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Aliyot for Couples

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This responsum examines the halakhic permissibility of calling couples to the Torah for joint aliyot in Conservative congregations, particularly for lifecycle events such as aufrufs, baby namings, anniversaries, and bar/bat mitzvah celebrations. The author employs historical analysis to trace the evolution of Torah reading practices from biblical times through contemporary practice, demonstrating how rabbinic authorities consistently adapted liturgical requirements to meet congregational needs. The methodology involves examining Talmudic sources, medieval responsa, and modern halakhic precedents, particularly analyzing the Yerushalmi's permission for two voices to read together and the established practice of group aliyot on Simhat Torah. The study reveals that throughout Jewish history, rabbis have shown flexibility in Torah service practices, modifying requirements regarding blessings, readers, and individual participation when community needs demanded such changes. The responsum concludes that joint aliyot for couples serve important contemporary values by reinforcing marriage bonds and family unity within the congregation, which justifies this practice halakhically despite traditional preferences for individual honors. The Committee on Jewish Law and Standards adopted this position in 1993, affirming that while individual aliyot remain normative, couple aliyot constitute acceptable Conservative practice supported by historical precedent and community benefit.

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    Published 1994

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  • Publication Credits

    Kassel Abelson