Classes for Brides/Grooms

Taught by our Education and Ritual Director, Rachel Kohl Finegold, these classes introduce a bride to the practice of Taharat HaMishpacha (Family Purity), also known as the practice of Niddah. This text-based course, usually 4 sessions long, takes the student through the Biblical basis for Niddah, as well as Rabbinic developments and modern practice. Students are shown a textual basis for each halacha, and are presented with the spectrum of practices that exists within the Orthodox world. The course includes a tour of the beautiful Adam R. Straus Memorial Mikvah.

Rachel always offers to study with both bride and groom together, and many couples choose this option. As opposed to the traditional "kallah class", the opportunity to study together allows an engaged couple to be introduced to this area of halacha together. This lays a foundation for healthy communication around what is often a sensitive part of halachic practice, and allows each individual to hear his/her partner's views on the subject.

A fifth session is also offered, which introduces the student(s) to concepts of sexuality in Judaism. For this final session, Rabbi Avi Finegold often participates. A 2-on-2 session allows the couple to hear male and female perspectives on Talmudic and later texts about sexuality. The content is presented in a sensitive and fun manner, and for many students this is the most interesting part of the course!

This course is not limited to brides and grooms, but is also available to any married individual who has never learned these laws before and might be interested in starting to use the Mikvah.

NIDDAH REFRESHER CLASS

Given on an as-needed basis, the Niddah Refresher Course is a chance for those who practice Niddah to refresh their knowledge.

For more information on either the classes for Bride/Groom or the Niddah refresher class, please contact our Education and Ritual Director, Rachel Kohl Finegold at 773-896-7393 or rkfinegold@asbi.org.