Get

Definition

In the context of Judaism, a get is a formal religious document that is used to effectuate a divorce between a husband and wife. This legal instrument is crucial in Jewish law, as it allows a woman to remarry after a divorce, ensuring that her status remains legitimate within the community. The process of obtaining a get is rooted in the traditions of Jewish law and is essential for upholding the sanctity of marriage and family life within the faith.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A get must be given willingly by the husband and accepted by the wife for it to be valid; coercion invalidates the divorce.
2. The process of obtaining a get often involves a rabbinical court (beit din) to oversee the proceedings and ensure that both parties comply with Jewish law.
3. Without a get, a woman remains married in the eyes of Jewish law, which can complicate her ability to remarry within the community.
4. The issuance of a get is also associated with specific rituals and guidelines that reflect the seriousness of divorce in Judaism.
5. The importance of a get highlights the broader themes in Judaism regarding marriage, family, and the responsibilities that come with these relationships.

Review Questions

• How does the process of obtaining a get reflect the principles of consent and mutual agreement in Jewish divorce?
  • The process of obtaining a get is deeply rooted in the principles of consent and mutual agreement. For a get to be valid, it must be given voluntarily by the husband without any coercion, demonstrating respect for both partners' autonomy. The requirement for acceptance by the wife further emphasizes that both parties must agree to dissolve the marriage legally and religiously. This reflects broader values within Jewish law regarding relationships and personal agency.
• Discuss how the concept of a ketubah interacts with the requirements for obtaining a get in Jewish law.
  • The ketubah and the get are interconnected aspects of Jewish marital law. The ketubah outlines the husband's obligations to his wife during marriage, providing her with financial protection. In contrast, a get is necessary to formally end that marriage. If a couple wishes to divorce, fulfilling the terms set forth in the ketubah becomes important for an equitable separation. Therefore, understanding these documents helps illuminate the legal framework governing marriage and divorce within Judaism.
• Evaluate the implications for women in Jewish society who do not receive a get after divorce, considering cultural and religious dimensions.
  • Women who do not receive a get after divorce face significant implications in Jewish society. Without this religious document, they are considered still married according to Halakhah, which prohibits them from remarrying within the community. This status can lead to social stigma and isolation, impacting their personal lives and sense of identity. Culturally, this situation raises important questions about women's rights and agency within traditional religious frameworks. Addressing these challenges has sparked discussions about reforming divorce practices to better support women's autonomy while maintaining adherence to Jewish law.

Related terms

Ketubah: A marriage contract in Judaism that outlines the responsibilities of the husband towards his wife, serving as a protective legal document.

Halakhah: The collective body of Jewish religious laws derived from the written and oral Torah, guiding various aspects of Jewish life, including marriage and divorce.

Chuppah: The canopy under which a Jewish couple stands during their wedding ceremony, symbolizing the home they will build together.