Women in Jewish Ritual

Catalog description

This course explores the evolving roles, participation, and leadership of women in Jewish ritual life. We examine classical sources from the Tanakh, Mishnah, Talmud, Rishonim, and Acharonim, alongside contemporary responsa, scholarship, and practice. Topics include women's participation in synagogue services, Torah reading, prayer leadership, life-cycle ceremonies, mitzvot traditionally associated with women, and developments in ritual innovation. The course will address variations across Jewish movements and communities, considering historical, sociological, and theological perspectives.