Women’s Issues
-
Lineage Through the Father or the Mother
Why when we pray for someone’s health we mention their mother’s name, and when we call someone up to the Torah we mention their father’s name? Generally a person is called by the name of his father, which in essence…
-
Fringes for Women
Why don’t Jewish women wear fringes in their garments? This particular commandment is time-bound (i.e., since it’s only binding during daylight hours). There is a general principle in Jewish law that women are only required to observe those positive commandments…
-
Women reading from the Torah
Why don’t Orthodox women read from the Torah? Thank you for your question. The Talmud, in Megillah 23a states that “even a woman may read from the Torah, but the Rabbis said that a woman should not do so because…
-
Premarital Sex
Is premarital sex forbidden? If so, by which Commandment? What if you want to have premarital sex to make sure there is sexual compatibility before making the decision to marry? Premarital sex is still prohibited by Torah law. See Lev.…
-
Role of Jewish Women
My understanding of the role of the Jewish woman is placed on a higher level (spiritual) as per talmudic discussions, especially in the home. Yet in the synagogue setting they are relagated to a segregated area that is walled off.…
-
Women Choosing To Do Extra Mitzvos
I know a woman who wears a talis and is actively involved in the services of her synagogue. I know that there are synagogues that will not allow her participation. ‘Why shouldn’t she be allowed to participate? especially in light…
-
Swimming attire
What is considered proper women’s attire for swimming? The question of modest dress is a difficult one for modern women to deal with because the society in which we live gives incredibly mixed messages.On the one hand we are told…
-
Role of Women
What is the role of women in Judaism? Women are required to fulfill slightly fewer directives, but essentially must meet the same requirements and achieve the same goal as men.
-
Women as Leaders
Can woman be Jewish leaders? Devorah was a judge (Judges 4:4) and several women (including Devorah) were prophetesses