Saturday 9 June 2018

Exploring The Practices Of A Jewish Bet Din

By Walter West


For many whom believe in God, there are two types of law. The first, is God's law, the second the laws made by men. When it comes to Jewish teachings, jewish bet din also spelled beth din and beit din refers to an Orthodox court of law. The court, based on the Torah teaching in Deuteronomy 16:18, follows the belief that tribes are to appoint officials and judges.

While initially formed to settle disputes, a court of this nature now has a great deal more responsibility. Originally made up of 71 rabbis, the court was later transformed into a panel of three Jewish men with an understanding of Halakha, ritual and traditions. For, the first court was formed to hand down a decision upon hearing a case.

After the demise and destruction of the temple, the people began spreading out to other areas. As a result, attempting to convene with so many rabbis was no longer viable. Since that time, a beth din has been made of up of three men whom have began serving in many other fashions while continuing to settle disputes among the people.

Before settling a case, the court refers to the halakha. In the beginning, the services of the court were only available to those living in smaller towns and villages. Now, the three members of the court, often rabbis share responsibility that is part and parcel to the formal legal system in Israel. As a result, consultation with the court is often necessary for legal issues as well as some aspects of Jewish rituals and practice.

For people of the faith residing outside Israel, there are some national and local organizations which can be of assistance in locating a beth din. Two of the most well known and popular of these organizations are that of the Beth Din of Manchester, and the Beth Din of America. While this is the case, Halakha only prescribes that the court be made up of three men whom have knowledge of Jewish law, practices, rituals and tradition without having to be rabbis or part of any official organization.

One of the most common reasons people contact a court of this nature is to arrange a divorce. For, according to halakha, the man must present the woman in front of the court. As with other courts involved in divorce, the couple must be present in order to assure that all aspects of the proceedings and settlement are legal and binding.

Other reasons for consulting a beit din include conversion from other faiths, marriage and dissolution of oaths. For, it is required that when an individual desires to convert to Judaism from another faith the person appear to express sincerity and answer questions related to the faith. Whereas, when uniting in marriage or dissolving an oath, the court must be present to change the status and supply documents.

While serving in these personal aspects, the court can also be consulted with regards to dissolving oaths made in the last year, settling business disputes and awarding damages. When dealing with civil issues, most courts conduct proceedings in line with secular arbitration and halakha. For, in doing so, the proceedings are consistent with, and legally binding in a secular court.




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