The Flourishing of Higher Jewish Learning for Women


 

Publication Date: May 2000

Publisher: Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs

Author(s): Rochelle Furstenberg

Research Area: Culture and religion

Keywords: Adult education; Community Development; Orthodox Judaism; Gender

Type: Report

Abstract:

The author reviews the development of what she calls the ongoing "revolution" in women's higher Jewish learning in the Orthodox world. She discusses the origins of the movement for Jewish day schools for women, cites examples of opportunities for women to study Bible and commentaries, as well as sometimes halacha (Jewish law) after high school, and outlines the career of the famous female Bible teacher Nechama Leibowitz. The author further discusses recent developments allowing women in Israel to become recognized halachic advisors and rabbinic court advocates, acting as lawyers for marital cases in rabbinic courts. The author discusses future prospects for expansions of opportunity for women to attain positions of religious authority.