Mikveh

Mikvah Mei Chaya Mushka in Crown Heights

Mikva

Modern mikveh

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Medieval mikveh old Synagoge Sopron Hungary

14440 The mikve in besalu

Mikveh or Mikvah (Hebrew: מִקְוֶה / מקווה, plural: mikva'ot / mikvoth / mikves) is a bath used for the purpose of ritual immersion in Judaism to achieve ritual purity. After the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem, the mikveh's significance in Jewish ritual life increased, becoming an integral part of Jewish communities worldwide. Its origins and regulations are detailed in the Hebrew Bible and further expounded in the Talmud and rabbinic literature.

Biblical Origins and Regulations

The concept of ritual purity and the use of water for purification are ancient practices detailed in the Torah. The Book of Leviticus (Leviticus 15) specifies various conditions under which individuals are considered ritually impure and require immersion in a mikveh to regain purity. The requirements for a mikveh, as outlined in rabbinic literature, include that it must hold a minimum of 40 se'ah (approximately 200 gallons or 757 liters) of water, and the water must be naturally sourced, flowing or collected rainwater, ensuring it has not been drawn by human intervention.

Construction and Design

A mikveh must be designed to certain specifications to be considered valid for ritual use. The water must be "living" – traditionally interpreted as water that flows naturally, such as from a spring, river, or collected rainwater that has not been transported by human-made systems. Modern mikvehs often use sophisticated plumbing systems to ensure the water meets halachic requirements, including the use of rainwater collected on the roof of the mikveh building. The structure itself is usually built into the ground or as part of a larger building and includes steps leading down into the water to facilitate immersion.

Uses of the Mikveh

The mikveh has several traditional uses within Jewish life:

• Conversion to Judaism: Immersion in a mikveh is a final step in the process of conversion to Judaism.
• Niddah: Jewish law requires that women immerse in a mikveh following menstruation before they and their husbands may resume marital relations.
• Preparation for Shabbat and Festivals: Some men have the custom to immerse in a mikveh on the eve of Shabbat or Jewish festivals.
• Utensils: Kitchen utensils purchased from a non-Jew require immersion in a mikveh before they can be used.
• Priestly Purification: In ancient times, priests (Kohanim) underwent mikveh immersion before performing their duties in the Temple in Jerusalem.

Contemporary Significance

In contemporary Jewish practice, the mikveh continues to play a central role in religious life. Beyond its traditional uses, the mikveh has been embraced by some for spiritual purification, healing, and personal transformation. Communities often fundraise and volunteer to support the construction and maintenance of mikvehs, underscoring their importance in Jewish ritual and community life.

Challenges and Innovations

Accessibility and privacy concerns have led to innovations in mikveh design and management. Some communities have developed mikvehs with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, and others offer private appointments to ensure comfort and confidentiality. Environmental considerations have also influenced modern mikveh construction, with efforts to conserve water and energy.