Other Side of the Mechitza

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In Jewish law, the word mechitza can mean partition or boundary, denoting in one sense a division, but in another, an inclusive space of sanctity. In this same spirit, Jewish tradition has always balanced a devotion to G-d’s word with an unyielding commitment to questioning, understanding, and living those words. Join Gila Chitiz and Ilana Stein as they grapple with Halacha as it pertains to Jewish women in community life. No longer in the background, women are more actively engaged today than ever before. We will trace the legal sources that chart this shift from historical restrictions, when women couldn’t read, to today where women stand at the forefront of Torah education, and study is no longer a spectator sport. By stepping directly into the source texts candidly and without fluff, we’ll explore the nuance of obligation and exemption, women’s leadership, minyan, prayer, and synagogue life. Together, we’ll examine how legal tradition responds when women step forward – confronting the real possibilities within a system designed to bring everyone, on both sides of the mechitza, into a vibrant relationship with their Creator. 🪬 NOTE: This course is open to women and men. 📢 This course is included in the UNLIMITED LEARNER subscription. Contact us to become a subscriber.