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Yoetzet halacha

The role of the yoetzet halacha is somewhat circumscribed.^[3] As titled, it is advisory: yoatzot convey information for clear-cut situations, and take the more complicated questions to a talmid chacham (Torah Scholar) equipped to discern and decide between competing halachic arguments. The Halachot (laws) here are a standard component of Rabbinical education – see under Semikhah § Concept and Yeshiva § Jewish law – and Yoatzot receive corresponding training.^[4]

Candidates for yoatzot halacha are chosen for their advanced Torah scholarship, leadership capabilities, and deep religious commitment. As professionals hired by synagogues, schools, and communities, the yoatzot respond to Orthodox women's questions about mikveh observance and Jewish law affecting couples, families, sexual relations, and women's medical issues.^[4]

Although many Halachic authorities within the Modern Orthodox community allow Yoatzot, others strongly oppose it.^[5]

Nishmat is the only institution certifying women as yoatzot halacha.^[6] The program spans two years' of study – covering the traditional sources – with shiurim by Rabbi Yaacov WarhaftigofMachon ArielinJerusalem, and parallel Chavruta-based study. On completion, candidates must pass a four-hour exam, administered by four testing rabbis. At its founding, the program received the support of, amongst others, Rabbi Nahum Rabinovitch; its posek was Rabbi Yehuda Henkin. It is noteworthy that having these women determine questions such as these for other women is not widely accepted in the orthodox communities, and is much more commonly accepted in the modern orthodox to irreligious crowds.

• yoatzot.org – explanation on the Nishmat Website
• Yoatzot: An Exchange – discussion on cross-currents.com by Yitzchok Adlerstein.

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