JUDS 1439: Jewish Laws & Custom: Family Law I

Abstract

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course will focus on the laws and values of Jewish relationships, marriage, and family life. Topics include the Laws of Family Purity, Mikvah, and the rituals, laws, and customs of the Jewish wedding. We will also explore concepts of spirituality and holiness as it relates to establishing and maintaining a Jewish home. Biblical narratives, rabbinic tales, and modern texts will be studied as guides to modern relationships and marriages.¶ TOPICS: 1. The role of women in marriage a. The mitzvah to get married and reasons b. Companionship c. Procreation d. Achieving kedusha 2. Finding the right spouse a. Dating b. What is love? c. What is abuse? d. Commitment e. Knowing yourself in order to connect to others f. Code of conduct 3. Engagement and Wedding a. Eirusin b. Tenaim contract c. Nisuin d. Ketubah contract e. Ceremony i. Customs and rituals of the day 4. Marital intimacy a. Family Purity Laws i. Niddah ii. Mikvah b. Modesty