Exploring the Practice of Niddah
Exploring the Practice of Niddah
Sunday nights in June, 7:00 - 9:00 PM
June 5 - 26, 2011
Carrie Bornstein, Mayyim Hayyim Assistant Director, and Lila Kagedan, Harvard University Graduate Student, will facilitate this class for men and women. Both were trained at JOFA's "Demystifying Sex and Teaching Halakha: A Kallah Teacher's Workshop" and are passionate about helping individuals and couples learn about niddah (monthly immersion) on their own terms.
This pilot class will explore different customs and practices; individuals are encouraged to grapple with the content in a pressure-free environment that is open to a diversity of opinions.
Individuals and couples from all backgrounds are welcome.
Participants are asked to contribute $10 per session or $36 for all four. We are grateful to those who are able to pre-register, which allows us to provide adequate source materials and nosh.
This pilot class will explore different customs and practices; individuals are encouraged to grapple with the content in a pressure-free environment that is open to a diversity of opinions.
Individuals and couples from all backgrounds are welcome.
Participants are asked to contribute $10 per session or $36 for all four. We are grateful to those who are able to pre-register, which allows us to provide adequate source materials and nosh.
Topics Include:
Introduction to Niddah (June 5)
What is the basic practice of niddah?Why might couples choose to take on this practice?What are some of the challenges?What are some benefits?
Game On: Mikveh and Sexual Ethics (June 12)
What are some Jewish legal requirements for preparation and immersion?How might mikveh become a meaningful ritual marking the transition between separation and togetherness?What do Jewish texts have to say about a couple's sexual practice?How can couples develop a healthy sexual relationship?
Game Off: Halachot (Jewish Laws) Concerning Niddah (June 19)
What do traditional texts say about the period of time following menstruation?What are some different ways individuals and couples practice niddah?
Personal Reflection (June 26)
What do I / we make of all this?What resonates for me? What do I find challenging?Does what I have learned affect my practice or understanding of the laws of niddah?
Time will also be made available during this session to go over any uncovered material, and ask general questions.
Sessions will build on each other and will also stand alone for those choosing to attend a portion of the series. Participants can attend one session or all four.
For more information, contact Carrie Bornstein, Mayyim Hayyim Assistant Director, at 617-244-1836, ext. 201 or by clicking here.
Exploring the Practice of Niddah is co-sponsored by Harvard Hillel, Hebrew College, Minyan Kol Rinah, Minyan Tehillah, Moishe Kavod House, and Washington Square Minyan.
Exploring the Practice of Niddah is co-sponsored by Harvard Hillel, Hebrew College, Minyan Kol Rinah, Minyan Tehillah, Moishe Kavod House, and Washington Square Minyan.