Kosher Sex?

On Monday's Munch this week, students learned about and discussed the Jewish laws pertaining sex, protection, abortion, homosexuality, and masturbation. An awkward topic to say the least, the students handled the subject with maturity, and asked provoking questions.

Jewish laws about sex and intimacy are stated in both the Torah and Talmud, and all of which specify no physical interactions before marriage. The female students got a kick out of learning that sex is the women's right, not the mans. In fact, if a man withholds intimacy from the women it is grounds for divorce.

The talmud also offers more comical interpretations of the rules. When examining masturbation, "The hand that moves below the navel should be cut off."

Freshman, Simon Hallerman, was "shocked to know that the hole in the bed sheet was just an urban legend." Other students seemed just as perplexed to know that condoms are not permitted, but the pill is allowed.

It was an educational afternoon, which gave the students a lot to think about, and hopefully empowered them to make responsible choices.

Don't forget to check out our website. www.hillel.org.vt.edu

Birthright Highlights

By Izzy Shocket

One highlight from my Taglit Birthright israel trip was our visit to the Southern part of the Western Wall. First, seeing all of the rocks and boulders that had been pushed from the top of the wall shows the determination of one group to destroy the Jews. I think it left an impression on me because it was the first site of destruction that we had been taken to. I felt a sense of pride knowing that the Jewish people survived such hatred. This is when it hit me that I was in Israel, in Jerusalem, in the holy city. I was standing where my ancestors stood years and years ago. Hearing the story behind the fallen rocks connected me to the land and the people in my group.

Second, I thought it was very interesting to learn about the current
issues that are being debated. We were told that the women met at the
Southern part of the Wall to pray together, because the Orthodox men
complained that when the women prayed at the women’s section of the
Western Wall, they were too loud. To me, it seems like a silly thing
to complain about. I would appreciate their devotion to Judaism and
their dedication to prayer. I enjoyed hearing about the differing
political views.

I loved the trip and I can’t wait to go back to Israel!

Don't forget to check out our website. www.hillel.org.vt.edu