Question: How does Judaism view divorce?
Dear Rabbi Enkin,
I know Jewish Law does not prohibit divorce, but could please tell me if God considers divorce to be a bad thing.
Thanks, Justin
Answer: Dear Justin,
The Torah is very much a living and practical manual covering every possible facet of a Jew's life.
The Torah appreciates that not every marriage will work and occasionally the partners will want out.
As such, the Torah lists within it's 613 precepts, one which allows for a divorce which consists of the husband handing his wife a 'get' - a divorce document, thereby ending the marriage.
Make no mistake, divorce is certainly a very sad event, often tragic. As the Talmud teaches: "The altar [of the Holy Temple] sheds tears on he who divorces his wife". It is *the* precept of the Torah that we should make every effort to avoid!
Nevertheless, the Torah views divorce as a legitimate mechanism which can and should be implemented for the greater good of all involved when appropriate. Of course, proper counseling is strongly advised before proceeding towards divorce.
See the Talmud in Sanhedrin 22a and Eruvin 41b if you can.
Best,
Rabbi Ari Enkin
Ramat Beit Shemesh, Israel
