Participants in Barkai’s sixth rabbinical training program recently completed a long and intensive course in the area of medicine and halakha in conjunction with the Puah Institute. Majority of the course was taught by Rabbi Aryeh Katz, a senior staff member at the Puah Institute, and himself a graduate of Barkai’s fifth rabbinic cohort who currently serves as the rabbi of Mevo Horon.

During the course the rabbis delved into the halakhot that pertain to all aspects of taharat hamishpacha (family purity), such as medical examinations, fertility issues, women’s health and men’s health, and issues that relate to marital intimacy. The course placed a special emphasis on halakhic rulings that synthesize a broad understanding of halakha with broad medical knowledge and deep sensitivity toward the couple.

Nowadays, the fields of medicine and medical technology are constantly developing and changing. In this reality, it is especially important for rabbis to be aware of ongoing developments and innovations which impact the world of halakha and halakhic practice.

Participating rabbis felt that the course exposed them to a lot of new information and surprising developments. Armed with this knowledge, the rabbis noted that they are better able to support the families in their communities and provide relevant halakhic guidance.

As part of our commitment to Barkai’s rabbis and the communities they serve, the Barkai Center will continue to provide ongoing education in this area for past program participants. Over the next few years, the Barkai Center will offer training seminars and special sessions to discuss ongoing developments in the world of medicine and halakha. These events will enable the rabbis to continue to provide relevant halakhic guidance and support for their communities.