Question
I read that a woman is restricted from giving testimony in court because it might interfere with her more important duties at home. What could be more important than a matter of justice? What if a woman witnessed a crime?
Answer
You are correct that bringing about justice – through testimony, if necessary – is a very great principle. And, in fact, courts of Torah law will often accept the testimony of women in one form or another when that is the only way to resolve an issue.
It is possible that the reason the Torah avoids *forcing* women to testify is because having to appear in court and being subject to intense cross examinations runs counter to the Torah’s key ideal of modesty for women.
With my regards,
Rabbi Boruch Clinton
Ottawa Canada