Monday 6 August 2018

Problems With Jewish Interfaith Marriage

By Timothy Adams


The older one gets, the concept of marriage is in the forefront of the mind and when it is time it just happens. Jewish interfaith marriage is a common occurrence today especially with the advent of the Internet and there just being that more opportunity in meeting a soul mate. Online dating has become rife and it is quite possible that one ends up with some of another faith.

This is when a Rabbi comes to the fore and allows the couple the opportunity in preparing for their big day. Parents may object and this is a challenge but if there is love then this overcomes all. It is also problematic when thinking about bringing children into this world but many overcome this by exposing their kids to both faiths.

It does take quite a concerted effort to find out more about a religion if one is not accustomed to its laws and traditions. Research has become easier with the advent of the Internet and many find themselves turning to this tool to acquaint themselves with customs and practices that are foreign to them. It is quite easily achieved online where one can pose questions to learned men such as Rabbis.

Orthodox Rabbis will tend to try and steer the Jewess or Jew in marrying out of the faith and this can prove quite an emotional and taxing exercise. If one has made up their mind that this is how it is going to be then it is probably wisest to discuss these matters with an interfaith Rabbi. He or she is well versed in many of the laws pertaining to this ceremony and can advise one on how to proceed with organising such an event.

There is more one needs to know and this is found in the realm of food. If guests are coming to the wedding that keep the dietary laws, then it is essential to use a kosher caterer to prepare that sumptuous meal to be enjoyed by all. There is a little to know about here especially what is considered as kosher and what is not.

As well as this, seafood may not be consumed at all and this goes for prawns, lobster, shrimp, crab and many more delicacies that can be found. Fish may be consumed but the prerequisite for rendering them kosher is that they must have fins and scales. One does not have to bother oneself too much about this especially if one will be using a kosher caterer recognised by a Jewish court of Law.

One also needs to be aware as to what animals are kosher and which are not. Animals with a cloven hoof and chew the cud may be consumed after having undergone a ritual slaughterer carried out by someone qualified to do just this. This person is called a Shochet and is well versed in the many laws regarding this as well as being a devout Jew himself.

All in all it is not too difficult to prepare an occasion such as this and many turn to a Rabbi who is prepared to officiate at such an event. It is a day that will be remembered for the rest of time so best to be prepared and find out all one needs to know. An interfaith Rabbi is a call away and is there to answer the many difficult questions that may arise.




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