RS Judaism - Marriage and Divorce

Proverbs 18:22

"He who finds a wife finds a good thing" — marriage is a blessing and central to Jewish life.

Jews on cohabitation

Generally against it — marriage is the proper setting for a relationship and family.

Atheists/Humanists on marriage

Not essential — cohabitation is an equally valid and loving alternative.

Genesis 1:26–31 on sex

Sex is sacred and part of God's creation — ideally kept within marriage.

Jews on sex outside marriage

Generally against it — sexual relationships belong within the commitment of marriage.

Orthodox Jews on homosexuality

Against it — traditional Torah teachings view it as forbidden.

Liberal/Reform Jews on homosexuality

Accepting — same-sex relationships can be loving and valid.

Atheists/Humanists on this topic

Both sex outside marriage and homosexuality are fully accepted as personal choices.

Psalm 127:3–5

Children are described as a gift and reward from God — family is a blessing.

Three purposes of family in Judaism

Procreation (having children), providing security, and educating children in the faith.

Five family types to know

Nuclear, single parent, same-sex parents, extended, and blended families.

Talmud Bava Batra 21a–b

Emphasises the duty to educate children — communities must support this.

Ways the Jewish community supports families

Family worship, rites of passage, parenting classes, children's groups, and counselling services.

Why does this matter today?

The local Jewish community helps maintain Jewish identity, faith, and family bonds.

Talmud Yevamot 61b

Permits contraception in certain circumstances — it is not an absolute ban.

Orthodox Jews on contraception

Generally opposed — only acceptable if there is a medical reason.

Liberal/Reform Jews on contraception

Permitted — responsible family planning is accepted.

Atheists/Humanists on contraception

Fully supported — family planning is a personal and responsible choice.

Situation ethics on contraception

Whatever produces the most loving outcome in that specific situation is the right choice.

What is a get?

A Jewish religious divorce document — traditionally the husband must grant it to the wife.

Maimonides (Mishneh Torah, Ishut 24)

Divorce is permitted in Jewish law under certain conditions — it is not forbidden.

Jewish views on remarriage

Generally permitted after a proper religious divorce has been granted.

Situation ethics on divorce

Divorce can be the right choice if it leads to the least harm and most loving outcome overall.

Genesis 1:26–31 on gender

Both men and women are created in the image of God (b'tselem Elohim) — equal in worth and dignity.

Traditional Jewish gender roles

Men lead in worship and public religious life; women manage the home and raise children.

Orthodox vs Liberal/Reform on gender roles

Orthodox maintain distinct roles for men and women. Liberal/Reform Jews support full equality in all areas including worship and leadership.

Israel's Basic Law: Human Dignity and Liberty 1992

A law passed by the Knesset that legally protects human dignity and enshrines gender equality in Israel.

Example of gender equality in Judaism

Women can become rabbis in Liberal/Reform Judaism and hold leadership roles in Jewish organisations.

General Jewish stance on gender discrimination

Judaism opposes gender prejudice and discrimination — all people have equal dignity.