The ritual role of the synagogue Flashcards
1
Q
Where is the tradition regarding ritual and spiritual purity from?
A
A priest had to be pure to participate in Temple service.
2
Q
What was the only way of regaining purity?
A
By immersion in water
3
Q
What is a mikveh?
A
- literally means “a place where water has gathered.”
- a special pool where Jews can immerse to purify themselves
4
Q
When do OJ women use the mikveh?
A
- after monthly period
- after giving birth
- can resume sexual relations with husband after immersion
5
Q
What does Maimonides mention about immersion?
A
Immersion without proper intent is not considered to be anything
6
Q
4 other times the mikveh is used
A
- day before Yom Kippur (sign of repentance)
- some visit every week before Shabbat
- before marriage
- some immerse kitchen utensils for kosher laws
7
Q
3 points about bet din
A
- house of judgement (a rabbinical court)
- makes judgement on civil disputes using Jewish law
- also rules on religious matters
8
Q
Who is in the bet din?
A
A panel of three religious judges known as the dayanim
9
Q
What do the dayanim do?
A
- listen to people presenting their cases
- question witnesses
10
Q
Who is the dayanim usually made up of?
A
Usually experienced rabbis with a good deal of communal experience between them
11
Q
What sort of matters does the bet din rule on?
A
- business disputes
- issues of Jewish divorce
- declaring food products as Kosher
