literature, with the oldest surviving material dating to the 6th to 7th centuries BCE.For more info click here, the body of the Talmud assumed the form of dialogue of the Amoraim designation of the scholars who were active from the period of the completion of the Minshnah (c. 200 C.E.) until the completion of the Babylonian and Jerusalem Talmud’s (end of the 4th and end of 5th centuries respectively), the official expositors of the law who flourished between 200-500 C.E. The Numerous discussions between the Jewish and Roman sages recorded in the Talmud, are evidence of a great deal of intellectual relations between learned Jews and pagans, which must have had a stimulating effect on their thinking in many great ways. The Talmud, for Jews, is not merely a great literary production, which it is. It is not merely a great fund of Jewish religious experience and wisdom accumulated throughout the course of the ages. The Talmud ranks next to the Sacred Scriptures in significance, as a source for religious insight, inspiration and practice, and will instruct the last generations of mankind.Great stress has often been laid upon the rabbis as school men and scholastic, as adepts in casuistry A method or doctrine dealing with cases of conscience and the resolution of questions of right or wrong in conduct. and dialectic a: discussion and reasoning by dialogue as a method of intellectual investigation. — b: the Platonic investigation of eternal ideals., which they certainly were. However, little note has been taken of them as sages moralists, exerting all their precious energy and intelligence to preserve the notions of justice and spiritually first propagated by MosesמֹשֶׁהMeaning of the name: Linguist Abraham Yahuda, based on the spelling given in the Tanakh, argues that it combines “water” or “seed” and “pond, expanse of water,” thus yielding the sense of “child of the Nile” For more info click here, and subsequently preached by Isaiah, Amos, Micah, Jeremiah, and other HebrewעבריThe biblical term Ivri Hebrew pronunciation: [ʕivˈri]), meaning “to traverse” or “to pass over”, is usually rendered as Hebrew in English from ever (עֵבֶר) ‘beyond, across’ (avar (עָבַר ‘he crossed, he traversed’), as a description of migrants ‘from across the river’ as the Bible describes the Hebrews. Prophets.
Halakhah
The Study of halakhah in the rabbinic period and beyond it became the supreme religious duty. Because of it’s difficult subject matter and it’s importance for practical Judaism this study took precedence over that of any other aspect of Jewish teaching. Typical is the rabbinic saying that after the destruction of the temple, God has nothing else in His world than the four cubits noun — an ancient measure of length, approximately equal to the length of a forearm. It was typically about 18 inches or 44 cm, though there was a long cubit of about 21 inches or 52 cm. — ORIGIN Middle English : from Latin cubitum ‘elbow, forearm, cubit’. of the halakhic study over aggadic was expressed in the parable of the two merchants, one selling precious stones, the other small ware. Only the connoisseur comes to buy from the former (Sot. 40A). The general assumption in the classical Jewish sources is that the halakhah in it’s entirety goes back to Moses, except for various later elaborations, extensions, applications, and innovations in accordance with new circumstances. This Maimonide (yad, intro) counts 40 generations backward from R. AShi, the traditional editor of the Babylonian Talmud, to Moses and he concludes: “In and the Tosefta, the Sifra and the Sifrei, in all these are explained the forbidden, the clean and the unclean, the liabilities and lack of liability, the unfit and fit, as handed down from person to person from the mouth of Moses our teacher at Sinai.” But the verdict of modern scholarship is that the halakhah has had a history and that it is possible to trace the stages in it’s development with a considerable degree of success. The word “halakhah” (from the root halakh “to go”), the legal side of Judaism (as distinct from aggadah, the name given to the non-legal material, particularly of the rabbinic literature) embraces personal, social, national, and observances of Judaism. In the Bible the good life is frequently spoken of as a way in which men are “to go” e.g. “and will show them the way wherein they are to go and the work they must do.” (Ex 18:20). Originally the term halakhah (pl. halakhot) had the meaning of law or decision in a given instance, as in the frequent expression “this is a law given to Moses on Sinai” (Halakhah le-Moshe mi-Sinai). This usage persisted, but side by side with it there developed the use of halakhah as a generic term for the whole legal system of Judaism, embracing all the detailed laws and observances. For instance, the Talmud (Shab. 138b) comments on “the word of the Lord” (Amos 8:12) that this means halakhah.
Circumcision
From When A Jew Celebrates Pages 20 -22 On the eighth day after birth, Jewish boys are circumcised. According to the Torah, this ceremony began with Abraham. Jews made circumcision a special mitzvah, a commandment. Just as Jews took ancient harvest festivals and gave them special religious meaning, so they changed the ancient custom of circumcision and made it a special mark of the Jewish male. Nor have the Jews ever doubted the importance of circumcision. The ceremony of circumcision is called Berit Milah, from berit meaning “covenant”, and milah “circumcision”. According to tradition it must take place on the eight day after birth. It can be delayed only if the baby is to weak. In fact, the date is considered so important that it take place even if the eight day falls on Shabbath or Yom Kippur. The circumcision my take place in the hospital, in the synagogue, or at home. Nevertheless, some Jews have it done on any day before the baby leaves the hospital. Circumcision is a minor operation. It is done by a man called – a Mohel – who has been trained in this procedure. It is some times done by a Jewish surgeon, a rabbi present. A traditional Berit Milah involves the whole family, but four people are most important -in addition to the baby. Three of the four are physically present at the ceremony- the godmother the godfather, and the Mohel. The fourth, the prophet Elijah, is there in spirit. At a traditional Berit Milah there is even an empty chair left for Elijah. More on teachings Jewish children Historic Rituals for Welcoming Jewish Daughters
God’s Name In Vain
Paska 22 The phrase “taking God’s Name in vain” or it’s equivalent “false swearing” is interpreted successively as follows: Study Torahתּוֹרָה Tōrā,/ˈtɔːrə, ˈtoʊrə/; “Instruction”, “Teaching” or “Law”) The first five books of the Bible or also called “the books of Moses” comes from an archery term meaning to shoot. and not imparting it’s teachings to others; or imparting it’s esoteric teachings to people who will misunderstand them. Taking power of office without being worthy of office The wearing of tefillin through the day by people who disregard the name of G-d upon the tefillin and are hypocritical and dishonest. The taking of an oath, even when affirming something that is true, is taking G-d’s name in vain A false oath, even when not intended, has grave consequence. Death may ensue. Angels of destruction lodge in the house of him who swears falsely. Even the stones of such a house will be consumed by fire. Swearing falsely by G-d’s name, though not overtacts, are punishable by flogging. The discussion concludes with the statement that Israel swear in G-d’s name even when they lie and do not mean to abide by their pledges. Tithe consequence of their not showing adequate reverence for the name of G-d is that their prayers are not answered. Also see… In God’s Image: B’tselem Elohim God 101 Did God Write the Torah — and Does it Matter? Why Do Some Jews Write G-d? Order is a Top Priority of the Creator of the Skies and the Earth! Protecting Our Minds from Predator Algorithms and Polluted Information
The Miracle Of Birth
From When A Jew Celebrates The Talmud teaches: Many coins are stamped from the same mold, and every coin is exactly the same. But Elohimאֱלֹהִיםromanized: ʾĔlōhīm: [(ʔ)eloˈ(h)im]), the plural of אֱלוֹהַּ (ʾĔlōah), is a Hebrew word meaning “gods”. Although the word is plural, in the Hebrew Bible it most often takes singular verbal or pronominal agreement and refers to a single deity particularly the God of Israel In other verses it refers to the singular gods of other nations or to deities in the plural A name for GOD — God The Creator. For more info click here has stamped many people from the same mold ( the mold of Eveחַוָּה(/ˈiːv/; Modern: Ḥava “living one” or “source of life” as it is phonetically similar to “ḥāyâ”, “to live”, from the Semitic root ḥyw. For more info click here And AdamאָדָםTransliteration: ‘āḏām Pronunciation: aw-dam’ man, human beingman, mankind (much more frequently intended sense in OT) Adam, first man city in Jordan valley For more info click here), yet not one person is like another. Therefore, one must say, “for my sake was the world created’. The arrival of a new life is an awe-inspiring miracle that is worth celebrating, especially when it comes to children. While animals can also give birth, only human beings have an unparalleled ability to work hand-in-hand with a higher power to create new life. For Jewish families, this divine partnership is not just an individual choice, but a sacred obligation to maintain their faith and customs. The birth of a Jewish child is an exceptional moment, not only for the immediate family but for the whole community that shares in its joy. It marks the genesis of a new covenant between the Congregation of IsraelיִשְׂרָאֵלTransliteration: yiśrā’ēl The name Israel (Septuagint Ancient Greek: Ἰσραήλ, Israēl, “El (God) persists/rules” or “God prevails”) refers to the patriarch Jacob who, according to the Hebrew Bible, was given the name after he successfully wrestled with the Angel of the Lord. The earliest known archaeological artifact to mention the word Israel as a collective is the Merneptah Stele of ancient Egypt (dated to the late-13th century BCE) for more info click here and Elohimאֱלֹהִיםromanized: ʾĔlōhīm: [(ʔ)eloˈ(h)im]), the plural of אֱלוֹהַּ (ʾĔlōah), is a Hebrew word meaning “gods”. Although the word is plural, in the Hebrew Bible it most often takes singular verbal or pronominal agreement and refers to a single deity particularly the God of Israel In other verses it refers to the singular gods of other nations or to deities in the plural A name for GOD — God The Creator. For more info click here, where this innocent being is entrusted to the community to cherish and support. The various rites and rituals surrounding this occasion, such as the naming of a girl or the circumcision of a boy, are celebrations of the miracle that is life. They are beautiful testaments to the unwavering bond between Elohimאֱלֹהִיםromanized: ʾĔlōhīm: [(ʔ)eloˈ(h)im]), the plural of אֱלוֹהַּ (ʾĔlōah), is a Hebrew word meaning “gods”. Although the word is plural, in the Hebrew Bible it most often takes singular verbal or pronominal agreement and refers to a single deity particularly the God of Israel In other verses it refers to the singular gods of other nations or to deities in the plural A name for GOD — God The Creator. For more info click here and the Jewish people, a pledge to care and nurture each other under the divine guidance of TorahתּוֹרָהTōrā,/ˈtɔːrə, ˈtoʊrə/; law, teaching, direction, instruction – The first five books of the Bible or also called “the books of Moses” comes from an archery term meaning to shoot.. In essence, the arrival of a child is a reminder of the limitless power of love, hope, and togetherness. It is a symbol of infinite possibilities and highlights the compact between humanity and the divine. All children are precious, but Jewish children embody something particularly sacred and serve as inspirations to hold on to the fragile beauty that is life. More on teachings Jewish children Historic Rituals for Welcoming Jewish Daughters
Kohen
A descendant of the ancient priestly families
Water of Purifying
Water mixed with the ashes of the red hefer See also Purity in Second Temple Times, and Ablution
Torah
The Law (/ˈtɔːrə, ˈtoʊrə/; Biblical Hebrew: תּוֹרָה Tōrā, “Instruction”, “Teaching” or “Law”) The first five books of the Bible or also called “the books of Moses” comes from an archery term meaning to shoot
Marriage (Hasdic View)
The Hasdic Anthology page 24 Rabbi Isaiah Kalman Halberstadt said: “We read in the Talmud (Taanith 30b): Said Rabban Simeon ben Gamaliel: ‘There were no holidays in Israel Like Yom Kippur and the Fifteenth of Ab.’ On the latter day (Midsummer Day) the maidens were privileged to ask young men in marriage. They would arrange an open air dance in the vineyards; all were dressed in pure white garments, and when youths would approach, the maidens would divide into three groups. The handsome girls would say: ‘Observe beauty for it is fitting a wife should be of comely appearance’. Those of noble family would say: ‘Observe or high-born, lineage for this forebodies good children’. Those of unpreposseing countenance would say: ‘Take to yourselves wives for the sake of the will of God, and adorn us with gold’. “The phrases of the handsome maidens and the last words spoken by the unhandsome may seem frivolous. But they will not appear thus on closer scrutiny and explanation. “When a man wishes to donate a Scroll of the Torah תּוֹרָה Tōrā,/ˈtɔːrə, ˈtoʊrə/; law, teaching, direction, instruction – The first five books of the Bible or also called “the books of Moses” comes from an archery term meaning to shoot., he usually, desires to do so in a generous fashion. He may either spend additional money to obtain excellent parchment and fine script. This may be accounted ‘beauty of the body’. Or he may seek for a scroll written by a man of rare piety and holiness. This may be accounted associations. Or he may strive to obtain a beautiful coverlet, or a fine pair of holder, or decorative adornments for the Scroll. This may be accounted as ‘beauty of exterior’. In each instance the man endeavors to perform the MitzvahמִּצְוָהTransliteration: miṣvâ Pronunciation:mits-vaw’ feminine noun Meaning: a command, whether human or divine (collectively, the Law):—(which was) commanded(-ment), law, ordinance, precept. For more info click here in a beautiful manner.” “So it is with the maidens. The first group says: ‘When you seek to perform the MitzvahמִּצְוָהTransliteration: miṣvâ Pronunciation:mits-vaw’ feminine noun Meaning: a command, whether human or divine (collectively, the Law):—(which was) commanded(-ment), law, ordinance, precept. For more info click here of taking a wife to yourself in a fitting manner, consider ‘beauty of the body’.The second group says: ‘Consider the beauty of noble decent’.The third group says: ‘We have neither beauty of the body or noble decent. But if you wish to marry solely for the sake of the Mitzvah and not for the ulterior motives, then demonstrate this by marring us. As for the beauty you may wish to add to the MitzvahמִּצְוָהTransliteration: miṣvâ Pronunciation:mits-vaw’ feminine noun Meaning: a command, whether human or divine (collectively, the Law):—(which was) commanded(-ment), law, ordinance, precept. For more info click here, it will be sufficient to adorn us with costly garments and jewels.” Tif. Haz., pp 66-67
The Wedding

A wedding celebration is considered a sacred time in Jewish culture, enriched with deep tradition and meaning. During the TorahתּוֹרָהTōrā,/ˈtɔːrə, ˈtoʊrə/; law, teaching, direction, instruction – The first five books of the Bible or also called “the books of Moses” comes from an archery term meaning to shoot. reading, the groom is respectfully called up to the bimahבִּימָהA bimah is an elevated platform used as an orator’s podium. The term can refer to the raised area in a sanctuary. In Jewish synagogues, where it is used for Torah reading during services, the term used is bima or bena – For more info click here, surrounded by the wholehearted love and support of his community. This time-honored ceremony links us to our history and showcases our bright future brimming with joy and devotion. The bride is stunning in her white gown, symbolizing purity and optimism. Her veil is a representation of Rebekahרִבְקָה(/rɪˈbɛkə/) Meaning: Tied Up, Secured Also spelled Rebecca; Modern: Rīvqa, Tiberian: Rīḇqā, Greek: Ῥεβέκκα click here and the union we share as Jewish people. The sight of loved ones dressed in elegant attire conveys togetherness and a sense of pride in our collective heritage. We reflect on the magnificence and heritage of a traditional Jewish marriage and celebrate the devotion and amiability of the newlywed couple. We pray that their union is blessed with good health, joy, and tranquility, and they enjoy a fulfilling journey together.
Purity in Second Temple Times
This array of vessels from JerusalemיְרוּשָׁלַםTransliteration: yᵊrûšālam – Pronunciation: yer-oo-shaw-lah’-im – proper locative noun meaning “teaching of peace” or possession of peace – also called the city of David and Zion – the chief city of Palestine and capital of the united kingdom and the nation of Judah after the split For more info click here provides evidence of the stone-craving industry that flourished in the city at the end of the Second Temple Period (form the first century B.C.E. until the Roman destruction of JerusalemיְרוּשָׁלַםTransliteration: yᵊrûšālam – Pronunciation: yer-oo-shaw-lah’-im – proper locative noun meaning “teaching of peace” or possession of peace – also called the city of David and Zion – the chief city of Palestine and capital of the united kingdom and the nation of Judah after the split For more info click here in 70 C.E.). Highly skilled artisans carved this collection, which includes small household mugs (foreground), a wine jar (left of center) and large water storage jars, all from the white chalk (a soft limestone) abundant in quarries surrounding the city.According to Jewish law, Stone vessels, unlike pottery, are not susceptible to becoming ritually impure. The Unprecedented increase in the production of these vessels in the first century C.E. indicates that purity laws were more strictly observed at this time than ever before. The Largest vessels shown here, measuring 2 to 3 feet tall, may be of a ritual type described in the gospel account of the marriage at Cana. John 2:6In the decades before the Roman destruction of JerusalemיְרוּשָׁלַםTransliteration: yᵊrûšālam – Pronunciation: yer-oo-shaw-lah’-im – proper locative noun meaning “teaching of peace” or possession of peace – also called the city of David and Zion – the chief city of Palestine and capital of the united kingdom and the nation of Judah after the split For more info click here and it’s Temple in 70 C.E., Jews gave a new and heightened emphasis to ritual purity. In fact, purity laws may have been interpreted more strictly at this time than at any point before-or since. A very early rabbinic text says simply, “Purity broke out among IsraelיִשְׂרָאֵלTransliteration:yiśrā’ēl The name Israel (Septuagint Ancient Greek: Ἰσραήλ, Israēl, “El (God) persists/rules” or “God prevails”) refers to the patriarch Jacob who, according to the Hebrew Bible, was given the name after he successfully wrestled with the Angel of the Lord. The earliest known archaeological artifact to mention the word Israel as a collective is the Merneptah Stele of ancient Egypt (dated to the late-13th century BCE) for more info click here ” As early as this text is, however, it postdates the destruction of the Temple by about a hundred years. so it is fair to ask, How reliable is it?Until Recently this question plagued historians of the era, called the late Second Temple period, which extended from the first century B.C.E. until the Roman destruction in 70 C.E.: To what extent could they rely on rabbinic texts dating hundreds of years after the events they described? Not at all, some prominent scholars instituted.But the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls has changed this understanding. The Scrolls make it clear that in in the period before the destruction of the Temple, ritual purity was so controversial and so important – at least in theory- that it created major divisions among the Jews of the time. On of the most famous Dead Sea Scrolls is MMTMMT stands for Miqsat Ma’ase Ha-Torah, which is often translated as “Some Torah Precepts”. for further details, see Yitzhak Magen, “the Stone Vessel Industry During the Second Temple Period,” in ” Purity broke Out In Israel’ (Tractate Shabbat, 13 b)-Stone Vessels in the Late Second Temple Period which list a series of religious laws called halakhot; singular, halakhah over which the Dead Sea Scroll sect (perhaps the Essenes The Essenes were a Jewish sect that emerged in Judea during the Hasmonean period around the mid-second century BCE and persisted until the Roman destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE, distinguished by their ascetic lifestyle, communal sharing of property, rejection of slavery, and rigorous commitment to ritual purity and moral discipline. Josephus portrays the Essenes as one of Judaism’s three principal philosophical schools alongside the Pharisees and Sadducees; he and Philo of Alexandria estimate their number at approximately four thousand For more info click here) disagreed with other Jews (probably the PhariseesפְּרוּשִׁיםPerushim; Greek: Φαρισαῖοι, Pharisaioi) were a prominent Jewish sect and philosophical school during the Second Temple period, active from roughly the mid-second century BCE until the destruction of the Temple in 70 CE, characterized by their rigorous interpretation of the Mosaic Law through an oral tradition believed to have been transmitted alongside the written Torah, and their advocacy for doctrines including the resurrection of the dead, angelic intervention, and a balance between divine providence and human free will. – From Gronkipedia) whose allegiance was to the Temple priesthood. For each law MMTMMT stands for Miqsat Ma’ase Ha-Torah, which is often translated as “Some Torah Precepts”. for further details, see Yitzhak Magen, “the Stone Vessel Industry During the Second Temple Period,” in ” Purity broke Out In Israel’ (Tractate Shabbat, 13 b)-Stone Vessels in the Late Second Temple Period presents the views of the scroll community and then the opposition’s stance, in this format: We, the Dead Sea Scroll sect, believe this; and our opposition believes that. In this way, MMTMMT stands for Miqsat Ma’ase Ha-Torah, which is often translated as “Some Torah Precepts”. for further details, see Yitzhak Magen, “the Stone Vessel Industry During the Second Temple Period,” in ” Purity broke Out In Israel’ (Tractate Shabbat, 13 b)-Stone Vessels in the Late Second Temple Period preserves the HalakhahהֲלָכָהTransliteration: halāḵāh lit. “the way” or “path” is the comprehensive system of Jewish religious law that governs observance, ethics, rituals, and interpersonal conduct for adherents of traditional Judaism. Derived from the 613 commandments (mitzvot) enumerated in the Written Torah—primarily the Five Books of Moses—and expanded through the Oral Torah’s interpretive traditions, it forms the normative
First Born
From When a Jew Celebrates Redeeming the firstborn is another traditional ceremony marked for some babies – firstborn sons. (This refers only to the firstborn of the mother; the father might have other sons if he was previously married.) This ceremony goes back to the TorahתּוֹרָהTōrā,/ˈtɔːrə, ˈtoʊrə/; law, teaching, direction, instruction – The first five books of the Bible or also called “the books of Moses” comes from an archery term meaning to shoot. It is called Pidyon ha-Ben (Hebrew: פדיון הבן) or redemption of the first-born son is a mitzvah in Judaism whereby a Jewish firstborn son is “redeemed” by use of silver coins. Interpretations differ in what the firstborn son is to be redeemed from, ranging from being redeemed from their firstborn status, which was stigmatized after the Ten Plagues, or their obligation to serve as a priest., redemption of the firstborn. Since all creatures and things come from God, the Bible says that all firstborn things and creatures should be shared with God in thanks. So the first fruits, the first grains, and the first of the flock were brought to the Temple and given to God. It was supposed to be the same with the firstborn sons. They too were to be brought to the Temple to serve God. However, it became the custom for the father to redeem his son from the Temple service by a gift of money. The gift was five shekels. This ancient custom is continued today by many families. On the thirteenth day after the birth of the mother’s son, a Kohen A descendant of the ancient priestly families is invited to the house – along with all the relatives, of course, for the party that follows.The parents give the Kohen A descendant of the ancient priestly families the equivalent of five shekels, usually five dollars, and the child is redeemed from special service to God. The Kohen A descendant of the ancient priestly families usually gives the money to charity. More on teachings Jewish children Historic Rituals for Welcoming Jewish Daughters
Yahweh or Jehovah
YAHWEH or Jehovah One of God’s names Jehovah (/dʒɪˈhoʊvə/) is a Latinization of the Hebrew יְהֹוָה Yəhōwā, one vocalization of the Tetragrammaton יהוה (YHWH), the proper name of the God of Israel in the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament.[2][3][4] The Tetragrammaton יהוה is considered one of the seven names of God in Judaism and a form of God’s name in Christianity.[5][6][7] The consensus among scholars is that the historical vocalization of the Tetragrammaton at the time of the redaction of the Torah (6th century BCE) is most likely Yahweh. The historical vocalization was lost because in Second Temple Judaism, during the 3rd to 2nd centuries BCE, the pronunciation of the Tetragrammaton came to be avoided, being substituted with Adonai (“my Lord”). The Hebrew vowel points of Adonai were added to the Tetragrammaton by the Masoretes, and the resulting form was transliterated around the 12th century CE as Yehowah.[8] The derived forms Iehouah and Jehovah first appeared in the 16th century. Read More on Yahweh Also see… In God’s Image: B’tselem Elohim God 101 Did God Write the Torah — and Does it Matter? Why Do Some Jews Write G-d? Order is a Top Priority ofthe Creator of the Skies and the Earth! Protecting Our Minds from Predator Algorithms and Polluted Information
Ablution (Immersion)
This informative excerpt from the Encyclopedia Judaica 2:81-82 provides a detailed explanation of the significance and symbolism involved in the act of ritual immersion or ablution in the Jewish faith. This powerful act of washing serves to transform an individual from a state of impurity to a state of purity, enabling them to participate in a number of specific Jewish rites and practices. While some may view the act of immersion as being simply hygienic or even magical, the rabbis themselves viewed it as a divine commandment, and for that reason did not question its significance. In most cases of ritual impurity, complete immersion in water is required, as prescribed by the TorahתּוֹרָהTōrā,/ˈtɔːrə, ˈtoʊrə/; law, teaching, direction, instruction – The first five books of the Bible or also called “the books of Moses” comes from an archery term meaning to shoot.. This act of immersion and subsequent purification is a powerful symbol of transformation, and is particularly significant for those who are converting to Judaism, as it serves as a ritual of spiritual rebirth. Even today, the act of immersion is accompanied by intention and a benediction, and its enduring impact continues to offer hope for spiritual renewal and personal transformation. Links outside of Mystudybible.us Non-Traditional Uses For the Mikveh
Husband & Wife (Cohabitation)
From the Encyclopaedia Judaica 8:1122 The Husband’s duty to cohabit with his wife stems from biblical law (Exodus 21:10) and he is obliged to do so according to his physical abilities and so far as it is possible for him having regard to the requirements of his occupation (Yad, Ishut 14: 1,2 ; Sh. Ar., EH 76: 1-3)If he unable to fulfill this duty the wife is entitled to demand a divorce (Yad, Ishut 14: 7 Sh. Ar., EH 76:11) unless there are reasonable prospects, on the strength of medical evidence, that he may be cured of his disability. (PDR 1:85-89 ; 3:84-89) Mored (“rebellious” husband). A husband refuses without justifiable reason, to cohabit with his wife is called a mored but he is not if he refuses to fulfill his other toward her. (ibid and Maggid MishnehMaggid Mishneh is a significant commentary on Maimonides’ Mishneh Torah, written by the 14th-century rabbi Vidal of Tolosa. It is considered one of the most important interpretations of Maimonides’ work and is often referenced in halachic disputes. The Maggid Mishneh is regarded as one of the most important commentaries on the Mishneh Torah – For more info click here, Ishut 14:15 ; Bah, EH 77).Proof that her husband is mored entitles the wife to demand that he be obliged to grant her a divorce, and if necessary, that he be compelled to do so (on the distinction). As long as the husband persists in his refusal to cohabit with his wife, she is entitled to demand the amount of her ketubbah be increased from week to week, as may be determined by the court and to receive ketubbah upon the grant of the divorce. (Ket. Yad, and Maggid MishnehMaggid Mishneh is a significant commentary on Maimonides’ Mishneh Torah, written by the 14th-century rabbi Vidal of Tolosa. It is considered one of the most important interpretations of Maimonides’ work and is often referenced in halachic disputes. The Maggid Mishneh is regarded as one of the most important commentaries on the Mishneh Torah – For more info click here, Ibid ; Sh Ar., EH 77:1) Moredet (“rebellious ” wife). The Wife similarly regarded as a moredet only when she persistently refuses to cohabit with her husband (Ket. 63A, Yad and Maggid MishnehMaggid Mishneh is a significant commentary on Maimonides’ Mishneh Torah, written by the 14th-century rabbi Vidal of Tolosa. It is considered one of the most important interpretations of Maimonides’ work and is often referenced in halachic disputes. The Maggid Mishneh is regarded as one of the most important commentaries on the Mishneh Torah – For more info click here, Ishut 14:8 ; Sh. Ar., EH 77:2)The moredet falls into two categories: firstly, that of a wife who refuses to cohabit with her husband because of anger or a quarrel or for other reasons offering no legal justification; secondly, that of a wife who refuses to cohabit with her husband because she cannot bring herself to have sexual relations with him and can satisfy the court that this is for genuine reasons which impel her to seek a divorce even with forfeiture of her ketubbah. In both cases the moredet immediately loses her right to maintenance (Sh. Ar., EH 77:2 ; Pdr 6:33, 42) and in consequence of it, her husband loses his right to her handy work since he is only entitled to this in consideration of her maintenance, i.e. only if she is actually maintained by him (Rema, EH 77:2) Ultimately, the moredet also stands to lose her ketubbah and the husband will be entitle to demand a divorce, but this depends on conditions that differ according to the category of moredet and in this regard the halakhah underwent various developments.
Husband (The Legal Obligations)
The Husband has ten essential obligations.
The Tradition Of Marriage

The first of the 613 mitzvoth (commandments) in the Torah is“peru ur-vu” (Be Fruitful and multiply). Judaism sanctifies every dimension of human experience from birth to death, from eating eliminating. Sexuality and procreation are sanctified by marriage, the primary purpose of which is the creation of life. Every wedding sets the stage for the next generation of “the children of Israel”. The Talmud records that “one who does not participate in ‘be fruitful and multiply’ causes God’s Presence to vanish”. Indeed, marriage is seen as the prototypical act of creation. The Zohar, the great book of Jewish Mysticism, states: “God creates new worlds constantly. In what way? By causing marriages to take place.” In the Midrash, the imaginative rabbinic literature “somewhere between commentary and fantasy… that sprouts up between the consecrated words of Scripture,” the creation of male and female inspired a fabulous tale about the first wedding. The wedding of the first couple was celebrated with pomp never repeated in the whole course of history. God Himself, before presenting Eve to Adam, attired and adorned her as a bride… The angels surrounded the marriage canopy, and God pronounced the blessings upon the bridal couple, as the hazzan does under the huppah. The Angels then danced and played musical instruments for Adam and Eve in the ten bridal chambers of gold, pearls and precious stones that God had prepared for them. The Hasdic View The Commandment to marry is directed toward men. According to the Talmud a wife can save a young man from “sinful youghts”, and “Any man who has no wife is not a man (a complete human being)”. Marriage to a good woman is often described as the source of happiness and blessing for a man. (the Talmud seems generally less concerned with a woman’s happiness.) Still, Halakhah was undisputedly progressive for it’s time in establishing certain rights for women: minor girls may not be betrothed, women have the legal right to refuse any suitor, no matter what their parents command. Alyough only men can grant divorces, women are entitled to sue for divorce on some grounds, including sexual incompatibility. conjugal rape, a legal conundrum in our time is explicitly prohibited in the Talmud. And despite the fact that wives are “acquired” in much the same manner as property, men are required to treat them with respect and tenderness or risk God’s wrath.
Betrothal
From When a Jew Celebrates In the Bible and the Talmud there were two separate ceremonies Connected with marriage. There was the ceremony of betrothal and the actual marriage. The two ceremonies could be a year apart. In Betrothal the couple were legally bound together although the bride lived in her father’s house. They couldn’t change their mind’s. They would have to get a divorce.The custom began during a time when the bride was bought. At the betrothal, the price was agreed upon and a contract signed. The money was necessary because every member of the family worked, including the young girl. When she got married she went to her father-in-law’s house and helped there. So, in away, the father-in-law paid the father for the loss of the daughter’s services.But even in those days, if the bride’s father was well-to-do, he gave the bride’s price he received to his daughter as a present. Even the Poor father’s probably gave back part of the money. To the betrothal ceremony came entire families of both the bride and the groom and it ended with dancing and feasting and merry making.Months later, the groom came to take his bride to his father’s house. At the time the bride’s price was actually paid-and again there was a great family feast and celebration. But most important of the ceremonies were the betrothal and contract signing. In the first century C.E. the SanhedrinסַנְהֶדְרִיןThe Sanhedrin was the supreme Jewish judicial, legislative, and religious council in ancient Israel, functioning as the highest authority for interpreting and enforcing Torah law during the Second Temple period. For more info click here changed the marriage contract. In the new contract, the groom only promised to a certain amount for the bride. He didn’t actually pay the money. Instead, he gave the bride a perutah, the smallest coin at the time as the token of the brides price. The rest of the money had to be paid only if the couple got a divorce.