Q&A: A Condition in Betrothal
A Condition in Betrothal
Question
Hello Rabbi Abraham,
My name is N., and I work representing agunah women in the rabbinical courts, and also promoting prenuptial agreements through the organization "Center for Women's Justice." I read the Rabbi's blog post regarding the ruling of the religious court in Jerusalem on marriage registration and on a condition in betrothal, and I wanted to clarify the Rabbi's view about the halakhic validity of the document we offer (based on Rabbi Michael Broyde's proposal). If the Rabbi prefers, we can speak by phone at a convenient time.
Thank you very much
Answer
Hello,
I used this document once, and it seems fine to me. I haven't examined all the details in depth, because the disputes usually are not about the validity of the document and the condition included in it. The main dispute is about the very idea of making a condition in betrothal itself (even in a document whose condition is, by all opinions, valid). Therefore, in my estimation, my position regarding the document is not especially important. The Rabbinate certainly does not accept it, and I do not think my position on the matter carries significant public weight. Anyone who wants to make a condition in betrothal can use the document, and the rabbinic establishment will of course continue not to recognize it.
Best regards, a0