Niddah

Niddah (or nidah; Hebrew: נִדָּה‎), in Judaism, describes a woman during menstruation, or a woman who has menstruated and not yet completed the associated requirement of immersion in a mikveh (ritual bath). In the Book of Leviticus, the Torah prohibits sexual intercourse with a niddah. The laws concerning niddah are also referred to as taharat ha-mishpacha (family purity).

Biblical references

The concept of Niddah is found in the books of Leviticus 15:19–24, and Leviticus 18:19, which states that a man must not approach a woman to uncover her nakedness while she is in her menstrual impurity.

Ritual purity and impurity

In the context of Judaism, Niddah is a state of ritual impurity due to menstruation. The laws of purity and impurity apply to both men and women and have implications for sexual relations and for participation in the sacred service.

Observance

The observance of the laws of Niddah is traditionally regarded as the responsibility of the woman. However, it is also the responsibility of the man to avoid contact with a woman who is in a state of Niddah.

Modern practice

In modern practice, the laws of Niddah are observed by Orthodox Jews. Some Conservative Jews also observe niddah laws to a lesser extent, and many Reform Jews do not observe them at all.

See also

• Mikveh
• Family purity
• Menstruation
• Judaism

Niddah Resources
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